CHICAGO — As the new baseball season approaches, a fresh crop of talent looks set to make its mark in the major leagues. This year’s array of rookies might just contain the sport’s next standout player.
One newcomer worth watching is the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Roki Sasaki. The reigning World Series champions bolstered their roster by signing the 23-year-old pitcher from Japan in January. Sasaki’s fastball, which can reach speeds of over 100 mph, helped him secure a minor league deal with a $6.5 million signing bonus after an impressive stint with the Chiba Lotte Marines. The Dodgers plan to ease him into the majors, utilizing a six-man rotation during parts of the season.
The New York Yankees are eager to see what outfielder Jasson Domínguez can bring to their lineup following Juan Soto’s exit in free agency. Dubbed “The Martian,” Domínguez garnered attention when he joined New York as a 16-year-old with a $5.1 million signing bonus in 2019. Although he made his major league debut last year, elbow and oblique injuries have stalled his progress. Now, with an impressive minor league tally of a .314 batting average, 11 home runs, and 35 RBIs over 58 games, Domínguez is poised for significant involvement.
Meanwhile, Dylan Crews of the Washington Nationals is another up-and-coming talent. Drafted second overall in 2023, right after his LSU teammate, Crews’ minor league career included a .270 average with 13 home runs, 68 RBIs, and 25 steals over 100 games. Since his August promotion, he added to his stats with 12 more steals and three home runs in his initial major league appearances.
The Detroit Tigers have high hopes for pitcher Jackson Jobe, who impressed with a series of scoreless innings in his major league debut. Selected third overall in the 2021 draft, the 22-year-old pitcher looks set to cement his place in the Tigers’ rotation.
The Chicago Cubs are turning to infielder Matt Shaw to revitalize their quest for a playoff run. Shaw, the team’s 13th selection in the 2023 draft, displayed his prowess with 21 home runs, 71 RBIs, and 31 steals in the minors last season.
Boston Red Sox prospect Roman Anthony is making waves in the outfield. Though the team boasts depth in its roster, Anthony, a top prospect, made a strong case for a big league call-up thanks to a .344 batting average and a .982 OPS in Triple-A last year.
Arizona Diamondbacks’ infielder Jordan Lawlar, despite injuries, remains a player of interest. The No. 6 pick in the 2021 draft showcased his potential with solid performances in limited minor league action and will start this season in Triple-A to gain more experience.
Future cornerstone for the Athletics, Jacob Wilson, had his first taste of major league play last July. The former top pick in 2023 delivered strong minor league numbers with a remarkable .433 average and seven home runs in 53 games.
Tirso Ornelas of the San Diego Padres also enters the conversation after an outstanding season at Triple-A, amassing 23 home runs and 89 RBIs. Although sent to minor league camp, Ornelas is on track for a major league debut.
Lastly, 35-year-old pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano brings veteran experience to the Baltimore Orioles. Joining the club after another MVP year in Japan’s Central League, Sugano is integral to Baltimore’s strategy following Corbin Burnes’ free agency departure.