As we approach Week 4 of the 2025 MLB fantasy season, three starting pitchers have emerged as potential waiver wire targets due to their surprising performances. Griffin Canning of the New York Mets showcased significant improvement in his last start against the Cardinals, striking out eight over six innings. Canning has increased his slider usage, achieving a remarkable whiff rate, indicating he could be a valuable addition for fantasy players.

Landen Roupp of the San Francisco Giants also delivered an impressive outing against the Angels, recording nine strikeouts and displaying a dominant curveball that has shown a high strikeout potential. His performance suggests he could be a high-upside option for deeper leagues. Lastly, Luis Ortiz of the Cleveland Guardians is making headlines with his recent strikeout rate. Although his past struggles raise questions about sustainability, his recent performance against the Pirates could indicate he's turning a corner.

Bo Naylor led the charge for the Cleveland Guardians, going 3-for-5 with a home run and three RBIs during a thrilling 10-7 victory against the Pittsburgh Pirates, snapping a two-game losing streak for Cleveland. Naylor's pivotal two-run double in the fourth inning helped the Guardians take the lead, while a five-run seventh inning sealed the deal. Jhonkensy Noel and Gabriel Arias also contributed with critical two-run doubles. Despite a valiant effort by the Pirates, including Bryan Reynolds' three hits and two RBIs, they fell short. The Guardians' starting pitcher, Luis L. Ortiz, struck out eight and managed the game effectively, marking a strong performance against his former team.

The MLB schedule is heating up with all 30 teams in action, presenting numerous betting opportunities for players. Cole Ragans of the Kansas City Royals is set to face the Detroit Tigers, a team that ranks among the highest in strikeouts. Ragans boasts a remarkable strikeout rate of 36.6% early this season, making his over 7.5 strikeouts a promising wager. Meanwhile, Jose Altuve of the Houston Astros is expected to shine, with his over 1.5 hits, runs, and RBIs against a struggling Kyle Hart. Altuve's .311 batting average and favorable matchup against left-handed pitchers suggest a productive day ahead. Lastly, Luis L. Ortiz of the Pittsburgh Pirates is also worth watching, as he aims to exceed 4.5 strikeouts against the Cleveland Guardians, a team that has been prone to strikeouts this season.

MLB player prop betting is heating up, with several exciting strikeout props available for April 12, 2025. Top prop bets feature ace Cristopher Sanchez from the Philadelphia Phillies, who boasts an impressive 34% strikeout rate. His matchup against the St. Louis Cardinals, who struggle against left-handed pitchers, makes the OVER 5.5 strikeouts at +125 an enticing choice. Conversely, Miles Mikolas of the Cardinals is projected to fall short on his UNDER 3.5 strikeouts, backed by a low 10% strikeout rate and the Phillies' disciplined offense.

Jordan Hicks of the San Francisco Giants is highlighted for his OVER 4.5 strikeouts, especially facing a Yankees lineup that swings freely. Andrew Heaney, pitching for the Pittsburgh Pirates, is also recommended for OVER 5.5 strikeouts against a struggling Reds offense. For value, Trevor Williams is set at OVER 4.5 strikeouts against the Marlins, who are noted for their high strikeout rate. Finally, Luis Ortiz might hit the UNDER 4.5 strikeouts due to his lack of swing-and-miss stuff. With multiple opportunities, it's a day ripe for strikeout prop betting.

Streaming pitchers early in the season can provide crucial fantasy points, and a few options stand out for Week 1. Kumar Rocker of the Texas Rangers is a top choice, boasting impressive strikeout potential despite some walk issues. Grant Holmes from the Atlanta Braves is also notable, especially for his favorable home matchup against Miami, while the Chicago Cubs’ Ben Brown is a fresh face with high K/9 rates, making him a solid streamer. David Peterson from the Mets and Kris Bubic from the Royals provide additional options, although their matchups are more challenging.

On the hitter side, the Minnesota Twins and Cincinnati Reds emerge as teams to target for streaming players. The Twins face weaker pitching matchups, making left-handed hitters like Matt Wallner and Ryan Jeffers intriguing adds. The Reds also have favorable conditions and matchups, especially for hitters like T.J. Friedl and Jeimer Candelario.