Fantasy baseball points leagues are gaining traction as a preferred format among enthusiasts. This updated ranking highlights the top 750 players, meticulously curated by RotoBaller's expert Nick Gaut, emphasizing both hitters and pitchers. Key strategies in points leagues differ from traditional formats, favoring players who excel at drawing walks and limiting strikeouts. Unique scoring systems allow pitchers to earn substantial points through innings pitched, greatly influencing draft strategies.

This ranking reveals the cream of the crop, spearheaded by Shohei Ohtani, whose dual-threat capability places him at the pinnacle. Bobby Witt Jr. and Jose Ramirez follow closely, underscoring the value of versatility. As drafts approach, knowing these key players enhances your chances of assembling a championship-winning roster.

Statcast data has revolutionized MLB analytics, providing insights into player performance through Expected Stats, which gauge actual performance against expected outcomes based on metrics like launch angle and exit velocity. This is crucial for fantasy baseball managers to identify players who have been either fortunate or unfortunate in their outcomes. For the upcoming 2025 season, the analysis highlights several players whose metrics suggest they may be undervalued or poised for a bounce back.

José Ramírez, for instance, had a significant gap between his expected batting average and actual performance, hinting at potential adjustments needed for 2025. Juan Soto's Statcast data reveals he might have underperformed last season, making him a prime target in round one. Meanwhile, Marcell Ozuna’s metrics suggest he could provide immense value as he has consistently posted high expected outcomes. Similarly, Michael Harris II and Ezequiel Tovar were identified as players who might exceed their draft positions based on their underlying data.

The landscape of MLB fantasy baseball often requires a different approach than other sports like football. In this realm, assembling a robust roster is vital, especially relying on mid-to-late-round pitchers with high ceilings. Names like Robbie Ray of the San Francisco Giants and Cristopher Sanchez from the Philadelphia Phillies stand out as potential steals in drafts. Ray, with a solid history of strikeouts and a favorable park factor, is set for a rebound. Sanchez showcases an impressive velocity increase and strikeout potential. Then there's Yusei Kikuchi, who excelled with the Houston Astros and is expected to replicate that success with the Angels. Other notable mentionables include Brandon Pfaadt, Spencer Arrighetti, MacKenzie Gore, and Gavin Williams, all of whom have demonstrated significant upside and could emerge as key contributors this season.

The Blue Jays have reached the halfway point of their Grapefruit League schedule with a 9-6-1 record following a high-scoring 13-9 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays. While wins matter little in spring training, individual performances provide insights. Alan Roden, a standout outfielder, boasts impressive stats with a .438 batting average and a 1.563 OPS, making a case for a spot on the roster. Veteran pitcher Max Scherzer, at 40 years old, shows he still has the ability to dominate with a 2.00 ERA and 14 strikeouts in 9 innings. Other notable performances include Jeff Hoffman and Yimi García, both of whom are expected to contribute significantly in the bullpen.

On the flip side, health concerns plague the team, notably with Erik Swanson and Ryan Burr sidelined with injuries. Catchers Christian Bethancourt and Ali Sanchez have struggled offensively, while Jonatan Clase has also failed to capitalize on opportunities. Despite some players' poor performance, others, including Myles Straw, have shined recently, leaving the Blue Jays with plenty to ponder as they prepare for the regular season.