MLB.com beat writers selected one standout player per team based on early 2026 Spring Training performances. These efforts are drawing attention from coaches amid roster competitions. Prospects and veterans alike have shown skills that could influence Opening Day decisions.
Spring Training provides key opportunities for players to impress ahead of the regular season. MLB.com gathered insights from beat writers, each picking a top performer from their covered team. The selections highlight strong stats, new skills and praise from peers across divisions. In the AL East, Toronto Blue Jays infielder Josh Kasevich displayed offensive potential beyond expectations, building on player development support despite prior injuries. