As Spring Training winds down, rosters are beginning to take shape, and we’re starting to get a feel for which prospects will be putting on crisp, clean uniforms and taking part in Opening Day festivities.
While many of the game’s best prospects were invited to Spring Training, some have been told they’ll start the season either in the Minors or at the team’s alternate training site. Those players, however, may still get the opportunity to play in Major League Spring Training games and gain valuable experience.
With all that in mind, here’s a team-by-team breakdown of the prospects who received an invite to Major League Spring Training and a look at where they stand now:
Lock
Alejandro Kirk, C (No. 5) — Kirk has parlayed a strong spring (.318/.360/.636) into a probable backup role when Toronto breaks camp. The 22-year-old batted .400 in a nine-game cameo with the big league club last year.
Contender
Riley Adams, C (No. 19) — Toronto is blessed with a strong group of catchers, which is good for the team but perhaps bad news for Adams. The 24-year-old was an on-base machine in the Minors (career .363 OBP) but has received minimal playing time this spring, likely forecasting a ticket to the Minor Leagues.
Long shots
Josh Palacios, OF (No. 29) — Palacios may have a hard time cracking the Opening Day roster, but it won’t be due to a lack of production this spring. The 25-year-old, born in Brooklyn, N.Y., has hit nearly .400 with six extra-base hits and seven RBIs through 15 Grapefruit League games.
T.J. Zeuch, RHP (No. 28) — Zeuch has pitched well in Florida after a solid, albeit brief showing in three big league appearances in 2020. Breaking into a crowded bullpen could prove difficult, but it’s almost certain the 25-year-old will see the Majors this season.
Kevin Smith, SS/3B (No. 30) — Smith has proven himself as a versatile and strong defender this spring, playing second, third and short. The 24-year-old will likely start the season at Triple-A to allow his bat to catch up to his glove.
Injured
Nate Pearson, RHP (No. 1, MLB No. 10) — Pearson was a virtual lock to begin the season in the Jays’ rotation before straining his right groin and then aggravating it during a bullpen session. Despite a rough big league debut in 2020, the 24-year-old can be almost unhittable thanks to a dynamic fastball-slider combination and an improving changeup.
Sent down: Austin Martin, SS/OF (No. 2), Jordan Groshans, SS (No. 3), Simeon Woods Richardson, RHP (No. 4), Orelvis Martinez, SS (No. 6), Alek Manoah, RHP (No. 7),Gabriel Moreno, C (No. 8), Miguel Hiraldo, SS/2B (No. 9), Adam Kloffenstein, RHP (No. 10), CJ Van Eyk, RHP (No. 11), Otto Lopez, INF/OF (No. 12), Leonardo Jimenez, SS/2B (No. 13), Joey Murray, RHP (No. 18), Yosver Zuleta, RHP (No. 23)
Locks
Ryan Mountcastle, OF (No. 5, MLB No. 77) — In the midst of a rebuild that is starting to bear fruit, Mountcastle is one of the brightest prospects the O’s have to offer. The 24-year-old garnered a third-place vote in the 2020 AL Rookie-of-the-Year race after hitting .333/.386/.492 with 10 extra-base hits and 23 RBIs in 35 games.
Dean Kremer, RHP (No. 8) — The injury to Félix Hernández more than likely opens up a spot for Kremer, who made his big league debut last summer. In four starts with Baltimore, the right-hander averaged 10.6 K/9.
Keegan Akin, LHP (No. 11) — Like Kremer, a solid Major League debut in 2020 — 12.3 K/9 — should give Akin the push he needs to open the season in the Orioles’ rotation.
Contender
Jahmai Jones, 2B/OF (No. 20) — Acquired in the trade that sent right-hander Alex Cobb to the Angels in February, Jones is competing with veteran Yolmer Sánchez for the starting job at second base. The 2015 second-rounder is a versatile bench option, having played all three outfield posts while also playing second, though he has only three Major League games under his belt.
Long shots
Adley Rutschman, C (No. 1, MLB No. 2) — The 2019 No. 1 overall Draft pick and MLB Pipeline’s No. 2 overall prospect, Rutschman remains in big league camp, but he’s not expected to debut until late in 2021, if not ’22.
Terrin Vavra, 2B (No. 13) — Vavra, who came over from the Rockies in the Mychal Givens trade last August, has been used only as a late-inning replacement this spring. Like Rutschman, the 23-year-old has not played above Low-A, though he worked a lot on his defense at the alternate training site, getting reps in the outfield this spring.
Sent down: Michael Baumann, RHP (No. 9), Yusniel Diaz, OF (No. 10), Zac Lowther, LHP (No. 12), Ryan McKenna, OF (No. 16), Alexander Wells, LHP (No. 21), Rylan Bannon, 2B/3B (No. 24), Tyler Nevin, 1B/3B (No. 25)
Lock
Randy Arozarena, OF (No. 3, MLB No. 34) — Arozarena didn’t get the call to join the Rays until late last August, but after going deep seven times over 64 at-bats in the regular season and setting postseason records with 29 hits and 10 homers, the 26-year-old is expected to be a big part of the Rays’ lineup in 2021.
Contender
Josh Fleming, LHP (No. 21) — After posting a 2.87 ERA over 32 1/3 innings for the Rays last season, Fleming is in consideration for a bulk-innings role with the club in 2021, whether it’s as a starter or long reliever.
