Introduction

As we navigate through the unpredictability of the 2025 MLB season, the latest updates on starting pitchers bring both optimism and concern. The injury bug has bitten many big names, prompting a necessary reassessment of rankings.

Injury Impact

Injuries have impacted pitchers like Gerrit Cole, who has unfortunately been ruled out for the year, and will now be removed from one-year rankings. Meanwhile, others like Brayan Bello, Tobias Myers, and Lucas Giolito are finding themselves in a tougher spot, jostling for position as they recover from their injuries. However, there's a silver lining for the New York Mets as Tylor Megill now has an extended opportunity in their rotation. Moreover, pitchers such as Spencer Strider and Sandy Alcantara have shown promise upon returning to the mound.

Fantasy Strategies

Fantasy baseball players face differing strategies depending on their league’s structure. Some leagues have injured list slots that allow managers to stash these recovering pitchers for future benefit, where upside and potential become critical. Conversely, players in leagues without such options must tread carefully. If a pitcher lacks the ceiling of an elite performer, they might need to focus more on healthy athletes who can contribute immediately. Those managing teams in more conservative leagues should be wary of players nursing injuries and prioritize pitchers with strong health metrics.

Tier System for Rankings

To better navigate the complexities of the current player pool, I have organized injured pitchers and those at high injury risk into mini-tiers within the rankings. For instance, Tyler Glasnow and Jacob deGrom feature prominently, while reliable, lower-risk pitchers like Logan Webb and Hunter Brown also stand out. This tier system offers a clearer insight into the decision-making process for fantasy players and allows for adjustments tailored to individual league settings.

Ranking Methodology

The landscape of MLB pitching is ever-changing, and with injury reports rolling in rapidly, these rankings serve as a snapshot that can evolve quickly. Nevertheless, it remains essential to identify the top performers for your fantasy roster as we look ahead to the season.

Metrics Used in Rankings

These rankings leverage several advanced metrics, including: - Pitching+ along with related models like Stuff+ and Location+ - Projections powered by Jordan Rosenblum, including ppERA% and ppK% - Health grades from Jeff Zimmerman, featured in his publication "The Process" - Projections for innings pitched based on health assessments, team strategies, and depth charts

Spring Training Insights

Additionally, spring training numbers have also been factored into these rankings, where various pitchers may experience fluctuations in their Stuff+ stats due to the unpredictable nature of early-season performance. For instance, Kevin Gausman has impressed during spring training, prompting a possible rise in his ranking based on promising early signs.

Conclusion

With every twist and turn this season brings, the hope is that all your fantasy picks will emerge healthy and ready to dominate! Keep a close eye on these rankings as they evolve and adapt throughout the year.