The upcoming Wednesday features a split MLB slate with 13 games, giving fantasy players multiple options from pitchers to batters. Among the high-priced pitchers, Garrett Crochet stands out at $10,500, boasting a 29.1% strikeout rate and recent performances that show he can go deep into games. Though facing the Mets is challenging, their recent offensive struggles make him a solid choice.

Another option is A.J. Smith-Shawver, now at $9,800, who has consistently scored well in recent outings. In contrast, Tylor Megill at $8,300 presents a different risk-reward ratio with a similar strikeout rate but higher walks. For those seeking value, Dustin May at $7,500 has potential despite a tough matchup. The cheapest option, Jack Kochanowicz at $5,700, limits hard contact but faces the hitter-friendly A's.

On the hitting side, top prospects Fernando Tatis and Jackson Merrill are both pricey but have performed well against Kevin Gausman, who has given up a high barrel rate. For value hitters, Ezequiel Tovar at $3,100 has provided solid opportunities since returning from injury. Additionally, stacking the Phillies against the Rockies offers a high upside with star players like Trea Turner and Bryce Harper, though their cost may deter some players.

This week's analysis focuses on three AL starting pitchers who have recently surged in performance, making them potential waiver wire targets for fantasy baseball enthusiasts. First, Chris Paddack of the Minnesota Twins has shown resilience after a rocky start to the season. With a stellar outing against Baltimore, Paddack's recent form displays a 2.49 ERA in his past eight starts, although concerns about his home run rate persist.

Noah Cameron, a southpaw for the Kansas City Royals, returned to the majors with an impressive showing against the Cardinals. Despite his minor league success and potential, questions remain about his strikeout capability in the big leagues. Lastly, Jack Kochanowicz from the Los Angeles Angels has limited runs against formidable opponents but continues to struggle with consistency, particularly in generating strikeouts.

The Los Angeles Dodgers faced a 6-2 defeat to the Los Angeles Angels in the Freeway Series opener, where Angels pitcher Jack Kochanowicz shone, limiting the Dodgers to just one run in 6.2 innings. Yoán Moncada's two-run homer set the tone, complemented by Zach Neto and Nolan Schanuel's contributions. Despite Shohei Ohtani's impressive home run, the Dodgers' struggles continued as they dealt with injuries and a lack of offensive firepower. The silver lining came in the form of Clayton Kershaw's imminent season debut, as he ties the franchise record for the most seasons played with the team. Kershaw's return could rejuvenate a struggling Dodgers team seeking to regain its momentum on Saturday.

Strikeout props take center stage as the MLB season gains momentum. As we head into April 5, 2025, the betting landscape is ripe with opportunities, especially for savvy bettors looking to capitalize on pitchers with favorable matchups. Today's highlighted picks include players like Reese Olson of the Detroit Tigers, who is projected to exceed 5.5 strikeouts against the Chicago White Sox, a team that has shown a tendency to strike out against right-handed pitching. Olson's recent strong performance against the Dodgers showcases his potential.

Spencer Arrighetti from the Houston Astros, also targeting 5.5 strikeouts, faces a Twins lineup grappling with strikeout regression. With a solid debut under his belt and a potent curveball, Arrighetti could easily exceed this mark. Taj Bradley, meanwhile, will need to navigate the deep Texas Rangers lineup, but his strikeout rate suggests he’s capable of meeting the 5.5 threshold. Brady Singer has reinvented himself with a potent mix of pitches leading to increased strikeouts in his recent outings. He'll encounter a Brewers lineup that has struggled against righties. Lastly, keep an eye on AJ Smith-Shawver, who faces the Miami Marlins, one of the more strikeout-prone teams in baseball, making his 4.5 strikeout prop an intriguing bet.

The conclusion of the MLB regular season has prompted an expanded ranking of the top 50 rookies for 2024, showcasing the depth of talent in this year's class.

Highlighting the fierce competition, the NL Rookie of the Year race features Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Jackson Merrill of the San Diego Padres, while the AL race remains wide open.

Players are evaluated based on their performance, role, and development throughout the season, with late-season success carrying significant weight.