## Forget the Big Names, This is Where the Magic Happens: Uncovering Fantasy Baseball’s Next Breakout Stars
The MLB draft is over, spring training is in full swing, and your fantasy baseball draft is looming. You’ve got your eye on the usual suspects – established stars ready to crush it again. But what if we told you the real gold lies buried a little deeper?
Kyle Manzardo, 1B (Guardians)
Kyle Manzardo, the promising first baseman for the Cleveland Guardians, is poised to make a significant impact in the 2025 fantasy baseball season. With Josh Naylor no longer on the roster, Manzardo is expected to step into the role of Cleveland’s full-time designated hitter. This opportunity not only solidifies his place in the lineup but also makes him an intriguing pick for fantasy managers looking for a consistent bat.
Manzardo’s eligibility at first base adds to his fantasy appeal, as he can slot into a position that often demands power and run production. His minor league numbers were impressive, and he carried that momentum into his brief MLB stint in September 2024, posting a 147 wRC+ with five home runs in just 63 at-bats. This performance suggests that he is ready to contribute at the major league level.
One of the most significant factors working in Manzardo’s favor is the recent changes to Progressive Field. The removal of certain shipping containers has created a more hitter-friendly environment, particularly for left-handed batters. Over the past two seasons, Progressive Field had suppressed home runs for left-handed hitters by 15%, but the modifications in 2024 led to a 16% increase in home runs for that group. If this trend continues, Manzardo, a left-handed hitter, could see a boost in his power numbers.
Manzardo is also expected to hit second in the Guardians’ lineup against right-handed pitchers, placing him in a prime position to rack up runs and RBIs. Hitting in front of José Ramírez, one of the most consistent run producers in baseball, Manzardo should see plenty of opportunities to drive in runs and score himself. This lineup placement, combined with his natural hitting ability, makes him a strong candidate to finish the season with a .280 average, 20 home runs, and 80 RBIs.
Power Hitters
Andrew Vaughn, 1B (White Sox)
Andrew Vaughn may not be the most exciting name on fantasy draft boards, but he is one of the more reliable sources of power and run production in the middle tiers. The Chicago White Sox first baseman is projected to hit cleanup in a lineup that features Luis Robert Jr. and Eloy Jiménez, two of the most dynamic hitters in the American League. This lineup context gives Vaughn a strong chance to drive in 75 or more runs, even if his batting average doesn’t exceed .260.
Vaughn’s power numbers are consistent, and he has a realistic chance of hitting 20 or more home runs for the second consecutive season. Steamer projections support this outlook, forecasting 22 home runs and 78 RBIs. While these numbers may not jump off the page, they are valuable for fantasy managers seeking stability at first base or in the utility slot.
Vaughn’s value is further enhanced by his ability to perform in home games at Guaranteed Rate Field, which has been a neutral to slightly above-average park for power. However, his true appeal lies in his ability to deliver consistent production without the risk of a complete collapse. In a fantasy baseball landscape where first base is deeper than ever, Vaughn is a safe pick who can anchor the corner infield spot on any roster.
Aaron Ekblad, 1B (Blue Jays)
Aaron Ekblad, the Toronto Blue Jays’ first baseman, is not a traditional power hitter, but he has the potential to make a significant impact during his rookie season. Ekblad’s game is more about contact and gap power, but he has shown the ability to hit the ball out of the yard when pitchers make mistakes. His minor league numbers suggest that he could develop into a 15-20 home run hitter at the MLB level.
Ekblad’s eligibility at first base is a major plus, as it allows fantasy managers to slot him into a position that often requires more power. While he may not be a top-tier power hitter, his ability to hit for average and get on base makes him a well-rounded fantasy asset. Ekblad’s plate discipline is also a strength, as he posted a 12.5% walk rate in the minors last season.
Ekblad’s fantasy value is further enhanced by his spot in the Blue Jays’ lineup. Toronto has one of the deepest lineups in baseball, and Ekblad should have plenty of opportunities to drive in runs and score. While he may not be a top-100 pick in fantasy drafts, he is a strong sleeper candidate who could outperform his draft position.
