The Baltimore Orioles are facing a crucial decision regarding their Opening Day lineup as shortstop Gunnar Henderson is recovering from a mild intercostal strain. This injury occurred during a spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays, where Henderson made a spectacular catch but had to exit the game shortly afterward. Orioles manager Brandon Hyde confirmed that the team is taking a cautious approach with Henderson, emphasizing the importance of ensuring his full recovery before returning to play.

Henderson, a key player for the Orioles, had a remarkable breakout season in 2024, posting a .281 batting average, 37 home runs, 21 stolen bases, and a bWAR of 9.1, ranking him among the elite in the American League. With the Orioles set to contend this season, losing a player of his caliber, even temporarily, could significantly affect their performance. As of now, the team remains optimistic about Henderson's potential availability for the season opener on March 27.

As anticipation builds for the 2025 MLB season, baseball fans are buzzing about a promising crop of rookies ready to make their mark. From the American League to the National League, several standout players are emerging as favorites for Rookie of the Year honors. Roman Anthony, the top prospect for the Boston Red Sox, boasts a high ceiling with his intelligent hitting and great fielding capabilities. Meanwhile, Jackson Jobe of the Detroit Tigers has already seen some success in the majors and is expected to make a significant impact. Other names to watch include Coby Mayo from the Baltimore Orioles and Jasson Dominguez of the New York Yankees, both of whom have shown flashes of brilliance in their limited appearances. In the NL, Dylan Crews of the Washington Nationals and Roki Sasaki of the Los Angeles Dodgers are leading the charge, each touted for their exceptional talent and strong potential. With such an exciting rookie class, fantasy managers and sports bettors alike have plenty to ponder as the season approaches.

As fantasy baseball drafts approach, identifying sleeper picks at second base can tip the scales in your favor. Jackson Holliday remains an enticing option despite a rough rookie season, showcasing potential for 20 homers and steals with strong hard-hit metrics and elite sprint speed. Thairo Estrada's move to Coors Field could revive his value, projecting 12 homers and 11 stolen bases, making him a compelling late-round target. Connor Norby, the Miami Marlins' new addition, has displayed a mix of power and speed, but his high strikeout rate is a concern. Brandon Lowe continues to deliver power, with a consistent 20-home run output and a favorable playing environment after relocating to George M. Steinbrenner Field. Finally, keep an eye on Kristian Campbell, the Boston Red Sox prospect poised for an eventual debut, who offers tremendous upside as a potential Rookie of the Year candidate.

As fantasy baseball drafts approach, the conversation around closer selections remains contentious. While saves can be a puntable category, they are also readily available on waivers throughout the season. This analysis categorizes potential opening-day closers by average draft position, providing insight into when and how to draft these relievers.

The top tier of closers includes elite talents like Emmanuel Clase and Josh Hader, who possess not only job security but also the skill set to thrive. However, their draft positions might deter some from taking a closer over impactful hitters in earlier rounds. In contrast, the second tier features solid options like Edwin Díaz but still poses the dilemma of sacrificing potential star hitters.

As we move further down the draft board, potential closers can be found in the third tier, where pitchers like Félix Bautista and Jhoan Durán could emerge as valuable assets. The final tiers present various options, but they come with significant risk, often leaving drafters with a choice between safety and the thrill of finding a diamond in the rough. This year, the discussion on how to approach drafting closers remains as vital as ever.

The catcher position has evolved over the years, with offensive output rising but not quite matching the heights of legends like Mike Piazza and Pudge Rodriguez. William Contreras stands at the top of the dynasty rankings for catchers, following an impressive 2024 season. Other emerging talents include Adley Rutschman, Yainer Diaz, and Samuel Basallo, each showcasing significant potential for fantasy leagues.

In the short term, Contreras’s performance makes him a desirable pick in redraft leagues, while Rutschman's recent injury struggles bring uncertainty. The landscape for catchers presents unique opportunities, especially in dynasty formats. As fantasy managers gear up for the 2025 season, understanding these players' trajectories and potential roles within their teams will be crucial for maximizing value.