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Someone within Hampden Park had the temerity to blast Freed From Desire over the public address system at full time. A song normally reserved for euphoric moments only just drowned out the jeers that met a Scotland victory. People just want more and more? Too right they do.

Steve Clarke and his players edged closer to the World Cup with this win. It was just that a return to that scene for the first time since 1998 felt a million miles away as the Scots limped and laboured past Belarus. “We know we have got to be better, man,†admitted Scott McTominay. The Napoli midfielder was even more profound as he scored Scotlandâ€s second; latter word “me†and the first a rhyme with “duck.†McTominayâ€s lack of celebrations perfectly depicted Scotlandâ€s messy night.

Clarke is fiercely protective of his squad. To the Scotland managerâ€s credit, he refused to sugarcoat what played out here. A clearly furious Clarke was withering in his criticism. “I am really, really disappointed,†he said. “As disappointed as I have been during 72 games in charge. We just didnâ€t turn up. The performance was way below par. It is head-scratching.†Perhaps, yet it must be remembered Scotland were outplayed even in beating Greece on Thursday.

There is a caveat and an important one. Scotlandâ€s overall qualifying position is strong. They have taken 10 points from a possible 12. “The players know what my feelings are but I have great faith in them, I trust them completely,†Clarke added. “I am very confident they will be in a much better place next month. They have never let me down before and I am confident they will not next month.â€

Amid the bad vibes, Denmarkâ€s win over Greece in Copenhagen meant Scotland have secured at worst a World Cup playoff berth.

Yet so many questions were raised by this Scottish showing. They were unconvincing in defence, lacking authority in midfield and woefully ponderous in attack. A capacity crowd, who arrived for a box-ticking exercise, grew increasingly edgy. Should Scotland progress to the World Cup and produce anything remotely approaching this, they will be also-rans.

Belarus, the 100th-ranked team in the world and a side knocked for six at home by Denmark three days earlier, were the more fluent for concerted spells. The visitors managed 22 shots on goal, were denied a second-half equaliser by a debatable VAR intervention and had the Scots clinging on for dear life by the end.

Scott McTominay (left) doubles Scotlandâ€s lead over Belarus, but they were still made to endure a tense finale. Photograph: Owen Humphreys/PA

“In my opinion we deserved to at least draw this game,†said the Belarus coach, Carlos Alós. Not even those with tartan lenses on their specs could argue.

There had been warning signs for Scotland in the opening exchanges. It was just that nobody bothered to heed them. Scott McKenna had to scramble away a teasing German Barkovskiy cross, Kenny McLean had to block Evgeni Yablonskiâ€s shot and Pavel Zabelin sent a free header over the Scotland bar – all within 11 minutes. Ché Adams slamming home with his left foot after collecting a Jack Hendry pass for the opener – although it was originally ruled out for offside and needed a VAR review to stand – should have settled nerves, but Clarke cut an agitated figure for the remainder of the first half. Ben Gannon-Doak, Scotlandâ€s bright young forward hope, was guilty of poor decision-making time and again.

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Scotland believed they had won a penalty for a handball by Yegor Parkhomenko, only for Adams to be penalised for the same offence in the lead-up. The 63rd minute brought an even more crucial intervention by officialdom. Yevgeny Malashevich spun off Andy Robertson, met Barkovskiâ€s cross and flicked beyond Angus Gunn. The Romanian referee Marian Barbu decreed upon second glance that McTominay was fouled on the halfway line as Belarus snatched possession. It was a borderline call and an embarrassing scenario for the Scots to be in. “If that stands, I am not sure we would have got ourselves back in front,†said Clarke later. Alós refused to make an issue of the decision.

McTominay has been well short of his best throughout this Scottish campaign. He did, however, allow his country breathing space after Aleksandr Martynovich failed to clear Robertsonâ€s cross from the Scotland left. Anyone who anticipated Clarkeâ€s men easing over the line from there was to be swiftly dissuaded from that notion.

The final act of the night, quite rightly, belonged to Belarus. Robertson was left for dust by Hleb Kuchko in the sixth added minute of eight. He finished smartly underneath the advancing Gunn. Clarke dismissed the sense that nerves played a part in Scotlandâ€s approach. In fact, he swatted aside any potential excuse floated towards him. “Maybe Iâ€ll go back to the hotel and have a quiet beer,†said Scotlandâ€s manager. It was a night for more than one. Scotland must hope this is a game they never require to speak of ever again.

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Real Madrid already boast one of the most fearsome attacks in world football – but the 15-time European champions are keen to further bolster their frontline with another big name.

Superstar forwards Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior have plundered a combined 19 goals for the Spanish giants in the opening 10 matches of the season, helping the LaLiga club to nine wins.

But head coach Xabi Alonso is still eyeing further additions and is now plotting a move for one of the top young players on the planet.

