MLB Spring Training Spotlight: 10 Rising Stars to Watch in 2025

Discover the top 10 emerging players making waves in MLB's 2025 spring training, from power pitchers to dynamic hitters.

MLB’s 2025 spring training is in full swing, and scouts are buzzing about several players poised for breakout seasons. Here’s a closer look at 10 rising stars who are turning heads in camps across Arizona and Florida:

Matt McLain, 2B, Cincinnati Reds

McLain, back from a season lost to injury, is ready to reclaim his spot alongside Elly De La Cruz as one of baseball’s best middle infield duos. His barrel control and baseball IQ make the Reds a sleeper threat in the NL Central.

Sandy Alcántara, SP, Miami Marlins

The 2022 Cy Young winner is back with his signature sinker and changeup. Alcántara’s return could make him a prime trade candidate if the Marlins fall out of contention.

Chandler Simpson, CF, Tampa Bay Rays

Simpson’s elite speed and improved outfield routes make him a must-watch prospect. While power isn’t his game, his ability to turn ground balls into hits is unmatched.

Spencer Schwellenbach, SP, Atlanta Braves

Schwellenbach’s six-pitch arsenal and command have quickly elevated him to the majors. The Braves’ underrated farm system may have unearthed another gem.

Cristopher Sánchez, SP, Philadelphia Phillies

Sánchez’s increased velocity and new cutter could make him one of the NL’s top left-handed pitchers. Paired with Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola, the Phillies’ rotation looks daunting.

Jac Caglianone, 1B, Kansas City Royals

Focusing solely on hitting, Caglianone’s raw power and plate discipline could accelerate his path to the majors, even with Kansas City’s crowded first base.

Sean Burke, SP, Chicago White Sox

Burke’s high-octane fastball and devastating curveball offer hope for a White Sox team in desperate need of pitching help.

Andrés Muñoz, RP, Seattle Mariners

Muñoz’s new kick changeup adds another weapon to his already nasty arsenal, solidifying his status as one of the game’s top relievers.

Cam Smith, 3B, Houston Astros

Smith’s power and plate discipline make him a strong contender for Houston’s third base job. His progression could reshape the Astros’ infield.

Jack Leiter, SP, Texas Rangers

Leiter’s increased fastball velocity and refined changeup could elevate him to ace status. Teaming up with Kumar Rocker, the Rangers’ rotation looks promising.

Names to Watch

  • Curtis Mead, Tampa Bay Rays: Off to a hot start in spring training.
  • Max Meyer, Miami Marlins: Post-Tommy John resurgence.
  • Sal Frelick, Milwaukee Brewers: Added strength boosts his bat.
  • Hao-Yu Lee, Detroit Tigers: A potential long-term solution at third base.
  • Hunter Feduccia, Los Angeles Dodgers: Steady presence in a loaded Dodgers system.

These players are just a few of the many making an impact this spring. Keep an eye on them as they aim to make their mark in the 2025 MLB season.

What to Read Next

2025 MLB Season: Record-Breaking Performances and Key Statistics
MLB

2025 MLB Season: Record-Breaking Performances and Key Statistics

Explore the defining stats and record-breaking performances of the 2025 MLB season, featuring Aaron Judge, Paul Skenes, Shohei Ohtani, and Cal Raleigh.

Fantasy Baseball 2026: Rising Stars and Declining Veterans - Who to Watch?
MLB

Fantasy Baseball 2026: Rising Stars and Declining Veterans - Who to Watch?

Explore the future of Fantasy Baseball with insights on rising stars like Riley Greene and Oneil Cruz, and declining veterans such as Rafael Devers and Juan Soto.

2025 MLB Draft Predictions: Rising Stars and Surprising Picks
MLB

2025 MLB Draft Predictions: Rising Stars and Surprising Picks

Explore the latest 2025 MLB mock draft predictions, featuring rising stars and potential surprises as the draft season heats up.