Sent down: Wander Franco, SS (No. 1), Luis Patiño, RHP (No. 2), Vidal Brujan, 2B/SS (No. 4), Brendan McKay, 1B/LHP (No. 5), Shane McClanahan, LHP (No. 6), Xavier Edwards, 2B/SS (No. 7), Shane Baz, RHP (No. 8), Greg Jones, SS (No. 10), Josh Lowe, OF (No. 13), Blake Hunt, C (No. 19), Brent Honeywell Jr., RHP (No. 20), Drew Strotman, RHP (No. 22), Kevin Padlo, 3B/1B (No. 25)
Locks
Bobby Dalbec, 3B/1B (No. 3; MLB No. 93) — After swatting eight homers in 80 at-bats last season, Dalbec arrived at camp as Boston’s likely starting first baseman, and he’s strengthened his hold on the position this spring. If he can keep his strikeout rate in check, the 25-year-old could be a top contender for the AL Rookie of the Year Award.
Garrett Whitlock, RHP (No. 30) — Picked up from the Yankees in the Rule 5 Draft, Whitlock has excelled during Spring Training, cementing his place in Boston’s bullpen.
Sent down: Triston Casas, 1B (No. 1; MLB No. 44), Jeter Downs, SS/2B (No. 2; MLB No. 49), Jarren Duran, OF (No. 4), Bryan Mata, RHP (No. 5), Gilberto Jimenez, OF (No. 6), Tanner Houck, RHP (No. 7), Jay Groome, LHP (No. 8), Thaddeus Ward, RHP (No. 10), Ronaldo Hernandez, C (No. 12), Connor Seabold, RHP (No. 15), Connor Wong, C/2B/3B (No. 17), Jeisson Rosario, OF (No. 22), Hudson Potts, 3B/2B (No. 24), Andrew Politi, RHP (No. 27), Eduard Bazardo, RHP (No. 28)
Contender
Deivi García, RHP (No. 3) — García is competing with Domingo Germán and Michael King for the fifth spot in the Yankees’ rotation, with Germán looking like the frontrunner. It’s unclear if New York will place García on the Opening Day roster if he isn’t part of the rotation, or if the club will send him to the alternate training site to stay stretched out for when it needs another starter.
Injured
Clarke Schmidt, RHP (No. 2; MLB No 88) — Any chance Schmidt had of earning a spot in the Yankees’ Opening Day rotation was eliminated when he was shut down with an extensor strain in his right elbow at the start of Spring Training. The righty is getting close to starting a throwing program.
Sent down: Oswald Peraza, SS (No. 4); Luis Gil, RHP (No. 5); Austin Wells, C (No. 6); Luis Medina, RHP (No. 7); Yoendrys Gomez, RHP (No. 8); Alexander Vizcaino, RHP (No. 9); Estevan Florial, OF (No. 10); Ezequiel Duran, 2B (No. 15); Albert Abreu, RHP (No. 18); Josh Breaux, C (No. 19); Anthony Seigler, C (No. 22); Glenn Otto, RHP (No. 28)
Locks
Triston McKenzie, RHP (No. 2, MLB No. 51)
If he stays healthy, the 23-year-old probably did enough in his taste of the Majors last year — striking out 42 with a 3.24 ERA in 33 1/3 innings during the regular season — to work his way into the starting rotation for 2021. His ERA is a lofty 7.53 this spring, but he’s whiffed 12 in 14 1/3 frames.
Emmanuel Clase, RHP (No. 17)
Clase missed the 2020 season after testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs while recovering from a right shoulder strain incurred in camp. Cleveland feels he’s in a better spot to help out in the bullpen this year, both physically and mentally.
Contender
Bobby Bradley, 1B (No. 20) — Bradley, who came to camp 35 pounds lighter, worked his way into the first base conversation by showing his power at the plate. Although Jake Bauers seems to have first crack at the everyday job, the 24-year-old could get a shot at it.
Long shots
Tyler Freeman, SS (No. 3, MLB No. 98) — According to MLB Pipeline, Freeman possesses the best hit tool in the organization (60), so it shouldn’t be too long until he gets the chance to prove that. In his first three pro seasons, Freeman hit .319 with a 9 percent strikeout rate.
Owen Miller, SS/2B (No. 18) — He’s already been told that he won’t be making the club, but the 24-year-old is still playing in Cactus League games. Miller is another of the club’s smooth-swinging infielders, making consistent line-drive contact to all fields.
Sent down: Nolan Jones, 3B (No. 1, MLB No. 36); Bo Naylor, C (No. 4); Gabriel Arias, SS (No. 6); Carlos Vargas, RHP (No. 19); Daniel Johnson, OF (No. 21); Sam Hentges, LHP (No. 27); Scott Moss, LHP (No. 28)
Contender
Carlos Hernández, RHP (No. 11) — Hernández made his big league debut last season, posting a 4.91 ERA across five appearances. Developed as a starter, the 24-year-old right-hander could see action out of the bullpen this season.
