As the 2025 fantasy baseball season begins, three standout pitchers have emerged with impressive starts: Jeffrey Springs, Jose Soriano, and Max Meyer. Jeffrey Springs, now with the Athletics, delivered a stellar performance against the Mariners, achieving 9 strikeouts in his debut. Soriano, pitching for the Angels, showcased his skills by blanking the White Sox over seven innings. Meanwhile, Meyer, although still working to refine his game, struck out 7 batters against the Pirates, indicating potential as a fantasy asset.

Springs, who previously struggled with injuries, demonstrated the effectiveness of his changeup, contributing to a promising start. Soriano's dominant outing raises questions about his long-term viability, while Meyer’s slider proved to be a significant weapon in his performance. Fantasy managers should consider these pitchers for lineup strategies as the season progresses.

The 2025 MLB season kicks off on March 18 with the Chicago Cubs facing the Los Angeles Dodgers in Japan, followed by the rest of the league starting on March 27. As teams finalize their rotations, fantasy baseball enthusiasts need to focus not just on top-tier pitchers but also on those with lower average draft positions (ADPs) who can provide value. This guide highlights four promising starting pitchers with potential for breakout seasons.

Max Meyer of the Miami Marlins, recovering from injuries, has shown impressive velocity this spring. With a projected ERA of 4.54, he could be a solid sleeper pick for managers looking for depth in their rotation. Bowden Francis of the Toronto Blue Jays, who posted a 1.80 ERA in the second half of 2024, has a favorable projection of 3.75 ERA and could be a great late-round acquisition. Grant Holmes from the Atlanta Braves also offers promise with a 0.90 ERA in spring training, while Spencer Arrighetti of the Houston Astros is impressing with a 1.50 ERA this spring and has room for growth after a solid second half last season.

Max Meyer is poised to make an impact in the Miami Marlins rotation after struggling with injuries and performance earlier in his career. His impressive fastball velocity and developing secondary pitches make him a candidate for success this season. Meanwhile, David Festa of the Minnesota Twins is another pitcher to watch, showcasing strong strikeout numbers in his brief MLB exposure. Ryan Weathers is set to thrive in a better context with the Marlins, improving his strikeout and groundball rates. Kris Bubic may find new life as a starter after a successful stint in relief for the Kansas City Royals. Lastly, Tylor Megill aims to capitalize on injury opportunities in the New York Mets' rotation, showing promising late-season performance.

In fantasy baseball, finding value in late-round picks, particularly in starting pitching, can dramatically enhance your team's performance. Statistically, around 45% of undrafted pitchers end up among the top 108 in value, with 20% reaching the top 25. This article outlines key attributes to identify valuable pitchers, including the potential for 130+ innings, strikeout ability, fastball velocity, and a diverse pitch arsenal.

Highlighted pitchers include José Soriano from the Los Angeles Angels, who possesses strong strikeout potential with his curve and slider, as well as a 98 mph sinker. Max Meyer of the Miami Marlins, returning from Tommy John surgery, has made notable changes this spring that could elevate his strikeout rate. Lucas Giolito, now with the Boston Red Sox, looks to recapture his previous top-25 form after overcoming injury. Other prospects like Zebby Matthews and Jack Leiter are also presented as intriguing late-round options for their promising skill sets.

As the MLB 2025 season approaches, fantasy baseball players are already strategizing for their drafts, focusing on sleeper pitchers who might significantly outperform their average draft positions. Among the highlighted players is Joe Ryan from the Minnesota Twins, who has enhanced his pitching arsenal with new pitches leading to a promising season. Drew Rasmussen of the Tampa Bay Rays is set to return to a starting role post-Tommy John surgery, showing strong metrics from his previous seasons. Max Meyer of the Miami Marlins, a post-hype prospect, is looked at favorably following Miami's pitching overhaul.

Other notable mentions include David Festa from the Twins, who showcased skills suggesting a potential breakout season, and Justin Verlander, potentially undervalued due to past injuries. Shane Baz of the Tampa Bay Rays, despite missing two seasons due to surgery, has demonstrated high strikeout capabilities in the minors. Lastly, Quinn Mathews from the St. Louis Cardinals and Reynaldo Lopez of the Atlanta Braves also present intriguing late-round options for fantasy players.