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 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.

Fantasy baseball managers should keep an eye on bounce-back candidates for the upcoming season as they often represent solid draft values. Some players, like Bo Bichette of the Toronto Blue Jays, are primed for a resurgence after injuries hampered their previous campaigns. Bichette, who has hit above .290 throughout his career, is a potential steal in drafts. Likewise, Josh Lowe from the Tampa Bay Rays showed promise post-All-Star break, hinting at his capacity to replicate his power-speed combination if he improves his strikeout rate.

Other noteworthy players include Nolan Jones of the Colorado Rockies, who suffered from injuries but still plays in a favorable hitting environment at Coors Field, and Christopher Morel, who experienced bad luck despite showing improvement in plate discipline. Thairo Estrada, after a season riddled with injuries, may also surprise in the upcoming season, especially in a conducive hitting environment. Finally, veterans like Justin Verlander and David Bednar look to regain their elite forms after off years, making them intriguing options as well.

Identifying sleeper candidates in fantasy baseball, particularly among hitters around the 300th pick or later, can yield significant value in drafts. This analysis highlights five players who may present opportunities based on their recent performance and potential for increased playing time.

Jordan Walker of the St. Louis Cardinals is a notable selection despite a challenging 2024 season. His impressive metrics from 2023 suggest he could reclaim his status as a valuable asset. Similarly, Christopher Morel of the Tampa Bay Rays faced struggles but has underlying power potential that could lead to a bounce-back year. Joey Ortiz from the Milwaukee Brewers checks off both power and speed boxes but needs to improve his launch angle to maximize his production.

Jarred Kelenic, now with the Atlanta Braves, has a chance to become a strong side platoon option despite inconsistencies. Lastly, Chas McCormick from the Houston Astros offers a discount after an injury-plagued season, with potential for double-digit home runs and stolen bases.

Tampa Bay Rays President of Baseball Operations, Erik Neander, has expressed confidence in the team's current roster, suggesting that no major external acquisitions will be necessary this offseason. Neander's comments, reported by the Tampa Bay Times, emphasize the potential for internal growth among players to enhance the team's offensive capabilities. He noted the importance of players taking significant strides forward or rebounding from previous seasons.

Neander pointed to several players, including Josh Lowe, who underperformed due to injuries, and Johnny DeLuca, who had a disappointing batting average. The Rays are optimistic about the contributions of top prospect Junior Caminero and Christopher Morel, who will have a full season after joining the team at the trade deadline. Additionally, the offloading of Isaac Paredes and Randy Arozarena has created room for other players to step up, leading to hopes of improved performances, particularly from Yandy Diaz, who is expected to increase his power numbers.