The 2025 MLB Trade Deadline created significant shifts not only for Major League Baseball teams but also throughout the fantasy baseball community. Carlos Correa‘s fantasy baseball upgrade emerged as a key storyline, influencing player values, playing time, and bullpen roles across multiple teams after the deadline.
Key Playing Time Changes Across MLB Teams
Several teams saw notable increases in playing time for specific players, which is critical for fantasy managers targeting consistent production down the stretch. For the Arizona Diamondbacks, Tyler Locklear at first base and Jordan Lawlar at third base received boosts, with Lawlar anticipated to return to action within a few weeks. Starting pitcher Anthony DeSclafani also gained value with more opportunities.
The Athletics benefited from new roles for closer Jack Perkins and starting pitcher Luis Morales, while the Atlanta Braves spotlighted Joey Wentz as a pitcher to watch for increased innings. Baltimore Orioles’ fantasy prospects grew with first baseman Ryan Mountcastle and third baseman Coby Mayo both gaining playing time, along with shortstop Jeremiah Jackson and potential call-ups in outfield and catcher positions such as Dylan Beaver and Samuel Basallo. Cleveland’s bullpen also shifted, with Cade Smith stepping into closing duties.
Houston Astros’ Carlos Correa saw a clear upgrade in fantasy relevance, paired with Jesus Sanchez in the outfield earning more playing time. Other teams like the Minnesota Twins witnessed boosts for multiple players: Luke Keaschall at second base, Taj Bradley as a starting pitcher, Mick Abel at third base, and Cole Sands in the closer role. Several other franchises, including the San Francisco Giants with Luis Matos and Randy Rodriguez, and the Pittsburgh Pirates with Dennis Santana closing and Jared Triolo at third, demonstrated similar adjustments.
Players Facing Downgrades in Fantasy Value Post-Deadline
The deadline also marked downturns for some players’ fantasy outlooks. Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Dustin May moved closer to an innings limit, suggesting a bullpen role may be imminent. The Chicago Cubs had losses in value from pitcher Ben Brown and infielder Willi Castro. The Cincinnati Reds’ Nick Martinez and Miquel Andujar at third base also slipped down the ranks, decreasing their fantasy appeal.
Other notable downgrades include Detroit Tigers’ Kyle Finnegan and Troy Melton, Los Angeles Dodgers’ Michael Conforto in the outfield, and New York Yankees relievers David Bednar and Camilo Doval. Philadelphia Phillies owners should watch out for decreases in Matt Strahm and Max Kepler’s fantasy value, while New York Mets’ Ryan Helsley also lost some reliability in fantasy formats. San Diego Padres’ Robert Suarez and Toronto Blue Jays’ Chris Bassitt were additional pitchers facing reduced expectations.
Noteworthy Team-by-Team Player Updates
Arizona’s Tyler Locklear and Jordan Lawlar remain key additions for fantasy teams, with Lawlar expected back soon. Baltimore’s mix of established and call-up talent could change roster dynamics as players like Mountcastle and Jeremiah Jackson earn more time. In Houston, Correa’s elevation is complemented by Sanchez’s outfield role, highlighting a potential duo to consider for fantasy lineups.
The Minnesota Twins’ multiple upgrades bring valuable pieces into rotation and bullpen roles, which could stabilize lineups in the coming weeks. Pittsburgh’s Dennis Santana may emerge as a dependable closer, while San Francisco’s Randy Rodriguez steps into a similar role, increasing their fantasy relevance.
Meanwhile, teams such as the Colorado Rockies, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels, and Milwaukee Brewers didn’t experience significant roster upheaval affecting fantasy value, keeping their player expectations stable for now.
The Implications of the Trade Deadline on Fantasy Baseball Strategy
Carlos Correa’s fantasy baseball upgrade symbolizes how strategic trade deadline moves can ripple through both real and fantasy rosters, creating new opportunities and challenges. Fantasy managers must adapt quickly, weighing risks of players approaching innings caps or shifting into new roles. For example, Boston’s Dustin May nearing his innings limit signals caution, while emerging closers like Jacksonville’s Cade Smith and Pittsburgh’s Dennis Santana offer fresh bullpen options.
This deadline’s impact highlights the importance of flexibility in fantasy rosters and readiness to pivot strategies as teams recalibrate for playoff runs. With trends favoring players gaining increased playing time and new roles, fantasy owners are encouraged to monitor emerging stars and potential call-ups closely to strengthen their lineups.
Looking ahead, continued tracking of these developments will be key for success, especially in season-long and daily fantasy formats. The blend of hopeful prospects and uncertain veteran statuses invites a cautious yet optimistic approach as the season progresses toward its final stretch.