The Atlanta Braves head into the 2025 season with tempered expectations, largely due to past injuries, yet they remain a formidable contender. Analysts at MLB.com have ranked them as second in World Series favorites, just behind the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Braves are poised for a healthier season compared to 2023, where they finished 89-73 despite significant injuries to star players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider. Their lineup, when fully fit, is considered one of the strongest in baseball.

Key injuries last season were due to freak incidents such as Austin Riley's broken hand and Ozzie Albies' wrist injury, which hampered their playoff performance. The Braves' pitching staff has also been bolstered and is expected to outperform the 2023 squad that achieved 104 wins. With the National League East being highly competitive, the Braves will need to capitalize on their health to maintain their status as serious championship contenders.

In the pursuit of top-tier pitching talent for fantasy baseball, analyzing walk and ground-ball rates can unveil hidden gems. Bryan Woo of the Seattle Mariners made significant strides in his control, reducing his walk rate to an impressive 2.8%, while Jack Flaherty revitalized his career with the Detroit Tigers, showcasing a 5.9% walk rate in a bounce-back season. Jake Irvin, pitching for the Washington Nationals, improved his zone command, though he still battles hard contact issues. Nick Pivetta's transition to the San Diego Padres includes a notable drop in walk rate, though concerns about home runs linger.

Ground-ball specialists also emerged, with Brandon Pfaadt of the Arizona Diamondbacks enhancing his ground-ball rate significantly, thanks in part to a revamped pitch mix. Detroit's Reese Olson and Chris Sale of the Atlanta Braves have also shown improvements, with Sale looking to reclaim his Cy Young form despite injury concerns. Ryan Weathers, another noteworthy mention, has made strides in both walk and ground-ball rates, making him a potential sleeper for fantasy drafts.

As auction drafts approach for the 2025 fantasy baseball season, savvy managers can find under-the-radar hitters with average auction values under $10 that enhance their rosters without breaking the bank. Targeting players like Michael Toglia, who demonstrated impressive power metrics with the Colorado Rockies, and Jurickson Profar, who thrived after joining the Atlanta Braves, can deliver solid returns. Brandon Nimmo remains a reliable option despite a dip in performance, while Kerry Carpenter is positioned to bounce back strongly after a breakthrough season. Eugenio Suarez also offers consistent power at a low cost, making these players must-haves for budget-conscious drafters.

As the MLB season approaches, Cy Young Award betting odds are making headlines. In the American League, Garrett Crochet stands out with impressive strikeout rates, though health is a concern. Framber Valdez of the Astros offers durability and consistency, making him a strong contender at +1700. Joe Ryan and Bailey Ober of the Twins are intriguing longshots with potential, especially if they can stay healthy.

In the National League, Paul Skenes is the favorite at +300, but injury risks loom. Tyler Glasnow could deliver value at +1700 if he remains healthy, while Spencer Strider's return from surgery makes him a wildcard. Spencer Schwellenbach offers great odds at +4000 and could break out with the Braves' support. These bets highlight the unpredictability of the upcoming season.