Offseason Moves That Will Impact Your Fantasy Baseball Draft

24 January 2025

The offseason—it's that magical time when MLB teams reshuffle their rosters, and fans everywhere start dreaming about next season's possibilities. But for those of us who live and breathe fantasy baseball, the offseason is more than just trade rumors and free-agent signings. It's about analyzing those moves to figure out how they'll impact your fantasy draft strategy.

Whether it’s a big-name player changing teams or a sneaky under-the-radar move, the offseason can shake up the fantasy baseball landscape in ways that might surprise you. So, before you head into your draft room ready to pick up where you left off, let’s break down some key offseason moves that will absolutely impact your fantasy draft decisions.

1. Major Trades: New Teams, New Opportunities

Trades are the bread and butter of MLB's offseason excitement. A player going to a new team can be a game-changer in fantasy baseball. Sometimes, a change of scenery is all a player needs to step up their game. Other times, a trade can mean fewer opportunities or a dip in performance.

A. Juan Soto's Move: A Fantasy Goldmine?

Let's start with Juan Soto. The superstar outfielder was traded to the San Diego Padres last season, but now, with a full offseason to gel with his teammates, the potential for an explosive 2023 season is high. Soto’s ability to get on base and hit for power makes him a top-tier fantasy option. If you're gunning for him in your draft, keep in mind that his new surroundings in San Diego could lead to more run-scoring and RBI opportunities. With Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. in the lineup, Soto could feast on pitches he may not have seen in Washington.

B. Xander Bogaerts: Boosting His Stock?

Similarly, Xander Bogaerts' move to the Padres could be a sneaky good fantasy play. Bogaerts has been consistently productive in his career, but now in a much better lineup, his counting stats—runs and RBIs—could surge. He’s a player whose draft stock might rise, but he could still be undervalued in some leagues. If you’re targeting a shortstop, Bogaerts could be a solid option after the big names like Trea Turner are off the board.

C. Trea Turner to the Phillies: A No-Brainer?

Speaking of Trea Turner, his move to the Philadelphia Phillies is likely the biggest offseason splash. Turner is already a fantasy stud thanks to his speed and ability to hit for average, but moving to a hitter-friendly park like Citizens Bank Park could send his numbers through the roof. Expect a bump in home runs, and if you're drafting in the first round, Turner should definitely be on your radar. He’s poised to be one of the most valuable assets in fantasy leagues this season.

2. Free Agency Signings: New Contracts, New Roles

Free-agent signings can either inflate or deflate a player’s fantasy value, depending on the role they’re expected to fill and the ballpark they’re moving to. Sometimes, a player's talents are magnified by a more hitter-friendly park or a better supporting cast.

A. Jacob deGrom to the Rangers: Risk or Reward?

Let's talk pitching for a moment. Jacob deGrom is one of the most dominant arms in baseball—when healthy. That’s the key phrase: "when healthy." The Texas Rangers signed deGrom to a massive contract, but he comes with significant injury risk. If you’re drafting him, you’re swinging for the fences. If he stays healthy, he’s a potential Cy Young contender, but you should also plan for the worst. Drafting deGrom means you may want to invest in a solid backup later in the draft, just in case his injury woes continue.

B. Carlos Rodón to the Yankees: A Fantasy Ace?

On the flip side, Carlos Rodón signing with the New York Yankees could be a big win for fantasy managers. Rodón was excellent with the Giants last year, and moving to the Bronx should only boost his fantasy value. The Yankees’ offense gives him more run support, which means more wins, and he’ll still rack up plenty of strikeouts. Be cautious, though—Yankee Stadium isn't exactly pitcher-friendly, and Rodón’s tendency to give up a few long balls could sting a bit. Still, he’s worth an early-round pick if you're looking for a high-strikeout ace.

C. Dansby Swanson to the Cubs: A Fresh Start?

Dansby Swanson’s move to the Chicago Cubs is another intriguing offseason shift. Swanson was a key piece of the Braves' lineup, but now he’ll be the focal point for the Cubs. This could be a good thing for his fantasy value, as he’ll likely see more opportunities to drive in runs. However, it’s worth noting that the Cubs' lineup isn’t nearly as potent as Atlanta’s. Swanson could see a drop in runs scored, but his power and speed still make him a valuable shortstop option in the middle rounds of your draft.

