As Opening Day approaches, roster shifts due to injuries and performance have created significant opportunities for various players across multiple teams. For instance, the Baltimore Orioles will start the season without Gunnar Henderson, who is on the injured list, paving the way for Jackson Holliday and Ramon Urias to take on key roles. Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox have named Kristian Campbell their starting second baseman despite a shaky spring, indicating a commitment to his potential.

On the pitching side, Cade Povich is set to begin as the Orioles' fifth starter, while the New York Yankees are in a tight race for their final rotation spot with Will Warren and Carlos Carrasco. The Tampa Bay Rays will also rely on Drew Rasmussen and Zack Littell following Shane McClanahan's injury. With these changes, fantasy players should keep a keen eye on who is rising and falling in value as the season kicks off.

The second base position is less robust heading into the 2025 fantasy season, with Mookie Betts as the only top-tier player available in the first two rounds. Following him, notable names like Ketel Marte, Jose Altuve, and Ozzie Albies are expected to be drafted between rounds three and five. Most managers will likely target second basemen in the middle-to-late rounds, but there are valuable options to consider post-pick 85.

Highlighted value picks include Jordan Westburg of the Baltimore Orioles, who boasts dual eligibility and an impressive ADP of 89.7. Following a strong All-Star season, Westburg's potential for offensive growth looks promising.

Bryson Stott, currently with an ADP of 153.7, offers a solid middle-round pick despite last year's slump. His speed on the bases can be beneficial, especially in points leagues. Meanwhile, Jackson Holliday from the Orioles and Jonathan India, now with the Kansas City Royals, present intriguing late-round opportunities. They could emerge as useful contributors in 2025.

The scarcity of elite second basemen in fantasy baseball is highlighted by Ketel Marte being the only player selected within the first 30 picks. Other notable names like Jose Altuve and Marcus Semien follow, but the position offers depth with sleeper prospects available later in drafts. Players like Brandon Lowe, who has potential for power, Thairo Estrada, now in Coors Field, and Nico Hoerner, a consistent contributor, are highlighted as potential outperformers for the 2025 season.

Value in fantasy baseball often hinges on identifying players whose potential exceeds public perception. Here are my top draft targets for the upcoming season, representing a mix of leagues including points-based, rotisserie, and mixed formats. Players like Sandy Alcantara, with his recent impressive spring performance post-Tommy John surgery, and Tanner Bibee, who has shown potential as an innings eater, are key targets. Junior Caminero's power and position in the Rays' lineup suggest he could be a home run threat. Others like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Oneil Cruz are primed for breakout seasons with their combination of speed and power. Each of these players offers significant upside and could be pivotal for fantasy success this season.

As the 2025 fantasy baseball season approaches, several promising second-year hitters are ready to make their mark. Elly De La Cruz of the Cincinnati Reds is a standout example, having improved significantly after a modest rookie season. His performance sets the stage for other young players looking to break out this year.

Among the top candidates are Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Chicago Cubs, whose late 2024 surge hints at a full breakout. Jackson Holliday of the Baltimore Orioles, despite an underwhelming debut, shows potential from his impressive minor league stats and is expected to step up. James Wood of the Washington Nationals displayed commendable power and speed last season, indicating he too could elevate his game this year.

Junior Caminero of the Tampa Bay Rays, despite limited playing time, has shown offensive potential and is poised for a breakout, while Wyatt Langford of the Texas Rangers, selected early in the 2023 draft, is anticipated to fulfill expectations after a slower start in the majors. These players could become valuable assets in fantasy drafts.