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 rise of stolen bases in MLB is a significant trend impacting fantasy leagues. Understanding which players and teams are successful in stealing bases can give fantasy managers an edge. Identifying teams vulnerable to base steals, like the Astros and Rangers, can lead to strategic streaming picks. Recent stats show Trevor Story and Randy Arozarena leading the pack, while the Mets have become the hardest team to run against. With catchers like J.T. Realmuto performing well defensively, managers must pivot their strategies accordingly.

The San Francisco Giants (12-5) are set to face off against the Philadelphia Phillies (10-7) in Game 3 of their four-game series. After a 6-4 loss in Game 2, the Giants will send Robbie Ray to the mound, boasting a record of 3-0 with a 2.94 ERA, to counter Phillies ace Aaron Nola, who is still searching for his first win at 0-3 with a 5.51 ERA. The matchup is critical as both teams seek to gain momentum in this tightly contested series.

The Phillies' recent offensive surge, highlighted by home runs from Bryce Harper and JT Realmuto, indicates a powerful lineup that can capitalize on pitching missteps. For Giants fans, the performance of Justin Verlander, who gave up four runs over 5.2 innings in the last outing, raises questions about the pitching depth. Betting odds reflect a slight edge for the Phillies at -140 on the moneyline with an over/under set at 7.0 runs, suggesting an anticipated competitive game.

Getaway day in MLB brings an exciting slate of five afternoon games and a lone evening matchup. J.T. Realmuto faces off against Spencer Schwellenbach of the Atlanta Braves, who is emerging as a top-tier pitcher. Realmuto has struggled early this season, and with Schwellenbach's impressive stats, including a .187 batting average allowed to right-handed hitters, it's likely he won’t get many hits.

Meanwhile, Taylor Ward and Bobby Witt Jr. are poised to score runs in their respective matchups. Witt has a favorable history against Bailey Ober, racking up nine hits in 19 at-bats, while Ward, despite a slow start, has shown potential against Zack Littell. With the Royals’ lineup performing well against Ober, Witt’s run prop is a sound bet.

Stolen bases are on the rise in MLB, with various players and teams exhibiting aggressive base-running strategies. Nikko Hoerner and Pete Crow-Armstrong lead the league with significant steals, showcasing the potential for fantasy players to capitalize. Conversely, teams like the New York Yankees are shifting from their historically cautious approach to one focused on base-running, particularly against weaker catchers like J.T. Realmuto. This strategy could enhance the fantasy value of players willing to steal bases.

The Yankees' recent series against the Pirates yielded successful stolen bases, hinting at their evolving strategy. Meanwhile, Realmuto, despite allowing 13 attempts against him, maintains a strong throwing percentage. This week, fantasy players should monitor matchups against teams like the Athletics and Pirates to identify potential base-stealers.