Spring training is a time of anticipation and excitement for baseball fans, as players strive to make an impression on their teams and earn a spot on the major league roster. This year, several players from across the MLB have been turning heads with their early performances, showcasing their skills and potential for the upcoming season. Here's a look at one player from each team who has been making waves in spring training, along with insights and commentary from team leaders and executives.
AL East
Baltimore Orioles - Kyle Bradish, RHP
Kyle Bradish, a right-handed pitcher, has been a standout for the Orioles. With a 2.83 ERA and nearly a strikeout per inning in 2023, he was a key contributor to the team's success. Despite elbow injuries limiting his starts in 2024 and 2025, Bradish is back and healthy, showcasing improved stuff, command, and control in spring training. If he can maintain his health, he could be a game-changer for the Orioles' rebuilt starting rotation.
Mike Elias, president of baseball operations, praised Bradish's hard work and leadership, highlighting his importance to the team's future.Boston Red Sox - Caleb Durbin, 3B
The Red Sox acquired Caleb Durbin in a trade with the Brewers, and he has seamlessly integrated into the team. Durbin, a 2025 NL Rookie of the Year finalist, brings above-average defense at multiple positions and a high baseball IQ. His offensive skills, including power and speed, make him a valuable asset. Manager Alex Cora's decision to start Durbin at third base and Marcelo Mayer at second base could be a strategic move to maximize his potential.
Craig Breslow, president of baseball operations, noted Durbin's strong bat-to-ball skills and defense, making him a key addition to the Red Sox roster.New York Yankees - Carlos Lagrange, RHP
Carlos Lagrange, a 22-year-old pitching prospect, has been a sensation in Yankees camp with his 102-mph fastball. His free and easy delivery, combined with explosive pitch movement, has scouts buzzing. Lagrange's floor is an impact closer, and his ceiling is a top-of-the-rotation starter. With his impressive performance, he is on track to make an impact on the Yankees' major-league staff this year.
Brian Cashman, GM, praised Lagrange's big arm and spectacular performance, highlighting his potential as an exciting talent.Tampa Bay Rays - Xavier Isaac, 1B
Xavier Isaac, the Rays' 2022 first-round pick, is making a strong case for himself. After a successful 2023 season, he faced a setback with a brain tumor diagnosis. However, he has made a full recovery and is back on the field this spring. While he won't make the Rays' roster out of camp, his potential as a major-league-ready first baseman by 2027 is promising.
Erik Neander, president of baseball operations, expressed his admiration for Isaac's resilience and inspiration to the team.Toronto Blue Jays - Brandon Valenzuela, C
Brandon Valenzuela, acquired from the Padres, has been making the most of his playing time. With the absence of starting catcher Alejandro Kirk, Valenzuela has been competing for the backup role. His strong defensive skills and progress offensively have caught the attention of the Blue Jays.
Ross Atkins, GM, praised Valenzuela's progress and potential as a strong platoon bat against right-handed pitching.
AL Central
Chicago White Sox - Sam Antonacci, INF
Sam Antonacci, the White Sox's 2024 fifth-round pick, has been impressing with his advanced offensive process and high baseball IQ. His ability to play multiple positions in the dirt makes him a versatile asset. Antonacci's performance in spring training has earned him an organizational favorite status, and he is on track to become a table setter as a hitter.
Chris Getz, GM, highlighted Antonacci's advanced offensive skills and high baseball IQ, making him a fun player to watch.Cleveland Guardians - Chase DeLauter, OF
Chase DeLauter, a young hitter, is standing out for the Guardians with his plus bat speed and ability to impact the ball for damage. His performance this spring has earned him a chance to be the team's second-best hitter behind José Ramírez. DeLauter's combination of power and speed makes him a player to watch in the coming season.
Mike Chernoff, GM, praised DeLauter's high-quality at-bats and ability to impact the ball, highlighting his potential as a breakout star.See AlsoCould Tarik Skubal Return to Pitch for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic?Tarik Skubal: No World Baseball Classic for Team USA | 2026 MLB SeasonNetflix Takes Over McCovey Cove for Giants vs Yankees Opener! Kayaks, Home Runs & More!MLB 2026: Veterans with Looming Opt-Out Dates - Who Makes the Cut?Detroit Tigers - Jace Jung, 3B
Jace Jung, the Tigers' 2022 first-round pick, is making adjustments at the plate and showcasing solid defense at third base. After a challenging major-league debut, Jung is making mechanical changes and hitting to all fields. His hard work is paying off, and scouts are impressed with his contact and damage at the plate.
