MLB Opening Day 2025 is officially here, featuring a packed schedule with 14 games, highlighted by Juan Soto's debut for the New York Mets against the Houston Astros. Soto, renowned for his stellar hitting and on-base percentage, joins a lineup in Citi Field that has traditionally offered better-than-average home run numbers. This move raises the potential for heightened fantasy value, particularly as Soto has consistently been a top DFS choice.

Daily Fantasy experts recommend focusing on the matchups to unlock value in your lineups. Notably, Mike McClure, a seasoned DFS player with over $2 million in earnings, emphasizes key player picks. For instance, Bryce Harper of the Philadelphia Phillies is a prime option, facing lefty MacKenzie Gore. Harper's impressive .301 batting average against lefties and a substantial March-April OPS enhances his appeal. Alongside him, the Angels’ Logan O'Hoppe presents a value play against the struggling Chicago White Sox after a promising 2024 season.

In fantasy baseball, securing a top catcher is crucial due to the limited elite options available. William Contreras stands out, being the only catcher drafted in the top 50, boasting impressive stats with a .281 average, 23 homers, and 92 RBIs in 2024. Following him, Adley Rutschman, Yainer Diaz, and Cal Raleigh are popular picks, but if those are missed, several undervalued catchers are available beyond the first 90 picks.

Willson Contreras is slated as the Cardinals' primary first baseman but retains catcher eligibility, making him a smart target at an ADP of 92.3. After battling injuries in 2024, he still showcased excellent metrics, hinting he could achieve career highs if he remains healthy. Shea Langeliers, at an ADP of 127.3, recorded 29 homers last season and is a powerful option worth consideration. Logan O'Hoppe presents a high-risk but high-reward scenario, having logged 20 homers last season despite a weak second half. Gabriel Moreno offers a solid batting average, while Ivan Herrera has a chance to be a sleeper at 239.3 ADP with his batting potential.

Fantasy baseball enthusiasts should take note of the catchers to target and avoid based on their average draft positions (ADP). Willson Contreras, now with the St. Louis Cardinals and transitioning to full-time first base, shows promise for a breakout season, having put up impressive numbers despite limited playtime last year. J.T. Realmuto is a solid mid-round option; although he faced injuries, his late-season performance suggests he could bounce back strong. Austin Wells of the Yankees, positioned to be an everyday catcher, has demonstrated potential for a breakout campaign after a solid second half.

Conversely, Yainer Diaz from the Astros and Logan O'Hoppe of the Angels are catchers to avoid due to their high ADP relative to potential output. Diaz's power metrics are declining, while O'Hoppe may see his playing time reduced with the arrival of veteran Travis d'Arnaud. This analysis provides a strategic edge for fantasy players as they navigate their drafts.

In the upcoming 2025 MLB season, fantasy drafters must weigh the price against potential performance pitfalls for several players. Ketel Marte's top-30 ADP raises eyebrows, given his recent injury history and declining speed. Andrew Vaughn remains an underwhelming choice on a struggling White Sox roster, while José Altuve’s recent stats suggest he may not justify a third-round draft pick. Logan O'Hoppe's struggles and the Angels' offseason signings could limit his playing time, and Freddie Freeman's advancing age and recent surgery raise questions about his power potential. Other players like Brice Turang and Marcus Semien also show concerning trends, making them risky investments for fantasy teams.