Heading into Week 2 of the 2025 MLB season, fantasy managers should be on the lookout for injured players who can be valuable assets once they return. This week’s top stashes include notable names like Colton Cowser, Brandon Woodruff, and Clarke Schmidt. The key to a successful fantasy season often lies in identifying and acquiring potential returnees before your competitors do.

Colton Cowser from the Baltimore Orioles is recovering from a fractured thumb and is expected back by late May. Meanwhile, Brandon Woodruff, who was enjoying a strong season before shoulder surgery, could return by late April. The Atlanta Braves' Sean Murphy is also poised for an early return from a rib fracture, making him a high-upside pickup. Monitoring these players will be crucial for enhancing your roster.

The New York Yankees face a challenging start to the 2025 season, with general manager Brian Cashman confirming that starting pitcher Clarke Schmidt will begin the year on the injured list due to a minor shoulder issue. This marks the third injury in the Yankees' rotation, which had initially been considered one of the strongest in the league. Both Gerrit Cole and Luis Gil are already sidelined, leaving the Yankees in a precarious position.

With Schmidt out, the rotation is set to include Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Marcus Stroman, Will Warren, and Carlos Carrasco. The team hopes that the depth and performances of these pitchers will carry the Yankees as they aim to contend for a World Series title. Despite the setbacks, Vegas odds still favor the Yankees as the American League's top contenders, yet the injuries have certainly affected their momentum.

Clarke Schmidt, the New York Yankees' right-hander, will start the season on the injured list due to a shoulder issue, as confirmed by GM Brian Cashman. This injury adds him to a growing list of unavailable starters, including Gerrit Cole, who is out for the season after Tommy John surgery, and Luis Gil, expected to miss at least two months with a lat injury. Schmidt had a solid 2022 season, boasting a 2.85 ERA in 16 starts, but struggled this spring with a minor shoulder injury, limiting his preparation time.

Despite his injury, Cashman noted that Schmidt is improving and should not miss significant time. Another right-hander, Carlos Carrasco, is poised to seize the opportunity as a non-roster invitee, while rookie Will Warren is likely to fill the final rotation spot, despite a challenging previous season. In addition, Ian Hamilton will also begin the season on the injured list after a recent infection.

As the Yankees gear up for Opening Day, uncertainty lingers around Clarke Schmidt's role due to shoulder fatigue. Schmidt's live bullpen session on Thursday could determine if he makes the initial rotation against the Diamondbacks or if young arms like Will Warren step up in his place.

The rotation is still strong, led by Max Fried, who has shown ace potential this spring. The Yankees face a decision regarding Carlos Carrasco, who has been impressive in spring training, but with an opt-out looming, his presence in the bullpen could be pivotal as they navigate injuries to Gerrit Cole and others.

The infield and outfield are also taking shape, with Anthony Volpe and Aaron Judge leading the charge. The Yankees will need to handle Giancarlo Stanton's injury with care, adding challenge to their depth. Players like Oswald Peraza and Ben Rice have emerged as potential key contributors, particularly if Stanton's absence extends into the season.