Scott Harris, president of baseball operations, praised Jung's commitment to a swing change and the impressive results, highlighting his potential as a top-tier talent.Kansas City Royals - Dennis Colleran, RHP
Dennis Colleran, the Royals' 2024 seventh-round pick, has been dominant in his first year of professional ball. With a 2.85 ERA and 72 strikeouts in 66 1/3 innings, he is on a fast track to the majors. His slider and upper-90s fastball make him a force to be reckoned with, and he is expected to make his major-league debut this year.
Matt Quatraro, manager, praised Colleran's electric performance and potential as a top-tier talent.Minnesota Twins - Mick Abel, RHP
Mick Abel, acquired from the Phillies, has been a standout for the Twins. With a 2.20 ERA and 114 strikeouts in 98 innings in Triple A, he is ready to break out. His command and control have improved, and he is on track to make an impact on the Twins' major-league staff this year.
Jeremy Zoll, GM, praised Abel's sharp and refined breaking balls, highlighting his potential as a dominant force on the mound.
AL West
Athletics - Gage Jump, LHP
Gage Jump, the A's 2024 second-round pick, has been impressive in camp. With a 3.28 ERA and 131 strikeouts in 112 2/3 innings, he profiles as a potential mid-rotation starter. His deceptive arm angle and effective pitches make him a force to be reckoned with.
David Forst, GM, praised Jump's impressive performance and potential as a key contributor to the A's pitching staff.Houston Astros - Mike Burrows, RHP
Mike Burrows, acquired from the Pirates, has been a strong addition to the Astros. With a 3.94 ERA and 97 strikeouts in 96 innings, he brings a positive edge and bulldog mentality to the team. His changeup and slider are particularly effective, and he is on track to make an impact in Houston.
Dana Brown, GM, praised Burrows' strong performance and work ethic, highlighting his potential as a key contributor to the Astros' pitching staff.Los Angeles Angels - Nelson Rada, OF
Nelson Rada, the Angels' best hitting prospect, is a plus defender in center field with elite range and an above-average arm. His aggressive approach at the plate and potential for power make him a player to watch. Rada's work ethic and dedication to improving his game could lead to a major-league debut before the end of the season.
Kurt Suzuki, manager, praised Rada's great hitting and potential as a perennial All-Star caliber center fielder.Seattle Mariners - Cole Young, 2B
Cole Young, the Mariners' long-term answer at second base, has been impressive in spring training. His leaner, stronger, and more explosive physique, combined with excellent defense and a dynamic blend of speed and slug, make him a player to watch. Young's performance has earned him a chance to take over second base as the team's long-term answer at the position.
Jerry Dipoto, president of baseball operations, praised Young's impressive performance and dedication to his offseason training.Texas Rangers - Evan Carter, CF
Evan Carter, the Rangers' 2020 second-round pick, is healthy and looking like the player who first arrived in the majors three years ago. With a great blend of power and speed, he can run the bases with strong jumps, good angles, and range. Carter's performance this spring has earned him a chance to have a breakout season.
Chris Young, president of baseball operations, praised Carter's impressive performance and physical transformation, highlighting his potential as a key contributor to the Rangers' success.
NL East
Atlanta Braves - Mike Yastrzemski, LF
Mike Yastrzemski, signed as a free agent, has been a solid addition to the Braves' outfield depth. His ability to play everyday left field and his performance on both sides of the ball make him a valuable asset. Yastrzemski's experience and consistency will be crucial for the Braves as they navigate the absence of key players.
Alex Anthopoulos, president of baseball operations, praised Yastrzemski's fantastic spring training and seamless integration into the Braves' clubhouse.Miami Marlins - Eury Pérez, RHP
Eury Pérez, a former pitching prospect, is making a strong case for himself after undergoing Tommy John surgery. His refined secondary pitches and overpowering fastball make him a force to be reckoned with. With his improved performance, he is on track to take a big step forward in his career.
Peter Bendix, president of baseball operations, praised Pérez's fantastic offseason and potential as a dominant force on the mound.New York Mets - A.J. Ewing, 2B/OF
A.J. Ewing, the Mets' 2023 fourth-round selection, has been impressive in his first major-league camp. His strong defense at multiple positions and above-average hitting make him a versatile asset. Ewing's performance has earned him a chance to impact the Mets' games in a variety of ways.
David Stearns, president of baseball operations, praised Ewing's competitive spirit and ability to impact the game, highlighting his potential as a key contributor to the Mets' success.Philadelphia Phillies - Bryson Stott, 2B
Bryson Stott, a 28-year-old second baseman, is looking ready for his breakout season. His offensive adjustments and elite baserunning skills make him a key player for the Phillies. Stott's performance this spring has earned him a chance to have a dominant season.
