As we dive into Week 16 of the 2025 MLB season, fantasy baseball managers should keep an eye on several emerging prospects who could significantly impact their rosters. The All-Star break offers a timely pause, allowing managers to reassess their teams and consider new talent. Here’s a look at some hitters and pitchers who have made a splash this season and could be valuable assets in the second half.

Nick Kurtz of the Oakland Athletics has showcased his power with 17 home runs thus far, while Roman Anthony and Marcelo Mayer of the Boston Red Sox are proving their worth with solid hitting performances, including Anthony's notable .341 average for July. Catcher Drake Baldwin of the Atlanta Braves has also impressed, continuing to hit well with a strong batting average and solid home run count, making him a viable option in two-catcher leagues. On the pitching side, Jacob Misiorowski of the Brewers has emerged as a key player in their rotation; his impressive ERA and strikeout rate make him a must-watch for fantasy owners.

The Boston Red Sox enter the All-Star break on a roll, winning their last 10 games. Ceddanne Rafaela is a standout performer, hitting a two-run homer against the Tampa Bay Rays, bringing his average to .421 during a 10-game hitting streak. Manager Alex Cora emphasizes the youth and energy of the team, pointing to rookies like Marcelo Mayer and Roman Anthony who are revitalizing the roster. Trevor Story, overcoming past injuries, also contributes significantly with solid defense and key hits. The Red Sox now trail the Yankees by just one game for second place in the AL East, showcasing a newfound identity evidenced by their versatility in winning games.

The Boston Red Sox are embracing a youth movement in 2025, having called up four of their top prospects, three under the age of 23, reflecting a commitment to developing young talent despite a rocky season marked by the trade of their star player, Rafael Devers. Currently, the team is experiencing a strong performance as they approach the All-Star break, yet a Red Sox legend has criticized the timing of these promotions. Jonathan Papelbon, a Hall of Famer and current analyst, has voiced concerns regarding the readiness of these young players, particularly Kristian Campbell, who struggled significantly during his initial stint in the majors.

Campbell's performance was lackluster, with a .223 batting average and a troubling strikeout-to-walk ratio. Papelbon emphasized that the team rushed his promotion, suggesting that such decisions might hinder the players’ development. He also mentioned outfielders Roman Anthony and Marcelo Mayer, both of whom have faced challenges since their call-ups. Mayer recently saw a slight improvement in his performance, raising his batting average, but he still has a long way to go. Despite these struggles, Papelbon noted that opportunity at the major league level could ultimately benefit these young athletes as they adjust to the rigors of professional baseball.

Alex Bregman's return is on the horizon as he recovers from a quad strain, providing a glimmer of hope for the Boston Red Sox amid a frustrating season. The 31-year-old third baseman's impressive statistics, including a .299 batting average and .938 OPS over just 51 games, earned him an All-Star nod despite the limited playtime. Bregman aims to rejoin the lineup by the end of this week or shortly after the All-Star break.

With Bregman sidelined, rookie Marcelo Mayer has stepped up but faces challenges, managing only a .214 batting average and a .665 OPS. The Red Sox's current standing in the AL East is precarious, with an opportunity to capitalize on the struggles of other teams like the New York Yankees. Bregman's impending return could bolster their play and possibly influence his future in Boston, particularly with his opt-out option looming.

The Boston Red Sox remain in contention for a postseason spot despite a lackluster season, sitting just 2.5 games out of the wild card position. A potential boost comes with the expected return of Alex Bregman, which would stabilize their infield. With Bregman back, top prospect Marcelo Mayer could transition to second base, while Kristian Campbell continues to develop in Triple-A.

Rumors suggest the Red Sox may also target Willi Castro from the Minnesota Twins. Castro, an All-Star last year, has improved his performance this season, boasting a .24/.362/.435 line with seven homers. His addition could significantly aid the Red Sox's playoff aspirations as they aim to enhance their infield depth and overall competitiveness.