The 2025 fantasy baseball season is heating up, and with it comes an opportunity to stash some key injured players who can be impactful upon their return. Players like Luis Gil from the New York Yankees, who posted a robust 3.50 ERA and 171 strikeouts in 2024, could be a great addition as he is expected back by late May. With Gerrit Cole sidelined, Gil's strikeout potential makes him a valuable stash.

Another exciting name is Eury Perez from the Miami Marlins, who showcased his talent with a 3.15 ERA and 108 strikeouts in 2023. After Tommy John surgery, he’s set to return in mid-to-late June, making him a worthwhile investment for patient fantasy managers. Masyn Winn of the St. Louis Cardinals is also projected to return soon, and his solid performance in 2024, with 11 stolen bases and 15 home runs, suggests he could provide immediate offensive support.

Jake Cronenworth, a versatile option for the San Diego Padres, is recovering from a rib fracture and is an intriguing pickup given his role in a strong lineup. Lastly, Connor Wong from the Boston Red Sox, despite a fractured finger, is expected to contribute significantly upon his return after a productive 2024 season. All these players present low roster percentages and can be great additions for teams with injured reserve spots.

Friday's MLB DFS slate features 13 games, providing numerous options for fantasy enthusiasts. Nick Pivetta is a strong pick against the Rockies, with a favorable matchup and the potential for strikeouts, especially given Colorado's poor performance against RHP this season. Taj Bradley also stands out, showing signs of a breakout with his strikeout ability against an underperforming Atlanta lineup.

In the infield, Kristian Campbell offers great value as a 2B/OF for the Red Sox, who face off against Davis Martin, a pitcher struggling to miss bats. Jake Cronenworth, positioned in the Padres lineup against German Márquez, looks to capitalize on his previous success against him. Lastly, Spencer Torkelson of the Tigers is another intriguing option as he faces David Festa, who has had his struggles against left-handed hitters.

As Week 2 of the 2025 fantasy baseball season approaches, it's time to assess waiver wire opportunities for infielders. Rhys Hoskins, currently with the Milwaukee Brewers, offers a promising option with a favorable schedule featuring hitter-friendly venues like Coors Field. Meanwhile, Jake Cronenworth of the San Diego Padres, despite a slow start, could capitalize on a strong team batting average and favorable matchups.

For deeper leagues, Trevor Story of the Boston Red Sox has shown potential with a solid start, while Enrique Hernandez, serving as a versatile option in the Dodgers lineup, could break out. In the deepest leagues, keep an eye on Carlos Santana, who’s been locked in the cleanup spot for the Guardians, and Geraldo Perdomo from the Diamondbacks, who is off to a hot start with an opportunity for more playing time.

Yuli Gurriel broke the scoreless deadlock in the seventh inning, securing a crucial pinch-hit RBI single that led the San Diego Padres to a narrow 1-0 victory over the Atlanta Braves. The game saw Jake Cronenworth start the decisive rally with a ground-rule double before Gurriel's timely hit, showcasing the Padres' ability to capitalize on their limited scoring opportunities.

Both starting pitchers delivered exceptional performances, each throwing six shutout innings. Randy Vasquez of the Padres and Spencer Schwellenbach of the Braves kept hitters off balance, despite the Padres' prior offensive success in the series. The Braves, despite multiple chances, failed to convert, while Wandy Peralta earned the win in relief, highlighting San Diego's depth in the bullpen.

The second base position is less robust heading into the 2025 fantasy season, with Mookie Betts as the only top-tier player available in the first two rounds. Following him, notable names like Ketel Marte, Jose Altuve, and Ozzie Albies are expected to be drafted between rounds three and five. Most managers will likely target second basemen in the middle-to-late rounds, but there are valuable options to consider post-pick 85.

Highlighted value picks include Jordan Westburg of the Baltimore Orioles, who boasts dual eligibility and an impressive ADP of 89.7. Following a strong All-Star season, Westburg's potential for offensive growth looks promising.

Bryson Stott, currently with an ADP of 153.7, offers a solid middle-round pick despite last year's slump. His speed on the bases can be beneficial, especially in points leagues. Meanwhile, Jackson Holliday from the Orioles and Jonathan India, now with the Kansas City Royals, present intriguing late-round opportunities. They could emerge as useful contributors in 2025.