Sent down: Bobby Witt Jr., SS (No. 1, MLB No. 7); Daniel Lynch, LHP (No. 2, MLB No. 29); Asa Lacy, LHP (No. 3, MLB No. 30); Jackson Kowar, RHP (No. 4); Kyle Isbel, OF (No. 5); Erick Pena, OF (No. 6); Nick Loftin, SS (No. 7); Jonathan Bowlan, RHP (No. 8); Nick Pratto, 1B (No. 9); Austin Cox, LHP (No. 10); Carlos Hernández, RHP (No. 11); Alec Marsh, RHP (No. 12); Jon Heasley, RHP (No. 13); MJ Melendez, C (No. 14); Seuly Matias, OF (No. 17); Daniel Tillo, LHP (No. 21); Ronald Bolanos, RHP (No. 24); Lucius Fox, SS (No. 26); Angel Zerpa, LHP (No. 29)
Lock
Tarik Skubal, LHP (No. 4, MLB No. 24) — Skubal’s stock sky-rocketed over the past couple years, culminating in the southpaw’s big league debut last season. Despite posting a 5.63 ERA in 32 frames, Skubal looked right at home facing big league competition, and he could develop into an impact starter for the Tigers.
Contender
Casey Mize, RHP (No. 2, MLB No. 11) — After being selected with the No. 1 overall pick in 2018, Mize ascended to the big leagues and made his debut a day after Skubal made his. Mize posted a 6.99 ERA over seven starts, showing promise despite the underwhelming results. If he’s more comfortable with his arsenal, Mize could realize his potential in 2021.
Long shots
Isaac Paredes, 3B (No. 6) — Paredes was a shortstop before switching to the hot corner in 2019, and he made his big league debut last season, batting .220 in 100 games.
Jake Rogers, C (No. 16) — Rogers, who made his big league debut in 2019, continues to be one of the best defensive catchers in the game, but his offensive struggles led to a 2020 season spent entirely at the alternate training site.
Sent down: Spencer Torkelson, 3B/1B (No. 1, MLB No. 3); Riley Greene, OF (No. 3, MLB No. 21); Matt Manning, RHP (No. 5); Dillon Dingler, C (No. 7); Joey Wentz, LHP (No. 9); Parker Meadows, OF (No. 10); Alex Faedo, RHP (No. 12); Franklin Perez, RHP (No. 17); Kody Clemens, 2B (No. 18); Zack Short, SS (No. 26); Ryan Kreidler, SS/3B (No. 27); Beau Burrows, RHP (No. 28); Zack Hess, RHP (No. 29)
Contenders
Ryan Jeffers, C (No. 6) — A second-round pick in 2018, Jeffers made it to the big leagues last season and started a pair of AL Wild Card Series games behind the plate.
Brent Rooker, OF (No. 13) — Rooker, a power-over-hit slugger, made his big league debut last season and notched his first MLB homer before he fractured his arm in September.
Long shots
Aaron Sabato, 1B (No. 7) — Sabato, who put his name on the map with a freshman record for homers at the University of North Carolina, was taken by the Twins in the first round of last year’s Draft. Due to the cancelation of the 2020 Minor League season, Sabato has yet to play a professional game, but he did get to see more advanced pitching at instructional league.
Matt Canterino, RHP (No. 8) — Canterino spent most of 2020 working out on his own, and he turned in some impressive performances at the alternate training site.
Josh Winder, RHP (No. 15) — Winder, a seventh-round pick in 2018, showed up to to instructional league play throwing harder than he had previously.
Jose Miranda (No. 20) — Miranda, who rarely strikes out, worked on his approach at instructional league at the behest of the Twins, with the hope being he can tap into his power more with a tighter strike zone.
Sent down: Royce Lewis, SS (No. 1, MLB No. 17); Alex Kirilloff, OF/1B (No. 2, MLB No. 26); Trevor Larnach, OF (No. 3, MLB No. 80); Jordan Balazovic, RHP (No. 4, MLB No. 97); Jhoan Duran, RHP (No. 5); Gilberto Celestino, OF (No. 9); Travis Blankenhorn, 2B/OF/3B (No. 19); Bailey Ober, RHP (No. 25), Ben Rortvedt, C (No. 29)
Locks
Andrew Vaughn, 1B (No. 1, MLB No. 14) — Vaughn, a Golden Spikes Award winner at the University of California in 2018, went No. 3 overall in the 2019 Draft to the White Sox. A 65-grade hitter, Vaughn impressed at the alternate training site last season and in Spring Training this year. He projects as a .300 hitter with 30 homers per season and a healthy amount of walks.
Michael Kopech, RHP (No. 2, MLB No. 39) — Kopech pitched for the first time in a year this spring, showing the same filthy stuff that led to his big league debut in 2018. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in ’18, Kopech was rehabbing and returned a year ago before the season was shut down. After opting to sit out last season, Kopech worked out of the bullpen this spring and will do the same to start the season, although he could move into the rotation.
Nick Madrigal, 2B (No. 3, MLB No. 40) — Madrigal, who had a storied career at Oregon State, was taken with the No. 4 overall pick in 2018, the highest a second baseman has ever been drafted. Madrigal rarely strikes out, and he posted a .340/.376/.369 slash line in 29 big league games last season.
Garrett Crochet, LHP (No. 4, MLB No. 56) — Crochet, a first-round pick in 2020, became the first player to make his pro debut in the big leagues since Mike Leake in 2010. The Tennessee alum has been impressive this spring and is capable of reaching triple digits with his fastball to pair with an above-average slider.
Long shot
Yermin Mercedes, C (No. 22) — Mercedes, who has seen time at all four infield and outfield corners as a pro, mostly at first base, lacks quickness and range and is best suited to DH.
