J.T. Realmuto leads MLB catchers as the highest-paid player for the 2025 season, earning $23.9 million. His contract, valued at $115.5 million over five years, underscores the value of elite catchers in today's game. The list of top-earning catchers also features Salvador Perez and Willson Contreras, with salaries of $21.8 million and $18 million, respectively. With only seven catchers earning over $10 million, the position remains underappreciated in terms of salary.

Sean Murphy and Mitch Garver round out the top five with earnings of $15 million and $12.5 million. Interestingly, the financial disparity among catchers highlights their critical but often overlooked role, especially as only 16 receive an annual salary of at least $5 million. The figures, compiled by USA TODAY, reflect present-day contract values, including deferrals and bonuses, providing insight into the financial landscape of MLB.

The Kansas City Royals have had a mixed bag for their 2025 season, particularly struggling on the road with a dismal 3-10 record. However, the team has found success at Kauffman Stadium, boasting an impressive 11-5 home record. Bobby Witt Jr. continues to shine, recently becoming the first player to achieve a 20-game hit streak this season.

Witt Jr., at just 24 years old, is not only emerging as a top shortstop but is also establishing himself as one of the premier players in MLB. His current season stats stand at a .316 batting average, .385 on-base percentage, and .474 slugging percentage, including 12 RBIs and two home runs. The Royals hope to build on their recent success, coming off a 7-1 record over their last eight games as they face the Tampa Bay Rays in a three-game series.

Cole Ragans, the Kansas City Royals left-handed pitcher, has been scratched from his upcoming start against the Tampa Bay Rays due to groin tightness, a precautionary measure as stated by manager Matt Quatraro. Previously, Ragans, a former All-Star, left a game early after pitching only three innings. Despite a rocky start to the 2025 season, where he holds a 4.40 ERA, his strikeout numbers remain impressive, ranking second in the AL.

Filling Ragans’ spot in the rotation is Noah Cameron, the Royals' No. 5 prospect and a promising left-hander with a 3.22 ERA in his Minor League starts. Baseball America recently recognized Cameron as one of the hottest pitching prospects, suggesting that he could make an immediate impact in the big leagues, especially given Ragans' ongoing health issues.

Fantasy managers should refocus on Arizona Diamondbacks prospect Jordan Lawlar, who is shaking off a mediocre debut and injuries from 2024. Now 22, Lawlar has electrified Triple-A Reno with a .356 average, five home runs, and 12 stolen bases in 26 games. Although the Diamondbacks' infield is crowded, his performance may force the team to create a spot for him. Meanwhile, fellow prospects like Jac Caglianone of the Kansas City Royals and Marcelo Mayer of the Boston Red Sox are also climbing the ranks, showcasing power and potential. However, Emmanuel Rodriguez of the Minnesota Twins is struggling at Triple-A, raising concerns about his future.

Jamie's analysis for today's DraftKings and FanDuel MLB DFS slate highlights several key players and strategies for success. The night features ten games, including high-scoring matchups, notably at Coors Field, ideal for stacking players. Top pitching options include Garrett Crochet and Jacob deGrom, each offering strong strikeout potential against favorable opponents. For hitters, Bobby Witt Jr. and Matt Olson are flagged as strong plays, especially in matches where they can exploit opposing pitchers' weaknesses.

The Braves are poised for a significant offensive showing against German Márquez, while the Dodgers look to capitalize on Sandy Alcantara's early-season struggles. The article emphasizes the importance of keeping up with injury updates and lineup changes as the game approaches, ensuring that DFS players can adapt and optimize their lineups for cash games and GPP contests.