The Chicago Cubs face a significant setback as starting pitcher Justin Steele will miss the entire 2025 season due to reconstructive elbow surgery. Steele has been a reliable presence in the rotation, posting a 3.10 ERA since becoming a full-time starter in 2022. With the loss of their All-Star pitcher so early in the season, the Cubs are contemplating potential internal replacements, including ace Shota Imanaga and veterans Jameson Taillon and Matthew Boyd.

Javier Assad, who impressed last season but is currently on a rehab assignment, could be a crucial returnee to stabilize the rotation. Jordan Wicks, the Cubs' first-round pick from 2021, may also get another chance, despite previous injuries. Cade Horton, their 2023 first-round pick, is performing well at Triple-A and could be called up if needed. For a team aiming for postseason success, filling Steele's void is crucial as they explore both internal options and potential trades.

As the MLB season progresses, several promising prospects are worth considering for your roster. With players like George Kirby and Gunnar Henderson likely occupying roster spots, it's an opportune moment to look for potential breakout players. Graham Pauley, Alan Roden, and Luisangel Acuna made their major league debuts this season and are intriguing options for fantasy managers.

Graham Pauley of the Miami Marlins, while getting a start due to an injury to Connor Norby, has struggled in the past and may not be reliable. In contrast, Alan Roden of the Toronto Blue Jays showed promise during spring training and had a solid Opening Day performance. Lastly, Luisangel Acuna from the New York Mets also has potential but may be best suited for deeper leagues at this time.

Opening Day at loanDepot Park brings a mix of excitement and apprehension for the Miami Marlins and their fans. With Sandy Alcantara on the mound, there’s optimism, but the team's struggles and roster overhaul loom large. New manager Clayton McCullough faces the challenge of developing a young roster amidst financial constraints. The Marlins’ spending ranks at an MLB low of $47 million, far behind teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, raising questions about their commitment to winning.

Alcantara, one of baseball's elite pitchers, is at the center of trade rumors as the franchise continues its rebuild. Questions about his future echo throughout the stadium: will this be his last start as a Marlin? Young players such as Kyle Stowers, Otto Lopez, and Derek Hill look to make their mark but face the burden of low expectations. As the season opens, the Marlins are in a waiting game, hoping to break free from years of disappointment and establish a new culture under McCullough.

Second base presents a unique challenge in fantasy baseball, often overlooked for its lack of elite talent. However, several standout prospects offer a blend of power and speed that could make them valuable additions. Among these players, Kristian Campbell of the Boston Red Sox has emerged as a top prospect following an impressive minor league campaign that saw him hit .330 with 20 home runs and 24 steals. Despite a more crowded infield with Alex Bregman, Campbell's versatility may allow him to carve out a significant role this season.

Christian Moore of the Los Angeles Angels, drafted eighth overall, is also making waves and could step into a starting position due to injuries in the lineup. Meanwhile, Orelvis Martinez of the Toronto Blue Jays, despite a previous suspension, shows potential with a solid Spring Training performance. Other names to watch include Luke Keaschall from the Minnesota Twins and Travis Bazzana from the Cleveland Guardians, both of whom are positioned for bright futures in the majors. As these prospects develop, they could become critical assets in fantasy leagues.