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Real Madrid showing ‘concrete interest’ in PSG star

Kylian Mbappe could be joined by a familiar face at Real Madrid (Image credit: Helios de la Rubia/Real Madrid via Getty Images)

Madrid have been heavily reliant on Mbappe and Vinicius this season, with Turkish youngster Arda Guler their next highest scorer despite finding the net only three times.

And the club appear open to letting at least one of their supporting cast of forwards depart to help finance another new recruit, with West Ham reportedly in talks over a loan move for one of the Los Blancos stars.

Real Madrid are stepping up their interest in France winger Desire Doue (Image credit: Lars Baron – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Real have stepped up interest in PSG winger Desire Doue, who they believe can form a potent forward line with Mbappe and Vinicius.

The 20-year-old enjoyed an outstanding breakthrough season last term following his arrival from Rennes, scoring 16 goals in 59 games – including two in the French team’s 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan in the Champions League final.

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The report states that Madrid have shown ‘concrete interest’ in the France international, ranked at no.5 in FourFourTwo’s list of the best right wingers in the world right now, with the club attracted by his ability to play on both wings or as a false nine.

Doue’s estimated value is said to be close to €150m and Madrid are reportedly considering letting attackers Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo leave to free up some of their budget, but significant hurdles remain.

Doue scored twice in PSG’s 5-0 thrashing of Inter Milan in last season’s Champions League final (Image credit: Getty Images)

The report claims PSG are unwilling to sell the youngster at this time, with Doue central to a project that finally delivered a long-awaited Champions League title last term.

In FourFourTwo’s view, it would be a serious coup if Madrid could lure Doue away from PSG – and act as a statement of intent that they remain the heavyweight force in European football.

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Yahooâ€s High Score format changes how we view fantasy basketball sleepers. Since only your best game of the week counts, consistency matters less, and upside matters more. You’re required to start at least three frontcourt players in your lineup. Rebounds (1 point) aren’t as valuable in High Score, but there’s no shortage of versatile forwards and centers who will run your numbers up.

[High Score is a new way to play Fantasy Basketball on Yahoo with simple rosters and scoring. Create or join a league]

Below are five sleeper frontcourt players outside the top 100 in ADP who could become difference-makers in High Score.

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Dereck Lively, Dallas Mavericks

Current ADP: 119.0

High Score Impact

Lively quietly ranked in the top 25 among frontcourt players in fantasy points per minute (FPPM) last season, posting an impressive 1.19 fantasy points per minute (FPPM) in High Score. He also receives a short-term boost with Daniel Gafford missing 2-3 weeks due to an ankle sprain. Lively has a double-double with multiple-stock upside, and at 119, that’s well worth the price.

Standard Points Outlook

At 1.15 FPPM in standard points leagues, he provides solid frontcourt depth as you’re nearing the back end of drafts. The minutes will be there initially, so he’ll get plenty of rebounds and blocks to be fantasy relevant in this format.

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Category League Fit

Lively helps anchor FG percentage while generating blocks and boards. Apparently, he’s been working on his 3-ball, too, so pencil in another category that’ll boost his value. Even if he doesn’t take a step forward as a scorer, he’s healthy with his role well-defined as a rim protector who holds down the paint.

Tari Eason, Houston Rockets

Current ADP: 123.0

High Score Impact

Eason finished in the 91st percentile (1.17) in fantasy points per minute among players who played a minimum of 500 minutes last season. Even in a bench role, he provides starter-level production. Like Lively, Eason’s value went up due to injury. Dorian Finney-Smith is still recovering from ankle surgery and will likely miss opening night. Eason’s disruptive defense (97 steals, 50 blocks in 57 games) translates perfectly to this format.

Learn more about High Score

Standard Points Outlook

Finney-Smith’s injury gives me more confidence in targeting Eason in all formats. He’ll have moments of playing 28-30 minutes where he’ll go off in points, rebounds and especially in stocks. He averaged 28 fantasy points per game in standard leagues last year, so 30 per game is very attainable.

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Category League Fit

His value is best suited for 9-cat because his stocks and versatility shine through. Whether starting or coming off the bench, he’s a top-100 player in both fantasy and real life.

Santi Aldama, Memphis Grizzlies

Current ADP: 115.0

High Score Impact

Aldama produced a respectable 1.11 High Score FPPM last season, showing his ability to chip in across the board. While not a flashy player, he can shoot, is a decent rebounder and is a low-key good at passing. Aldama had 15 games with five or more assists last year. The injuries to Jaren Jackson Jr. and Brandon Clarke opened up a huge chance for Aldama to produce right away and fantasy managers should draft him.

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Standard Points Outlook

At 1.06 FPPM, heâ€s more than serviceable with an increased role to start the season. Aldama has a 40-50 point boom potential (he fell within that range 10 times last year).

Category League Fit

Aldama posted career highs in six of nine categories last year, was rewarded with a new contract and will get a ton of minutes due to injuries in the Grizzlies frontcourt. I’d draft him well ahead of his ADP.

