Fantasy baseball enthusiasts should be on the lookout for sleeper picks in the National League Central as we approach draft season. Nico Hoerner of the Chicago Cubs, despite a recent elbow injury, remains a strong candidate, having posted impressive numbers last year. His speed and on-base skills make him a valuable target, especially with Kyle Tucker joining the lineup.

Ivan Herrera of the St. Louis Cardinals is also gaining traction as Willson Contreras transitions to first base, opening up opportunities for Herrera behind the plate. His high batting average and low strikeout rate position him well as a solid No. 2 catcher.

The Cincinnati Reds' Nick Lodolo presents a potential breakout candidate with his improved metrics, while Garrett Mitchell from the Brewers boasts elite speed and solid hitting stats from the previous season. Lastly, Jared Jones of the Pirates is showing promise as he develops his pitches, making him a potential late-round steal.

Identifying potential breakout players in the outfield can be crucial for fantasy baseball enthusiasts. Nolan Jones of the Colorado Rockies is a prime candidate, having overcome a back injury that hindered his 2024 season. With a 20/20 season in the rearview and the advantage of Coors Field, Jones offers significant upside at a low ADP. Meanwhile, Parker Meadows of the Detroit Tigers, despite recent injury concerns, showed promise with a solid wRC+ late last season and could be a leadoff hitter this year. The Los Angeles Dodgers' Michael Conforto, known for his road power, may thrive in the hitter-friendly environment of Dodger Stadium. Garrett Mitchell of the Milwaukee Brewers is another name to watch, with a potential for 20/25 stats. Lastly, former top prospect Jordan Walker of the St. Louis Cardinals is looking to bounce back after a disappointing year, making him a sleeper pick for 2025.

As fantasy baseball drafts approach, late-round outfielders are becoming a hot topic, especially in leagues requiring five outfielders. Hidden gems could be the difference-maker for any fantasy team. Jung Hoo Lee of the San Francisco Giants, despite his injury woes, has solid average potential but limited power. Roman Anthony of the Boston Red Sox, with a powerful 2024 season, is an exciting pickup with five-category upside. Garrett Mitchell of the Milwaukee Brewers blends speed and power, yet carries risk due to injuries and high strikeout rates. Parker Meadows is bouncing back and could achieve 20/20 potential in 2025, while Heliot Ramos is showing promise with impressive power and contact metrics. These players offer intriguing options for managers looking to improve their rosters in the later rounds.

The excitement for the 2025 MLB season is palpable as RotoBaller unveils its early fantasy baseball outfield rankings for 5x5 mixed roto leagues. Highlighting the offseason's most significant event, Juan Soto's record-breaking 15-year, $765 million deal with the New York Mets places him among the top outfielders. Despite this, Soto ranks second behind Aaron Judge, last season's AL MVP, who posted impressive stats with 58 homers and 144 RBIs.

Other notable talents include Corbin Carroll and Fernando Tatis Jr., both shining brightly in the rankings. As drafts approach, players like Dylan Crews and Jasson Dominguez emerge as potential late-round gems, poised to outperform their average draft positions. Comprehensive fantasy resources, including a dedicated Draft Kit, are available to assist players in maximizing their draft strategies for a successful season.

Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox is facing trade rumors as he enters 2025, following a notable drop in his ranking among MLB center fielders. MLB Network recently released its "Top 10 Players Right Now" list, with Robert landing at No. 10 after a challenging 2024 season. He struggled with a .224 batting average, 14 home runs, and missed significant time due to injury, which contributed to his fall from a previous ranking of No. 3.

Despite the setbacks, Robert has shown flashes of brilliance in the past, including a stellar 2023 where he was an All-Star and Silver Slugger, hitting .264 with 38 home runs. His impressive career statistics, including a .279 average and multiple accolades since entering the league, keep him in the conversation as a potential star.