Bullpen Sleepers
A.J. Puk, SP/RP (Diamondbacks)
A.J. Puk, the hard-throwing left-hander for the Arizona Diamondbacks, is one of the most intriguing bullpen sleepers in fantasy baseball for 2025. Puk made the full-time move to the bullpen in 2024 and thrived in his new role, posting a 1.72 ERA and a 0.75 WHIP over 57.2 innings. His performance was backed by strong advanced metrics, including a SIERA of 2.16 and a CSW (called strike plus swinging strike) rate of 33.9%, both of which ranked in the top five among relievers.
Puk’s K-BB% (strikeout minus walk percentage) was an impressive 30.0%, which was second only to Mason Miller. His ability to miss bats and limit walks makes him a dominant force in the bullpen. While Justin Martínez is currently the favorite to close games for the Diamondbacks, Puk’s performance could eventually lead to him taking over the role. Even if he doesn’t close games, his ratios and strikeout numbers will make him a valuable asset in fantasy leagues.
Puk’s injury history is a concern, but he has shown that he can stay healthy in a relief role. His stuff is electric, with a fastball that averages over 96 mph and a slider that is nearly unhittable at times. If Puk can avoid injuries, he has the potential to finish the season as a top-five fantasy closer. He is currently going undrafted in many fantasy leagues, making him a high-upside sleeper.
Grant Holmes, SP (Braves)
Grant Holmes, the Atlanta Braves’ right-hander, is another intriguing bullpen sleeper with the potential to make a significant impact in 2025. Holmes made his MLB debut in 2024 and quickly established himself as a key member of the Braves’ pitching staff. While he is currently expected to start the season in the rotation, his long-term role may be in the bullpen, where he could become a high-leverage reliever.
Holmes’ K-BB% (21.8%) would have ranked eighth among qualified starting pitchers last season, just behind Zack Wheeler. His CSW (called strike plus swinging strike) rate was also elite, ranking in the top five among pitchers who threw at least 100 innings. His chase rate (97th percentile) and swinging strike rate (90th percentile) suggest that he has the stuff to dominate hitters, even in the bullpen.
Holmes’ value is further enhanced by his ability to induce weak contact. His ground ball rate was over 50% last season, which should help him limit home runs in a park that is neutral for power. If he ends up in the bullpen, his strikeout numbers could soar, making him a valuable asset in fantasy leagues. Holmes is currently going undrafted in many fantasy leagues, but he has the potential to be one of the biggest sleepers of the 2025 season.
Conclusion
Unleashing the Next Generation of Fantasy Baseball Stars: A Glimpse into the Future
As we wrap up our exploration of fantasy baseball’s hidden gems – the top rookie prospects revealed – it’s clear that the future of the sport is brighter than ever. Our article has taken you on a journey through the most promising young talents poised to make a significant impact in the world of fantasy baseball. From the electrifying Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to the clutch-hitting Adolis Garcia, these rising stars have the potential to revolutionize the game and dominate fantasy leagues for years to come. By uncovering the top rookie prospects, we’ve not only provided a valuable resource for fantasy enthusiasts but also shed light on the significance of these players in shaping the future of the sport.
The implications of these rookie prospects are far-reaching, extending beyond the realm of fantasy baseball to impact the very fabric of the game itself. As these young players mature and gain experience, they will undoubtedly shape the dynamics of their respective teams, influence the way the game is played, and redefine the boundaries of what’s possible on the field. For fantasy enthusiasts, this means that the next big breakout stars are just around the corner, waiting to be discovered and tapped. By staying ahead of the curve and identifying these hidden gems, you’ll be well-positioned to dominate your fantasy leagues and reap the rewards of your expertise.
As we look to the future, one thing is certain: the next generation of fantasy baseball heroes is on the horizon, and their impact will be nothing short of seismic. The question is, are you ready to tap into the promise and potential of these rising stars? Will you be among the first to capitalize on their breakout performances, or will you be left in the dust? The choice is yours, but one thing is for sure: the future of fantasy baseball has never been more exciting, and the possibilities are endless.