As spring training kicks off, fantasy managers should focus on standout players from each MLB team, particularly those poised for breakout seasons. Heston Kjerstad of the Baltimore Orioles, a former second overall draft pick, is expected to secure significant playing time and could launch 20-plus homers this season. For the Boston Red Sox, Kristian Campbell's ascent suggests he may soon replace Trevor Story, while Jasson Domínguez of the Yankees boasts high fantasy upside and could be a five-category contributor. Shane Baz of the Tampa Bay Rays is a post-hype sleeper to monitor, and Bowden Francis is also intriguing following a solid 2024 finish.

In the AL Central, pitchers like Sean Burke from the White Sox and Gavin Williams from the Guardians are among those to watch closely for potential. The AL West has promising talents such as Nick Kurtz with the Athletics and Isaac Paredes with the Astros, both of whom are positioned to make significant impacts. Meanwhile, Corbin Burnes with the Diamondbacks and Chase Dollander with the Rockies could bolster pitching lineups in the NL.

The Baltimore Orioles face a pivotal offseason after losing key players Corbin Burnes and Anthony Santander to free agency. Despite these losses, GM Mike Elias remains optimistic about the team's future, emphasizing the potential of their burgeoning talent. One player to watch is top prospect Heston Kjerstad, who has shown promise in the minors. Elias confirmed that Kjerstad will receive ample playing time, particularly against right-handed pitchers, alleviating concerns about his chances to prove himself at the major league level.

However, the addition of veterans like Tyler O'Neill and Ramon Laureano creates a congested outfield, challenging Kjerstad's path to regular at-bats. Elias mentioned that their offseason moves aim to provide the team with varied options, underscoring the competitive nature of the roster. Manager Brandon Hyde echoed this sentiment about Kjerstad, signaling a commitment to integrate him into their plans as they navigate through the challenges ahead.

Heston Kjerstad is making waves with the Baltimore Orioles as he looks poised to secure a significant role for the upcoming season. General manager Mike Elias has endorsed the 26-year-old as a top candidate for an opening day roster spot, particularly as a corner outfielder and designated hitter against right-handed pitchers.

After a solid MLB debut in 2023 where he played 52 games with a .248 batting average, six home runs, and 17 RBIs, Kjerstad has demonstrated his potential. As the No. 32 prospect in 2024 according to MLB Pipeline, his minor league stats paint an even brighter picture, boasting a .304 batting average and 42 homers over three seasons.

The Baltimore Orioles face skepticism as they enter the new MLB season without two All-Stars from last year, raising concerns about their competitiveness. General manager Mike Elias has been criticized for failing to secure top pitching talent and for taking risks with offensive replacements. However, the Orioles' rich pool of young talent gives them a reason for optimism. With several top prospects, including Jackson Holliday and Coby Mayo, making their way to the major leagues, expectations are high for a revitalized season. Key players like Adley Rutschman, who experienced a dramatic drop in performance in the latter half of last season, are also expected to bounce back, which could significantly enhance the team's prospects.

The Baltimore Orioles are aiming to build on their recent regular-season success, having won over 90 games in 2024. However, the team's playoff struggles continue, with back-to-back seasons of failing to win a postseason game highlighting their postseason woes. This offseason, the Orioles made headlines by acquiring ace pitcher Corbin Burnes from the Milwaukee Brewers. Yet, with Burnes on a short contract, he turned out to be a rental player for them. Baltimore has supplemented their roster by adding seasoned pitchers Charlie Morton and Tomoyuki Sugano, but neither offers the same caliber as Burnes. The Orioles are considering a significant trade proposal that would send Heston Kjerstad and Dean Kremer to the San Diego Padres in exchange for star pitcher Michael King and reliever Jason Adam. The addition of King, who recorded an impressive 2.95 ERA last season, could provide the Orioles with the ace they desperately need, while Adam's track record in late-game scenarios would bolster a struggling bullpen.