Preston Mattingly, GM, praised Stott's major role in the Phillies' success and his offensive adjustments, highlighting his potential as a key contributor to the team's success.Washington Nationals - Cade Cavalli, RHP
Cade Cavalli, the Nationals' 2020 first-round pick, is making a strong case for himself after Tommy John surgery. His adjustments to his pitch mix and improved performance have earned him the team's Opening Day starter role. Cavalli's leadership and competitiveness make him a model for others on the team.
Paul Toboni, president of baseball operations, praised Cavalli's leadership and improved performance, highlighting his potential as a breakout star.
NL Central
Chicago Cubs - Moisés Ballesteros, C/DH/1B
Moisés Ballesteros, signed out of Venezuela, has been a strong addition to the Cubs' roster. His above-average bat-to-ball skills and ability to hit all types of pitches make him a strong platoon bat against right-handed pitching. The Cubs believe he will be an everyday catcher in time, but for now, his best role is as a platoon designated hitter.
Carter Hawkins, Cubs GM, praised Ballesteros' natural hitting ability and mature approach, highlighting his potential as a key contributor to the Cubs' success.Cincinnati Reds - Matt McLain, 2B
Matt McLain, a successful rookie in 2023, is making a strong case for himself after shoulder surgery. His impressive performance in spring training has earned him a chance to return to his 2023 form. McLain's power and defense make him a key player for the Reds.
Nick Krall, president of baseball operations, praised McLain's outstanding performance in camp and his potential as a key contributor to the Reds' success.Milwaukee Brewers - Brandon Sproat, RHP
Brandon Sproat, acquired from the Mets, has been a strong addition to the Brewers' pitching staff. His four-seam fastball and sinkers to right-handed hitters make him a force to be reckoned with. Sproat's potential as a mid-rotation starter makes him a valuable asset to the team.
Matt Arnold, president of baseball operations, praised Sproat's impressive performance and potential as a key contributor to the Brewers' pitching staff.Pittsburgh Pirates - Jared Triolo, 3B
Jared Triolo, the Pirates' 2019 competitive balance round B pick, has been a plus defender at multiple positions. His positional flexibility and under-the-radar impact make him a valuable asset to the team. Triolo's performance this spring has earned him a chance to have a strong season.
Ben Cherington, GM, praised Triolo's versatility and impact as a key contributor to the Pirates' success.St. Louis Cardinals - Joshua Báez, OF
Joshua Báez, the Cardinals' 2021 second-round pick, has been making great strides in 2025. His improved performance and maturity have earned him a chance to make the majors by summer. Báez's versatility and potential make him a player to watch.
Chaim Bloom, president of baseball operations, praised Báez's great strides and potential as a key contributor to the Cardinals' success.
NL West
Arizona Diamondbacks - Jose Fernandez, INF
Jose Fernandez, the Diamondbacks' 2021 17-year-old signing, is turning heads in spring training. His above-average defense at multiple positions and emerging power make him a player to watch. Fernandez's potential as a key contributor to the Diamondbacks' success is promising.
Mike Hazen, GM, praised Fernandez's steady improvement and potential as a key contributor to the Diamondbacks' success.Colorado Rockies - Kyle Karros, 3B
Kyle Karros, the Rockies' 2023 fifth-round pick, has been impressive in all phases of the game. His strong middle-of-the-field approach and in-game power make him a player to watch. Karros' performance this spring has earned him a chance to have a strong season.
Josh Byrnes, GM, praised Karros' impressive performance and potential as a key contributor to the Rockies' success.Los Angeles Dodgers - Alex Freeland, INF
Alex Freeland, a versatile infielder, has been taking advantage of the absence of key players in spring training. His ability to play above-average defense at multiple positions and his switch-hitting ability make him a valuable asset. Freeland's performance has earned him a chance to make the Dodgers' Opening Day roster.
Brandon Gomes, GM, praised Freeland's impressive performance and potential as a key contributor to the Dodgers' success.San Diego Padres - Randy Vásquez, RHP
Randy Vásquez, part of the Padres' return from the Yankees, has been the team's most impressive starting pitcher this spring. His fastball and sweeper are particularly effective, and he is on track to secure his spot in the back of San Diego's rotation.
Craig Stammen, manager, praised Vásquez's impressive performance and potential as a key contributor to the Padres' success.San Francisco Giants - Bryce Eldridge, 1B/DH
Bryce Eldridge, the Giants' first baseman and designated hitter, has been working hard on his defensive technique. His plus range and improved ability to scoop balls out of the dirt make him a player to watch. Eldridge's performance has earned him a chance to have a strong season.
Zack Minasian, GM, praised Eldridge's defensive progress and potential as a key contributor to the Giants' success.
