Spring training is nearly upon us, and the fantasy baseball landscape is buzzing with activity. The latest dynasty rankings for second basemen reveal some familiar faces and rising stars. Ketel Marte stands out with a stellar 2024 season, boasting a remarkable .292/.372/.560 slash line along with 36 home runs and 95 RBIs. Following him, Jazz Chisholm Jr. is set to transition to the Yankees' second base, bringing his explosive power-speed combo into play.

Prospect Kristian Campbell is making waves after an impressive year in the minors, while Cincinnati's Matt McLain, despite a torn labrum in 2024, showed promise in his rookie year. Ozzie Albies remains a solid option per game, but durability concerns loom large. Jackson Holliday's 2024 was underwhelming, yet his potential keeps him on the radar. Veteran Jose Altuve continues to produce, but his trade value might be slipping. Finally, Marcus Semien's ability to still contribute makes him a worthwhile pursuit for contending teams.

On-base percentage (OBP) is becoming a key metric in fantasy baseball leagues, attracting attention for its ability to reward players with exceptional plate discipline. Unlike batting average (AVG), which is influenced by multiple factors, OBP more directly benefits from a player's ability to draw walks and make consistent contact. This year, several players stand out as potential OBP stars, offering savvy fantasy managers a chance to gain an edge in their drafts.

Ketel Marte from the Arizona Diamondbacks is highlighted for his impressive stats, including a .372 OBP and a significant contribution of 36 home runs, 93 runs, and 95 RBIs in 2024. His ability to maintain a BABIP around the league average indicates that his success at getting on base is sustainable. Similarly, Max Muncy of the Los Angeles Dodgers, despite an injury-plagued 2024 season, boasts a career OBP of .352 and a solid walk rate that suggests he will continue to be a reliable source of OBP in upcoming drafts.

Isaac Paredes, now with the Houston Astros, is projected to fill an everyday role and could see his OBP improve in a new environment. Gabriel Moreno, a catcher for the Diamondbacks, offers sneaky value at a position often overlooked in OBP leagues, providing a solid option without the high draft cost associated with top-tier catchers. Finally, Nathaniel Lowe of the Washington Nationals presents a late-round opportunity for managers looking for OBP value, especially if he secures consistent playing time.

As the MLB off-season unfolds, projections from ZiPS and Steamer are being analyzed at Arizona Diamondbacks On SI, focusing on the performance expectations for each member of the team. The site aims to provide a comprehensive overview of players by averaging projections and assessing individual contributions based on rate statistics and playing time.

The evaluation extends beyond the 26-man roster typically utilized on Opening Day, encompassing the entire 40-man roster and including promising minor-leaguers and prospects that may impact the Diamondbacks' 162-game season.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have made a significant trade, acquiring Josh Naylor from the Cleveland Guardians to fill the void left by Christian Walker's departure. This two-player deal involves right-handed pitcher Slade Cecconi heading to Cleveland along with a competitive balance draft pick.

Naylor, who had a standout season with 31 home runs, is expected to bolster Arizona's lineup, although his defensive skills may not match those of Walker. Meanwhile, the Guardians have signed Carlos Santana to take Naylor's place.

Shohei Ohtani has made headlines in Japan after winning his third MVP award, this time in the National League as a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers. His achievement has led to special newspaper editions being published across Japan, celebrating his remarkable career and influence.

Ohtani's impact is profound, with fans expressing pride in his representation of Japan in Major League Baseball. The tradition of publishing special editions highlights the significance of Ohtani's accomplishments in both sports and media.