Fantasy baseball auction drafts provide a unique opportunity to build a balanced roster without the restrictions of a snake draft. In this environment, savvy managers can capitalize on undervalued pitchers, particularly those with average auction values (AAV) under $10. Targeting these players can significantly enhance your chances of success in the 2025 season.

Players like Jared Jones from the Pittsburgh Pirates offer plenty of upside with a $9 AAV, showcasing a potent strikeout rate despite needing improvement in run prevention. Similarly, veterans like Kenley Jansen of the Los Angeles Angels, now valued at $7, bring closing experience and potential saves, making him a wise investment. Reynaldo Lopez, with his impressive 2024 season still fresh in memory, commands a mere $7 AAV. Meanwhile, Nick Pivetta is likely to thrive in a new environment with the Padres for just $6. Finally, Taj Bradley's potential at a $5 AAV makes him an intriguing option for those looking to bolster their pitching depth.

In the competitive realm of fantasy baseball, identifying 'buy low' players can yield significant benefits. Utilizing SIERA (Skill-Interactive Earned Run Average) helps pinpoint pitchers who deserve better outcomes based on advanced metrics. By filtering out pitchers with below-average strike rates and Stuff+ scores, the focus shifts to those with genuine potential for improvement. This year, standout names like Reid Detmers and Garrett Crochet are emerging as top candidates for positive regression.

Detmers showcases a remarkable swinging strike rate and has made notable adjustments to his fastball and slider, hinting at a breakout season. Other intriguing names include David Festa, who has shown a strong ability to strike out hitters, alongside Brandon Pfaadt, whose hard contact rates raise concerns but still shows potential. The list also features emerging talents like Nick Lodolo and Edward Cabrera, who possess great stuff but face health and command challenges. Diving deep into these metrics offers fantasy managers valuable insight into potential late-round gems.

Pitchers like Jacob deGrom and Spencer Schwellenbach present intriguing value in upcoming drafts. DeGrom, now with the Texas Rangers, has been overlooked despite a stellar track record and signs of health after prior injuries. His ADP at SP12 doesn't reflect his potential as a top-three starter. Schwellenbach of the Atlanta Braves has shown significant promise since recovering from Tommy John surgery, boasting impressive stats that suggest he should be valued much higher than his current SP24 ADP.

Meanwhile, Grayson Rodriguez, Joe Ryan, and Jared Jones also deserve attention as undervalued prospects. Rodriguez, despite a slight setback last season, possesses elite strikeout potential. Ryan, returning from injury, demonstrated an impressive WHIP under 1.00 before his shoulder strain, while Jones' rookie performance shows significant upside. In contrast, Max Fried's stock might be too high following his move to the New York Yankees, where home run rates are notably elevated.

As fantasy baseball draft season heats up, identifying undervalued mid-round starting pitchers is crucial for building a competitive roster. Targeting players like Jared Jones of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who showcased a strong strikeout rate but struggled in the second half of the season, can offer potential upside at a reasonable ADP. Hunter Greene of the Cincinnati Reds could be a key addition too, having posted impressive numbers last season but with injury concerns that could affect his availability. Justin Steele and Grayson Rodriguez also stand out, with their promising metrics and potential for breakout seasons.

Spencer Schwellenbach of the Atlanta Braves is another intriguing option, having shown resilience as a rookie in the previous season. Drafting him could yield great returns given his strong ratios and low ADP. As fantasy managers consider these pitchers, balancing risk with the potential for high reward becomes paramount in the mid-rounds.

Heading into the 2025 season, Pittsburgh Pirates manager Derek Shelton is optimistic about the depth and talent of his roster, suggesting it could be his best yet in Pittsburgh. The pitching staff, led by Paul Skenes—the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year—is drawing attention for its strength. Shelton highlights the impressive performance of rookie pitchers like Jared Jones, who, despite an injury, showcased potential last season. Notably, top prospects such as Bubba Chandler and Thomas Harrington are nearing MLB readiness, enhancing the Pirates' pitching depth.

If the Pirates can improve offensively, they may finally realize Shelton's vision for the team. With a mix of established players and promising young arms, the Pirates could surprise many in the upcoming season.