Fantasy baseball seasons are heating up, with catchers taking center stage in the 2025 rankings. William Contreras of the Milwaukee Brewers stands out as the top catcher after an impressive 2024 season, hitting 23 home runs and driving in 92 runs. For fantasy players, securing a solid catcher is vital, especially for those using two in their lineups, as the depth in talent diminishes quickly beyond the top tier.

Several other notable catchers are also making waves in the rankings, including Cal Raleigh, Shea Langeliers, and Tyler Soderstrom. These rankings are backed by experts who have consistently produced accurate projections in the industry. Players should keep an eye on injuries and updates around the league, particularly regarding moves like the Padres' interest in Christian Vázquez and other minor-league signings.

This analysis focuses on several MLB players who are generating buzz in the upcoming draft season, featuring insights on their performance and potential. Notable mentions include Jorge Soler, who, with an ADP of 222, is expected to thrive batting cleanup for the Los Angeles Angels. His move to a full-time DH role could see him challenge 100 RBIs, leveraging his previous prowess of 48 homers in 2019. Yusei Kikuchi, now with the Houston Astros, has shown remarkable improvement since leveraging his slider, projecting him as a top-40 pitcher. For deeper leagues, Pedro Leon’s ADP of 745 presents a risk/reward opportunity as he competes for playing time in the Astros outfield.

Other players of interest are Spencer Arrighetti, whose rookie season showcased a strong strikeout rate, while Shea Langeliers from the Oakland Athletics is poised for a breakout season with potential Tier 1 catcher stats. Andres Munoz is highlighted as a top-3 closer, benefiting from the absence of competition for saves in Seattle. Lastly, Evan Carter and Kumar Rocker are promising young talents, with Carter's ADP at 288 and Rocker's projected to rise after a successful return from injury.

The Oakland Athletics have made a significant move by acquiring left-hander Jeffrey Springs from the Tampa Bay Rays in a six-player trade. This acquisition marks a strategic push towards contention as the A's prepare for their inaugural season in Sacramento, with their payroll now projected to exceed $100 million.

Springs, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery, joins a rotation that includes Luis Severino and J.P. Sears. The trade also sees right-handers Joe Boyle and Jacob Watters, along with first baseman Will Simpson and a draft pick, heading to the Rays.

Luis Severino has signed a three-year, $67 million contract with the Oakland Athletics, marking the largest guaranteed deal in the franchise's history. This agreement comes as the A's prepare to relocate to Sacramento for the 2025 season.

After a challenging 2023 season with the New York Yankees, Severino rebounded in 2024 with the New York Mets, showcasing improved performance and durability. The A's hope his addition will enhance their pitching staff as they aim for a competitive future.

The 2024 Platinum Glove Awards celebrated the best defensive players in Major League Baseball, with Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners winning in the American League and Brice Turang of the Milwaukee Brewers taking the honor in the National League.

Raleigh, who achieved 17 defensive runs saved, is the second AL catcher to win this award since its inception in 2011. Turang led NL infielders with 22 defensive runs saved, marking a significant achievement for both players.

Additionally, the Toronto Blue Jays and Milwaukee Brewers received the Team Gold Glove Awards, showcasing their defensive prowess throughout the season.