Identifying sleeper candidates in fantasy baseball, particularly among hitters around the 300th pick or later, can yield significant value in drafts. This analysis highlights five players who may present opportunities based on their recent performance and potential for increased playing time.

Jordan Walker of the St. Louis Cardinals is a notable selection despite a challenging 2024 season. His impressive metrics from 2023 suggest he could reclaim his status as a valuable asset. Similarly, Christopher Morel of the Tampa Bay Rays faced struggles but has underlying power potential that could lead to a bounce-back year. Joey Ortiz from the Milwaukee Brewers checks off both power and speed boxes but needs to improve his launch angle to maximize his production.

Jarred Kelenic, now with the Atlanta Braves, has a chance to become a strong side platoon option despite inconsistencies. Lastly, Chas McCormick from the Houston Astros offers a discount after an injury-plagued season, with potential for double-digit home runs and stolen bases.

Tampa Bay Rays President of Baseball Operations, Erik Neander, has expressed confidence in the team's current roster, suggesting that no major external acquisitions will be necessary this offseason. Neander's comments, reported by the Tampa Bay Times, emphasize the potential for internal growth among players to enhance the team's offensive capabilities. He noted the importance of players taking significant strides forward or rebounding from previous seasons.

Neander pointed to several players, including Josh Lowe, who underperformed due to injuries, and Johnny DeLuca, who had a disappointing batting average. The Rays are optimistic about the contributions of top prospect Junior Caminero and Christopher Morel, who will have a full season after joining the team at the trade deadline. Additionally, the offloading of Isaac Paredes and Randy Arozarena has created room for other players to step up, leading to hopes of improved performances, particularly from Yandy Diaz, who is expected to increase his power numbers.

As the 2025 fantasy baseball draft approaches, several players are emerging as bounce-back candidates after disappointing seasons. This analysis focuses on hitters who have seen their Average Draft Position (ADP) fall below 150, presenting opportunities for savvy fantasy managers. The list includes notable names like Francisco Alvarez of the New York Mets, whose power potential remains high despite a down year due to injury.

Alvarez, drafted at an ADP of 152.8, demonstrated his capabilities with 11 home runs in limited plate appearances last season. His past performance suggests that he could be a valuable asset in the later rounds of drafts. Meanwhile, Trevor Story, now with the Boston Red Sox, has struggled with injuries but possesses the speed and power to regain his former glory, making him an intriguing pick at an ADP of 235.5.

Jonathan India, transitioning to the Kansas City Royals, offers potential for growth despite concerns about his new park's hitting environment. His ADP of 262.31 could be a steal if he can capitalize on a favorable lineup. Ryan Mountcastle of the Baltimore Orioles, with an ADP of 272.9, is another player to watch, particularly with changes to Camden Yards that could enhance his power numbers.

Additionally, Alejandro Kirk of the Toronto Blue Jays is poised for a rebound after Danny Jansen's departure, while Christopher Morel of the Tampa Bay Rays presents a risk-reward scenario with his potential for improvement. As fantasy players prepare for the upcoming season, these candidates could offer significant value if they can bounce back from their previous struggles.

The Chicago Cubs approached the 2024 MLB trade deadline in a unique position, neither fully in the playoff race nor completely out of it. Instead of pursuing a big-name player, they executed a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays, sending Christopher Morel in exchange for Isaac Paredes.

Paredes, who had a promising start with the Rays, struggled after joining the Cubs. Despite a strong first half that earned him an All-Star selection, his performance dipped. With top prospect Matt Shaw waiting in the wings, the Cubs must decide how to utilize Paredes moving forward.