Overall, the third base group for 2025 is a solid cohort with plenty of players who should offer significant fantasy production. However, once we get past the headliners, José Ramírez and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the hot corner is full of potential traps.
For example, Jazz Chisholm Jr. was electric with the Yankees but has had durability concerns. Rafael Devers struggled with a shoulder injury last season, and Austin Riley had a disappointing campaign. Royce Lewis and Jordan Westburg have shown flashes of potential but also inconsistency and injury issues. Junior Caminero may be a future star but is still unproven at the MLB level.
Despite these risks, many managers may find these potential stars worth the risk, as there are few exciting sleepers at third base this year. In fact, there are no third basemen with a Yahoo ADP between 150-180.
For those who prefer to wait, there are some value picks at third base. Jazz Chisholm Jr., Jordan Westburg, and Junior Caminero are worth considering for their high ceilings. On the other hand, Royce Lewis and Mark Vientos are fades due to their injury history and plate discipline issues.
Value picks at the third base position include Isaac Paredes and Josh Jung, both of whom have ADPs between 181-246 in Yahoo drafts. Paredes could benefit from a change of scenery in Houston, while Jung looks to bounce back from injuries and fulfill his breakout potential with the Rangers. Max Muncy, Los Angeles Dodgers
Max Muncy may not be getting much attention in fantasy baseball circles this season, but he shouldn’t be overlooked. Despite missing time last year, Muncy showed his power potential by maintaining a 30-homer pace in just 73 games. He is an on-base machine who plays in a stacked Dodgers lineup, making him a valuable asset if he can stay healthy. While his batting average may be a concern, Muncy has the potential to hit 30 home runs and rack up 180 R+RBI. Fantasy managers in roto and category leagues will need to strategize around his lower average, but in points leagues, the 34-year-old is a top performer.
Matt Shaw, Chicago Cubs
Matt Shaw is a player to watch as the season approaches. The Cubs are giving their top prospect a chance to win the third base job, and with an impressive .906 OPS in the minors, Shaw seems ready for the challenge. With a well-rounded skill set that includes a .303 batting average, 29 home runs, and 46 steals in 600 MiLB at-bats, Shaw has the potential to make a big impact in fantasy leagues. Additionally, the 23-year-old will have triple-position eligibility (2B/3B/SS) in Yahoo formats, adding to his value.
Top-12 Third Baseman Draft Rankings for 2025
1. José Ramírez, Guardians
2. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Blue Jays
3. Jazz Chisholm Jr., Yankees
4. Rafael Devers, Red Sox
5. Austin Riley, Braves
6. Manny Machado, Padres
7. Jordan Westburg, Orioles
8. Junior Caminero, Rays
9. Royce Lewis, Twins
10. Jake Burger, Rangers
11. Mark Vientos, Mets
12. Alex Bregman, Free Agent
Yahoo consensus third base rankings