The Toolshed Podcast episode 376 brings a focus on promising pitchers to target for fantasy baseball in 2025, featuring insights from hosts Eric Cross and Chris Clegg along with guest Michael Simione. Key players discussed include Hunter Brown of the Houston Astros, who has showcased commendable skills in the minors and majors, Grayson Rodriguez from the Baltimore Orioles, celebrated for his high strikeout rates, and Ryan Pepiot of the Tampa Bay Rays, known for his effective pitching style and potential to excel further. This episode is essential for dynasty league participants looking to bolster their pitching lineups for the future.

The 2025 fantasy baseball season is shaping up to be an exciting one, especially with emerging players like Taylor Ward and Ryan Pepiot making headlines as potential sleeper picks. Ward, hitting for the Los Angeles Angels, may not be the flashiest choice, but his consistent performance in the past season suggests he could exceed his ADP of 187, with projections of 25 home runs and 78 RBIs. Meanwhile, Pepiot of the Tampa Bay Rays showcased promising skills with a 3.60 ERA last year, making him a valuable selection at his ADP of 195.

Shane Baz, also from the Rays, is looking to bounce back after injury, while Eugenio Suarez of the Arizona Diamondbacks finished strong last season. Not to be overlooked, Nick Castellanos continues to be a low-risk option for fantasy managers, consistently outperforming his ADP. Lastly, Randy Arozarena's 20-20 potential makes him a major sleeper despite a rough previous season. These players represent fantastic late-round picks for this year's fantasy drafts.

The Tampa Bay Rays are close to finalizing a trade that will send left-handed pitcher Jeffrey Springs to the Oakland Athletics. In return, the Rays will receive right-handed pitchers Joe Boyle and Jacob Watters, along with first baseman Will Simpson, plus a compensation A round draft pick.

Springs, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery, had a solid four-year tenure with the Rays, posting an impressive 2.63 ERA. This trade marks a significant move for both teams as the Athletics look to bolster their rotation while the Rays continue to manage their pitching depth.

Ryan Pepiot has secured a pre-arbitration bonus in 2024 after joining the Tampa Bay Rays, making him one of 101 players to benefit from the league's bonus pool. The $50 million pool rewards players with less than three years of MLB service time based on performance metrics.

Pepiot received a $236,000 bonus, ranking 98th among recipients. He had a solid season with the Rays, posting an 8-8 record and a 3.60 ERA, contributing to the team's rotation after his trade from the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Tampa Bay Rays finished the 2024 season with an 80-82 record, placing fourth in the AL East. Their pitching staff excelled, ranking 9th in ERA, but the offense struggled significantly, with several key players underperforming.

Notable pitching performances came from Zack Littell and Ryan Pepiot, while the offense saw limited success from Jose Cabellero and Brandon Lowe. However, many hitters, including Randy Arozarena and Josh Lowe, faced challenges, leading to a lackluster season overall.

Looking ahead, the Rays will have to address their offensive needs, especially with key free agents and several question marks in the lineup. The return of injured pitchers like Shane McClanahan offers hope for a stronger rotation in 2025.