Fantasy Baseball: Jordan Lawlar and Other Prospects on the Rise
Fantasy baseball enthusiasts are always on the lookout for emerging talents who can make an immediate impact. In the 2025 season, several prospects have been making waves, with Jordan Lawlar leading the charge. The Arizona Diamondbacks’ top prospect has showcased exceptional skills, making him a prime candidate for fantasy leagues.
Jordan Lawlar: A Rising Star
Background and Draft Profile
Jordan Lawlar was selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks as the sixth overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft. Coming out of Jesuit College Preparatory School in Dallas, Texas, Lawlar was lauded for his exceptional defensive abilities and advanced hitting mechanics. His commitment to Vanderbilt University was a testament to his dedication to the sport.
Professional Journey
Lawlar’s professional journey began with the Rookie-level Arizona Complex League Diamondbacks, but his debut was marred by a season-ending shoulder injury. Undeterred, he quickly ascended through the minor league ranks. In 2022, he played for the Visalia Rawhide, where he batted .351 with nine home runs and 24 stolen bases over 44 games. His performance earned him a promotion to the Hillsboro Hops and later to the Amarillo Sod Poodles.
In 2023, Lawlar made his MLB debut with the Diamondbacks, though he faced challenges, batting .129 in 14 games. The following year, injuries limited his playing time, but he returned to form in 2025. Starting the season with the Triple-A Reno Aces, Lawlar has been on fire. As of late April, he boasts a .325 batting average and a 1.049 OPS, significantly outperforming current major league players .
Fantasy Impact
Lawlar’s impressive performance in Triple-A has made him a hot commodity in fantasy leagues. His ability to contribute across multiple categories—batting average, power, and speed—makes him a valuable asset. With the Diamondbacks potentially calling him up soon, fantasy managers should consider stashing him on their rosters.
Other Prospects Making Waves
While Lawlar is a standout, several other prospects are also making significant strides:
- Ethan Salas (C, San Diego Padres)
At just 18 years old, Salas has been turning heads with his advanced hitting approach and defensive prowess behind the plate. He started the season with the Double-A San Antonio Missions and has been excelling, making him a prime candidate for a call-up later in the season.
- Jace Jung (2B, Detroit Tigers)
The younger brother of MLB player Josh Jung, Jace has been showcasing his power and plate discipline in the Tigers’ system. Playing for the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens, he’s been hitting for both average and power, making him a valuable fantasy asset in deeper leagues.
- Chase DeLauter (OF, Cleveland Guardians)
DeLauter has been a revelation in the Guardians’ minor league system. With a combination of power and speed, he’s been putting up impressive numbers, making him a sleeper pick for fantasy managers looking for upside.
- Dylan Crews (OF, Washington Nationals)
The former LSU standout has been living up to his billing as a top prospect. With a mature approach at the plate and the ability to impact the game in multiple ways, Crews is expected to make his MLB debut soon, offering significant fantasy potential.
- Tamar Johnson (2B, Pittsburgh Pirates)
Johnson has been displaying elite bat speed and power in the Pirates’ system. His ability to hit for average and power, combined with his speed, makes him a dynamic fantasy option as he continues to develop.
Strategies for Fantasy Managers
To capitalize on these rising prospects, fantasy managers should consider the following strategies:
- Monitor Minor League Performances: Keep an eye on the performances of top prospects in the minors. Websites like MLB Pipeline and Baseball America provide regular updates and rankings.
- Stash Prospects Early: If your league allows, consider stashing high-upside prospects like Lawlar and Crews on your roster. This can give you a competitive edge when they are called up.
- Diversify Your Picks: Don’t focus solely on hitters. Pitching prospects like Jackson Jobe (DET) and Andrew Painter (PHI) are also making significant strides and can provide value in the long term.
- Stay Updated on Call-Up Timelines: Teams often have specific timelines for promoting prospects. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions about when to add a player to your roster.