Ace Bailey, Utah Jazz

Current ADP: 135.0

High Score Impact

I’m probably early on Bailey. However, his style of play screams boom-or-bust, which aligns with High Score’s brand. He gets buckets and can step into being the second option offensively. He rebounds decently well and his athleticism should net some stocks. He’s a guy I’ll draft to fill out my depth with upside.

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Standard Points Outlook

Most young, high volatility scorers perform better in points leagues. Bailey’s no different. Not having to worry about efficiency is a nice bonus when drafting rookies.

Category League Fit

I’m not as high on Bailey in 9-cat because he profiles as a player who will be too inconsistent to rely on if building a balanced squad.

Other frontcourt sleeper options:

• Jaylen Wells, Memphis Grizzlies (ADP 140.6)

• Jay Huff, Indiana Pacers (ADP 139.0)

• Jonathan Kuminga, Golden State Warriors (ADP: 130.0)

• Neemias Queta, Boston Celtics (ADP:140.8)

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Yahooâ€s High Score format changes how we view fantasy basketball sleepers. Since only your best game of the week counts, consistency matters less, and upside matters more. Guards who can spike in assists (2 points each) and steals (3 points each) with turnovers not being a factor gain significant value compared to standard points or category leagues.

[High Score is a new way to play Fantasy Basketball on Yahoo with simple rosters and scoring. Create or join a league]

Below are five sleeper guards outside the top 100 in ADP who could become difference-makers in High Score.

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Kevin Porter Jr., Milwaukee Bucks

Current ADP: 121

High Score Impact

KPJ thrives in volatility, which is exactly what High Score rewards. Last season, he averaged 1.24 fantasy points per minute (FPPM) in High Score compared to 1.10 in standard points leagues. That’s a meaningful 13% value boost thanks to his assists, defense and the absence of turnovers. Playing 30+ minutes per game, Porter has a 40-50 fantasy-point ceiling in a given week, with a safe 30+ floor, making him a steal late in drafts.

Standard Points Outlook

I’m bullish on KPJ in standard points leagues because when he starts, he puts up numbers. In 150 career starts, KPJ averaged 17.4 points, 4.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game. The turnovers (-1 in standard points leagues) may suppress his value on occasion, but he’s an easy candidate to outperform his ADP and ball out across formats.

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Category League Fit

Porter is a strong add for points, assists and steals in punt-turnover or guard-heavy builds. He remains streaky in percentages, but the cross-category production plus high minutes and usage make him a prime late-round target.

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Reed Sheppard, Houston Rockets

Current ADP: 124

High Score Impact

As a rookie, Sheppard was quietly efficient, posting 0.94 fantasy points per minute (FPPM) in High Score versus 0.85 in standard points leagues in just 12.6 minutes per game. With Fred VanVleet sidelined for the season, Sheppard’s role is expected to expand to 30 minutes per game; that would amount to nearly 30 fantasy points (FPTS) per contest in High Score. His defensive instincts, combined with the increased playmaking opportunities, make him a perfect fit for the format. Just be patient if the heavy minutes don’t come right away.

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Standard Points Outlook

There were a few instances where Sheppard showed glimpses of being a potential third or fourth scoring option for the Rockets. Still, at 0.85 FPPM, heâ€s more of a deep-league, late-round stash unless he gets a significant bump in shot volume — which initially, may be hard to come by.

Category League Fit

His mix of assists, stocks and efficiency without turnovers makes him a value buy for 9-cat builds, especially for managers punting points.

Jaden Ivey, Detroit Pistons

Current ADP: 116

High Score Impact

A broken fibula ended Ivey’s third-year breakout campaign. However, he’s back and at a depressed value that fantasy managers should act on. He averaged 1.12 FPPM in High Score last season, compared to 0.98 in standard points leagues, demonstrating how his assists and defensive flashes enhance his scoring under this metric. With 30-point scoring upside coupled with his ascension as a playmaker, he’s going to do well in this format.

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Standard Points Outlook

Ivey was on pace to have a career year before suffering a season-ending injury. He increased his scoring, rebounding and assist rate and now that he’s fully healthy, he’ll comfortably average over 30 FPPG for a burgeoning Pistons squad.

Category League Fit

Zero qualms with taking Ivey in category leagues. There is some room for improvement with his FT percentage, efficiency and turnovers, but his usage will be over 25% and he’ll be a positive asset for scoring, 3s, assists and rebounds at his position.

Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs

Current ADP: 128.5

High Score Impact

The NBA’s reigning Rookie of the Year posted a strong 1.13 High Score FPPM vs. 1.00 in standard points leagues across 81 games last season. His production (14.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 4.1 APG, 0.9 SPG) fits High Score perfectly, as defensive contributions and secondary playmaking can fuel his game even on average scoring nights. De’Aaron Fox (hamstring) won’t be ready for the start of the regular season, leaving Castle with a sizable opportunity to do work once the season tips off.

