Draft This Cardinals’ Hidden Gem in 2025 Fantasy Baseball
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
The St. Louis Cardinals are known for developing consistent, underrated talent, and Alec Burleson is emerging as a key sleeper pick for fantasy baseball managers and MLB bettors alike. Slated to hit in the No. 2 spot between Willson Contreras and Masyn Winn, Burleson offers batting average stability, positional flexibility, and sneaky counting stats—all at a discount in drafts and betting markets.
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Why Alec Burleson Deserves More Attention in 2025
At 26 years old, Burleson is entering his prime, and his left-handed bat makes him a crucial piece in the Cardinals’ lineup construction. While he doesn’t have the same power ceiling as some other fantasy targets, his balanced production across multiple categories makes him one of the best value picks late in drafts.
- Projected 2025 stats: .270 BA, 20 HR, 75-80 RBI, 10 SB
- Multi-position eligibility (1B/OF) adds fantasy flexibility
- Batting second in the order enhances run scoring potential
- More reliable than similar-tier players like Michael Toglia or Spencer Steer
Burleson is the type of “boring but productive" player who often gets overlooked but quietly delivers solid fantasy and betting value throughout the season.
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Burleson vs. Other Fantasy Options: A Smarter Investment?
When analyzing fantasy options at first base or outfield, it’s easy to gravitate toward power hitters. However, with MLB’s new rule changes making stolen bases more accessible, batting average is now a premium commodity—and Burleson provides that without sacrificing pop.
- Burleson’s High Batting Average vs. Power-Only Players
- He doesn’t chase power at the expense of average, making him a safe pick in points leagues and category-based formats.
- Players like Spencer Steer, who hit lower in the lineup, may provide a few more steals, but their inconsistent counting stats make them riskier than Burleson.
- In auction drafts, grabbing Burleson late at a discount while avoiding overpaying for similar mid-tier bats is a winning strategy.
Betting Angles for Alec Burleson in 2025
1. Player Prop Bets: Runs & RBIs
- Burleson’s No. 2 spot in the Cardinals’ order means he’ll have plenty of RBI opportunities, while also scoring a good number of runs thanks to Masyn Winn and Willson Contreras behind him.
- If sportsbooks set his total runs at 75 or lower, taking the over would be a smart play.
2. Home Run Totals: A Sneaky Power Threat
- Burleson isn’t a 35+ HR guy, but he has legitimate 20-25 home run potential.
- If books set his home run total around 18.5, the over could be worth considering.
3. St. Louis Cardinals Team Futures
- The Cardinals’ win total and division betting markets are worth monitoring, especially with young talents like Masyn Winn, Jordan Walker, and Burleson contributing to a lineup that could exceed expectations.
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Final Verdict: Why You Shouldn’t Sleep on Burleson in 2025
Alec Burleson may not be a household name yet, but he’s positioned to be one of the most undervalued assets in fantasy baseball and MLB betting markets. His steady production, high batting average, and prime lineup spot make him a perfect late-round fantasy target and a smart player prop bet option.
In a season where MLB rule changes are making steals easier but batting average harder to find, Burleson’s well-rounded profile makes him a winning pick for fantasy managers and savvy bettors alike.
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