As the 2025 MLB season kicks off, savvy fantasy baseball players are eyeing their stash lists, focusing on prospects who can provide significant value. Players like Roman Anthony of the Boston Red Sox is creating buzz with impressive minor league stats, boasting a .291 average and power metrics that have scouts excited. Meanwhile, Jake Bloss of the Toronto Blue Jays is showcasing stellar strikeout potential from the mound, with a fastball averaging 96 mph. The Pittsburgh Pirates' Bubba Chandler is also on the radar, with a formidable pitching arsenal and a striking strike percentage that suggests he could soon make an impact in the majors. Other notable prospects include Nick Kurtz from the Athletics and his rapid ascent through the minors, alongside athletes like Graham Pauley and Luisangel Acuña, who are also worth keeping an eye on as potential breakout stars this season.

The Oakland Athletics' relocation to Sacramento's Sutter Health Park has not improved attendance, despite initial optimism. The franchise, hoping to draw larger crowds in a smaller venue compared to the Oakland Coliseum, instead witnessed a stark reality during their opening series against the Chicago Cubs. Despite claims of sellouts, actual attendance fell short, with reports indicating that nearly 10% of tickets were given away to guests, diminishing the perceived success of the crowd. The opening night had a mere 12,119 paid attendees, followed by 10,095 and 9,342 in subsequent games, leading to a total attendance of 31,556 for the series.

The A's faced a significant defeat, losing all three games by a combined score of 35-9. The stark contrast between their attendance numbers and the Cubs' dedicated fan base raises concerns about future turnout, especially as summer temperatures rise. While teams like the Tampa Bay Rays achieved sellouts, the A's struggle highlights the ongoing challenges of attracting fans in Sacramento.

As the 2025 fantasy baseball season unfolds, stashing injured players can yield significant dividends. Max Scherzer, playing for the Toronto Blue Jays, is set to return soon after an early-season injury, boasting an impressive strikeout rate that could bolster your rotation. Milwaukee's Tobias Myers, with a stellar 2024, is a potential steal given his low roster percentage and expected return from injury in late April.

Zack Gelof provides speed on the basepaths, having stolen 25 bases last season, though his batting average raises concerns. Miami's Jesus Sanchez combines power and speed, hitting 18 homers and stealing 16 bases last year, positioning him as a strong add for teams needing offensive support. Lastly, Masataka Yoshida from the Red Sox presents a solid batting average option and run production in an upgraded lineup.

Victor Scott II of the St. Louis Cardinals is on a path to potentially becoming a top fantasy hitter by 2025. After a rocky start last season, Scott has exhibited strong hitting, boasting a .348 average with a home run and four stolen bases. Alongside veterans like Nolan Arenado and Lars Nootbaar, he is emerging as a notable fantasy asset. Comparatively, Brice Turang of the Milwaukee Brewers impressed with 50 stolen bases last season, emphasizing the importance of speed in roto leagues.

As for Rafael Devers of the Boston Red Sox, there are concerns about his performance since transitioning to a full-time DH role, particularly with a high strikeout rate. Meanwhile, Bo Bichette of the Toronto Blue Jays shows signs of a rebirth after a challenging season, hinting at a return to his .300 batting average with potential power. Players like Nick Kurtz of the Athletics are also expected to make a quick MLB debut, while Jurickson Profar's recent suspension raises questions about his future productivity.

Ultimately, the fantasy landscape is ever-changing, with emerging talents and veterans alike affecting team strategies. Managers must remain vigilant as they navigate the season.

The Cubs' arrival in Sacramento marked a historic moment for the city, hosting its first major league baseball game. Cubs pitcher Matthew Boyd noted the excitement surrounding the event, emphasizing how baseball unites fans. The Athletics, now calling themselves simply 'the Athletics', are transitioning while trying to build a fanbase during their three-season interregnum. However, their dismal performance, including being outscored 35-9 in their opening series against the Cubs, cast doubt on their competitiveness. The A's made some offseason moves, signing Luis Severino and extending players like Brent Rooker, but early results raise concerns about their ability to capture the local fanbase. The atmosphere at Sutter Health Park felt subdued, with many fans remaining quiet amidst the loud presence of Cubs supporters. Player adjustments to the new stadium, including changes in routines for pitchers, add to the challenges. Ultimately, Sacramento's potential as a baseball town remains uncertain, as ticket sales for the opening games were lackluster.