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Standard Points Outlook

Castle has a more muted impact in standard points leagues since heâ€s not a high-volume scorer, but nearly 1.0 FPPM makes him a viable late-round option in deep leagues.

Category League Fit

I don’t love Castle’s category profile because of his inefficiencies from the field and charity stripe, plus a low volume of 3s. If you need steals and assists in the short term, he’ll be an asset as long as Fox is in street clothes.

Isaiah Collier, Utah Jazz

Current ADP: 136.1

High Score Impact

Collierâ€s rookie year efficiency makes him one of the most intriguing second-year guards in High Score. At 1.08 FPPM, his facilitating (446 assists in 71 games) and defensive upside (66 steals) give him a well-rounded profile that benefits directly from the weighted scoring in High Score. With more experience and potentially more minutes, Collier could push toward 30 FPTS per game in Year 2, making him a strong upside pick outside the top 120.

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Standard Points Outlook

At 0.87 FPPM, Collier was less efficient in standard formats. His main drawback in fantasy is his inefficiency, which doesn’t significantly impact most point-scoring formats. With low-end double-double potential in points and assists, I’d be targeting Collier in all points leagues.

Category League Fit

Collier, like many young point guards, struggles with turnovers and efficiency. His 3-ball is also a work in progress. That said, he is an inexpensive source of assists who could finish in the top 10 in the league in that category. He also offers some value in steals and rebounding at his position. He’s undervalued in the market and can fit in a few different roster builds.

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Other High Score sleeper guards

• Kyshawn George – G/F, Washington Wizards

• Dennis Schröder, Sacramento Kings

• Ayo Dosunmu, Chicago Bulls

• Nickeil Alexander-Walker – G/F, Atlanta Hawks

• Davion Mitchell, Miami Heat

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  Eric MoodySep 30, 2025, 12:56 PM ET

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  Eric Moody is a writer for fantasy football, men’s and women’s basketball, and sports betting at ESPN. Eric joined ESPN in 2021 after working as a senior fantasy analyst at Pro Football Network. Prior to that, he spent much of his career as a manager at a Fortune 100 financial services company.

Building a dominant fantasy basketball squad starts with nailing your early-round picks or landing the most sought-after players in salary cap leagues. But that’s only the beginning.

To truly separate yourself and build a championship-caliber team, you’ll need to grab high-upside talent and key complementary pieces in the middle rounds. So which players that fit that description are the ones to go after in your draft this season?

Here are the potential game-changers who can elevate your roster.

Kevin Porter Jr., SG, Milwaukee Bucks (87.2 ADP)

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Porter returns to Milwaukee on a two-year deal and is set to compete for the starting point guard role after Damian Lillard’s departure. Last season, he averaged 11.7 PPG, 3.9 RPG and 3.7 APG in 19.9 MPG while shooting 49.4% from the field and 40.8% from three. Versatile enough to start or come off the bench, Porter showed he can prosper in high-usage stretches. His scoring, playmaking and 3-point ability make him a strong fantasy value this season.

Onyeka Okongwu, C, Atlanta Hawks (92.9 ADP)

Okongwu emerged as the Hawks’ starting center last season and had a career year, averaging 13.4 PPG on 56.2% shooting, 8.9 RPG, 0.9 steals and 0.9 blocks in under 28 minutes. He also showed strong 3-point potential and improved playmaking. With Clint Capela gone, Okongwu should see expanded minutes and usage this season. His versatility, scoring efficiency and defensive upside are all appealing.

Payton Pritchard, PG, Boston Celtics (97.2)

With Jayson Tatum sidelined and Jrue Holiday traded, the reigning Sixth Man of the Year is in line to start and get significant minutes alongside Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. Last season, Pritchard averaged 14.3 PPG, 3.8 RPG and 3.5 APG while shooting 40.7% from three. His off-ball scoring is elite, but this year he could see an expanded playmaking role, making him a strong fantasy target with upside in points, 3s and assists.

Brandon Miller, SF/SG, Charlotte Hornets (103.0 ADP)

Miller is a versatile scorer and rising star capable of contributing points, 3s, assists and steals. Last season, before a wrist injury, he averaged 21.0 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 3.6 APG and 1.1 SPG. Now fully cleared for training camp, he’s expected to be a central piece of the Hornets perimeter-heavy offense. Miller has breakout upside if he remains healthy and is a strong target for managers seeking scoring and 3s.

Ausar Thompson, SF/PF, Detroit Lions (108.4 ADP)

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Thompson is set to take a major step forward for the Pistons this season. Fully healthy after last season’s medical setbacks, he averaged 10.1 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 2.3 APG and 1.7 SPG in 59 games while showing flashes as a dynamic playmaker. Coach JB Bickerstaff plans to give Thompson more touches and offensive responsibility this year, letting him attack the rim and run pick-and-rolls. That’s exactly what fantasy managers want to hear. Elite defense plus expanded scoring opportunities make him a solid draft target in all formats.

