Introduction

As the 2025 MLB season approaches, fantasy baseball enthusiasts are gearing up for their drafts. While it's exciting to pick your favorite players, it's equally important to know which players to avoid. Tristan H. Cockcroft has identified nine players who are likely to underperform this season. Here’s a detailed look at these players and why you might want to steer clear of them.

Ronald Acuna Jr., OF, Atlanta Braves

Ronald Acuna Jr. is a top-tier talent, but his recent injuries raise significant concerns. After tearing his ACL in 2024, he missed a substantial portion of the season and is expected to miss the first month of 2025. His recovery from dual ACL surgeries could impact his base-stealing aggression, making him a risky pick.

Jose Altuve, 2B, Houston Astros

Jose Altuve is a veteran player showing signs of decline. His 2024 season was marked by increased strikeout rates and a challenging transition to left field. With the Astros' lineup not as potent as before, Altuve’s value is questionable, especially as a top-40 pick.

Willson Contreras, C, St. Louis Cardinals

Willson Contreras is moving to first base, which could reduce wear and tear. However, his injury history and the Cardinals' rebuilding phase make him a less attractive option. His performance at Busch Stadium has been notably weaker compared to road games.

Jacob deGrom, SP, Texas Rangers

Jacob deGrom’s recent injury history makes him a high-risk pick. Despite his past dominance, the likelihood of a late-career resurgence is slim. Historical data suggests that pitchers with similar profiles have struggled to return to peak form.

Rafael Devers, 3B, Boston Red Sox

Rafael Devers has been plagued by shoulder issues, which significantly impacted his 2024 performance. His delayed start in spring training and ongoing shoulder soreness are red flags for the upcoming season.

Brenton Doyle, OF, Colorado Rockies

Brenton Doyle had a breakout 2024 season, but his underlying metrics suggest regression. His performance away from Coors Field is a concern, making him a risky pick in fantasy drafts.

Adolis Garcia, OF, Texas Rangers

Adolis Garcia’s free-swinging tendencies and injury history make him a volatile player. His defensive metrics indicate a potential move to DH, which could limit his playing time and fantasy value.

Tanner Houck, SP, Boston Red Sox

Tanner Houck’s 2024 season showed promise, but his performance declined in the latter half. His spring training stats are underwhelming, raising doubts about his ability to sustain his earlier success.

Mark Vientos, 3B, New York Mets

Mark Vientos’ poor plate discipline and lack of stolen bases make him a less appealing option in points-based leagues. While he has power potential, his streakiness and competition at third base are concerns.

Conclusion

Drafting the right players is crucial for fantasy baseball success. By avoiding these nine players, you can mitigate risks and build a more competitive team for the 2025 season. Always consider player health, performance trends, and team dynamics when making your selections.