The start of the MLB season brings both excitement and caution for fantasy baseball managers as they navigate FAAB budgets. Injuries and player performance during spring training impact decisions on acquiring new talent. Notable players to monitor include Cam Smith, who has shown promise but faces risks in his transition to the majors, and Kristian Campbell, whose past success might not translate immediately at the big league level. Miguel Vargas offers potential but has yet to harness his abilities effectively, while Justin Slaten's first save might mislead managers regarding his future role in the Boston bullpen.

As the 2025 MLB season looms, each franchise pinpoints pivotal players critical to their success. For the Baltimore Orioles, catcher Adley Rutschman needs to reclaim his form after a disappointing finish last season. Boston's Walker Buehler must stabilize a rotation weakened by injuries, while the Chicago White Sox look to Miguel Vargas for offensive resurgence amid a rebuilding phase. The Guardians count on Gavin Williams to provide stability in a pitching-heavy strategy, and Gleyber Torres at second base for the Tigers faces expectations in a lineup dependent on his performance. Meanwhile, Isaac Paredes of the Astros carries the weight of replacing their departed stars. Each of these players plays a vital role in their team's quest for the postseason.

As fantasy baseball draft season heats up, identifying potential breakout players becomes crucial for managers looking to enhance their rosters. While much focus is on early-round stars, savvy drafters should also consider players poised for a comeback. This article highlights several infielders who are undervalued and could provide significant value to your fantasy lineup.

Josh Jung of the Texas Rangers is a name to remember, as he embarks on what could be a breakout year, supported by a healthy spring training. Meanwhile, Cincinnati's Christian Encarnacion-Strand is poised to capitalize on his opportunity due to teammate injuries, showcasing impressive power numbers this spring. Other potential bounce-back candidates include Thairo Estrada of the Colorado Rockies, Trevor Story of the Boston Red Sox, Miguel Vargas with the Chicago White Sox, and Bo Bichette of the Toronto Blue Jays. Each of these players has demonstrated the ability to produce significant stats in the past, making them worth a late-round flier. As the season approaches, these under-the-radar talents may just surprise those who invest in them.

The Chicago White Sox are facing uncertainty as they approach the opening day of the 2025 season, with various roster spots still unfilled. First-year manager Will Venable acknowledges the potential for lingering questions until the last minute as they finalize their squad. Key players such as Luis Robert Jr., Sean Burke, and Miguel Vargas have been confirmed for starting roles, while spring performances have put veterans like Brandon Drury in contention for various positions.

The outfield is a focal point, especially with Andrew Benintendi and Austin Slater returning from injuries, though both may struggle to be ready in time. Minor league signee Travis Jankowski is in contention for an outfield spot. The pitching rotation also remains a work in progress, with Jonathan Cannon's poor spring performance causing concern. The White Sox aim for improvement after a challenging season, and their management remains cautiously optimistic for the upcoming games.

The National League West remains a battleground as teams vie for roster spots ahead of the season. The Arizona Diamondbacks are focusing on center field, with Jake McCarthy edging out Alek Thomas based on their early performances. While McCarthy's speed has proven valuable, Thomas has yet to deliver consistent power. The fifth starter role sees Brandon Pfaadt and Ryne Nelson in contention, while Justin Martinez and A.J. Puk compete to become the closer after Paul Sewald's departure.

Meanwhile, the Colorado Rockies are evaluating their right field options, with Hunter Goodman, Jordan Beck, and Zac Veen in the mix. Goodman’s dual role at catcher complicates things, and veterans may fill the gap if the youngsters don’t impress. Chase Dollander, the promising rookie, is expected to start in the minors due to spring struggles, while Seth Halvorsen appears to be the most viable closing option despite a historically tough environment for Rockies relievers. The Los Angeles Dodgers focus on second base and center field, with Tommy Edman likely starting regularly as the team assesses Hyeseong Kim's power revamp. Dustin May has secured the fifth starter role, but injury concerns loom for Tony Gonsolin.