Sent down: Jonathan Stiever, RHP (No. 8); Micker Adolfo, OF (No. 10); Blake Rutherford, OF (No. 12); Gavin Sheets, 1B (No. 13); Luis Gonzalez, OF (No. 14); Zack Burdi, RHP (No. 15), Jake Burger, 3B (No. 16); Jimmy Lambert, RHP (No. 20); Bernardo Flores Jr., LHP (No. 21); Yolbert Sanchez, SS (No. 23); Tyler Johnson, RHP (No. 25); Caleb Freeman, RHP (No. 26); Lenyn Sosa, SS (No. 29)
Contender
Chris Rodriguez, RHP (No. 4) — With injuries to Félix Peña and Aaron Slegers, there are a couple bullpen spots open. Although he has logged just 9 1/3 regular-season innings since 2018, Rodriguez has electric stuff that would plan well in relief for the Angels.
Long shots
Reid Detmers, LHP (No. 2, MLB No. 74) — After being selected No. 10 overall in last June’s Draft, Detmers is getting his first taste of pro ball this spring. Although he’s a college arm with four developed pitches, Detmers will likely need a full season of Minor League ball before he gets a call to The Show.
Jose Alberto Rivera, RHP (No. 11) — With a 70-grade fastball, Rivera could also be ticketed for the Angels’ bullpen at some point this summer, though he does have starting experience as well. The 24-year-old has yet to pitch above Low-A, so the Angels might want him to gain more experience in the Minors before giving him a chance.
Injured
Packy Naughton, LHP (No. 23) — Naughton spent last summer at the Reds’ alternate training site before being dealt as part of the Brian Goodwin deal. After straining his elbow in February, Naughton has begun throwing again.
Sent down: Brandon Marsh, OF (No. 1, MLB No. 53); Jordyn Adams, OF (No. 3); Jeremiah Jackson, SS (No. 5); Hector Yan, LHP (No. 10); Livan Soto, SS (No. 14); Davis Daniel, RHP (No. 20); Denny Brady, RHP (No. 29)
Contender
Chas McCormick, OF (No. 18) — McCormick continues to be a part of the fourth outfielder discussion, already occupying a 40-man spot, unlike his competitors Jose Siri and Steven Souza Jr. In an extended spring look, McCormick’s bat has not shown up much, but his strong defense remains a constant in all parts of the grass.
Long shots
Jeremy Peña, SS/2B (No. 4) — Peña has gotten an extended look at big league camp, though he has yet to play above High-A in the Minors. The versatile infielder is considered the best defender in the Astros’ system, and he could play a key bench role down the line.
Korey Lee, C (No. 5) — The 2019 first-rounder participated in the club’s alternate training site and instructional league in 2020 but has yet to see full-season action. Lee got into several games at big league camp, being used as a late-inning replacement behind the plate.
Bryan Abreu, RHP (No. 14) — After another small taste of the Majors last summer, Abreu has impressed at Astros camp thus far. He is likely going to start the year at Triple-A Sugar Land, but Andrew Scrubb being shut down with shoulder soreness could mean an opening in the Houston bullpen.
Ronnie Dawson, OF (No. 29) — Dawson has shown both patience and power this spring while also playing all three outfield positions. The left-handed bat will likely start the season at Triple-A but could see Minute Maid at some point this summer.
Sent down: Forrest Whitley, RHP (No. 1, MLB No. 41); Pedro Leon, OF (No. 2); Hunter Brown, RHP (No. 3); Freudis Nova, INF (No. 7); Colin Barber, OF (No. 8); Jairo Solis, RHP (No. 9); Tyler Ivey, RHP (No. 10); Alex Santos, RHP (No. 11); Shawn Dubin, RHP (No. 12); Zach Daniels, OF (No. 13); Peter Solomon, RHP (No. 15); Grae Kessinger, SS/3B (No. 16); Jojanse Torres, RHP (No. 20); Brett Conine, RHP (No. 23); Austin Hansen, RHP (No. 24); Nivaldo Rodriguez, RHP (No. 26); Blair Henley, RHP (No. 27)
Contenders
A.J. Puk, LHP (No. 2) — As the club’s top pitching prospect, who also has Major League experience, Puk is an obvious choice to replace the injured Mike Fiers in the rotation. However, coming off a shoulder injury that shelved his 2020 season and eventually required surgery, Puk has not stretched out yet, innings-wise.
Daulton Jefferies, RHP (No. 4) — Jefferies could be Puk’s biggest competition for the starting job, given his stingy spring and innings logged. The 25-year-old made his Major League debut last summer, but he only saw two innings in one relief appearance.
Long shot
Cody Thomas, OF (No. 24) — Thomas has seen action in every A’s game this spring, though a crowded outfield could make it tough for him to crack the Opening Day roster. Even if the left-handed bat starts the year at Triple-A, it shouldn’t be long before his raw power is put on display in Oakland.
Sent down: Tyler Soderstrom, C (No. 1); Nick Allen, SS/2B (No. 3); Logan Davidson, SS (No. 5); Luis Barrera, OF (No. 7), Jeff Criswell, RHP (No. 8); Greg Deichmann, OF (No. 9); James Kaprielian, RHP (No. 10); Grant Holmes, RHP (No. 15); Skye Bolt, OF (No. 17); Buddy Reed, OF (No. 21); Wandisson Charles, RHP (No. 23); Miguel Romero, RHP (No. 26); Brian Howard, RHP (No. 27), Parker Dunshee, RHP (No. 28); Colin Peluse, RHP (No. 29)
Lock
Taylor Trammell, OF (SEA No. 6, MLB No. 100) — Traded in each of the past two seasons, Trammell has put himself in contention to open 2021 as Seattle’s starting left fielder.
