Fantasy Baseball Draft Values: Late-Round Hitters to Target in Draft-and-Hold Leagues (2025)

Draft-and-hold fantasy baseball leagues present a unique challenge for managers. Without the ability to add players via waivers, the importance of late-round selections increases dramatically. The key to success is identifying hitters with potential breakout performances, multi-positional eligibility, and a path to playing time. Below is an in-depth guide to some of the best late-round hitters to target in 2025, along with strategic insights on how to build a competitive roster.

Understanding Late-Round Draft Strategy

Before diving into specific players, it’s crucial to establish an effective late-round draft strategy. Here are some key considerations:

• Playing Time Opportunities: Focus on players who have a strong chance of securing a starting role or significant at-bats.
• Power/Speed Combinations: Seek out hitters who can contribute in multiple categories.
• Multi-Position Eligibility: Players who qualify at multiple positions can provide flexibility throughout the season.
• Post-Hype Breakouts: Some players struggle early in their careers but eventually find their stride. Identifying these players can provide exceptional value.
• Injury Rebound Candidates: Players returning from injury can be overlooked but offer high upside if they regain their form.

With these factors in mind, here are several hitters worth targeting in the late rounds of 2025 fantasy baseball drafts.

Late-Round Hitters to Target

1. Josh Lowe, OF, Tampa Bay Rays

Josh Lowe offers an exciting blend of power and speed. His ability to steal bases while hitting for decent power makes him a valuable asset. The Rays have shown confidence in Lowe by giving him extended playing time, and with a solid approach at the plate, he could take another step forward in 2025.

2. Kyle Manzardo, 1B, Cleveland Guardians

Manzardo is a strong hitter with great plate discipline. The Guardians lack established first basemen, making it likely that Manzardo will see significant playing time. His ability to hit for both power and average makes him a perfect late-round pick.

3. Matt Chapman, 3B, San Francisco Giants

Known for his stellar defense, Chapman is looking to revitalize his offensive production in a new environment. With a power-friendly ballpark, he has the potential to return to being a 30-home-run threat, making him a valuable depth piece at third base.

4. Connor Norby, 2B, Baltimore Orioles

Norby has quietly been one of the better hitters in the Orioles’ farm system. With the potential for an infield shake-up in Baltimore, he could see consistent playing time. His contact ability and emerging power make him a worthwhile selection.

5. Lawrence Butler, OF, Oakland Athletics

Oakland is in full rebuild mode, meaning Butler will likely have an extended opportunity to prove himself. He has demonstrated power and speed in the minors, making him a potential sleeper in the later rounds.

6. Colt Keith, 2B/1B, Detroit Tigers

Multi-positional eligibility makes Keith a valuable asset in draft-and-hold leagues. His bat has developed nicely, showing power upside and strong plate discipline. If he secures regular playing time, he could be one of the most valuable late-round hitters.

7. Parker Meadows, OF, Detroit Tigers

Meadows has improved his approach at the plate and could earn an everyday role with Detroit. His combination of power, speed, and defensive ability makes him a solid late-round addition.

8. Huascar Ynoa, OF, Minnesota Twins

Ynoa is making a transition from pitcher to hitter and has shown intriguing power potential. While still a work in progress, his raw athleticism makes him a high-risk, high-reward late-round flyer.

9. Bryan De La Cruz, OF, Miami Marlins

De La Cruz has been on the verge of breaking out and could finally put it all together in 2025. With improved plate discipline and an increasing power profile, he could be a steal in later rounds.

10. Miguel Vargas, 1B/3B, Los Angeles Dodgers

After struggling in his early MLB appearances, Vargas remains a high-upside talent. The Dodgers have shown patience with his development, and with a strong showing in Spring Training, he could secure a regular role.

Additional Late-Round Sleepers

• Davis Schneider, 2B/OF, Toronto Blue Jays – Provides versatility and solid power potential.
• Kyle Stowers, OF, Baltimore Orioles – If given playing time, his raw power could make him a valuable asset.
• Oswaldo Cabrera, 2B/OF, New York Yankees – His ability to play multiple positions makes him a solid late-round option.
• Justin Foscue, 2B, Texas Rangers – Strong hit tool and power make him a great depth pick.
• Jared Triolo, 3B, Pittsburgh Pirates – Defensive wizard with emerging offensive potential.

Drafting for Depth and Upside

The key to success in draft-and-hold leagues is identifying hitters with the potential to exceed expectations. While early-round picks establish your core, late-round selections provide the necessary depth to weather injuries and unexpected struggles. Here are additional tips for maximizing your late-round picks:

1. Diversify Your Player Profiles

Instead of stacking similar hitters, aim for a mix of power hitters, contact specialists, and speed threats. This strategy ensures that you have balanced production across categories.

2. Monitor Spring Training Battles

Many late-round sleepers will earn or lose playing time based on Spring Training performance. Stay updated on position battles to identify potential value picks.

3. Consider Ballpark Factors

Players moving to hitter-friendly ballparks often see an increase in power numbers. Identifying these situations can provide an edge when selecting late-round hitters.

4. Keep an Eye on Injuries and Recovery Timelines

Some talented players fall in drafts due to injury concerns. If they have a clear recovery timeline, they can be excellent stashes in draft-and-hold formats.

5. Take Advantage of Multi-Position Eligibility

Flexibility is crucial in a draft-and-hold league. Players who can slot into multiple positions allow you to adjust your lineup more effectively throughout the season.

Final Thoughts

Late-round hitters in draft-and-hold leagues can make or break your season. By focusing on playing time opportunities, power/speed combinations, and multi-positional eligibility, you can build a deep and resilient roster. Whether you’re targeting established veterans looking for a resurgence or young players poised for a breakout, the key is to stay ahead of the curve and identify undervalued talent before the competition.

By following these strategies and targeting the recommended players, you’ll maximize your chances of success in your 2025 fantasy baseball draft-and-hold leagues.