Pete Crow-Armstrong is in a rough patch after the break, but the underlying data paints a patient, long-term bounce-back story. He’s posting solid contact metrics and power indicators, suggesting the slump is temporary rather than a failing profile. Fantasy managers should weigh the Cubs’ lineup context and the rookie’s track record before pulling the plug.

James Wood carries a contrasting arc: elite raw exit velocity and hard-contact rates point to a breakout ceiling, even as a two-week lull drags his ownership down. Wyatt Langford owns a different tale—early-season promise tempered by a brutal month, with strike-zone discipline and plate approach as the keys to his next stretch. Lawrence Butler and Brendan Donovan illustrate the mid-season reality: big counting stats can mask inefficiencies, making them risky or retreat-worthy in shallower formats while still usable in deeper leagues where flexibility matters.

Max Fried remains a pillar, but recent results urge matchup-driven decisions rather than reckless trust. Josh Hader’s shoulder issue clouds late-season plans, elevating Brian Abreu as a potential save-hand in the short term. The host’s broader theme is clear: with playoff push here, owners must cut the fat, protect the core, and ride the upside players who can carry through the final sprint while managing risky spots with strategic benching and timely pickups.

Bold predictions dominate the latest Locked on Fantasy Baseball episode, as hosts Dominic Martino and Matthew M. share their thoughts on key players for the 2025 season. The debate centers around Michael Harris II, with one host expressing skepticism about his potential, citing a lack of consistent production and a stacked lineup limiting his opportunities. In contrast, the other host predicts a breakout year for Harris, projecting him to hit 25 home runs, steal 35 bases, and maintain a .295 batting average.

Tanner Biby is positioned as a future top-12 pitcher, thanks to impressive statistics from previous seasons and significant development in his pitch arsenal. Meanwhile, Marcus Semien's age and declining performance spark speculation that he may no longer be a top-10 second baseman by 2025. The episode also highlights Spencer Strider’s potential to be the top starting pitcher this year, alongside rookie sensations like James Wood, who is forecasted to make a significant impact in stolen bases and home runs.

As the fantasy baseball draft season heats up, there are ten players trending in different directions that fantasy owners need to know. Gavin Williams, a pitcher for the Cleveland Guardians, is rapidly rising up draft boards due to a stellar spring performance, boasting significant strikeouts and a low ERA, making him a desirable late-round pick. Meanwhile, Rafael Devers of the Boston Red Sox is falling amidst uncertainty regarding his role and health issues, prompting owners to think twice before selecting him. Other players like Clay Holmes and Robert Suarez are also featured, with Holmes showing promise during spring training, while Suarez's poor performance raises questions about his reliability.

Additionally, emerging stars like James Wood of the Washington Nationals demonstrate immense potential, making them enticing selections for fantasy squads. The analysis also touches on players like Spencer Steer, who faces injury concerns, and Pete Crow-Armstrong, whose spring performance has caught attention but should be approached cautiously due to lineup uncertainties. As the draft approaches, understanding these trends can provide an edge in assembling a competitive team.

Mock drafts provide a vital tool for Fantasy Baseball enthusiasts entering the new season, and in the latest episode of Locked on Fantasy Baseball, Dominic Martino and Matthew dive into their strategies from different draft positions. Highlighting a 5x5 head-to-head category league, Martino reveals his approach while drafting from the 12th spot, focusing on securing high-value hitters before addressing pitching needs. His early picks include notable players like Julio Rodriguez and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., showcasing a preference for hitting power.

The conversation transitions, delving into themes such as 'double tap' strategies—selecting two players consecutively at the draft's end or start. Martino emphasizes the importance of covering essential positions early, especially outfielders, to avoid scrambling for lesser options as the draft progresses. Both hosts share insights on player performance expectations, assessing the risks of younger talents alongside established stars, and debate their balanced lineup strategies.