Kevin Gausman made a promising start this spring, pitching 1 2/3 innings while striking out two and allowing no hits in the Toronto Blue Jays' 7-6 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Gausman, who finished the previous season with a 14-11 record and a 3.83 ERA, looks to build on that momentum as he enters his fourth year with the Jays. Although Toronto mounted a late comeback with back-to-back homers from Arjun Nimmala and Alan Roden, it fell short. The Pirates took an early lead, aided by Oneil Cruz's three-run shot and Joey Bart's solo homer.

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.

Identifying sleeper players who can outperform their average draft position (ADP) is essential for success in fantasy baseball. Oneil Cruz of the Pittsburgh Pirates, with a Yahoo ADP of 59.4, possesses elite stats but has room for improvement, potentially becoming a 30-30-.270 player. Lawrence Butler of the Athletics, a late-round pick, showed impressive stats post-All-Star break, hinting at a 30-30 potential. Meanwhile, Bo Bichette's 109.3 ADP could be a steal as he rebounds from injury, while Thairo Estrada, projected at 233.4, thrives at Coors Field. Other notable mentions include Matt Wallner, Jake McCarthy, and Christopher Morel, who each have the tools to exceed expectations in the upcoming season.

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.