In the evolving landscape of fantasy baseball, insight from insiders can make a huge difference. As a long-term participant in this realm, I strive to be open about my strategies and picks. Many in the industry acknowledge that being an analyst and being an effective fantasy player are distinct skills. However, understanding the tendencies of players and the data trends can lead to smarter decisions in drafting.

In 2025, I've engaged in seven NFBC drafts, covering a range of league formats. The players I’m about to highlight reflect my top choices and the rationale behind picking them multiple times across various rosters. These names could be available in your league or present broader insights into player trends.

Jason Adam - RP, San Diego Padres

Jason Adam holds significant value to me this season. The Padres are actively seeking to trade Robert Suarez, who has underperformed this year with a noted drop in velocity. If Suarez falters or is moved, Adam is poised to take over as the primary closer. Drafted outside of the top 300 players, he represents a strategic, late-round relief pitcher pick. I’ve often secured a reliable top-tier closer and then sought Adam as a second reliever, a strategy that has proven fruitful in past seasons.

Gavin Williams - SP, Cleveland Guardians

There’s a reason I’m heavily investing in Gavin Williams. I’ve previously spotlighted him as a post-hype sleeper and as one of my favorite late-round pitching options. My research, including an in-depth interview during spring training, reveals significant improvements in his mechanics. Williams is among my top pitching prospects this year, and I’m excited about the potential he brings.

Willson Contreras - C/1B, St. Louis Cardinals

Contreras, while traditionally a catcher, has transitioned into a first baseman with power potential. He embodies the rarity of a 20-homer hitter at a position that often lacks reliability. With the Cardinals not losing many key hitters and several young prospects poised for breakout seasons, having Contreras in your lineup could translate to a significant advantage in overall plate appearances.

Dylan Crews - OF, Washington Nationals

Dylan Crews is another player I’ve discussed extensively for possible impressive performance in his second season. With a strong hard-hit rate in the minors and a disciplined approach at the plate, he’s primed for success. The Nationals are committed to their youth movement, ensuring that Crews remains a fixture in their lineup throughout the season. I project him for around 18 home runs and 30 stolen bases, a robust contribution for your fantasy squad.

Justin Steele - SP, Chicago Cubs

Justin Steele is one of my favorite targets for a strong SP2 role. After overcoming a hamstring injury, he showcased elite production after his return last season with impressive ratios. With the Cubs showing signs of improvement, I expect Steele to rack up wins and maintain solid performance metrics, making him a valuable asset in your pitching rotation.

Max Fried - SP, New York Yankees

Drafting Max Fried has been a savvy move. Despite concerns about his past injuries, he has consistently excelled over the years. His potential for a low ERA and consistent innings pitched makes him a worthwhile gamble, especially if you can get him in later rounds.

Max Meyer - SP, Miami Marlins & Jack Leiter - SP, Texas Rangers

For deeper formats, I’m targeting pitchers like Max Meyer and Jack Leiter, who possess elite upside. These players might not always be the safest bets, but their potential for breakout performances makes them enticing picks for your bench.

Jorge Polanco - 2B/3B, Seattle Mariners

Polanco's value often goes overlooked due to an injury-plagued previous season. With a solid career batting average, he can still deliver decent production while also offering versatility with dual-position eligibility. Expect a bounce-back season from him as he recovers fully.

Bryson Stott - 2B, Philadelphia Phillies

An excellent contact hitter, Bryson Stott is a solid option if you wait on second base. With a sharp eye for pitches and a track record for stolen bases, he’s a player to watch for breakout potential, especially in a powerful lineup like the Phillies.

Yu Darvish - SP, San Diego Padres

Despite some injury concerns, Yamamoto offers a solid upside, with a deep pitch arsenal that he can adapt. His 2024 performance was promising, and if he returns to form, he could be a fantastic steal for your rotation.

Josh Jung - 3B, Texas Rangers

In a similar vein, Jung is a player I’ve been targeting as my third baseman, especially given his potential for offensive production in a stacked lineup. His history suggests he could return to a powerful hitting form after dealing with past wrist injuries.

In this fantasy baseball season, these players represent not just talent but also the strategies to clinch victories in your leagues. Happy drafting, and may your fantasy season be successful!