Spring Training Brings Hope, and These Players Are Ready to Shine

Spring training represents a period of renewal. Every team, irrespective of their past results, enters the camp with optimism. Fans, even those whose teams have faced challenges, find reasons to hope for a successful season. Embracing this hopeful spirit, we've highlighted one player from each MLB team to watch this spring, featuring both established superstars in new roles and promising prospects poised for a breakout.

American League

• Athletics: Tyler Soderstrom: After a wrist injury affected his early season, Soderstrom displayed glimpses of his offensive potential later on. The A's are eager for him to carry that momentum into spring training and become a key player in their lineup.

  
  

• Orioles: Félix Bautista: "The Mountain" returns from Tommy John surgery, bringing his dominant presence back to the Orioles' bullpen. His return is vital for a team aiming to strengthen its pitching and compete in a challenging AL East.

  
  

• Red Sox: Alex Bregman: Bregman's high-profile move to Boston adds a new dimension to the Red Sox lineup. His leadership and experience will be crucial as he transitions to second base and helps guide a young core of players.

  
  

• White Sox: Noah Schultz: The towering left-hander is compared to Chris Sale with his impressive skills. This spring is essential for Schultz as he moves to a more traditional workload and works on refining his command.

  
  

• Guardians: Chase DeLauter: DeLauter has the opportunity to secure a spot on the Guardians' roster with a strong spring performance. His batting skills and defensive abilities make him an intriguing prospect.

  
  

• Tigers: Jackson Jobe: Jobe will compete for a position in the Tigers' starting rotation this spring. His impressive minor league performance and four-pitch mix make him a top prospect with a bright future.

  
  

• Astros: Isaac Paredes: Paredes steps into a larger role with Alex Bregman's departure. He'll need to elevate his game if the Astros want to maintain their competitive edge.

  
  

• Royals: Cole Ragans: Ragans enjoyed a breakout season last year and is poised for even greater achievements in 2025. His impressive strikeout rate and improved fastball make him a potential ace for the Royals.

  
  

• Angels: Christian Moore: Moore, a highly regarded draft pick, could make his debut sooner rather than later. His power at second base makes him a player to watch as he aims to secure a spot on the Angels' roster.

  
  

• Twins: David Festa: Festa will aim to secure his place in the Twins' rotation this spring. His skills and composure make him a key part of their pitching staff.

  
  

• Yankees: Jasson Domínguez: Domínguez has the potential to become a star for the Yankees, but he needs to improve his swing decisions and defense this spring.

  
  

• Mariners: Matt Brash: Brash returns from Tommy John surgery, providing a much-needed boost to the Mariners' bullpen. His electric skills could make him a dominant force in the AL West.

  
  

• Rays: Shane McClanahan: McClanahan's return from Tommy John surgery is a significant boost for the Rays. He's a true ace and will anchor their talented rotation.

  
  

• Rangers: Jacob deGrom: The Rangers hope deGrom can stay healthy and replicate his dominant form. A healthy deGrom makes the Rangers serious contenders.

  
  

• Blue Jays: Alan Roden: Roden is a rising player in the Blue Jays' system. He'll aim to make an impression this spring and earn a spot on the roster.

  
  

National League

• Diamondbacks: Jordan Lawlar: Lawlar will strive to stay healthy and compete for a starting role with the Diamondbacks. His athleticism and offensive potential are undeniable.

  
  

• Braves: Ronald Acuña Jr.: Acuña's recovery from ACL surgery is a major storyline this spring. His return to full strength is crucial for the Braves' championship goals.

  
  

• Cubs: Ben Brown: Brown's impressive fastball and knuckle-curve make him an exciting prospect. He'll aim to secure a spot on the Cubs' pitching staff with a strong spring.

  
  

• Reds: Matt McLain: McLain returns from injury, adding to the Reds' crowded infield. His versatility and offensive ability make him a valuable asset.

  
  

• Rockies: Chase Dollander: Dollander will aim to prove he can succeed in the challenging environment of Coors Field. His impressive skills make him a top pitching prospect.

  
  

• Dodgers: Roki Sasaki: Sasaki's arrival in Los Angeles is highly anticipated. His electric skills and potential make him one of the most exciting players to watch this spring.

  
  

• Marlins: Sandy Alcántara: Alcántara aims to return to his Cy Young form after Tommy John surgery. His health and performance are crucial for the Marlins.

  
  

• Brewers: Christian Yelich: Yelich's health is a major question mark after back surgery. The Brewers hope he can return to his MVP-caliber form.

  
  

• Mets: Juan Soto: Soto's arrival in New York marks a new era for the Mets. His presence and leadership will be vital for the team's success.

  
  

• Phillies: Ranger Suárez: Suárez needs to prove he can stay healthy and consistent after an injury-plagued season. His performance will be key for the Phillies' pitching staff.

  
  

• Pirates: Bubba Chandler: Chandler is a rising pitching prospect in the Pirates' system. He'll aim to impress this spring and potentially earn a call-up to the majors.

  
  

• Padres: Fernando Tatís Jr.: Tatís remains a superstar with untapped potential. The Padres hope he can stay healthy and reach his full potential.

  
  

• Giants: Justin Verlander: Verlander will aim to prove he still has something left in the tank as he approaches his 42nd birthday.

  
  

• Cardinals: Nolan Arenado: Arenado's situation with the Cardinals remains unresolved. His future with the team is uncertain as spring training begins.

  
  

• Nationals: Dylan Crews: Crews will look to build on his debut season and establish himself as a key player for the Nationals. His power-speed combo makes him a potential star.