MLB Opening Day 2025: What Fantasy Managers Need to Know

The 2025 MLB season kicks off with 14 thrilling games, offering fantasy baseball managers plenty of action to analyze. From pitching duels to key injuries, here’s everything you need to stay ahead in your fantasy leagues.

Key Opening Day Matchups

• Blake Snell (LAD) vs. Tarik Skubal (DET) – A high-stakes showdown in Los Angeles.
• Sandy Alcantara (MIA) vs. Paul Skenes (PIT) – A clash of aces in Miami.

The first pitch is at 3:05 p.m. ET in the Bronx, where the New York Yankees host the Milwaukee Brewers, followed by the Toronto Blue Jays vs. Baltimore Orioles.

Notable Injuries Impacting Fantasy Rosters

• Ronald Acuña Jr. (ATL) and Royce Lewis (MIN) remain sidelined long-term.
• Gunnar Henderson (BAL), Austin Hays (BAL), and Daulton Varsho (TOR) start the season on the IL.

Positive Updates on Key Players

• Mookie Betts (LAD), Corey Seager (TEX), and Christian Walker (ARI) are confirmed for Opening Day lineups despite lingering concerns.
• Shane McClanahan (TB) and Jared Jones (PIT) avoid worst-case scenarios but will miss significant time:
  • McClanahan (triceps nerve injury) out at least one month.
  • Jones (UCL sprain) hopes to avoid surgery but will miss the first half of 2025.

Fantasy Takeaways

• Monitor IL returns: Acuña and Lewis are long-term stashes.
• Stream pitchers in favorable matchups, especially with deeper rotations early in the season.
• Adjust lineups daily due to fluctuating player availability.

Stay tuned for more real-time updates as the season unfolds!