Every year the start of spring training gives glimpses of summer baseball to the many fans of the game who are tired of winter. For fantasy baseball players it also provides a chance to turn speculation into observations, especially with new players on new teams. Whether these players are emerging prospects, marquee international signings, or recently acquired veterans in the offseason, it adds to the excitement level to get first views of them in action. In this weekly Cactus League update article, I focus on several players who’ve had highly anticipated debuts this spring.
Cactus League Update for Week 2
1. Roki Sasaki Shows His Stuff
It’s Deja Vu for Dodgers fans as this time last year they were treated to Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s highly anticipated debut. Now another Japanese pitching phenom import, Roki Sasaki, takes center stage at camp. In his first bullpen session alone over 1oo people were in attendance, with much of the Dodgers team even taking a break to watch. The excitement and expectations are high for Sasaki as the Dodgers look to repeat as world champions with a truly global mix of talent.
Liking what you see from Roki Sasaki, @Dodgers fans? 👀 pic.twitter.com/U4uCoJXciS
— MLB (@MLB) February 17, 2025
2. Hyseong Kim Solidifies A Utility Role
The Dodgers expanded their international signings this offseason by acquiring veteran KBO infielder, Hyseong Kim. In his eight seasons in the Korean League, Kim batted over .300 with a .364 OBP and amassed 211 steals. The Dodgers’ hope is that his consistent hitting production carries over into the major leagues, where they plan to give him regular playing time as a utility player.
Dave Roberts shared the plan for Hyseong Kim this Spring.https://t.co/IdIMfgQs5c
— Dodger Blue (@DodgerBlue1958) February 18, 2025
3. Justin Verlander Starts a New Chapter
At 42 years old and coming off a shaky season it’s hard for fantasy baseball players to find much appeal in drafting Justin Verlander. In fact, his early ADP on NFBC is hovering around #400, which means he goes undrafted in most 12-team leagues. However, the fact he’s chosen the pitching-friendly Oracle Park in San Francisco as his new team gives Verlander much sleeper appeal. In the last few years, several pitchers have had big rebound performances in their first season in San Francisco. Those names include Kevin Gausman, Carlos Rodon, Robbie Ray, and others. Perhaps Justin Verlander can be the next name added to this list of those rebound performance success stories.
Season 20 for Justin Verlander 🔜 pic.twitter.com/FDG6qvYev3
— MLB (@MLB) February 16, 2025
4. Jac Caglianone Puts His Power on Display
The newest big-name addition to the Royals top prospect ranks is the big-hitting first baseman, Jac Caglianone. Drafted sixth overall last summer, Caglianone quickly put his elite power potential on display in high-A ball where he hit 12 extra-base hits in 116 at-bats. Now, he’s already making noise in spring training as he launched a moonshot home run in his first spring training at-bat. The future looks bright at first base for the Royals as Jac Caglianone continues to develop his plate approach and hit tool to complement his massive power.
Jac Caglianone's first #SpringTraining home run was an absolute no-doubter.
115.4 MPH and 435 feet 💪 pic.twitter.com/JDw4K2LqjU
— MLB (@MLB) February 23, 2025
5. Kyle Tucker Brings New Excitement to Cubs Fans
We all know how great Kyle Tucker is when he’s playing healthy, so there’s not much to assess in his first spring training appearances. However, his addition to the Cubs has brought a buzz to camp early. Fans feel a renewed sense of excitement and hope that’s been lost since their historic World Series run almost 10 years ago. If Tucker can remain healthy, his MVP-caliber bat could vault the Cubs into playoff contention this season.
Kyle Tucker gets a nice ovation in his first at-bat as a Cub 👏🏼
— Cubs Zone (@CubsZone) February 23, 2025
It’s always exciting to see highly anticipated player debuts at the start of spring training. This is especially true when there are several superstars on new teams. In next week’s Cactus League update, I’ll focus on key players transitioning to new positions this spring. I’ll also look at the potential implications that adjustment may have on their fantasy potential this season. Let me know what you’re seeing so far this spring by reaching me on BlueSky or X at @TheToddMpls.
For more of the great fantasy baseball rankings and analysis you’ve come to expect from FantraxHQ, check out our full 2025 Fantasy Baseball Draft Kit! We’re here for you all the way up until Opening Day and then on into your championship run.
