As the MLB season approaches, the podcast highlights strategic considerations for fantasy baseball players, particularly focusing on head-to-head points and categories formats. With injuries impacting player rankings, notably Sean Manaea's oblique strain forcing him to start the season on the injured list, experts discuss how to adjust draft strategies accordingly. Rankings have been fluid, with many players falling down boards, but opportunities exist to capitalize on discounts for injury-prone players. In particular, the conversation shifts to the importance of understanding scoring systems and how they influence player value in different formats.

The decline in starting pitcher usage has reshaped drafting strategies, with elite hitters now often outperforming top pitchers in head-to-head leagues. The hosts emphasize the need to focus on players who can deliver consistent offensive contributions, especially in scoring formats that penalize negatives like strikeouts and hitting errors. With careful planning and an eye on player health, enthusiasts can navigate the challenges of the draft and make informed decisions to enhance their fantasy teams.

In the latest update from Mets camp, starting pitcher Sean Manaea is expected to start the season on the injured list due to an oblique injury. Mets fans find themselves facing a dilemma: either remain cautiously optimistic about the severity of Manaea's injury or brace for a potentially long absence. The team's pitching depth is already being tested with Frankie Montas also unavailable to start the season.

If Manaea's recovery aligns with team management's assessment, he could return by mid-April, allowing the Mets to navigate through the early season with their current rotation. However, should his recovery take longer, the Mets risk relying on less proven pitchers like Griffin Canning and Paul Blackburn in their rotation, raising concerns about overall performance.

The New York Mets are actively looking to strengthen their starting rotation, potentially seeking one or two additional pitchers. Recent reports indicate that they are in discussions with Nick Pivetta's agents. Pivetta, who has spent the last few seasons with the Boston Red Sox, turned down a qualifying offer and would require the Mets to forfeit draft picks if signed. While he could be seen as a mid-to-back-end rotation option, the Mets might be more inclined towards Sean Manaea, who is expected to command a higher price but brings experience in New York.

The Mets are also keeping an eye on Roki Sasaki, a highly sought-after talent, but the pursuit is expected to take time. The team's strategy might remain unaffected by the Sasaki negotiations as they have the financial capacity to pursue multiple pitching options simultaneously. David Sterns has stated that an offer has already been made to Sasaki, positioning the Mets as serious contenders should the player decide to come stateside.