Contender
Joey Gerber, RHP (SEA No. 30) — After posting a 4.02 ERA over 17 appearances for the Mariners last season, Gerber is vying for one of the final spots in Seattle’s bullpen.
Long shots
Jarred Kelenic, OF (SEA No. 1, MLB No. 4) — A Grade 2 adductor strain took him out of contention for an Opening Day roster spot, but Seattle’s top prospect is healthy again and could be up early in the 2021 season.
Julio Rodriguez, OF (SEA No. 2, MLB No. 5) — As far as timeline goes, Rodriguez appears to be behind Kelenic, who ranks directly ahead of him on MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 prospects list. However, Rodriguez’s stellar spring has improved his chances of getting a big league callup in 2021.
Aaron Fletcher, LHP (SEA No. 18) — Fletcher remains unlikely to break camp with the club, but he’s still in the mix for one of the final bullpen spots.
Jake Fraley, OF (SEA No. 21) — Fraley was the frontrunner to be the team’s starting left fielder entering camp, but his struggles at the plate may end up costing him a roster spot.
Ljay Newsome, RHP (SEA No. 26) — Newsome made his MLB debut last season, recording a 5.17 ERA in 15 2/3 innings.
Sent down: Emerson Hancock, RHP (No. 3, MLB No. 31); Logan Gilbert, RHP (No. 4, MLB No. 33); George Kirby, RHP (No. 5, MLB No. 92); Cal Raleigh, C (No. 8); Juan Then, RHP (No. 9); Brandon Williamson, LHP (No. 10); Wyatt Mills, RHP (No. 22); Sam Delaplane, RHP (No. 24)
Locks
Dane Dunning, RHP (No. 3, MLB No. 91) — Acquired from the White Sox in the Lance Lynn trade, Dunning is in consideration to fill one of the tandem starter roles the Rangers plan to use this season. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2019, the right-hander made his MLB debut last season and recorded a 3.97 ERA with 35 K’s in 34 innings for Chicago.
Leody Taveras, OF (No. 4) — Viewed as the Rangers’ center fielder of the future, the speedy Taveras has struggled this spring, but he should be part of the Opening Day roster.
Kyle Cody, RHP (No. 22) — Another candidate to fill a tandem-starter role, the 6-foot-7 Cody had a 1.59 ERA with 18 strikeouts in 22 2/3 innings last year, although he also walked 13 batters.
Jonah Heim, C (No. 28) — The Rangers picked up Heim along with Khris Davis in the trade that sent Elvis Andrus to the A’s. Heim is expected to back up Jose Trevino behind the plate.
Long shot
Joe Palumbo, LHP (No. 23) — After his 2020 season was cut short by ulcerative colitis, Palumbo missed some time with back spasms this spring and is unlikely to be part of Texas’ Opening Day roster.
Injured
Sam Huff, C (No. 2, MLB No. 78) — Huff made his big league debut last season and recorded a 1.136 OPS with three homers in 33 plate appearances, but he’s expected to open 2021 in the Minors after straining his left hamstring during the first week of Spring Training.
Sent down: Josh Jung, 3B (No. 1); Cole Winn, RHP (No. 5); Justin Foscue, 2B (No. 7); Hans Crouse, RHP (No. 9); Davis Wendzel, 3B (No. 10); Sherten Apostel, 3B/1B (No. 11); Steele Walker, OF (No. 13); David Garcia, C (No. 15); Yerry Rodriguez, RHP (No. 21); A.J. Alexy, RHP (No. 26); Curtis Terry, 1B (No. 30)
Ian Anderson, RHP (No. 2; MLB No. 18) — Summoned to the Majors to help an injury-plagued Braves rotation last season, Anderson was brilliant in six starts, recording a 1.95 ERA with 41 strikeouts over 32 1/3 innings. He’s locked into a starting spot entering 2021.
Contenders
William Contreras, C (No. 7) — With the Braves opting not to re-sign Tyler Flowers, the backup catcher role behind Travis d’Arnaud is vacant. Atlanta may prefer to have Contreras spend the year playing regularly at Triple-A, but with the Minor League season not starting until May, the club could decide to put the 23-year-old on the Opening Day roster.
Alex Jackson, C (No. 16) — Jackson has played nine games for the Braves in the past two seasons, going 2-for-20. He’s competing with Contreras to open 2021 as Atlanta’s backup catcher.
Sent down: Drew Waters, OF (No. 3, MLB No. 35); Shea Langeliers, C (No. 4, MLB No. 73); Braden Shewmake, SS (No. 5); Kyle Muller, LHP (No. 6); Tucker Davidson, LHP (No. 9); Michael Harris, OF (No. 11); Patrick Weigel, RHP (No. 12); Freddy Tarnok, RHP (No. 13); Bryce Ball, 1B (No. 15); Trey Harris, OF (No. 17); Victor Vodnik, RHP (No. 18); Daysbel Hernandez, RHP (No. 20); CJ Alexander, 3B (No. 23); Thomas Burrows, LHP (No. 25); Logan Brown, C (No. 28); Justin Dean, OF (No. 29); William Woods, RHP (No. 30)
Locks
Sixto Sánchez, RHP (No. 1) — After recording a 3.46 ERA over seven starts last season, the hard-throwing Sánchez is expected to be a key part of the Marlins’ rotation in 2021. However, his first outing of the season may be pushed back after his Grapefruit League debut was delayed.