Andrew Nembhard, PG/SG, Indiana Pacers (111.6 ADP)

Nembhard is poised for a major breakout this year. With Tyrese Haliburton out for the season, he becomes the Pacers primary floor general. Last season, Nembhard averaged 11.3 PPG, 2.6 RPG and 6.6 APG in eight games without Haliburton, and his minutes could jump into the mid-30s this year. Nembhard’s ability to rack up assists, contribute defensively and score efficiently make him valuable with upside in both points and playmaking categories.

Kel’el Ware, C, Miami Heat (128.8 ADP)

Ware finished his rookie season strong, averaging 11.0 PPG, 8.9 RPG, and 1.3 BPG over his final 49 games, often starting alongside Bam Adebayo. In 36 starts, he averaged a double-double while showcasing his defensive impact and rim protection. The Heat value him as a key piece in the frontcourt, and with projected starter minutes, Ware’s combination of rebounds and blocks makes him a high-floor fantasy target you shouldn’t overlook.

Matas Buzelis, SF/PF, Chicago Bulls (132.1 ADP)

Buzelis is the front-runner to start at power forward over Patrick Williams for the Bulls and should be one of your favorite draft targets. The 2024 first-round pick averaged 13.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 1.9 APG and 1.1 BPG in 31 starts last season, finishing strong with 14.1 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.3 BPG, and 2.3 threes per game in his final 16 contests. Combining scoring, 3-point shooting, and elite rim protection, Buzelis offers high upside in all formats.

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Guardians OF Juneiker Caceres (Photo by Tom Priddy/Four Seam Images)

There are a few different ways that a hitter can be considered underrated as a prospect.

In some cases, projection models like RoboScout forecast stronger future production than industry consensus or traditional rankings may suggest. Players such as Reds infielder Sal Stewart and Royals catcher Carter Jensen fit this mold over the past two years, consistently ranking as RoboScout favorites well before broader lists caught on, providing an opportunity to get ahead of the industry and identify some hidden gems.

Another category of underrated prospect is one whose underlying data indicates more promise than surface-level performance shows. Braves catcher Drake Baldwin, for example, had excellent underlying Statcast hitting data that didnâ€t seem to actualize in minor league games. Those who were leery of taking the plunge on him, because the surface stats werenâ€t all that compelling, could have invested with confidence had they looked at the underlying metrics.

Let’s identify a few hitters that fit either of those profiles below for Baseball America subscribers.

Juneiker Caceres, OF, Guardians

In 2024, RoboScout ranked Caceres near the top of its DSL list after he produced solid underlying data for his age. Despite being only 16 at the time, the Guardians outfielder posted a 90th percentile exit velocity of 101 mph while pairing it with a plus-to-double-plus contact rate (86%) for the level, At 5-foot-10 and likely limited to a corner outfield spot, he received little prospect fanfare, and much of his production was met with skepticism despite the underlying indicators pointing toward more upside.

That upside began to materialize in 2025. Playing the entire season at 17 years old, Caceres raised his 90th percentile exit velocity to 105.1 mph—plus for both his age and level—while maintaining a better-than-plus contact rate and strong in-zone contact ability. Although his swing decisions remain closer to average, and his barrel rate sits right at league norms, showing that his best contact has not yet consistently come at ideal launch angles, he has an excellent hit-power foundation. The fact he produced this profile as such a young age is notable.

Based solely on production, Caceres already projects as a potential .270/.345 hitter with 20 home run power in the majors. After seeing his Statcast data over back-to-back years, RoboScout will take the over.

Wilder Dalis, 3B, Rockies

Although fellow 18-year-old Rockies infielder Roldy Brito gets most of the fanfare, Dalis has solid numbers too. In other words, he’s potentially underrated.

Across 219 plate appearances at the complex, Dalis showed modest power with three home runs, though his .173 ISO was notably higher than Dodgers outfielder Ching-Hsien Ko at the same level. After a promotion to Low-A Fresno, Dalis added another 137 plate appearances, three more home runs and a .138 ISO—again better than Koâ€s mark in Low-A, and even higher than Giants shortstop Jhonny Level, who is the same age and generally more highly regarded as a hitter.

Comparing Brito’s production against Dalis is instructive. Both logged nearly identical sample sizes, first at the complex and then in Low-A.

Complex:

NamePABB%K%wRC+HRSBGB%Brito20910.5%20.1%15932256%Dalis21913.2%20.1%14931039%

At the complex, the two were comparable, with Dalis walking more often and hitting the ball in the air more consistently.

Low-A:

NamePABB%K%wRC+HRSBGB%Brito1569.0%17.3%15611356%Dalis13711.7%19.0%1013645%

Brito maintained essentially the identical wRC+ (and groundball rate) in full-season ball for Low-A Fresno as he had at the complex, while Dalis had more home runs but his wRC+ dropped 48 points.

