Fantasy Baseball Injury Updates: Preseason Highlights

As the fantasy baseball preseason heats up, it’s essential to stay informed about key player injuries and their potential impact on draft day. This article presents a concise overview of recent developments that could affect fantasy teams as we approach the 2025 season.

Recent Player Injuries and Their Fantasy Implications

Francisco Alvarez, C, New York Mets

The Mets have reported that catcher Francisco Alvarez has sustained a hand fracture, which could sideline him for most of April. After a strong rookie season where he hit 25 home runs in 2023, his production dipped to just 11 homers last year. As Alvarez ranked just outside the top 10 catchers in ESPN’s average draft position (ADP), managers may want to consider alternative options such as Lewis Torrens, Logan Ohoppe, or Ryan Jeffers in his absence.

Fantasy Impact: Significant news, as managers should navigate catching options carefully.

Gerrit Cole, RHP, New York Yankees

Concerns have arisen regarding Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole, who might need Tommy John surgery due to continuing elbow pain, following a significant injury in 2024. Cole had previously missed a large portion of the last season and was considered a prime draft pick. Fantasy managers may need to rethink his value in light of this news, especially with looming uncertainty about his status in the season.

Fantasy Impact: Major news, potentially affecting early draft strategy.

George Kirby, RHP, Seattle Mariners

The Mariners have placed George Kirby on the injured list with shoulder inflammation, though reports indicate there is no structural damage. Kirby enjoyed a solid performance in previous seasons, accumulating 27 wins and a 3.44 ERA over the past two years. While he’ll miss at least the first couple of weeks of the season, he remains a valuable pick if he falls in drafts.

Fantasy Impact: Important news, but tempered expectations could yield good value in later rounds.

Jurickson Profar, OF, Atlanta Braves

Outfielder Jurickson Profar has been diagnosed with a wrist injury after a diving catch attempt. Coming off a successful 2024 season with solid stats, Profar is expected to miss some playtime but could return in two weeks. His mid-round draft ADP should remain relatively stable given the optimistic recovery outlook.

Fantasy Impact: Initially noise, but managers should monitor his status closely.

Sandy Alcantara, RHP, Miami Marlins

The Marlins have confirmed that Sandy Alcantara will have no inning limits as he returns to the rotation after Tommy John surgery. With a stellar past performance, he is expected to be the Opening Day starter, although some speculate he might be traded during the season. His current ADP status may change as the season progresses, especially with encouraging spring performance.

Fantasy Impact: Minor news, as he could exceed current expectations if healthy.

Grayson Rodriguez, RHP, Baltimore Orioles

Baltimore’s Grayson Rodriguez has been placed on the injured list due to elbow inflammation. After a promising season with 13 wins, his future status remains uncertain. Fantasy managers should adjust their expectations and consider Rodriguez lower in their draft strategy until further clarity arises regarding his situation.

Fantasy Impact: Noteworthy news to consider while drafting.

Gunnar Henderson, SS, Baltimore Orioles

Shortstop Gunnar Henderson is dealing with tension in his right side, which may delay his availability for the opening day lineup. After an impressive performance last season, Henderson’s draft stock could see fluctuations, but he remains a strong candidate if he recovers quickly.

Fantasy Impact: Mainly noise; keep an eye on recovery developments.

Max Scherzer, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays

Veteran pitcher Max Scherzer is having a standout spring, boasting impressive statistics with only two runs allowed in nine innings and 14 strikeouts. Although he does not currently rank within the top 70 in ESPN’s ADP for starting pitchers, his performance merits close attention as the season approaches.

Fantasy Impact: Noise for now, but drafting Scherzer could prove strategically beneficial as the season unfolds.

In conclusion, monitoring these developments will be crucial for fantasy baseball managers as the 2025 season approaches. Adjusting draft strategies in response to injuries and player statuses can make a significant difference in roster construction.