The 2025 baseball season promises to be an exciting one for fantasy managers and baseball enthusiasts alike. With the release of Baseball America’s top 150 starting pitchers and relievers, experts Geoff Pontes and Dylan White have delved into some standout names on this list. This article explores potential breakout stars who could elevate their value by next offseason, overlooked sleepers worth considering, and fading veterans who might not live up to expectations.
Emerging Talent Set to Shine
Several young pitchers are poised to make significant impacts in the upcoming season. These players have shown remarkable promise and are expected to enhance their value significantly. Let's take a closer look at these rising stars and what makes them such compelling prospects.
Roki Sasaki, currently a free agent, has been drawing comparisons to elite pitchers like Jacob deGrom and Cole Ragans. At just 23 years old, Sasaki's performance blends power with precision, offering a solid foundation for future success. His impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio and low WHIP suggest he could become a top-tier pitcher. Similarly, Shane McClanahan, returning from Tommy John surgery, has demonstrated exceptional skill prior to his injury. Projected to return to form, McClanahan's command and strikeout rate make him a valuable asset for any team. Meanwhile, Spencer Schwellenbach, despite limited professional experience, has already made waves with his debut. His control and diverse pitch arsenal position him as a reliable starter for the Braves. Lastly, Sandy Alcantara, another post-injury comeback player, is anticipated to regain his Cy Young-caliber form, contributing substantially to the Marlins' pitching rotation.
Sleepers and Cautionary Tales
Beyond the obvious choices, there are hidden gems and cautionary tales that deserve attention. Identifying these players can offer strategic advantages or serve as warnings against overvalued assets. Here’s a deeper dive into the sleeper picks and fading prospects.
Brandon Pfaadt, a relatively unknown figure, showed remarkable resilience in 2024, racking up over 180 innings with a strong strikeout rate. Despite a less-than-ideal ERA, his underlying metrics suggest better performances ahead. Quinn Mathews, fresh off a breakthrough season in the minors, is on the verge of making his major league debut. With improved velocity and advanced pitchability, Mathews could emerge as a dominant force for the Cardinals. Drew Rasmussen, recovering from UCL surgery, presents a unique case. His versatility and high ceiling make him a worthwhile investment, though uncertainty surrounds his role. On the other hand, Chase Dollander, despite the challenges posed by Coors Field, possesses elite skills that could transcend his environment. Conversely, Chris Sale and Kevin Gausman serve as cautionary tales. Sale, despite his recent accolades, faces health concerns, while Gausman's declining metrics signal a potential downturn. Both veterans may not be reliable investments moving forward.