Trevor Rogers, LHP (No. 7) — While Rogers had a 6.11 ERA in seven starts last season, he showed promise by posting a 12.5 K/9 rate. The left-hander has continued to rack up the K’s this spring, making him a favorite to grab a rotation spot.
Contenders
Jazz Chisholm, SS (No. 4) — Chisholm is competing with Isan Díaz and Jon Berti for the starting job at second base. The toolsy prospect made his MLB debut last season, hitting .161 with two homers and two steals in 21 games.
Nick Neidert, RHP (No. 12) — Neidert is expected to function as rotation depth for Miami after tossing 8 1/3 innings for the club last season. He could make the Opening Day roster if Sánchez isn’t properly stretched out.
Paul Campbell, RHP (No. 29) — A Rule 5 Draft pick, Campbell will need to be offered back to the Rays if he doesn’t crack the Marlins’ big league roster.
Injured
Jesús Sánchez, OF (No. 8) — Sánchez is still in big league camp as he works his way back from a groin strain.
Sent down: JJ Bleday, OF (No. 2; MLB No. 20); Lewin Diaz, 1B (No. 6); Braxton Garrett, LHP (No. 9); Jose Devers, SS (No. 10); Nasim Nunez, SS (No. 15); Monte Harrison, OF (No. 16); Jerar Encarnacion, OF (No. 23); Jordan Holloway, RHP (No. 24); Will Banfield, C (No. 30)
Sent down: Francisco Alvarez, C (No. 1); Ronny Mauricio, SS (No. 2); Matthew Allan, RHP (No. 3); Brett Baty, 3B (No. 4); Pete Crow-Armstrong, OF (No. 5); Khalil Lee, OF (No. 7); Mark Vientos, 3B (No. 8); Thomas Szapucki, LHP (No. 10); Sam McWilliams, RHP (No. 16); Ryley Gilliam, RHP (No. 18); Franklyn Kilome, RHP (No. 22); Tyler Megill, RHP (No. 23); Oscar De La Cruz, RHP (No. 24); Marcel Renteria, RHP (No. 25); Yennsy Diaz, RHP (No. 27)
Long shot
Seth Romero, LHP (No. 18) — Romero threw 2 2/3 innings for Washington last year before a fractured right hand ended his season. The lefty is trying to grab one of the final spots in the Nats’ bullpen.
Sent down: Cade Cavalli, RHP (No. 1, MLB No. 99); Jackson Rutledge, RHP (No. 2); Cole Henry, RHP (No. 3); Yasel Antuna, SS/3B (No. 4); Tim Cate, LHP (No. 8); Matt Cronin, LHP (No. 10); Drew Mendoza, 1B (No. 11); Israel Pineda, C (No. 15); Joan Adon, RHP (No. 16); Jackson Cluff, SS (No. 17); Tres Barrera, C (No. 19); Ben Braymer, RHP (No. 21); Steven Fuentes, RHP (No. 22); Tyler Dyson, RHP (No. 23); Jakson Reetz, C (No. 26)
Locks
JoJo Romero, LHP (No. 15) — Romero posted a 7.59 ERA over 12 appearances for the Phillies last season, but he has pitched well this spring and is likely to be part of Philadelphia’s bullpen.
Connor Brogdon, RHP (No. 22) — Brogdon became one of the Phillies’ most trusted bullpen arms down the stretch in 2020, striking out 14 batters with two walks while allowing just one hit over 8 2/3 scoreless innings last September.
Contender
Spencer Howard, RHP (No. 1; MLB No. 22) — After being shut down with a stiff shoulder last September, Philadelphia’s No. 1 prospect has battled back spasms this spring.
Long shot
Rafael Marchan, C (No. 5) — Marchan played three games for the Phillies last season and went 4-for-8 with a homer, but with J.T. Realmuto back from a fractured right thumb, the 22-year-old prospect is unlikely to crack Philadelphia’s Opening Day roster.
Sent down: Bryson Stott, SS (No. 3); Francisco Morales, RHP (No. 4); Johan Rojas, OF (No. 8); Simon Muzziotti, OF (No. 10); Adonis Medina, RHP (No. 11); Mickey Moniak, OF (No. 12); Damon Jones, LHP (No. 14); Mauricio Llovera, RHP (No. 18); Nick Maton, SS (No. 19); Rodolfo Duran, C (No. 20); Ramon Rosso, RHP (No. 21); Jhailyn Ortiz, OF (No. 24); Christopher Sanchez, LHP (No. 25); Kyle Dohy, LHP (No. 27); Logan O’Hoppe, C (No. 28)
Long shot
Justin Topa, RHP (No. 28) — Topa started off his Spring Training campaign with a pair of scoreless outings but struggled after that.
