After just one week of the baseball season, there’s no reason to panic. Sure, some of your stars may be hitting in the .100s and a few aces are carrying sky-high ERAs, but patience is a virtue over a 162-game schedule. Still, that doesn’t mean early trends should be ignored—especially when it comes to player usage.
One name that stands out early is Willi Castro. When Castro joined the Colorado Rockies, there were questions about how he would be used. As a true utility player without a defined defensive home, it wasn’t clear where—or how often—he would see the field. So far, those concerns appear to be answered.
Castro has not only been in the lineup consistently, but he’s also been hitting third, a prime spot in the order. He has already seen time at first base, second base and in the outfield, showcasing the versatility that makes him so valuable. Batting in the heart of the lineup at Coors Field is always appealing for fantasy managers, and Castro’s role suggests he could be a steady contributor.
There’s also a solid track record to consider. Castro has swiped 33 bases in his career and, in a full-time role, has shown the ability to score runs in bunches. He brings a balanced skill set—capable of chipping in a handful of home runs, contributing speed and maintaining a respectable batting average. That kind of versatility can be a difference-maker over the course of a long season.
Another player worth watching is Brett Baty of the New York Mets. The Mets have been moving Baty around the field, but the key takeaway is simple—he’s playing. Baty sat just once during the first week and has already appeared at multiple positions, indicating the team’s willingness to keep his bat in the lineup.
Multi-position players like Castro and Baty often become valuable assets as the season progresses. Once they gain additional eligibility, they can fill gaps across a roster and provide flexibility during injuries or slumps.
The season is still young, but being proactive on the waiver wire can pay off. Players earning consistent at-bats early are often worth a closer look—and possibly a spot on your roster.