Under the hood, though, letâ€s compare their Statcast data across the levels:

NameCont%z-Cont%90th EVChase%Barrel%Brito74%81%103.2 mph34%15%Dalis75%85%102.5 mph28%20%

Dalis has better contact rates, with an above-average contact and borderline plus in-zone contact rate, along with a league-average chase rate. In other words, Dalis arguably has a better hit tool than his org-mate.  And while Brito has a slightly higher 90th percentile exit velocity, Dalis’ barrel rate sits more than one standard deviation above the league average. Combined, those inputs yield a HIT+ metric in the 95th percentile for the level—yet he receives little fantasy fanfare.

Ethan Frey, OF, Astros

The indicators are stacking up in Frey’s favor. A few weeks ago, RoboScout tabbed him as an FYPD option with excellent Statcast data. Baseball America’s Carlos Collazo recently ranked his debut seventh best among 2025 draftees.

In 122 plate appearances for Low-A Fayetteville, Frey had a 165 wRC+ with three home runs and nine stolen bases. Although he had a 20.5% strikeout percentage, his swinging strike rate was only 6.2% which is more indicative of a lower strikeout rate.

On the surface, a 21-year-old posting this line in Low-A projects to a modest peak: roughly a .240/.315 hitter with 15 homers and 15 steals, good for about a 90 wRC+.

Under the hood, however, he has plus contact and in-zone contact rates. He chases at a rate one standard deviation less than the rest of the league, while putting up a 90th percentile exit velocity of 108.3 mph. That’s higher than Dodger outfielder Mike Sirota, who is one year older. The 6-foot-6 outfielder is someone I would target inside the top 50 of FYPD drafts.

Deniel Ortiz, 3B, Cardinals

Ortiz made a strong impression in 2025, splitting time between two levels while showing impact across the board. In 320 plate appearances at Low-A Palm Beach, the 20-year-old posted a 145 wRC+ with 10 home runs and 31 stolen bases. Promoted to High-A Peoria, he continued to produce, recording a 169 wRC+ with three home runs and eight steals in 130 plate appearances.

This performance corresponds to a major league projection of a .245 batting average and .325 on-base percentage with 20-25 homers and 15-20 stolen bases. Considering he projects as an average or better major league hitter with 20/20 potential, he falls into the bucket of underrated fantasy prospects despitethe production.

There aren’t any under-the-hood indicators that suggest regression is coming. His power output is backed by plus exit velocities and strong barrel rates, while his contact rates are fringe-average but playable. He chases one standard deviation less than league average, adding a layer of plate discipline to his offensive game. Put it altogether and Ortiz has been a nice breakout for the Cardinals in 2025.

Nathan Flewelling, C, Rays

In his first pro season, the 2024 third-rounder produced a 124 wRC+ with six homers and nine steals of 439 plate appearances for Low-A Charleston, then added 22 more plate appearances at High-A Bowling Green. That corresponds to a MLB projection of .255/.345 with a 110 wRC+ and 20 home runs. With that type of projection, based solely on his surface stats, he already seems underrated.

But itâ€s under the hood where we see the potential for a significant breakout in 2026. Flewelling rarely chases at all (18% chase rate) and it’s not as a byproduct of passivity: his Swing%-minus-O-Swing% is essentially average. His average exit velocity, 90th percentile exit velocity, barrel rate and xwOBA are all plus. Only his contact rate is below-average, and it’s more of a 45 closing in on a 50 grade compared to a 40.

Last month, RoboScout compared Flewelling’s Statcast data with Reds backstop Alfredo Duno, who is a year older than the Rays backstop. Here are the updated numbers for the season:

NameAgeCon%z-Con%90th EVChase%xwOBAconNathan Flewelling18.669%77%105.1 mph18%.357Alfredo Duno19.569%73%105.5 mph15%.382

Considering Duno’s age and lack of Statcast data advantage over Flewelling, the wide disparity in their perceived value as fantasy prospects provides a potential investment opportunity.

Anthony Huezo, OF, Astros

A few weeks ago, Baseball America’s Geoff Pontes explained why the 19-year-old Astros center fielder is a scouting and development win for the Astros, who drafted Huezo in the 12th round in 2023. RoboScout doesn’t have much to add, except maybe a gif nodding approvingly.

In 160 plate appearances at the complex, Huezo produced a 143 wRC+ with six home runs and 12 stolen bases. After his promotion to Low-A Fayetteville, he added a 128 wRC+ with two more homers and six steals over 91 plate appearances.

Combined, his performance projects to a 96 wRC+ at the major league level with 21 home runs and 13 stolen bases. The trade-off is clear: his 30% strikeout rate limits the projection to a .236 batting average and .305 on-base percentage at peak.

Still, Huezo fits the mold of a prototypical Astros prospect. The contact rates are below average, but he has double-plus thump with a 107 mph 90th percentile exit velocity and a 24% barrel rate. With average swing decisions and the ability to impact the ball as consistently as he does, Huezo has all the ingredients for a high ceiling if he can continue improving his bat-to-ball skills.