Red Sox Ownership Under Fire: The Fallout from the Rafael Devers Trade
MLB

Red Sox Ownership Under Fire: The Fallout from the Rafael Devers Trade

The Boston Red Sox face backlash from fans after trading Rafael Devers, raising questions about the team's leadership and future direction.

Future Stars in MLB: Analyzing the Impact of Rafael Devers Trade on Rising Prospects
MLB

Future Stars in MLB: Analyzing the Impact of Rafael Devers Trade on Rising Prospects

Explore how the Rafael Devers trade reshapes the future of MLB prospects, focusing on key players like James Tibbs III and Bryce Eldridge.

Tensions Rise as Dodgers' Andy Pages Claims Intentional HBP by Padres' Dylan Cease
MLB

Tensions Rise as Dodgers' Andy Pages Claims Intentional HBP by Padres' Dylan Cease

Andy Pages of the Dodgers accuses Padres' Dylan Cease of intentionally hitting him with a pitch, reigniting the fierce rivalry between the two teams.

Shohei Ohtani's Return to the Mound Sparks Surge in Dodgers-Padres Ticket Prices
MLB

Shohei Ohtani's Return to the Mound Sparks Surge in Dodgers-Padres Ticket Prices

Shohei Ohtani's first pitching appearance since 2023 has caused a significant surge in ticket prices for the Dodgers-Padres game.

Shohei Ohtani's Pitching Comeback: A Historic Night at Dodger Stadium
MLB

Shohei Ohtani's Pitching Comeback: A Historic Night at Dodger Stadium

Shohei Ohtani makes a triumphant return to the mound, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities in a memorable game at Dodger Stadium.

MLB Tuesday Guide: Expert Fantasy Baseball Lineup Tips & Betting Insights
MLB

MLB Tuesday Guide: Expert Fantasy Baseball Lineup Tips & Betting Insights

Get expert advice on setting your fantasy baseball lineups and placing smart MLB bets for Tuesday's games. Includes pitching and hitting insights, betting tips, and player matchups.

MLB Fantasy Baseball: Top Waiver Wire Picks to Boost Your Rotation in Week 13
MLB

MLB Fantasy Baseball: Top Waiver Wire Picks to Boost Your Rotation in Week 13

Discover the top waiver wire picks for MLB fantasy baseball in Week 13, including high-strikeout pitchers and emerging outfielders to strengthen your roster.

Rafael Devers Shocks MLB: Giants Land Star Slugger in Blockbuster Trade
MLB

Rafael Devers Shocks MLB: Giants Land Star Slugger in Blockbuster Trade

The Giants acquire Rafael Devers from the Red Sox in a stunning mid-season trade, reshaping the NL West race and sparking debates across the baseball world.

Blockbuster Trade: Giants Acquire Rafael Devers from Red Sox in Shocking MLB Move
MLB

Blockbuster Trade: Giants Acquire Rafael Devers from Red Sox in Shocking MLB Move

The San Francisco Giants stunned the MLB world by acquiring All-Star Rafael Devers from the Boston Red Sox in a blockbuster trade. Learn how this move impacts both teams.

MLB Trade Deadline 2025: Executives Under Pressure to Shape Team Futures
MLB

MLB Trade Deadline 2025: Executives Under Pressure to Shape Team Futures

As the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches, key executives face critical decisions that could define their teams' futures. Explore the pressures and potential moves.

Rafael Devers Trade to Giants: Fantasy Baseball Impact and Future Prospects
MLB

Rafael Devers Trade to Giants: Fantasy Baseball Impact and Future Prospects

Explore how Rafael Devers' trade to the Giants impacts his fantasy baseball potential and what it means for the future of both teams.

Ultimate MLB Fantasy Baseball and Betting Guide for Monday: Expert Tips and Lineup Strategies
MLB

Ultimate MLB Fantasy Baseball and Betting Guide for Monday: Expert Tips and Lineup Strategies

Get expert advice on setting your MLB fantasy baseball lineups and placing bets for Monday's games. Discover top pitchers, hitters, and betting insights.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.