Impact of Injuries and Lineup Changes on Fantasy Baseball: April 14 Updates

In the fast-paced world of Major League Baseball (MLB), every development—be it a lineup shift, injury, or a minor league call-up—carries weight, particularly for fantasy baseball enthusiasts. This article compiles critical updates and analysis to help fantasy managers stay ahead as the season progresses.

Justin Steele’s Season Cut Short

In a significant blow to the Chicago Cubs, left-handed pitcher Justin Steele’s 2025 season has ended due to a severe elbow injury. Initially, Steele experienced forearm soreness in late 2024, which ultimately led to his placement on the 15-day Injured List after discomfort was noted in his last game. Manager Craig Counsell has confirmed that Steele will undergo surgery to repair a torn flexor tendon in his left elbow this Friday.

Dr. Keith Meister will oversee the surgery, which could also involve repair or reconstruction of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL). This situation is particularly complicated for Steele, who had previously undergone Tommy John surgery in 2017. Consequently, if a revision surgery is deemed necessary, this would mark his second significant elbow procedure.

The challenges facing Steele highlight a common concern among pitchers: the cumulative stress on the inner elbow during repetitive throwing can lead to injuries involving both the flexor tendon and the UCL. Surgical decisions will hinge on the surgeon’s assessment of the extent of the damage during the procedure.

Despite these challenges, advancements in rehabilitation following multiple elbow surgeries give reason for cautious optimism regarding Steele’s potential recovery and return to pitching in the future.

Monday’s Fantasy Baseball Landscape

As the MLB gears up for Monday’s 10-game slate beginning at 6:40 PM ET, several key situations demand attention from fantasy managers:

• The Cubs will fill Steele’s void with RHP Colin Rea, pending the return of RHP Javier Assad from an oblique injury. Additionally, RHP Ben Brown will be crucial in supporting the rotation.
• Toronto Blue Jays outfielder George Springer is questionable for tonight’s interleague clash with the Atlanta Braves due to a wrist injury, although X-rays were negative.
• Colorado Rockies outfielder Brenton Doyle is also under review, missing his third game with a tight left quad, complicating the team’s lineup against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
• On a brighter note for the Rockies, top prospect Adael Amador has been promoted and is set to compete for playing time at second base following Tyler Freeman’s stint on the 10-day IL.
• Braves pitcher Spencer Strider is making headlines this week, as he is anticipated to return from an elbow procedure. He is scheduled to make his season debut on Wednesday after dominating in rehab assignments with Triple-A Gwinnett, boasting impressive strikeout numbers.

Sunday’s Notable Transactions

Sunday’s action also brought pertinent changes impacting fantasy lineups:

• Washington’s CJ Abrams was placed on the IL due to hip flexor discomfort, allowing Paul DeJong to shift to shortstop.
• Masyn Winn of the St. Louis Cardinals will miss at least 10 days due to back spasms, opening opportunities for Nolan Gorman’s return from the IL.
• The Minnesota Twins sent Jose Miranda to Triple-A St. Paul, allowing Brooks Lee to reclaim his position at third base. This move could also affect Edouard Julien’s playing time.
• In Cincinnati, 1B Christian Encarnacion-Strand this weekend is absent from the starting lineup, with Noelvi Marte stepping in at third base and Jeimer Candelario handling first base. This lineup adjustment is essential as the Reds aim to revive their struggling offense.
• The Tampa Bay Rays have called up RHP Joe Boyle for a crucial interleague start against the Braves, aiming to leverage his recent impressive form in Triple-A.

As the 2025 MLB season unfolds, these updates are pivotal for fantasy baseball managers seeking to optimize their rosters and respond to evolving player situations. Staying informed is crucial to navigating the complexities of fantasy sports.