This week's FAAB article identifies key targets for fantasy managers ahead of Thursday's FAAB, with a focus on players likely available for budget-conscious bidding. Notably, the article critiques recent trades involving franchise players like Luka Doncic and Rafael Devers, highlighting fantasy implications. It also spotlights several players to consider adding to your roster.

Quinn Priester of the Milwaukee Brewers, with a mere 39% roster rate, has been impressive lately, showcasing a 2.23 ERA over his last eight outings, making him a solid low-cost acquisition for pitching depth. Emmet Sheehan of the Dodgers is another name to consider, particularly after a successful return from Tommy John surgery, striking out six in just four innings.

Among hitters, Tyler Stephenson of the Reds and Gavin Sheets of the Padres show promise due to their recent offensive surges. Sheets is riding a nine-game hitting streak, while Stephenson has been consistent on base, making them valuable additions in fantasy leagues.

Returning from Tommy John surgery isn’t always as smooth as anticipated. While players often regain their pre-injury form eventually, the initial recovery can be turbulent. Sandy Alcantara and Felix Bautista have faced significant struggles, while Shane McClanahan hasn’t returned to the mound yet. Emerging talents like Emmet Sheehan, however, showed promise in his recent debut, dominating with six strikeouts in just four innings against the Padres. His fastball velocity remained consistent, and he even showcased an improved changeup. Despite this encouraging performance, caution is advised as the Dodgers will monitor his workload. In deeper leagues, he might be worth a bench spot for his potential upside.

Additionally, players like Chase Burns and Nick Kurtz are making waves in the minors, suggesting they could be impactful additions to rosters soon. Jo Adell is also heating up, hitting his 12th home run since May. For now, seeking these emerging players is a smart strategy as the season progresses.

The Boston Red Sox's trade of Mookie Betts to the Los Angeles Dodgers has long been viewed as a monumental blunder, and recent moves have only compounded the criticism. This past weekend, they traded Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants for a package that left many scratching their heads. Betts, now a star in LA, expressed disbelief over the Devers trade while acknowledging the Red Sox's efforts to win. Still, it further highlights the franchise's troubling decisions that could haunt them for years.

Betts has established himself as one of the top players in baseball, and the fact that the Red Sox continue to move valuable assets like Devers raises questions about the organization's direction. The fan base remains frustrated, and the team's recent performance has not helped ease concerns. With Betts thriving elsewhere and Devers now gone, the Red Sox appear to be in a state of disarray as they seek to rebuild.

The Tampa Bay Rays are reportedly in advanced negotiations to sell the team to a group led by Patrick Zalupski, a Jacksonville real estate developer. Meanwhile, Arkansas pitcher Gage Wood made history with a no-hitter in the College World Series, expressing determination to continue their journey. The San Francisco Giants made a significant move by acquiring All-Star Rafael Devers to strengthen their lineup. Additionally, Shohei Ohtani is set to return to the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the San Diego Padres, marking a crucial comeback for the two-way star.

Other notable highlights include Denzel Clarke’s outstanding catch for the Oakland Athletics, which showcased his defensive prowess. The New York Yankees' Aaron Judge hit a powerful homer right as Hunter Dobbins of the Boston Red Sox took a jab at the team. On the injury front, the Minnesota Twins announced that Pablo Lopez would miss 8 to 12 weeks due to a shoulder strain, impacting their pitching depth. Lastly, Mike Trout has returned from injury, hitting a dramatic home run over the Green Monster, signifying a strong comeback.

The Detroit Tigers hold the top position in the power rankings for the third week running, surpassing the Los Angeles Dodgers for the most consecutive weeks at No. 1 this season. The rankings reflect a mix of current performance and historical expectations entering the 2025 season.

The Tigers, with a record of 47-27, have revitalized Javier Baez's performance by repositioning him at shortstop, enhancing his OPS significantly. Meanwhile, the Dodgers, ranked second, are backed by emerging star Andy Pages, whose offensive capabilities have drawn praise from manager Dave Roberts.

The New York Mets maintain a strong position at third despite recent pitching injuries, including that of Kodai Senga. The Chicago Cubs, fourth, exhibit remarkable versatility with multiple players poised for standout seasons.

In the middle of the rankings, the Houston Astros and Tampa Bay Rays have made notable strides, with the Astros dealing with injuries to key players and the Rays leading in starter innings pitched despite the absence of ace Shane McClanahan.

Teams like the San Francisco Giants and Milwaukee Brewers showcase potential with dynamic rosters. With the season unfolding, the chase for playoff positions becomes increasingly competitive, making every game-critical as teams jockey for position.