Week 3 of the 2025 MLB season offers numerous promising starting pitchers available on the waiver wire, ideal for both shallow and deeper leagues. Key players to consider include Jordan Hicks from the San Francisco Giants, who has improved his performance significantly with a robust groundball rate. Martin Perez of the Chicago White Sox continues to show excellent control, while young talents like Mitchell Parker from the Washington Nationals have demonstrated strikeout potential. Max Meyer from the Miami Marlins is also making waves with an impressive ERA.

In deeper leagues, Matthew Boyd of the Chicago Cubs and Hayden Wesneski of the Houston Astros are noteworthy for their recent performances. Meanwhile, Zebby Matthews of the Minnesota Twins is a sleeper pick, rumored to potentially join the roster soon. Tyler Mahle of the Texas Rangers is having a remarkable comeback season, making him a valuable addition as well. Lastly, Andrew Abbott from the Cincinnati Reds provides a solid option after recovering from injury. Consider these pitchers to strengthen your fantasy lineup as the season progresses.

Roansy Contreras, once a top prospect for the Pittsburgh Pirates, has signed with the Cincinnati Reds after being designated for assignment by the Texas Rangers. The 25-year-old pitcher debuted in the majors in 2021, recording a 9-12 record and a 4.83 ERA over four seasons with Pittsburgh.

Contreras joins a Reds rotation that includes Brady Singer and Nick Martinez, providing depth as they aim to improve in 2025. Meanwhile, the Pirates are also looking forward to a promising season with their young talents.

Elly De La Cruz, the Cincinnati Reds infielder, gained attention on social media after donning his National League All-Star jersey during a game in the Dominican Republic. This unique display highlights his rising star status in Major League Baseball.

Coming off a strong 2024 season, De La Cruz led the league with 67 stolen bases and hit 25 home runs, contributing to the Reds' competitive position in the National League Central. With the addition of manager Terry Francona and a solid young core, the Reds are looking to build on their success.

Statcast has introduced new baserunning data, highlighting Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz as the most aggressive base stealer of 2024. Despite being caught stealing, his overall contributions on the bases resulted in a net gain of +40 bases, leading the league.

De La Cruz excelled with 67 stolen bases and 25 home runs, showcasing his potential as a key player for the Reds. With a young and talented roster, including Matt McLain and Hunter Greene, the Reds aim for a strong season under new manager Terry Francona.

Terry Francona, now managing the Cincinnati Reds, emphasizes the importance of pitching depth after acquiring Brady Singer from the Kansas City Royals and retaining Nick Martinez. Francona expressed his satisfaction with the team's pitching options, noting Singer's reliability and ability to maintain a solid innings count.

With a strong lineup including Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Andrew Abbott, Rhett Lowder, and Nick Martinez, the Reds are gearing up for a promising 2025 season.