Fantasy Baseball Preseason: News or Noise?
Hey there, fantasy baseball enthusiasts! It’s that time of year again when the fantasy baseball preseason is, as they say, in full swing. While most sports fans are currently glued to the NBA and NHL action, it’s important not to overlook the latest buzz in the baseball world. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy manager or a newcomer, staying informed about the latest developments can give you a competitive edge come draft day.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the top stories from the past week in the world of fantasy baseball. Are these stories something you should keep in mind for your draft strategy, or are they just noise that won’t have much impact in the long run? Let’s find out!
Alex Bregman Signing Shakes Up Red Sox Infield
One of the most talked-about moves this offseason is Alex Bregman’s signing with the Boston Red Sox. Bregman is expected to handle second base for the team, which significantly impacts the anticipated spring training battle between Vaughn Grissom and Kristian Campbell for that position.
Grissom, who is 24 years old, still has minor league options left. After a disappointing performance over 31 MLB games for the Red Sox in 2024, his chances of securing playing time were already uncertain. His impressive stint with the 2022 Braves feels like a distant memory. On the other hand, the 22-year-old Campbell remains one of the top prospects in the sport. He can play shortstop and center field as well. However, with only 85 plate appearances at Triple-A Worcester last season, the organization seems inclined to give him more time in the minors.
For fantasy managers, this means Grissom may need to find a new opportunity elsewhere, while Campbell might just need a few more months in the minors before getting his shot. Either way, the Bregman acquisition makes both players less desirable in ESPN standard drafts.
Fantasy impact: News
Clayton Kershaw Returns to Dodgers
Clayton Kershaw, a name that has been synonymous with fantasy baseball greatness, is back with the Dodgers. Fantasy managers have long loved this future Hall of Famer, even though injuries have often kept him off the field. When he does pitch, he’s been nothing short of spectacular. However, last season was a different story. Kershaw pitched in just seven games, and for the first time since his rookie season in 2008, his ERA was on the wrong side of 3.55. So, what can we expect in 2025?
The Dodgers are stacked with starting pitchers, and Kershaw underwent offseason surgery on both his knee and toe. As a result, he isn’t expected to handle a regular rotation role. Fantasy managers should approach drafting and stashing Kershaw with caution. Don’t be surprised if he makes less than half a season of starts again, although we should expect those starts to be better than what he delivered in 2024.
Fantasy impact: Noise
Spencer Horwitz Undergoes Thumb Surgery
Spencer Horwitz, who was acquired during the offseason following a surprising rookie campaign with the Toronto Blue Jays, is still expected to handle first base duties for the Pittsburgh Pirates. However, his role may be in a platoon, as he struggles against left-handed pitching. Unfortunately, this arrangement is likely to be delayed into the regular season as Horwitz recovers from thumb surgery. Concerns about power output arise when the hand or wrist is compromised.
Horwitz, eligible in fantasy leagues at both first and second base, is a disciplined left-handed hitter with modest power. He’s likely more valuable in points leagues for his ability to draw walks, but he does have value in deeper formats, even if he misses some or all of April. Versatile Jared Triolo and veteran DJ Stewart may handle the April playing time at first base for Pittsburgh.
Fantasy impact: Unfortunate news for deeper formats
Ha-Seong Kim Targets Late-May Return
Ha-Seong Kim, who played four seasons with the San Diego Padres and was a valuable fantasy asset due to his infield versatility and stolen base prowess, underwent labrum surgery on his right shoulder after the 2024 season. It was initially assumed he wouldn’t be ready for Opening Day, but now it seems he might miss up to two full months of the season. This makes him less likely to be a draft day target in any standard league.
Kim wasn’t known for his power hitting, and it often takes hitters a full year to recover shoulder strength following surgery. The Tampa Bay Rays, who signed Kim to a two-year contract, can turn to Jose Caballero (44 steals in 2024) at shortstop in the interim or perhaps even beyond.
Fantasy impact: Mostly noise
Previous Off-Season News or Noise Content
- Fantasy baseball: Ohtani’s pitching timetable, Alonso’s return to Flushing
- Fantasy baseball: Acuña out for April, Skenes aims to improve
- Fantasy baseball: Masyn Winn on the run, Nico Hoerner on the mend
- Fantasy baseball: Josh Jung, Jeff Hoffman and Boston’s outfield
- Fantasy baseball: Woodruff and Hendriks attempting comebacks
- Fantasy baseball: Cubs’ hot corner, returning Rays pitcher, Pirates’ catcher choice
- Fantasy baseball: New Rockies leadoff man, Freeman’s surgery
- Fantasy baseball: Edman’s big contract, Varsho’s troublesome shoulder
- Fantasy baseball: O’s move in fences, Yankees prospect you need to know
- Fantasy baseball: Neto’s surgery, Rays on the move, Miller staying in pen
- Fantasy baseball: Betts on the move to infield, Ohtani’s surgery
Originally Written by: Eric Karabell
