As the 2025 MLB season progresses into Week 5, injury woes have become a significant concern for fantasy managers. Key players like Ezequiel Tovar, Jackson Merrill, and Royce Lewis are currently on the injured list, prompting speculation about their return timelines.

Tovar, the Rockies' shortstop, is dealing with a left hip contusion and, despite initial optimism for a swift return, may need more time due to ongoing issues with fielding. His batting metrics suggest he could bounce back strongly once healthy, but for now, backup options like Kyle Farmer will need to fill the gap.

Meanwhile, the Padres' outfielder Merrill, who started the season with an impressive .378 average, is recovering from a right hamstring strain. Recent reports indicate he is making progress, taking live batting practice with hopes for a rehab stint soon. His return could reinvigorate the Padres' offense, as he was projected to be a strong contributor before his injury.

Lewis of the Twins is also on the mend after a hamstring strain sustained in spring training. However, he has shown positive signs in his rehab games and is expected to rejoin the lineup shortly, potentially offering a solid option at third base for fantasy owners.

As the MLB season progresses, savvy fantasy baseball managers are capitalizing on injuries to stash high-profile players on the injured list. Key names to consider include Ronald Acuña Jr., who is eyeing a late May return after recovering from a second torn ACL, and Jordan Westburg, who could be acquired at a discount due to his hamstring injury. Also on the radar are Brandon Woodruff, who is nearing a return after offseason shoulder surgery, and Tyler O'Neill, another power threat sidelined by injury.

Players like Jackson Merrill, Ketel Marte, and Spencer Strider are also listed among the top 25 injured stashes worth keeping an eye on. With the right moves, fantasy managers can secure future stars and potentially turn the tide in their leagues. Keep a close watch on their recovery timelines and consider making trades for these injured players at a bargain.

Injuries are proving critical in fantasy baseball, especially as Week 5 unfolds. Seattle Mariners' ace Logan Gilbert was sidelined after experiencing right forearm soreness, later diagnosed as a right elbow flexor strain. This could significantly impact his season, and fantasy managers should consider alternatives for their lineups. Meanwhile, George Kirby is inching closer to returning after a pain-free bullpen session, though he will need time to ramp up.

Jackson Merrill continues to recover for the Padres, but a return before the end of the homestand seems unlikely. In other news, Tyler O’Neill has been placed on the injured list due to neck discomfort, a situation that seems more precautionary than serious. The Twins face challenges with Byron Buxton as their primary option while the Rangers are activating Jack Leiter, who should be monitored closely. Keep an eye on these evolving injury scenarios to optimize your fantasy strategies.

Grayson Rodriguez, the promising starter for the Baltimore Orioles, faces a daunting recovery as he seeks a second opinion on a shoulder injury that may sideline him for the 2025 season. This follows a frustrating series of elbow and triceps issues that already derailed his start to the year. With multiple injuries in his history, fantasy owners should be prepared for the possibility that Rodriguez may not return this season.

San Diego Padres' Jackson Merrill is also set for an extended absence due to a hamstring injury. The team emphasizes caution, aiming for a full recovery before reintroducing him to gameplay. Similarly, other players like Jake Cronenworth, Masyn Winn, and Max Scherzer are navigating their own injury challenges, with varying timelines for potential returns. Each of these developments adds a layer of complexity for fantasy managers trying to optimize their rosters amidst ongoing injury updates.

Week 3 of the MLB season brings a flurry of injury updates for fantasy managers. The Atlanta Braves' star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. is on the mend after a torn ACL. While he was initially expected to miss significant time following a slow start in spring training, he has now been cleared to ramp up activities, with a potential return in May. His impressive 2023 season makes him a must-start upon return.

San Diego Padres outfielder Jackson Merrill, who started the season strong, is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury. Reports indicate he is slowly progressing but not yet cleared to run. He remains on the IL, leaving fantasy managers in a cautious holding pattern.

Cincinnati Reds' infielder Matt McLain has made a quicker return after a brief hiatus due to a hamstring strain. He has been activated from the injured list and is expected to anchor the Reds’ infield for the remainder of the season, providing solid fantasy value due to his power and speed.