The 2025 MLB season is already riddled with injury concerns affecting key players, leaving fantasy baseball managers scrambling for updates. Jared Jones of the Pittsburgh Pirates is dealing with a UCL sprain but is expected to return later in the season, potentially by June, after his recovery. Royce Lewis of the Minnesota Twins is on the injured list with a hamstring injury, currently without a clear timeline for his return.

On the other hand, Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers is excelling at the plate but is still recovering from Tommy John surgery and a shoulder operation. He is on track to return to pitching, albeit potentially limited in innings, which adds an interesting dynamic for fantasy managers considering how to utilize him when he comes back.

As the MLB season unfolds, injuries are beginning to impact fantasy rosters significantly. Players like Gunnar Henderson, expected to return from the IL shortly, and Royce Lewis, facing a longer recovery, are key considerations for fantasy managers. The depth charts for teams like the Baltimore Orioles and Minnesota Twins are affected by these injuries, necessitating close monitoring of replacements like Jackson Holliday and Willi Castro who are stepping in.

Catchers are also facing injury concerns, with Sean Murphy sidelined for weeks, allowing backups to showcase their potential. Pitcher injuries, particularly amongst starters such as Shane McClanahan and Yu Darvish, could reshape rotation strategies in fantasy leagues. Knowing the timelines for these players and their substitutes is crucial as teams strategize for optimal early-season performance.

The Minnesota Twins have finalized their opening day roster, featuring a notable return for right-hander Randy Dobnak, who takes on a long relief role after a four-year gap. Dobnak was added to the 40-man roster following the return of Rule 5 draft pick Eiberson Castellano to the Philadelphia Phillies. Key injuries to relievers Brock Stewart and Michael Tonkin have provided Dobnak's opportunity. Alongside Dobnak, the Twins added Mickey Gasper and Dashawn Keirsey Jr., both earning their first opening day roster spots due to injuries to Royce Lewis and Brooks Lee.

Dobnak, whose journey from an undrafted player to a major leaguer is noteworthy, is set to make $3 million during the last guaranteed year of his contract. His return marks a significant milestone after he spent the last two years in Triple-A, having faced challenges due to injuries. The Twins' bullpen will include Jhoan Duran, Griffin Jax, and other key arms, with Pablo López pitching against the St. Louis Cardinals in their season opener.

Matt Borgschulte, the new hitting coach for the Minnesota Twins, has immersed himself in understanding the team’s hitters through various interactions, including visits with players like Byron Buxton and Carlos Correa. His prior experience with the Baltimore Orioles, where he helped cultivate young talents like Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman, has shaped his approach. This spring, Borgschulte has implemented a focused batting practice routine that prioritizes discipline and specific techniques, like hitting to the opposite field and line drives. Manager Rocco Baldelli has praised Borgschulte’s tailored coaching style, emphasizing his ability to communicate effectively and help players identify specific areas for improvement.

Borgschulte's relationship-building efforts with current Twins players aim to leverage their strengths collectively, preparing them to face opposing pitchers as a unified front. Players like Ryan Jeffers and Jose Miranda have noted his growth as a coach and the fresh perspective he brings to the team, especially after a challenging previous season. Through his structured practice sessions and individualized strategies, Borgschulte hopes to elevate the Twins' offensive performance and foster an environment of continuous improvement.