Izaac Pacheco, 3B, Tigers

Pacheco is 22 years old, the average age for a High-A hitter, and has yet to reach the upper minors despite spending parts of the last four seasons at the level. So it would require undeniably excellent minor league production to consider Pacheco a notable prospect.

He delivered exactly that in 2025. Across 425 plate appearances for High-A West Michigan, he posted a 155 wRC+ with 17 home runs. Translated to the major leagues, that line projects to a 105 wRC+ with 25-28 homers and a .240 batting average, which is limited by his 29% strikeout rate. For perspective, Blue Jays slugger Addison Barger has been a 2025 major league breakout with a .241 batting average and 20 home runs. For that very reason, I think that makes Pacheco underrated.

The underlying data supports the performance. Pacheco produced double-plus exit velocities and barrel rates, and in 2025 those gains were optimized. His sweet-spot percentage and damage-launch-angle contact both graded as plus, and his air pull rate also sat in the plus range. This level of damage-on-contact helps overcome his slightly below-average contact rate.

Like with Huezo, this is a prototypical Astros profile where the quality of contact is above-average or plus, at the expense of contact rates. But Pacheco makes league-average swing decisions, and he should be an above-average big league hitter who plays adequate third base with a strong arm.

Sam Antonacci, 2B/3B, White Sox

The early read on Antonacci entering 2024 first-year player drafts was straightforward: he had a great hit tool and little power. His 100.1 mph 90th percentile exit velocity in his brief pro debut last year supported that outlook.

In 2025, Antonacci continued to demonstrate elite plate skills. His contact, in-zone contact, chase rate, and swing%-minus-chase% all graded as plus over a full season. The more exciting development was in his power. His 90th percentile exit velocity jumped to 103.1 mph, with a max of 110 mph and an above-average barrel rate. Even more encouraging, his exit velocities actually ticked up after his promotion to Double-A Birmingham.

Across 288 plate appearances with High-A Winston-Salem and another 217 in Double-A, Antonacci projects to a .265/.340 line with a 108 wRC+, 10 home runs and 23 steals at peak. But given the gains in exit velocity and barrel rate, his true ceiling could be higher—potentially pushing into 20/20 territory if the power continues to play.

His statcast actually looks quite similar to JJ Wetherholt, though Wetherholt did have 221 plate appearances in Triple-A, arguably better pitching against which he put up these numbers:

NameAgeCon%z-Con%90EVChase%xwOBASam Antonacci2285%89%103.1 mph17%.355JJ Wetherholt2279%84%103.6 mph17%.365

Geoff Pontes recently explored how Antonacci’s numbers stack up relative to his level. Spoiler alert: he described 70-grade plate skills.

Hendry Mendez, OF, Twins

At 21 years old, Mendez isn’t quite on the same level of the other candidates here because he has a clear flaw he must overcome. Long known for his excellent bat-to-ball skills, the lefthanded-hitting outfielder has battled a career groundball rate around 60%, limiting his ability to translate raw strength into in-game power.

In 2025, however, he reached double-digit home runs for the first time in his career while walking more than he struck out, finishing his Double-A season with a .299/.399/.439 line over 491 plate appearances. And while his launch angle still averaged 3.5 degrees, he did improve his ground ball rate significantly in the first half of the year (53%) before he was traded to the Twins by the Phillies. Unfortunately, the regression monster struck again, his groundball rate became closer to his career average of 58% once he joined his new organization.

The launch angle is a key hurdle. That said, his Statcast data is otherwise quite good. Here’s how it compared to Tigers outfielder Max Clark who, granted, is one year younger than Mendez:

NameAgeCon%z-Con%90th EVMax EVChase%xwOBAHendry Mendez2185%91%104.8 mph113 mph19%.332Max Clark2082%88%104.8 mph112 mph19%.339

What’s not depicted above—though it’s indirectly captured within xwOBA—is that Mendez’s league-average 13.6% barrel rate trails behind Clark’s 18.1% rate. Even so, with one of the best pure hit tools in the minors, Mendez projects as a .280/.360 hitter with a 120 wRC+ at peak. To fully unlock that ceiling—and sustain a long major league career—heâ€ll need to elevate the ball more consistently.

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Eddie Howe says Newcastle United will do all they can to “protect” Lewis Miley after the teenager received “totally unjustified” criticism on social media.

Miley chose to limit replies to a post he made on X to mark his 50th first-team game for Newcastle against Bournemouth on Sunday. It is understood this was a precaution as he is still young.

The 19-year-old came under fire from a minority of social media users, who questioned the midfielder’s first-team credentials during the goalless draw at the Vitality Stadium, and Howe said it was “totally unjustified”.

Howe knows such comments can affect players if they “absorb it”, but the Newcastle head coach stressed Miley was “strong mentally”.

