Exploring the fantasy baseball landscape as we approach auction drafts reveals several undervalued players poised to deliver significant returns. For those adopting a 'stars and scrubs' strategy, securing top-tier talents like Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge leaves a need for budget-friendly options. Optimal $1 bids can enhance your roster's depth, and several players are highlighted as ideal targets.

Ben Rice of the New York Yankees stands out with a strong spring performance, likely earning him the primary DH role amidst Giancarlo Stanton's injury. His impressive power potential makes him a valuable pick. Ty France, now with the Minnesota Twins, offers consistency as a reliable first baseman, showing promising results this spring.

Jacob Wilson, the Athletics' shortstop, provides volume potential in a rebuilding lineup, and Trevor Larnach of the Twins is expected to thrive against right-handed pitchers as their cleanup hitter. Jonny DeLuca, now with the Tampa Bay Rays, offers a tantalizing blend of speed and power, while pitchers like Sean Burke of the White Sox and Jack Leiter from the Rangers present exciting strikeout potential at minimal cost.

Seattle Mariners reliever Troy Taylor made significant progress by returning to the mound after a lat injury. His upper-90s fastball and breaking ball could be crucial for the Mariners' bullpen, especially as the team faces injuries to other key players like Matt Brash and Gregory Santos. Despite his promising debut last August, Taylor is likely to start the season on the injured list, leaving the Mariners hopeful for a healthy bullpen in the near future.

Seattle's bullpen struggled last season, but with Taylor's potential alongside established arms like Andres Munoz and Matt Brash, they could form a formidable unit. The Mariners are set to kick off their season against the Athletics on March 27, following an 85-77 finish last season, missing the playoffs by just one game.

The Texas Rangers are facing a potential setback as the MLB season approaches, with outfielder Adolis García undergoing an MRI due to an oblique injury that has caused him discomfort. This injury could keep him sidelined for several weeks if deemed serious. García played a pivotal role in the Rangers' World Series win in 2023, hitting 39 home runs and driving in 107 runs. However, his performance last season was disappointing, with a batting average of .224. Alongside García, the Rangers had several other players, including Corey Seager and Evan Carter, dealing with injuries last year, which hindered their competitive edge. If healthy, the return of Seager, Jacob deGrom, and others could make the Rangers a formidable force in the AL West, where they finished behind the Seattle Mariners last season.

The Seattle Mariners are entering spring training with a clear roster approach, particularly in the infield. Jorge Polanco is set to return as the starting third baseman, signed to a one-year contract. Meanwhile, Donovan Solano has been added to share first base duties with Luke Raley. The competition for second base is heating up, primarily between Dylan Moore, Ryan Bliss, Leo Rivas, and Cole Young, with Moore positioned as the frontrunner.

One noteworthy player making a strong impression in spring training is Ben Williamson. Hitting .429 with three RBIs, Williamson’s outstanding offensive performance paired with solid defensive skills is making him a candidate for the opening day roster. Mariners' management remains open to the possibility of prospects earning a major league spot, especially if Polanco’s recovery from knee surgery hampers his return.

Williamson's rise could complicate decisions for manager Dan Wilson, particularly concerning depth at third base. His previous season's stats show promise, though concerns about his power remain. Still, with Mariners’ hitting strategy focusing on contact and situational hitting, Williamson fits well into their plans. If he continues to excel, he may just secure his place in Seattle's 26-man roster come opening day.

The Seattle Mariners are entering spring training with minimal injury issues, a welcome relief from last season’s setbacks. Key reliever Matt Brash is on track for an April return following Tommy John surgery, while fellow pitcher Luis Castillo and reliever Gregory Santos are cleared to participate. However, the team encountered fresh injury concerns as reliever Troy Taylor was initially sidelined with a right lat strain. Fortunately, Taylor’s condition improved rapidly, allowing him to resume throwing just three days into spring training.

Taylor's impressive performance last season solidified his role in the Mariners' bullpen, posting a 3.72 ERA with 25 strikeouts in 19.1 innings. His return reduces the competition for bullpen spots, raising anticipation for who will step up alongside him and the rest of the Mariners' relievers in what promises to be an engaging spring.