3. Prospects and Breakout Candidates: Hidden Gems

Every year, there are a handful of prospects or breakout players who explode onto the scene. These are the guys who can win you your league if you snag them at the right time. The offseason often gives these players a clearer path to playing time, making them even more valuable.

A. Corbin Carroll: The Next Big Thing?

Corbin Carroll is a name you need to know. The Arizona Diamondbacks' outfield prospect is expected to make a significant impact in 2023. Carroll has speed to burn, and in fantasy baseball, stolen bases are like gold. If you’re in a league that rewards steals, Carroll could be an absolute steal (pun intended) in the middle rounds. He’s got the potential to be a breakout star, but don't wait too long to grab him, as his hype is growing.

B. Anthony Volpe: A Rookie Ready to Shine?

The Yankees' top prospect, Anthony Volpe, is another name to watch. With the shortstop position in question for the Yankees, Volpe could find himself starting sooner rather than later. He possesses a unique combination of power and speed that could make him a fantasy darling if he gets regular playing time. Volpe is the type of player you take a chance on late in the draft, hoping everything clicks.

C. Gunnar Henderson: Baltimore’s Bright Future?

Another prospect worth mentioning is Gunnar Henderson of the Baltimore Orioles. He’s already made a splash in limited MLB action, and he’s expected to be a regular in the Orioles' lineup in 2023. Henderson has the kind of all-around game that plays well in fantasy—he hits for power, gets on base, and even steals a few bags. If you’re looking for an upside pick at third base, Henderson should be on your radar.

4. Sneaky Offseason Moves: Under-the-Radar Changes

Not every move makes headlines, but some smaller signings and trades can have a big impact on fantasy baseball. These are the moves that savvy fantasy managers take advantage of while everyone else is focused on the big names.

A. Josh Bell to the Guardians: Undervalued Power?

Josh Bell signing with the Cleveland Guardians may not have set the world on fire, but it’s a move that could pay dividends in fantasy. Bell had a down year in 2022, but he's shown in the past that he can hit 30-plus home runs. The Guardians need power, and Bell will likely bat in the middle of the lineup. If he bounces back, he could be a great value pick in the later rounds of your draft.

B. Brandon Drury to the Angels: A Deep Sleeper?

Brandon Drury's move to the Los Angeles Angels is another one to keep an eye on. Drury had a career year in 2022, and while there’s some skepticism about whether he can repeat that performance, he’s in a good spot with the Angels. If he can hold down a regular spot in the lineup, he could provide solid production for fantasy managers looking for a versatile player who can play multiple infield positions.

C. Andrew Benintendi to the White Sox: A Boost to Average?

Finally, Andrew Benintendi signing with the Chicago White Sox probably flew under the radar for most fantasy managers, but it shouldn't. Benintendi is a high-contact hitter who could hit for a great average in 2023. He won’t provide huge power numbers, but if you’re looking for a solid outfielder to boost your batting average, Benintendi could be a sneaky-good pick in the later rounds.

5. What to Watch for in Spring Training

As important as offseason moves are, don’t forget to pay attention to spring training. This is where you can get a better sense of how players are adjusting to their new teams and roles. Is a player dealing with an injury? Are they locked into a starting spot? Spring training can provide crucial last-minute information that can tip the scales in your fantasy draft.

Final Thoughts: Be Ready to Adapt

Offseason moves are always exciting, but they can also be unpredictable. Just because a player has a new team or a fat contract doesn’t automatically mean they’ll be a fantasy stud. The key is to stay flexible and adapt your draft strategy based on the latest information. Whether it's a big-name signing or a low-key prospect poised to break out, the offseason will always have a ripple effect on your fantasy baseball draft.

So, as you prepare for your draft, keep these offseason moves in mind and be ready to pounce on the opportunities they create. After all, championships are often won in the offseason!