“Lewie is an outstanding player and a player we need to support and protect,” he said. “Sometimes, when you look at him, you forget how young he is because of his stature and maturity both on and off the pitch.

“All players need support, help and guidance. Anything other, I’d encourage the players to switch off from and just try to listen to the people that really matter in their lives like their family, friends and, of course, us. We will do everything we can to support him and treat him as the talent that we know he is.”

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Sep 23, 2025, 05:54 AM ET

Barcelona will try to negotiate a lower transfer fee with Manchester United to keep Marcus Rashfordpermanently, while the Saudi Pro League is still eyeing up Bruno Fernandes. Join us for the latest transfer news and rumors from around the globe.

Transfers homepage | Done deals | Men’s grades | Women’s grades

TOP STORIES

– Barcelona’s Rashford benched after two mins late
– Madrid boss Alonso downplays Vinícius Junior reaction
– Mourinho not at Benfica to ‘wage war’ on Porto, Sporting

Marcus Rashford will spend the 2025-26 season on loan at Barcelona. EPA/ALEX DODD

TRENDING RUMORS

– Barcelona want to make Marcus Rashford‘s loan permanent for a lower fee of £26 million, while Manchester United value the forward at a figure closer to £35 million, reports the Daily Star. The report says that the 27-year-old could find himself at the centre of a transfer standoff as Barcelona try to get the best deal possible, taking advantage of United’s eagerness to get the striker off their books permanently. There is an option to make the deal permanent but Barca want to lower the price, while Rashford is determined to stay with the Blaugrana. Rashford scored twice in last week’s 2-1 win at Newcastle United in the Champions League.

– There will be another attempt from the Saudi Pro League to sign Man United midfielder Bruno Fernandes in the summer of 2026, Fabrizio Romano has stated on the Here We Go Podcast. Their approach is likely to come after the World Cup, but Fernandes has always shown his commitment to the Red Devils and is continuing to do so. It was also added that the 31-year-old has also been the topic of interest from Paris Saint-Germain.

Editor’s Picks

2 Related

– Manchester United are prioritising a major goalkeeper signing next summer despite bringing in Senne Lammens from Antwerp this month, according to The Sun. There is a mention of AC Milan’s Mike Maignan, who is also being looked at by Chelsea and has a contract that runs out in the summer. There is also reference to the Red Devils’ failed attempt to sign Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martínezon loan in the summer. Man United also plan to bring in at least one midfielder with Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba being seen as an upgrade.

-Juventus will try to sign Sergej Milinkovic-Savicwith the midfielder’s Al Hilal contract expiring in the summer, reports Tuttosport. This comes amid a feeling that coach Igor Tudor has a lack of alternatives to Khephren Thuram after a summer transfer window that was deemed to be incomplete, with the Bianconericonsidering January options. Juventus have looked at Milinkovic-Savic on various occasions in the past but were always unable to meet Lazio president Claudio Lotito’s demands.

– Tottenham Hotspur remain interested in Manchester City winger Savinho and could revisit a potential signing in January, according to TEAMtalk. This comes with the north London club being encouraged by Savinho’s desire to join them when they made efforts to sign the 21-year-old during the summer transfer window. The Brazilian is yet to start a Premier League or Champions League match for City this term, and Spurs may see an opportunity for a move if that doesn’t change.

EXPERT TAKE

play

1:26

Could Vinicius Jr really leave Real Madrid?

Gab Marcotti discusses the possibility of Vinicius Jr leaving Real Madrid and where he could go.

OTHER RUMORS

– Harry Kanehas a clause in his contract that means the striker could leave Bayern Munich for £56.7 million next summer, but only if the 32-year-old announces his intention to leave before the end of the winter transfer window. (Sport Bild)

– Napoli winger Matteo Politanohas agreed a contract extension to remain with the Italian champions through June 2028. The Italy international is in his fifth season at Napoli. (Sky Sport Italia)

– There has been a surprise meeting between Vinicius Juniorand Real Madrid with the winger stalling to renew his contract. (AS)

– Barcelona and Bayern Munich have joined Real Madrid and Liverpool in the race to sign Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi, with his contract expiring in the summer. (Football Insider)

– Chelsea have joined Leeds United, Bayer Leverkusen and Lyon in looking at Manchester City left-back Nico O’Reilly. (Football Insider)

– Manchester United are planning to let Casemiroleave when his contract expires in the summer — if they can’t offload the midfielder in January. (Football Insider)

– Keeping Jarrod Bowenconvinced by West Ham United’s direction is playing a part in the club’s thinking as they look into manager options, although there is no suggestion the winger is considering an exit. (TEAMtalk)

– Arsenal are ready to spend up to £100 million in January to aid their attempts to win the Premier League, but no specific options are mentioned. (TEAMtalk)

– Atalanta are considering an offer for Cruzeiro left-back Kaikiworth around €7 million. (Ekrem Konur)

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