Kyle Tucker played with a small fracture in his right hand after an awkward June slide, a detail Cubs manager Craig Counsell confirmed while Chicago notched a 4-3 win over Milwaukee. Healing was evident in imaging taken after Tucker continued to play, and Counsell stressed the fracture isn’t a current issue. Tucker’s late-season power drought and slump are linked to the hand injury, with a possible rebound on the horizon as he nears a return to the lineup.

Once an All-Star with a scorching start, Tucker’s August numbers have sagged (.148 in August with only two extra-base hits in 24 games), raising questions about long-term fantasy value. Teammate Matt Shaw lauded Tucker’s grit, noting the veteran’s willingness to grind and lead by example. The Cubs may bring him back for the series finale against Milwaukee, depending on how he progresses from imaging and soreness.

The trade that brought Tucker to Chicago from Houston in December adds context to his arc: top-line expectations were high, yet health and hand issues have tempered a typical breakout season. Tucker remains a 28-year-old with free agency on the horizon, and a healthy return could reignite Chicago’s batting order as the team navigates a tight division race.

As the 2025 MLB season approaches, several top prospects are poised to make significant impacts for fantasy baseball managers this upcoming year. With the trade deadline having reshaped team rosters, particularly in Arizona and Baltimore, opportunities for rookie call-ups are ripe. Tyler Locklear's recent promotion to the Arizona Diamondbacks makes him a compelling add in deeper leagues. Meanwhile, teams may push for further promotions post mid-August to maintain rookie eligibility for next season, especially for talents like Dylan Beavers and Samuel Basallo.

Beavers has been a standout for the Norfolk Tides and is showcasing robust offensive metrics, including a .307 average paired with impressive power and speed. Similarly, Jordan Lawlar, now returning from injury, is set to capitalize on an open position in Arizona. His offensive prowess at Triple-A this season has been noteworthy, boasting a .319 average with power and speed. JJ Wetherholt is making waves in St. Louis, recently showcasing his offensive potential with a scorching hot streak that highlights his blend of contact, power, and speed. Other prospects like Owen Caissie and Moises Ballesteros might find themselves in contention for playing time if injuries occur among current MLB players, making them potential stashes in redraft leagues.

The all-star break presents a critical moment for fantasy baseball managers to reassess their teams and consider stashing promising prospects for the second half of the season. A number of top prospects have had notable performances in the first half, providing a glimpse into their potential impact for 2025. Among them, Spencer Jones of the New York Yankees has emerged as a standout, showcasing a remarkable power surge in Triple-A with impressive stats: seven home runs, six steals, and a .362 batting average over his last 14 games. His ability to hit for power in Yankee Stadium makes him a tantalizing option, albeit with some strikeout concerns.

Owen Caissie of the Chicago Cubs is another prospect to monitor, as he has demonstrated significant improvements at the plate with a .333 average and 30-homer potential. However, his path to the majors might be blocked by established outfielders unless trades happen. Zac Veen of the Colorado Rockies and Bubba Chandler and Hunter Barco from the Pittsburgh Pirates also command attention as they continue to progress in their respective minor leagues. The next few months could be pivotal for these players as they seek opportunities for major league call-ups.

As the fantasy baseball season progresses, some hidden gems emerge on the waiver wire, promising to outperform their more popular peers. The Chicago Cubs' Matt Shaw, available in 74% of ESPN leagues, has transformed following a Triple-A stint. After struggling initially, he returned with a .360 batting average and improved strikeout rate. Similarly, the Los Angeles Angels' Zach Neto has shown resilience after shoulder surgery, boasting a .284 average with impressive power numbers.

Pittsburgh Pirates' Spencer Horwitz, available in 90% of leagues, is generating buzz due to his plate discipline and potential for growth, even though he may be limited against left-handers. For deeper leagues, the Washington Nationals’ Robert Hassell III represents a post-hype prospect, now getting consistent playing time and the chance to leverage the team’s aggressive base running. The Cubs' Daniel Palencia is a closer in the making, while Jameson Taillon offers two-start potential against weak opponents. Hayden Birdsong, adjusting from relief to rotation, is a deeper league target for his high strikeout rates.

The Chicago Cubs are reportedly considering a reunion with Isaac Paredes, the former player they traded to acquire Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros. MLB insider Jon Heyman suggests that, if the Astros decide to sell due to their declining offensive output, Paredes could fill the Cubs' third base void.

Paredes has had a productive season with a .267 batting average, 6 home runs, and 19 RBIs. The Cubs, facing an unsuccessful experiment with prospect Matt Shaw as a starter, might look to bring back a player they once valued enough to trade for. With limited options available for quality third basemen, the Cubs may see this as an opportunity to improve their roster significantly.