As Week 3 of the fantasy baseball season approaches, several pitchers stand out as potential waiver wire pickups in points leagues. Walker Buehler of the Boston Red Sox is heating up, boasting strong strikeout numbers and an impressive underlying performance despite a high ERA. His solid outing against the Blue Jays positions him as a reliable option with the potential for significant wins.

Jordan Hicks, now a starter for the San Francisco Giants, has made an impressive transition with a low ERA and a high groundball rate, indicating his potential to maintain success in the long run. Justin Verlander, though struggling early on, shows promise with a favorable park and the ability to miss bats, making him a potential buy-low candidate. Lastly, Eduardo Rodriguez of the Arizona Diamondbacks, with a high strikeout rate and favorable advanced metrics, could also yield positive results for fantasy managers.

MLB player prop betting is heating up, with several exciting strikeout props available for April 12, 2025. Top prop bets feature ace Cristopher Sanchez from the Philadelphia Phillies, who boasts an impressive 34% strikeout rate. His matchup against the St. Louis Cardinals, who struggle against left-handed pitchers, makes the OVER 5.5 strikeouts at +125 an enticing choice. Conversely, Miles Mikolas of the Cardinals is projected to fall short on his UNDER 3.5 strikeouts, backed by a low 10% strikeout rate and the Phillies' disciplined offense.

Jordan Hicks of the San Francisco Giants is highlighted for his OVER 4.5 strikeouts, especially facing a Yankees lineup that swings freely. Andrew Heaney, pitching for the Pittsburgh Pirates, is also recommended for OVER 5.5 strikeouts against a struggling Reds offense. For value, Trevor Williams is set at OVER 4.5 strikeouts against the Marlins, who are noted for their high strikeout rate. Finally, Luis Ortiz might hit the UNDER 4.5 strikeouts due to his lack of swing-and-miss stuff. With multiple opportunities, it's a day ripe for strikeout prop betting.

In a deep dive into the latest trends among starting pitchers, the focus is on several players making notable changes in their game. Jordan Hicks of the San Francisco Giants has seen a significant velocity increase, averaging 97.4 mph on his fastball, which could enhance his effectiveness this season despite past doubts about his starter potential. Meanwhile, Landen Roupp has been named the Giants' fifth starter after an impressive spring, highlighting his revamped pitch mix that includes a new cutter aimed at improving performance against left-handed batters.

Richard Fitts of the Boston Red Sox is another name on the rise, showcasing an arsenal of six pitches that includes a new kick-change and improved velocity. His recent performances indicate he could be a valuable fantasy asset. Atlanta Braves' prospect AJ Smith-Shawver has secured a rotation spot amidst concerns about his past command issues. Despite a solid spring, he faces tough matchups in his early starts. Lastly, Reese Olson of the Detroit Tigers is also experiencing a velocity bump, making his previously ineffective fastball much more competitive.

The Starting Pitcher News column highlights key pitchers trending up this season. Jordan Hicks of the San Francisco Giants shows promise with a significant velocity boost, averaging 97.4 mph on his fastballs. Yet, concerns arise over his command against lefties. Landen Roupp, also from the Giants, has been named the fifth starter, showcasing a revamped pitch mix that includes a new cutter, improving his effectiveness against left-handed hitters.

Richard Fitts of the Boston Red Sox has transformed his game since being traded from the Yankees, featuring a six-pitch mix that includes a harder cutter and a new kick-change. His recent performances suggest he could be a long-term solution in the rotation. AJ Smith-Shawver of the Atlanta Braves has secured a rotation spot but faces competition and command issues. Finally, Reese Olson of the Detroit Tigers displays increased velocity, but his success will hinge on improved command of his pitches.

The San Francisco Giants are facing a competitive spring training with a critical spot in their starting rotation up for grabs. Logan Webb, as the ace, is guaranteed a starting role, flanked by Robbie Ray and Justin Verlander, two former Cy Young Award winners. Jordan Hicks also has a chance to secure a starting position despite prior injuries. The fifth slot remains a contest among Kyle Harrison, Hayden Birdsong, and Landen Roupp, each showcasing unique talents and potential.

While Birdsong has shown flashes of brilliance, he needs more experience; Roupp has impressed during spring outings, making a solid case for inclusion. The spotlight, however, shines on Harrison, a top-rated prospect whose recent struggles raise questions about his readiness. With only 23 years of age, he possesses untapped potential that Giants fans hope can emerge this season.