The catcher position in 2025 fantasy baseball presents a unique challenge due to limited depth and variability in player performance. Middle-round targets include Shea Langeliers, who showcased immense power with 29 home runs last season, and Logan O'Hoppe, who flashed potential as a top offensive threat despite contact rate concerns. Francisco Alvarez's disappointing 2024 raises questions about his value, while Gabriel Moreno offers a solid batting average with potential for steals. Finally, Austin Wells could emerge as a sleeper pick with his potential for power in a strong Yankees lineup.

The NL West is shaping up to be a one-horse race, with the Los Angeles Dodgers dominating the odds at -450, followed by the Arizona Diamondbacks at +550. The Dodgers, coming off a 103-win season, have enhanced their roster with key additions like Roki Sasaki and Shohei Ohtani, though they face injury concerns with several pitchers. Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks, having led the league in runs last year, are projected for an 86.5 win season, bolstered by the arrival of ace Corbin Burnes and the potential growth of players like Corbin Carroll.

The San Diego Padres sit at +1000, but their success hinges on stars like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado amid a topsy-turvy ownership saga. Despite previously aiming for elite status, their depth could be tested this year, especially with Joe Musgrove sidelined. The San Francisco Giants and Colorado Rockies are expected to struggle, with odds of +1800 and +25000, respectively, as they face tough competition in the division.

The Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) is undergoing trials during MLB spring training, marking a significant shift in how baseball officiates games. Following extensive testing in the minors, MLB aims to refine the technology that uses cameras and a Hawk-Eye pose-tracking system to accurately judge pitches. In 2024, a challenge system will allow players to contest calls made by umpires, maintaining the human element in officiating. Each team can challenge two calls per game, ensuring quick decision-making and preserving the pace of play.

This innovation could reshape the dynamics of pitching and batting strategies, as players adjust to a more precise strike zone that has evolved from an oval to a rectangular shape. The initial results suggest an increase in walk rates, pointing to a possible shift in offensive strategies as teams adapt to the nuances of ABS. The implementation of this system in 19 teams across 13 spring training ballparks indicates a strong commitment from MLB to enhance the quality of play.

Kendall Graveman's new one-year contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks is structured to potentially earn him up to $3.3 million, comprising a base salary of $1.35 million along with $1.95 million in performance bonuses based on game appearances. His deal includes a mutual option for 2026 at $5 million, with an additional $100,000 buyout. Graveman, a 34-year-old right-handed reliever, is rebounding after missing the previous season due to shoulder surgery.

Since transitioning to a full-time relief role in 2021, Graveman has posted an impressive 2.74 ERA over 187.1 innings, with 193 strikeouts. He has previously pitched for teams like the Chicago White Sox and Houston Astros, showcasing a solid career ERA of 3.95 over nine seasons. Graveman is expected to play a crucial role in the Diamondbacks' bullpen this year, and his performance could significantly impact his value going forward.