Walker Buehler of the Boston Red Sox is experiencing injury concerns early in the season, having already been placed on the 15-day injured list due to shoulder inflammation. Buehler signed a one-year deal with the Red Sox, looking for a fresh start after his time with the Dodgers ended. Given his injury history, the Red Sox may need to consider trading for additional pitching help.

One potential target is Andrew Heaney of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Heaney has shown better performance this season, currently holding a 2-2 record with a 2.50 ERA through six starts. While his overall career has been inconsistent, the Red Sox could benefit from his experience in the American League East and his current form, especially if Buehler's recovery takes longer than expected.

This week’s focus on starting pitchers reveals several intriguing trends among some rising stars in Major League Baseball. Nick Lodolo of the Cincinnati Reds appears to be finally living up to his potential, showcasing significant improvements with a 2.25 ERA and a notable increase in the use of his changeup. Matthew Liberatore from the St. Louis Cardinals has similarly made strides, utilizing a revised changeup and cutter to bolster his performance. Ben Casparius of the Los Angeles Dodgers could see an expanded role as a starter, leaning on a new cutter that has improved his effectiveness. Finally, Andrew Heaney of the Pittsburgh Pirates has altered his attack strategy, relying less on his slider and more on his curveball.

The Atlanta Braves are seeing early validation of their decision to forgo several veteran pitchers in free agency, especially as they now consider a potential trade for Andrew Heaney, currently with the Pittsburgh Pirates. The left-hander has emerged as one of the National League's most effective starters, boasting a 1.72 ERA and an impressive 0.766 WHIP through his first five starts. At 34 years old and on an expiring contract, Heaney presents a valuable rental option just as the Braves navigate a challenging rotation with injuries to Spencer Strider and Reynaldo López.

Despite limited rotation depth, the Braves have managed to remain competitive, but acquiring Heaney earlier than the trade deadline could provide them with the stability needed to solidify their position in the NL East. Given Heaney's modest contract of $5.25 million and the Pirates' position in the standings, he may not command a hefty prospect package, making him an appealing target for Atlanta's front office, known for its savvy midseason moves.

The Chicago Cubs, presently at 17-12, are set to face the Pittsburgh Pirates (11-18) at PNC Park. Cubs' Shota Imanaga (2-1, 3.18 ERA) will pitch against Andrew Heaney (2-1, 1.72 ERA) of the Pirates. The Cubs enter this matchup following a rough series against the Phillies, while the Pirates recently split their last series on the road against the Angels but struggled against the Dodgers. Cubs fans will be eager to see how Imanaga performs against a Pirates lineup that features Andrew McCutchen, who has been a bright spot for Pittsburgh lately.

Both teams have displayed varying performances against divisional opponents, with the Cubs winning four of their last five games on the road against such rivals, while the Pirates will be looking to capitalize on their home field. Betting insights indicate a lean toward the Cubs on the moneyline at -148, while the spread favors the Pirates at +1.5. The over/under for total runs sits at 8.0 runs. With player performances and trends in mind, this matchup could offer exciting betting opportunities.

The fantasy baseball landscape is ever-changing, and this week's risers and fallers for Week 5 of the 2025 season reflect that dynamic. Leading the charge is Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Chicago Cubs, who has dazzled with a .284 batting average, five homers, and league-leading speed on the bases, with 12 stolen bases. Meanwhile, Brice Turang of the Milwaukee Brewers has emerged as a surprise contributor, showcasing a .321 batting average and significant power with three home runs to complement his usual speed.

On the pitching side, Andrew Heaney has been a revelation for the Pittsburgh Pirates with a 1.72 ERA and 0.77 WHIP over five starts, hinting at a potential sell-high opportunity for fantasy managers. Conversely, Mike Trout of the Los Angeles Angels is struggling with a .177 batting average, raising concerns about his long-term viability. Anthony Volpe of the New York Yankees is also underperforming, hitting just .202, putting managers in a tough spot. As the season progresses, monitoring these trends will be crucial for fantasy success.