Sent down: Garrett Mitchell, OF (No. 1, MLB No. 65); Brice Turang, SS/2B (No. 2, MLB No. 96); Ethan Small, LHP (No. 4); Mario Feliciano, C (No. 5); Aaron Ashby, LHP (No. 7); Tristen Lutz, OF (No. 12); Zack Brown, RHP (No. 17); Payton Henry, C (No. 18); Alec Bettinger, RHP (No. 22); Corey Ray, OF (No. 23); Clayton Andrews, LHP/OF (No. 24); Dylan File, RHP (No. 25)
Lock
Dylan Carlson, OF (No. 1, MLB No. 13) — After making his big league debut last season, Carlson seems poised to break out this year. MLB’s No. 13 overall prospect has been showing off his plus tools this spring, posting a .270/.357/.486 slash line in 14 games.
Contenders
Johan Oviedo, RHP (No. 10) — Oviedo, who posted a 5.47 ERA across five starts in his MLB debut last season, struck out three batters in his first appearance this spring.
Kodi Whitley, RHP (No. 11) — The 26-year-old right-hander has had an impressive Spring Training, striking out six batters in as many games and allowing no runs.
Edmundo Sosa, INF (No. 18) — Sosa spent the bulk of 2020 at the Cardinals’ alternate training site but also appeared in eight games over multiple stints with the Major League club.
Justin Williams, OF (No. 19) — Williams, who appeared in the big leagues briefly last season and in 2018, has been hitting the ball hard at camp.
Long shots
Matthew Liberatore, LHP (No. 2, MLB No. 37) — Liberatore, acquired by the Cards from the Rays in the Randy Arozarena trade, has yet to make his big league debut, but the southpaw has shown off some nasty stuff this spring, including his stellar curve.
Nolan Gorman, 3B (No. 3, MLB No. 38) — The 2018 first-round pick is still just 20 years old, and with the Cardinals adding Nolan Arenado in free agency, Gorman’s future at the hot corner remains uncertain.
Zack Thompson, LHP (No. 5) — Thompson, who faced advanced competition last season at the alternate training site, is an athletic southpaw with four pitches.
Sent down: Ivan Herrera, C (No. 4); Angel Rondon, RHP (No. 12); Junior Fernandez, RHP (No. 15); Luken Baker, 1B (No. 20); Seth Elledge, RHP (No. 22); Ali Sanchez, C (No. 25); Evan Mendoza, 3B (No. 29); Justin Toerner, OF (No. 30)
Contender
Adbert Alzolay, RHP (No. 7) — Alzolay was impressive in the big leagues last season, posting a 2.95 ERA in six games. His spring hasn’t been as smooth, with the 26-year-old struggling out of the gate.
Sent down: Brailyn Marquez, LHP (No. 1); Miguel Amaya, C (No. 3); Christopher Morel, 3B (No. 8); Brendon Little, OF (No. 13); Keegan Thompson, RHP (No. 15); Cory Abbott, RHP (No. 16)
Lock
Ke’Bryan Hayes, 3B (No. 1, MLB No. 9) — Hayes is a leading contender for the 2021 National League Rookie of the Year award, and he’s showing why this spring, posting an absurd .432/.475/.784 line in 12 games. Hayes has nine extra-base hits in 37 at-bats.
Contender
Wil Crowe, RHP (No. 23) — A second-round pick in 2017, Crowe was acquired by the Bucs from the Nats in the Josh Bell trade and has impressed this spring. He made his big league debut for the Nats last season.
Injured
Jose Soriano, RHP (No. 25) — The Pirates selected Soriano in the 2020 Rule 5 Draft after the former Angels prospect underwent Tommy John surgery in February of that year.
Sent down: Nick Gonzales, 2B (No. 2); Quinn Priester, RHP (No. 3); Oneil Cruz, SS (No. 4); Liover Peguero, SS (No. 5); Travis Swaggerty, OF (No. 9); Cody Bolton, RHP (No. 10); Miguel Yajure, RHP (No. 12); Ji-Hwan Bae, 2B/SS (No. 14); Mason Martin, 1B (No. 15); Jared Oliva, OF (No. 16); Cal Mitchell, OF (No. 18); Roansy Contreras, RHP (No. 20); Canaan Smith-Njigba, OF (No. 26); Max Kranick, RHP (No. 28)
Locks
Tyler Stephenson (No. 4, MLB No. 95) — Stephenson hasn’t exactly lit the Cactus League on fire this spring, but the backup catcher job is his.
Jonathan India, 3B (No. 5) — India has impressed in Spring Training, and after a standout performance at the Reds’ alternate training site in 2020, he looks ready for the Majors.
Sent down: Jose Garcia, SS (No. 6); Tony Santillan, RHP (No. 11); Riley O’Brien, RHP (No. 16); Ryan Hendrix, RHP (No. 21); Jared Solomon, RHP (No. 23)
Lock
Pavin Smith, 1B/OF (No. 15) — With Kole Calhoun expected to open the season on the injured list, Smith, who appeared in 12 games last season, will likely get a chance to show what he can do early on.
Long shot
Jon Duplantier, RHP (No. 23) — Duplantier cut his finger last week and was scratched from his appearance. He threw a bullpen this week and it remains to be seen how much of a setback the missed start will be.
Sent down: Geraldo Perdomo, SS (No. 3); Corbin Martin, RHP (No. 7); Luis Frias, RHP (No. 9); Seth Beer, 1B/OF (No. 13); Stuart Fairchild, OF (No. 14); J.B. Bukauskas, RHP (No. 17); Josh Green, RHP (No. 21); Andy Young, INF (No. 30)
Contender
Zach McKinstry, INF/OF (No. 15) — McKinstry’s ability to play all over the diamond provides a valuable resource for any club, especially one in the National League.
