Jonathan India showcased his resilience after a harrowing incident where he was struck in the head by a 99 mph fastball from Emmanuel Clase. Just one day later, he returned to the field with the Kansas City Royals, batting leadoff and delivering a stellar performance, going 3-for-5 with two runs and two RBIs. His efforts contributed to an emphatic 11-1 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers.

Royals catcher Salvador Perez praised India's toughness, noting how rare it is to see a player so determined to play following such an incident. Manager Matt Quatraro highlighted India's competitive spirit, emphasizing that his return sends a vital message about what it takes to be part of a championship-caliber team. This incident not only speaks to India's physical toughness but also sets a tone for his new team's culture.

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.

Jonathan India leads the Cincinnati Reds against the Kansas City Royals in a Cactus League matchup at Goodyear Ballpark. Hunter Greene, slated for Opening Day, is set to make his fifth start against Michael Lorenzen, a former Red. Fans can tune in to WLW-700 radio for live coverage.

The Reds' lineup features notable players including TJ Friedl in center field, Matt McLain at second base, and Elly De La Cruz designated hitting. Austin Hays, Jeimer Candelario, Gavin Lux, Santiago Espinal, Jake Fraley, and Austin Wynns round out a competitive batting order aiming to improve the team's spring record.

The Kansas City Royals are poised for a competitive 2025 season, bolstered by strategic offseason signings that include pitchers Michael Wacha, Carlos Estévez, and Michael Lorenzen. Additionally, the team made headlines by trading for versatile players Jonathan India and Joey Wiemer. While much attention is on the major league squad, the organization also boasts a young talent pipeline with standout prospects like Jac Caglianone, who will transition to a full-time hitting role.

Despite being ranked 23rd in the league for their farm system, experts remain optimistic about the potential impact players such as Caglianone, Noah Cameron, and Steven Zobac can make in the near future. The Royals' pitching depth is being revitalized by promising performances from their top three prospects. As the 2025 season approaches, Kansas City's focus is on maximizing the contributions of both seasoned players and emerging talent.

This offseason, the Kansas City Royals made significant strides to improve their roster, highlighted by a notable trade that brought Jonathan India from the Cincinnati Reds. In exchange, they sent talented pitcher Brady Singer to Cincinnati, a move that reflects their strategy to bolster their offense with India's power and on-base capabilities. India's ability to get on base at a 35 percent clip makes him an essential addition to the top of the lineup, where he can support the emerging stars like Bobby Witt Jr., Salvador Perez, and Vinnie Pasquantino.

Despite a modest .248 batting average last season with the Reds, India still showed promise with 15 home runs, 58 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases, culminating in a .750 OPS. His versatility allows him to play at second base, third base, or even serve as a designated hitter, giving the Royals flexibility in their lineup as they aim for a return to postseason play by 2025.