Fantasy Baseball Offseason Updates: What You Need to Know
As the fantasy baseball offseason is in full swing, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the NFL, NBA, and NHL seasons. However, for die-hard baseball fans, the hot stove league is where it’s at. In this article, we’ll break down the top stories that might have flown under your radar and provide expert analysis on their potential impact on your fantasy team.
From the Arizona Diamondbacks’ new plan for Jordan Lawlar to the San Diego Padres’ announcement about Joe Musgrove’s innings cap, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also dive into the Kansas City Royals’ decision to move their outfield fences in and what it means for their power numbers. Additionally, we’ll discuss the latest updates on David Fry’s ability to throw again and Brice Matthews’ potential to extend his versatility to the outfield.
Arizona Diamondbacks’ New Plan for Jordan Lawlar
The Diamondbacks’ acquisition of Nolan Arenado might seem like a blow to Jordan Lawlar’s chances of starting at third base, but fantasy managers shouldn’t count him out just yet. Lawlar, 23, will be used in the outfield, where there’s an opportunity alongside star Corbin Carroll. With Lourdes Gurriel Jr. likely to miss at least the first half of the season and Jake McCarthy traded to the Colorado Rockies, Lawlar could see significant playing time. He hit.313/.403/.564 at Triple-A Reno, and his big-league numbers in brief playing time shouldn’t be a concern.
Fantasy impact: Lawlar is poised to break out, making him a sleeper pick in fantasy drafts.
San Diego Padres’ Announcement on Joe Musgrove’s Innings Cap
Joe Musgrove has been a reliable fantasy option for much of his career, but he missed the 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery. The good news is that the Padres expect him to be fully ready for spring training, and there will be no limitations on his volume this season. Musgrove has reached 181 innings twice with the Padres, and while it’s unlikely he’ll reach 30 starts, he has definite sleeper potential.
Fantasy impact: Musgrove’s health will be crucial to his fantasy value, making him a potential news story if he can stay healthy.
Kansas City Royals Move Outfield Fences In
Kauffman Stadium has always been known as a pitcher’s ballpark, but the Royals’ decision to move the majority of their outfield fence in by 10 feet could change that. According to Jeff Passan, this move could “drastically [change] the offensive environment of a notoriously bad stadium for home run hitting into one the team hopes will play as major-league average.” While this move will likely have some impact on hitting numbers, it’s hard to say it will greatly adjust the Royals’ fantasy value or preseason rankings.
Fantasy impact: Consider this information for drafting and keeper purposes, but don’t overrate it.
David Fry Can Throw Again
David Fry, who hit.263 with 14 home runs over 122 games for the Cleveland Guardians in 2024, is back to full health after undergoing elbow surgery and nasal surgeries. The Guardians say Fry will play the field in 2026, which could lead to him regaining catcher eligibility. He posted a.996 OPS against left-handed pitching in 2024 and could be a valuable asset in deeper leagues.
Fantasy impact: In-season news for deeper formats, as Fry’s ability to play the field and regain catcher eligibility could make him a sleeper pick.
Brice Matthews to Extend His Versatility to Outfield
Brice Matthews, a first-round pick in the 2023 amateur draft, made his MLB debut for the Houston Astros last July. He hit four home runs in 47 at-bats, but also struck out 20 times. The Astros plan to use Matthews in the outfield, where he could see significant playing time. With his raw power and electric speed, Matthews could become an instant deep-league fantasy sleeper if he secures a regular role.
Fantasy impact: Potentially relevant news, as Matthews’ ability to play the outfield