Long shots
Sheldon Neuse, 3B/2B (No. 19) — Simply put, the Dodgers’ roster is loaded and there isn’t a lot of room for Neuse at this point.
Mitch White, RHP (No. 20) — The Dodgers likely already have too many starting pitchers. Having White start the season in the Minors makes the most sense.
DJ Peters, OF (No. 21) — Peters’ power is certainly enticing, but the Dodgers will let him continue to develop his overall game before calling him up to Los Angeles.
Sent down: Keibert Ruiz, C (No. 1, MLB No. 57); Josiah Gray, RHP (No. 2, MLB No. 58); Michael Busch, 2B (No. 3); Kody Hoese, 3B (No. 4); Bobby Miller, RHP (No. 5); Ryan Pepiot, RHP (No. 7); Andy Pages, OF (No. 8); Jacob Amaya, SS/2B (No. 10); Miguel Vargas, 3B (No. 11); Landon Knack, RHP (No. 14); Gerardo Carrillo, RHP (No. 18); Michael Grove, RHP (No. 22); Devin Mann, 2B/3B (No. 23); Kendall Williams, RHP (No. 25); Edwin Uceta, RHP (No. 26); Robinson Ortiz, LHP (No. 27); Andre Jackson, RHP (No. 29); Omar Estevez, 2B/SS (No. 30)
Sent down: Marco Luciano, SS (No. 1); Joey Bart, C (No. 2); Heliot Ramos, OF (No. 3); Hunter Bishop, OF (No. 4); Patrick Bailey, C (No. 6); Alexander Canario, OF (No. 9); Sean Hjelle, RHP (No. 11); Will Wilson, SS (No. 12); Gregory Santos, RHP (No. 13); Logan Wyatt, 1B (No. 17); Kai-Wei Teng, RHP (No. 18); Camilo Doval, RHP (No. 24); Kervin Castro, RHP (No. 25); Jaylin Davis, OF (No. 26); Ricardo Genoves, C (No. 28)
Contenders
MacKenzie Gore, LHP (No. 1, MLB No. 6) — Gore will almost certainly make his debut during the 2021 season. While he’s a candidate for the Opening Day roster, there’s also a good chance he starts the season in the Minors and makes his debut later.
Luis Campusano, C (No. 3) — The Padres love Campusano’s bat, and if Austin Nola isn’t healthy on Opening Day, the 22-year-old could crack the roster as a backup.
Ryan Weathers, LHP (No. 5) — After making his debut in the playoffs, nerves shouldn’t be a factor for Weathers. The lefty hasn’t staked his claim to a roster spot so far this spring, but it wouldn’t be a total surprise if he makes the squad.
Long shots
CJ Abrams, SS (No. 2, MLB No. 8) — While there’s plenty to like about Abrams’ game, he’s still young and needs some more experience before making his debut.
Tucupita Marcano, INF (No. 6) — Marcano may make his debut at some point during the season, but right now there just aren’t enough openings on the Major League roster for him to find a spot.
Jorge Oña, OF (No. 9) — The 24-year-old appeared in five games last season. While he may get another stint in 2021, it’ll likely be later in the year.
Anderson Espinoza, RHP (No. 12) — Seeing Espinoza back healthy and on the mound was a welcome sight, but there are still a few hurdles to clear before he’s in the Majors.
Reiss Knehr, RHP (No. 13) — The 24-year-old has yet to pitch above High-A and will need to face advanced competition before he appears in San Diego.
Dauris Valdez, RHP (No. 25) — Valdez struggles with control, but his triple-digit fastball and slider could be valuable assets out of the bullpen later in the season if he shows improved command in the Minor Leagues.
Sent down: Robert Hassell III, OF (No. 4); Justin Lange, RHP (No. 7); Reggie Lawson, RHP (No. 8); Joshua Mears, OF (No. 10); Mason Thompson, RHP (No. 11); Jagger Haynes, LHP (No. 14); Steven Wilson, RHP (No. 17); Eguy Rosario, INF (No. 18); Mason Fox, RHP (No. 22); Jordan Humphreys, RHP (No. 24)
Contenders
Ben Bowden, LHP (No. 15) — Bowden has pitched well this spring and could be the Rockies’ lone lefty option out of the bullpen.
Yonathan Daza, OF (No. 16) — If Daza makes the team, it will be as a fifth outfielder. Playing time could be tough to come by in the role, so the Rockies may opt to have him start the season at the alternate training site instead.
Jordan Sheffield, RHP (No. 30) — A Rule-5 pick, Sheffield needs to make the Rockies’ roster, or be offered back to the Dodgers.
Long shots
Ryan Vilade, OF (No. 4) — Vilade has yet to play above High-A and is likely to start the season in Double-A.
Colton Welker, 1B/3B (No. 11) — While it’s likely Welker will spend some time in Colorado during the 2021 season, a spot on the Opening Day roster seems like a bit of a stretch.
Lucas Gilbreath, LHP (No. 27) — The 2017 Draft pick has a chance to help out of the Rockies’ bullpen at some point during the 2021 campaign.
Sent down: Ryan Rolison, RHP (No. 2); Ryan Vilade, OF (No. 4); Helcris Olivarez, LHP (No. 7); Elehuris Montero, 3B (No. 9); Jameson Hannah, OF (No. 13); Tommy Doyle, RHP (No. 23); Antonio Santos, RHP (No. 28)