The 2025 MLB season is upon us, and fantasy managers are already eyeing potential waiver wire pickups to adjust their rosters following injuries and promising spring performances. With notable names like Shane McClanahan and Vinnie Pasquantino sidelined, the search for replacements intensifies. Players available in fewer than 40% of Yahoo leagues include promising rookies and seasoned players who could significantly impact fantasy teams.

Kristian Campbell of the Boston Red Sox is trending as the starting second baseman, showcasing impressive stats from the previous season and a strong spring. Christian Encarnacion-Strand, despite a rough 2024, is showing potential value as he secures a spot in the Reds' lineup. Wilyer Abreu, recovering from an illness, could emerge as a key outfield contributor. Other names worth monitoring include Jacob Wilson, Hayden Birdsong, and Reese Olson, all of whom present intriguing options for savvy fantasy owners looking to bolster their pitching and batting.

As fantasy baseball auction drafts approach, knowing which players to target for $1 can be a game changer. Sal Frelick of the Milwaukee Brewers is a standout candidate, having bulked up this offseason and shown promising metrics, including a 12.9% whiff rate. Otto Lopez from the Miami Marlins also had a strong finish to last season, hitting .344 in September, making him a solid choice for those in need of batting average and stolen bases.

On the pitching side, Hayden Birdsong of the San Francisco Giants is making noise in spring training, boasting a 0.75 ERA over 12 innings. Chris Bassitt of the Toronto Blue Jays, while perhaps lacking in strikeout power, has been consistently reliable, making him a safe pick at $1. Lastly, Mitch Keller of the Pittsburgh Pirates could bounce back from a rocky second half, offering potential value at his low auction cost, especially with his improving command.

Justin Verlander's arrival at the San Francisco Giants' spring training has already made a significant impact, particularly on younger pitchers like Hayden Birdsong. As a seasoned veteran with nearly two decades in the league, Verlander's role extends beyond just being a top starter; he has actively engaged in mentoring, sharing insights on pitching mechanics and routines, which has amplified the confidence of players around him.

Birdsong, a promising right-hander, has benefited from Verlander's guidance as he adjusts his slider mechanics. Verlander's suggestion to alter Birdsong's foot placement on the mound led to improved performance. Furthermore, Verlander’s commitment to fostering camaraderie among teammates, including organizing activities like laser tag, highlights his leadership qualities and dedication to the team's culture.

Veteran right-hander Justin Verlander has signed a one-year, $15 million deal with the San Francisco Giants, as reported by ESPN. This agreement marks a new chapter for the future Hall of Famer at age 42, allowing him to continue his illustrious career in a pitcher-friendly environment. With 20 seasons in the majors ahead of him, Verlander is celebrated as one of his generation's greatest pitchers, boasting impressive stats including the most innings pitched, strikeouts, and wins among active players.

After enduring the most challenging season of his career, Verlander looks to rebound with the Giants, who are also aiming for improved results this year. Limited by shoulder and neck issues, he made only 17 starts last season and recorded an 8.10 ERA over his last seven outings. Despite his declining strikeout rate and increasing home run rate, Verlander's past achievements include three Cy Young Awards and significant contributions to two World Series championships.

The San Francisco Giants face significant challenges in their starting rotation after losing Blake Snell to the Los Angeles Dodgers this offseason. Analysts suggest they may need to bring in at least one new starter, though not necessarily a top-tier option.

With the winter meetings approaching, the Giants' rotation appears weaker than last year. Potential depth starters include Landen Roupp, Hayden Birdsong, and Mason Black, each with varying degrees of promise but needing improvements.

Key players like Kyle Harrison and Jordan Hicks are also in the mix, with Harrison showing potential despite some regression. Robbie Ray returns, hoping to regain form after a lackluster season, while Jack Flaherty could be a significant addition if acquired.

Logan Webb stands as the rotation's ace after a strong All-Star season, but the team will need to bolster their lineup to remain competitive.