infosstation

Baseball

Fantasy Baseball: 2025 Third Base Rankings Revealed

2024-12-02

There's an intriguing aroma wafting from the pre-season 2025 third-base ranks' kitchen. Some might detect hints of "guardian shift", while others sense a touch of "nostalgic stability". Only the most discerning can distinguish the sweet from the bitter. If you're reluctant to take a chance and try something novel, you might need to make a top draft pick promptly. If you spot something in a player's profile that clearly indicates a forward step, you can wait for the order to circulate. There's a good amount of veteran talent at the top and a significant amount of upside risk in the middle. The bottom? It seems like a rather daunting place to dine, but perhaps the other tables will be envious when the meals arrive and you start to feast.

Uncover the 2025 Third Base Fantasy Stars

Big Dawgz

These are the top-tier players, the elites. They strut around the doggie park with an extra dose of alpha. Drafting any of these ballplayers will infuse some alpha into your team too. José Ramírez, for instance, has been the best fantasy third baseman in multiple seasons. His projected counting stats are close to the others in this tier, and his consistency over the years makes him an easy choice in top drafts. Additionally, his stolen base potential gives him an edge. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is another force, eligible at third base and showing flexibility. He had an outstanding season in 2024 and will only be 26 in 2025. Rafael Devers, despite a dip in plate appearances due to injury, maintained his rate stats. He's a 28-year-old doing amazing things and is a tough call between him and Austin Riley.

Rafael Devers vs. Austin Riley (2022-2024 Accumulation Stats):Name | Team | G | PA | AVG | HR | R | RBI | SBAustin Riley | ATL | 428 | 1877 | 0.272 | 94 | 270 | 246 | 5Rafael Devers | BOS | 432 | 1871 | 0.280 | 88 | 261 | 271 | 11Devers vs. Riley (2022-2024 Rate Stats):Name | Team | G | PA | ISO | wOBA | Hard% | Barrel%Austin Riley | ATL | 428 | 1877 | 0.234 | 0.362 | 40.8% | 14.8%Rafael Devers | BOS | 432 | 1871 | 0.233 | 0.365 | 39.2% | 12.4%Over the past three seasons, these two players look similar. Considering park factors and team OBP, they could finish close by the end of the season, but Devers edges out Riley.

Ok, Draft Now!

This group isn't as sharp as the Big Dawgz but will still give a good fight. Waiting to pick a third baseman beyond this tier might lead to regrets...or you could be a gambler. Manny Machado made a remarkable comeback after a shoulder injury and was back in action. His season slash line was slightly down but still showed great contact metrics. Jazz Chisholm Jr. was initially in the top three but is penalized for playing time unpredictability. His skills are valuable, but his swing and miss lead to highs and lows. Alex Bregman saw a power gain but with some sacrifices. He's consistently finished in the top 10 in previous seasons.

That Last Bit

There's always that last bit of jelly in the jar. Are you the type to give up or scrape every last bit? Mark Vientos had a great season but is projected for a regression. Junior Caminero shows potential but with some uncertainties. Jake Burger moved up in the rankings, but Steamer expects a step back. Each of these players has their own story and potential.

Oh, Relax! You’ve Got Time.

This tier is for those who can afford to take it easy. Ryan McMahon's plate appearance consistency has led to a projected average slash line. Nolan Arenado's power metrics are declining, but he still has a good batting average. Matt Chapman is expected to hit 20+ home runs with a consistent xwOBA.

Tip Toing the Line

Taking risks means considering the 14th-best third baseman. Luis Rengifo's batting average and speed make him valuable. Alec Bohm has a better on-base percentage than Rengifo. Isaac Paredes' power numbers vary depending on the team. Eugenio Suárez is a consistent power hitter. Josh Jung and Royce Lewis have talent but injury concerns.

If Ever There Was A Time.

It's time to make a decision. Willi Castro and Maikel Garcia bring speed and flexibility. Connor Norby is a late-round pick with potential. Brendan Donovan's slash line regressed. Jordan Westburg could hit more home runs with more playing time. Jeimer Candelario has a contract and potential.

Pure Gambles

These are the players with more risk. Joey Ortiz may need to show more offensive improvement. Max Muncy's low batting average is a concern. Jose Miranda has potential but needs more playing time. Ke’Bryan Hayes had a tough season. Isiah Kiner-Falefa may not be a daily fantasy option. Matt Vierling shows growth potential but needs to repeat it. Justin Turner is a veteran with some hope.

The Grab Bag

Brooks Lee had a limited sample size. Jace Jung needs to translate his minor league power. José Caballero stole bases but may be a one-category player. Christopher Morel's performance dropped in Tampa Bay. Josh Smith's growth may not be sustainable. Otto Lopez had a good second half. Noelvi Marte needs to prove himself. José Tena's role is uncertain.