In the realm of fantasy baseball, creating a strategic roadmap for drafts becomes essential for identifying valuable player targets and navigating potential pitfalls. As the 2025 draft approaches, a focus on specific players can help fantasy managers refine their strategies. This guide highlights four starting pitchers who present appealing draft values.

Joe Ryan of the Minnesota Twins, with an average draft position (ADP) of 104, showcases a solid track record despite injury concerns. With a 3.60 ERA and impressive strikeout rates, Ryan’s upside is appealing compared to other pitchers with similar risks.

Cristopher Sanchez from the Philadelphia Phillies, currently at an ADP of 188, is noted for his strong performance in 2024, including a 3.32 ERA and All-Star recognition. His ability to generate groundballs indicates a high floor for fantasy managers.

Moving to the Houston Astros, Ronel Blanco, with an ADP of 236, showcases a breakout season with a 2.80 ERA. Despite skepticism about his consistency, managers may find great value in his late-round potential.

Finally, Pittsburgh Pirates' Bubba Chandler is highlighted as a prospect with an ADP of 352, being one of the top-ranked prospects. If called up, he could provide significant upside.

A focus on pitching for fantasy drafts reveals promising talent among several pitchers. Hunter Greene of the Cincinnati Reds has showcased remarkable improvement, particularly with his four-seam fastball, which significantly increased in effectiveness. Despite injury concerns, he possesses the potential to become a top-tier fantasy pitcher if he secures a full season of starts.

Cristopher Sanchez from the Philadelphia Phillies has emerged as a sleeper choice, combining elite groundball rates with low walk percentages. While his strikeout rate dipped, a newly developed pitch could enhance his value. Clarke Schmidt from the New York Yankees, despite facing injuries, has demonstrated potential with a versatile pitching arsenal, making him a candidate for bounce-back success.

Nick Lodolo, also from the Reds, is a high-risk, high-reward option, while Merrill Kelly of the Arizona Diamondbacks represents a solid veteran pick at a late draft position, despite recent injury setbacks.

The Philadelphia Phillies have long been recognized for their exceptional pitching rotation, bolstered by a strong development system. With talents like Aaron Nola and Ranger Suárez, the team has consistently produced quality pitchers.

In 2024, Cristopher Sánchez emerged as a standout player, achieving his first All-Star selection and showcasing his potential as a key asset for the future. After a successful 2023 season, the Phillies rewarded him with a four-year contract extension during their London trip.

Sánchez's impressive performance in 2024, including a 3.46 ERA and 153 strikeouts, indicates that he is still on the rise. As the Phillies aim for a World Series title, Sánchez is poised to play a crucial role in their success.

The 2024-25 MLB offseason is heating up with several key free-agent signings, including Sean Manaea to the New York Mets and Joc Pederson to the Texas Rangers. The New York Mets, fresh off signing Juan Soto, are exploring further roster enhancements, particularly in the outfield and at third base.

Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays have added Eloy Jiménez on a minor-league contract, hoping to revitalize his career. The Philadelphia Phillies have also made a move, signing Joe Ross to bolster their pitching staff.

The Philadelphia Phillies and Miami Marlins executed a four-player trade featuring left-handed pitcher Jesús Luzardo, with the Phillies acquiring Luzardo and catcher Paul McIntosh, while the Marlins received shortstop prospect Starlyn Caba and outfielder Emaarion Boyd.

The trade reflects the Marlins' ongoing rebuild under executive Peter Bendix, as they prioritize potential over immediate returns. Luzardo's health is a concern, given his previous injuries, but he brings significant talent if he can stay on the field.

For the Marlins, Caba and Boyd offer speed and contact skills but have shown limited offensive upside so far. This deal highlights the contrasting strategies of both teams as they navigate the offseason.