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.

The 2025 fantasy baseball season is on the horizon, and savvy managers should focus on pitcher prospects that can make a substantial impact. Roki Sasaki of the Los Angeles Dodgers leads the list, boasting impressive statistics from Japan, including a 2.02 ERA and over 500 strikeouts. With a starting rotation spot secured, he presents great upside for fantasy drafts.

Following Sasaki is Jackson Jobe, anticipated to join the Detroit Tigers' rotation after a solid debut. Andrew Painter of the Philadelphia Phillies is a potential stash option as he recovers from surgery. Other noteworthy names include Bubba Chandler (Pittsburgh Pirates) and Noah Schultz (Chicago White Sox), both of whom have shown promise in the minors. Late additions like Chase Dollander (Colorado Rockies) and Quinn Mathews (St. Louis Cardinals) could also surprise in the big leagues.

As the 2025 fantasy baseball drafts commence, seekers of value in the later rounds are focusing their attention on players like Tyler Fitzgerald and Christopher Morel, who promise potential upside. Fitzgerald of the San Francisco Giants showed a notable performance last season, with 15 home runs and 17 stolen bases in just 96 games. His speed and power make him an intriguing late-round option, especially given the limited alternatives the Giants have defensively.

Morel, now with the Tampa Bay Rays, brings a streaky performance but a tantalizing power upside, having recorded 21 home runs last season. The Rays' new ballpark conditions could further enhance his production. Meanwhile, Michael Conforto, despite being overlooked in drafts, has the potential to thrive with the Los Angeles Dodgers, bolstered by a favorable hitting environment and a strong lineup. For pitchers, Drew Rasmussen presents a low-risk option after demonstrating solid ratios in the past seasons, while Jackson Jobe's minor league pedigree could make him a valuable late-round flier.

Episode 378 of The Toolshed Podcast offers a glimpse into the future of fantasy baseball, as hosts Chris Clegg and Eric Cross peer into their crystal ball to predict the top-ranked players for 2028. Highlighted are prospects such as Jackson Chourio of the Milwaukee Brewers, heralded for his potential to become a superstar. Jackson Jobe from the Detroit Tigers and Kristian Campbell from the Boston Red Sox are also key players discussed, emphasizing their strong upward trajectory. As the hosts dissect the rankings by position, they provide insights into each player’s skill set and how they fit into the future landscape of the MLB, making this episode essential for dynasty league enthusiasts aiming to secure future value.

With spring training in full swing for MLB teams, several starting roles are up for grabs, particularly in the American League Central division, which has significant fantasy implications. The Chicago White Sox are evaluating their shortstop options, with Colson Montgomery making a strong initial impression despite his struggles at Triple-A last season. Meanwhile, Luis Robert is likely to split time as designated hitter to manage his health, while the catcher position is crowded with promising young talent like Edgar Quero and Kyle Teel. The White Sox's closer situation appears murky, with several candidates, including Prelander Berroa, struggling with injuries.

In Cleveland, the Guardians are looking for answers at second base after trading away Andres Gimenez, with Juan Brito standing out as an intriguing prospect. Right field remains a position of uncertainty after a rotation of players last season, with Jhonkensy Noel and Will Brennan vying for playing time. The Guardians' pitching depth continues to inspire confidence, despite some uncertainty around their rotation.

The Detroit Tigers face crucial decisions in their pitching staff, as a recent injury to Alex Cobb opens up potential spots for young arms like Jackson Jobe and Casey Mize. In Kansas City, the competition for the fifth starter spot is heating up, with Kris Bubic looking to secure a rotation role. The closer role is a bit clearer with Carlos Estevez likely to see the majority of save opportunities, particularly with Lucas Erceg pushing for earlier-game leverage.

Lastly, the Minnesota Twins have introduced new faces in their infield, with the signing of Ty France causing ripples, but primarily, Jose Miranda and Edouard Julien are poised to compete for key spots. The health and performance of pitchers like Chris Paddack will be critical to their success this season.