The 2025 MLB season is underway, offering fantasy baseball enthusiasts a chance to evaluate players based on early performance. Caution is warranted, as the sample sizes are still small. Luis Rengifo of the Los Angeles Angels has shown promise but faces injury concerns and competition from teammate Kyren Paris, who has been impressive in his starts. Matt Wallner of the Minnesota Twins leads off against righties but struggles against left-handers and has high strikeout rates, making him a risky add. Emilio Pagán appears to be the Reds' closer but carries home run risks, while Dennis Santana, recently handed a save opportunity for the Pirates, may not hold the position long-term with David Bednar's eventual return in play. This week’s waiver wire advice will help owners navigate these uncertain waters.

The Minnesota Twins finally showcased their offensive potential with a breakout sixth inning, scoring five runs to secure an 8-3 victory over the Chicago White Sox. Byron Buxton and Trevor Larnach both received walks, igniting a rally against Penn Murfee, who struggled to find the strike zone. Ryan Jeffers opened the scoring, followed by contributions from Ty France and Edouard Julien, who tied the game with a key hit. A fluke play by Jose Miranda extended the lead, and Harrison Bader's ninth-inning homer capped off a much-needed win for the Twins.

Simeon Woods Richardson made his season debut, allowing two runs over four innings, supported by a solid effort from the bullpen. Louie Varland and three other relievers combined to keep the White Sox scoreless after Woods Richardson’s exit. The Twins' offensive explosion marked a significant improvement from their prior struggles, doubling their previous run total for the season. This victory not only boosts team morale but also signals the potential for a more aggressive hitting strategy moving forward.

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.

Exploring the fantasy baseball landscape as we approach auction drafts reveals several undervalued players poised to deliver significant returns. For those adopting a 'stars and scrubs' strategy, securing top-tier talents like Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge leaves a need for budget-friendly options. Optimal $1 bids can enhance your roster's depth, and several players are highlighted as ideal targets.

Ben Rice of the New York Yankees stands out with a strong spring performance, likely earning him the primary DH role amidst Giancarlo Stanton's injury. His impressive power potential makes him a valuable pick. Ty France, now with the Minnesota Twins, offers consistency as a reliable first baseman, showing promising results this spring.

Jacob Wilson, the Athletics' shortstop, provides volume potential in a rebuilding lineup, and Trevor Larnach of the Twins is expected to thrive against right-handed pitchers as their cleanup hitter. Jonny DeLuca, now with the Tampa Bay Rays, offers a tantalizing blend of speed and power, while pitchers like Sean Burke of the White Sox and Jack Leiter from the Rangers present exciting strikeout potential at minimal cost.

The Minnesota Twins are ramping up their spring training under manager Rocco Baldelli, emphasizing increased at-bats to combat fatigue from last season. Many hitters, including Ty France, Matt Wallner, and Trevor Larnach, have significantly more plate appearances than last year, with Wallner leading the Grapefruit League. This push for more reps aims to ensure players are mentally and physically prepared for the upcoming season.

With under two weeks left in camp, the Twins' hitters are focused on fine-tuning their swings and maintaining a steady pace. Young players are especially motivated to impress and secure roster spots. The strategy includes keeping starters in games longer, with Baldelli prioritizing full-inning appearances to build stamina. The Twins believe this approach will lead to a stronger performance not just in April, but also late in the season.