The upcoming fantasy baseball drafts are spotlighting an intriguing array of second basemen, with some standing out as prime targets while others raise red flags. Jose Altuve remains a compelling choice despite a slight dip in stats, showcasing a strong .295 average with 20 home runs last season. Meanwhile, Jordan Westburg's breakout year suggests he could outperform his ADP, boasting impressive underlying metrics that hint at potential upside. Brandon Lowe’s change in home field could revitalize his power numbers. Conversely, caution is warranted for players like Luis Garcia Jr., who may not secure regular at-bats against lefties, and Brice Turang, who lacks power despite elite speed. Carefully evaluating these players can provide a significant edge in upcoming drafts.

The Cleveland Guardians are set to sign 26 international players on January 15, 2025, following a $6,908,600 signing pool allocated by MLB. This marks a significant shift from the past, as the international signing period now begins in mid-January instead of July due to pandemic adjustments. Players eligible to sign must be born between September 1, 2007, and August 31, 2008, and the Guardians are focusing on a position player-heavy strategy.

The class features 16 players from Venezuela, nine from the Dominican Republic, and one from Cuba, including 12 pitchers and various infielders, catchers, and outfielders. Leading the class is Hiverson Lopez, a high-potential catcher from Venezuela, expected to sign for $900K. His impressive hitting and developing defensive skills make him a standout prospect. Other notable signings include Heins Brito and Luis Garcia, both shortstops from the Dominican Republic, showcasing a deep pool of talent the Guardians aim to cultivate.

The Houston Astros have finalized salary agreements with most of their arbitration-eligible players, leaving only starter Framber Valdez pending. Valdez, projected to earn $17.8 million in 2025, is the last of eight players needing a salary resolution before Thursday's deadline.

Among those who secured agreements are third baseman Isaac Paredes at $6.625 million, shortstop Jeremy Peña at $4.1 million, and outfielder Chas McCormick at $3.4 million. Utility player Mauricio Dubón will earn $5 million, while outfielder Jake Meyers, pitchers Bryan Abreu, and Luis Garcia settled for $2.3 million, $3.45 million, and $1.875 million respectively.

Right-hander Luis Garcia has reached an agreement with the Houston Astros, avoiding arbitration with a one-year contract worth $1,875,000. This amount matches his previous year's salary while he rehabilitated from Tommy John surgery.

At 28 years old, Garcia underwent surgery on May 19, 2023, and made two minor league appearances shortly after but faced challenges in his recovery. Over the last four seasons, he has a record of 28 wins and 19 losses, with a 3.61 ERA across 63 starts and six relief appearances. Notably, Garcia represented Venezuela in the recent World Baseball Classic.

As the Astros navigate the arbitration process, seven other players are set to exchange proposed salaries with the team, including Bryan Abreu, Framber Valdez, Jeremy Peña, Isaac Paredes, Mauricio Dubón, Chas McCormick, and Jake Meyers.

The Houston Astros and right-handed pitcher Luis Garcia have agreed to a one-year contract worth $1,875,000, thereby avoiding arbitration. This amount matches his previous salary from last year when he was sidelined due to recovery from Tommy John surgery.

Garcia, 28, underwent surgery on May 19, 2023, and made only two minor league appearances later in the season. His performance has been affected by the lengthy recovery process, but he has demonstrated potential with a career record of 28 wins, 19 losses, and a 3.61 ERA across 63 starts along with six relief appearances from 2020 to 2023. Notably, Garcia also represented Venezuela in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

Meanwhile, seven other Astros players are still set to negotiate their arbitration salaries, including right-handers Bryan Abreu and Framber Valdez, as well as infielders Jeremy Peña and Isaac Paredes, along with outfielders Mauricio Dubón, Chas McCormick, and Jake Meyers.