It’s hard for fantasy players to not pay attention and overreact to spring training stats. In fact, it provides an important data point for draft day consideration for many players either returning from prolonged absences or in new situations. In a previous Cactus League update article we focused on players returning from injuries so this week we’ll discuss players in new positions. The implications of a new position can be major as it can distract focus from getting their hitting rhythm going and general confidence. Fortunately, there are only a few key players in new positions this year, but they are all important fantasy contributors.
Cactus League Update for Week 3: New Positions
1. Mike Trout Shifts to a Corner Outfielder
After several consecutive years of major injuries, it’s starting to seem as if Mike Trout’s legacy will end up as more of a “What could have been” discussion than a case for a place among the all-time greats. While Trout has shown his incredible athleticism as a center fielder, the tolls of the position are often the cause of the recurring injuries. To mitigate those injury risks from occurring again in 2025, Trout has finally agreed to move to a corner outfield position. The hope is that the reduced wear and tear from playing defense over the season will allow him to put his best efforts toward hitting production all season long. This move has to give some optimism to Trout believers, but it still feels like luck is never on Trout’s side when it comes to avoiding injuries.
"The first thing that came to my mind was Torii [Hunter]… It made it easier now that I've got someone I can talk to."@MikeTrout talks about his transition to right field, the vibes at @Angels camp and more during 30 Clubs in 15 Days. #MLBTonight pic.twitter.com/Y6pLiLm8J7
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) March 1, 2025
2. Jonathan India Enters a Position Platoon
The act of platooning hitters in the lineup has become a common practice in baseball today. However, creating a formal defensive position platoon is far less common. Yet, that’s the exact plan being carried out with the Royals’ newly acquired second-baseman, Jonathan India, with their incumbent second-baseman, Michael Massey. In fact, it’s already been shared openly that India will get three days in the outfield and then three days at second base during spring training, while Massey executes the opposite schedule. This platoon should carry into the season if all goes smoothly. While this is great for those who roster India in fantasy to add outfield eligibility, there should be concern about the mental challenges of the rotation carrying into his hitting production. This unique new role is added on top of other dynamics like adjusting to a new league, stadium, and team.
The #KCRoyals want Jonathan India to be their lead-off hitter. To accomplish that, they’re giving him reps in LF this spring.
Here’s why learning a new position won’t be a big deal for India: https://t.co/bPcAuy3RLe
— Alex Neier (@adnhky4) February 26, 2025
3. Mookie Betts Makes Shortstop His Full-Time Position
Throughout Mookie Betts’ career, he’s shown his defensive versatility many times over by switching between infield and outfield positions. In fact, this had become a near-daily occurrence in 2024 as he logged over 15 games played at three different positions. The bulk of those starts were in the infield, with the majority (65) coming at shortstop. Now entering 2025 it was announced that Betts would be focusing primarily on the shortstop position as his full-time field duty. From a fantasy perspective, this likely has little impact on his production this season. However, for fantasy baseball managers who roster Betts in dynasty or keeper leagues, the likely reduced positional eligibility in 2026 could diminish his value. Anything can happen as injuries arise, so it will be interesting to track his defensive assignments as the season carries out.
Mookie Betts spoke about his work and growth this offseason- he gave a very thoughtful and nuanced answer as he is training to play shortstop full time #dodgers pic.twitter.com/otpTISJyQ1
— Nikki Kay (@NikkiKaySN1) February 20, 2025
4. Kris Bubic Switches Back to a Starting Pitcher
Returning from Tommy John surgery in 2024, the Royals opted to play it safe with Kris Bubic by making him a reliever. In the end, this was actually playing it smart as Bubic excelled in his short appearances. In fact, over the last month of the season, he was one of the most dominant relievers with a 1.50 over his last 12 innings. Now entering 2025 fully healthy, the Royals are ramping Bubic back up to take a starting role. Early signs in spring training are positive so far with all key pitching metrics meeting expectations. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on Bubic as there is definite late-round sleeper potential.
I am all in on Kris Bubic as a SP this season!
I labelled him as a breakout pick prior to the Spring, and seeing how his stuff has stayed constant as he transitions into a starter makes me incredible optimistic. This is a true starter's mix backed with great metrics pic.twitter.com/Sx92dmwu8x
— Thomas Nestico (@TJStats) February 28, 2025
There’s no better time for a player to try out a new position then in spring training. This also allows an opportunity for keen fantasy players to get a sense of how that transition is working out. In next week’s Cactus League update, I’ll focus on key players early standouts making waves so far this spring. Let me know what you’re seeing so far this spring by reaching me on BlueSky or X at @TheToddMpls.
Check out our full 2025 Fantasy Baseball Draft Kit for more of the great fantasy baseball analysis from FantraxHQ! We’re here for you all the way up until Opening Day and then on into your championship run.
