2025 Fantasy Baseball Starting Pitcher Rankings and Projections
Introduction
As the 2025 fantasy baseball draft season approaches, fantasy managers are keen to identify the top starting pitchers to anchor their rotations. The Rotoworld Baseball crew, led by FSWA Hall of Famer Matthew Pouliot, has compiled a comprehensive list of the top 25 starting pitchers for the upcoming season. This list includes projected stats and dollar values for mixed leagues, league-only formats, and future seasons. Here’s a detailed look at the top prospects and their outlooks for the 2025 season.
1. Paul Skenes (PIT – SP)
Paul Skenes, the first overall pick in the 2023 draft, burst onto the scene with a phenomenal rookie season, earning the Rookie of the Year award. Despite debuting in May, he quickly established himself as a dominant force. In 23 starts, Skenes allowed just 31 runs and was efficient enough to go six innings 16 times. His fastball and changeup combination is one of the best in the league, and his strikeout rate of over 30% is impressive. While he carries some health risks, Skenes is a top-tier fantasy ace and a potential first-round pick.
2. Tarik Skubal (DET – SP)
Tarik Skubal’s 2023 season was nothing short of spectacular, leading to a unanimous AL Cy Young Award. After returning from flexor tendon surgery, Skubal posted an incredible 34 outings with a 96.8 mph fastball and a 30% strikeout rate. His efficiency on the mound, never throwing more than 103 pitches in any start, adds to his fantasy appeal. Despite the workload, Skubal is a safe bet for a top-2 ranking in 2025, though health remains a minor concern.
3. Logan Gilbert (SEA – SP)
Logan Gilbert’s 2024 season was a mixed bag, leading the majors in innings pitched and WHIP while posting a 2.49 ERA at home. However, his road ERA of 3.94 and a 12-9 overall record highlight the home-field advantage at T-Mobile Park. Gilbert’s strikeout and groundball rates have improved each year, and his velocity reached new heights in 2024. While T-Mobile Park may not remain as pitcher-friendly, Gilbert is still a top-3 fantasy ace.
4. Zack Wheeler (PHI – SP)
Zack Wheeler’s consistent performance over the past few years has made him a reliable ace. In 2024, he again finished second in the NL Cy Young race, leading the league in starts and innings pitched. His postseason performance, including a seven-inning shutout against the Mets, further solidifies his status. Wheeler’s velocity has dipped slightly, but his consistency and durability make him a top-4 fantasy pick.
5. Jacob deGrom (TEX – SP)
Jacob deGrom’s return from Tommy John surgery was a success, albeit limited to three late-season starts. His 97.3 mph fastball remains effective, and his career 2.07 ERA and 36% K rate since 2018 are elite. The Rangers will be cautious with his workload, but deGrom’s return to form makes him a valuable asset. Even with a dozen missed starts, he can provide top-5 value.
6. George Kirby (SEA – SP)
George Kirby’s command and ability to pound the strike zone have made him a reliable starter for the Mariners. His 3.53 ERA and 104 ERA+ in the pitcher-friendly T-Mobile Park are impressive, but his K:BB ratio is among the best in the league. Kirby’s consistency and potential for growth make him a top-6 fantasy starter.
7. Blake Snell (LA – SP)
Blake Snell’s 2024 season was a tale of two halves. After a disastrous start to the year, he emerged as the 2023 NL Cy Young winner, posting a 1.23 ERA and a 114/30 K/BB in the second half. His trade to the Dodgers puts him in a strong organizational position, and despite being part of a six-man rotation, Snell’s potential makes him a top-10 fantasy pick.
8. Dylan Cease (SD – SP)
Dylan Cease’s transition to the NL in 2024 was smooth, but his ERA was slightly higher than his peripherals suggested. His slider remains one of the game’s most effective pitches, and his velocity returned to 2022 levels. As he enters his walk year, Cease is poised for another strong season, making him a top-10 fantasy starter in San Diego.
9. Garrett Crochet (BOS – SP)
Garrett Crochet’s transformation from a reliever to a starter in 2024 was remarkable. Despite a limited innings history, he dominated in May and June before his workload was curtailed. His acquisition by the Red Sox in a bidding war highlights his potential. While durability is a concern, Crochet’s elite talent makes him a top-10 fantasy pick.
10. Framber Valdez (HOU – SP)
Framber Valdez’s consistency and groundball rate make him a valuable asset. Despite giving up a career-high 19 homers in 2023, his 61% groundball rate in 2024 returned to near his career mark. A Cy Young-type season is within reach, and his durability and health make him a top-10 fantasy starter.
Conclusion
The 2025 fantasy baseball starting pitcher market is stacked with elite talent, making it crucial for managers to make informed decisions. Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal, and Logan Gilbert lead the pack, while Zack Wheeler, Jacob deGrom, and George Kirby offer consistency and upside. Blake Snell, Dylan Cease, Garrett Crochet, and Framber Valdez round out the top 10, each bringing unique strengths and value to fantasy rosters. By considering their potential and projected stats, managers can build a rotations that provide both depth and reliability.
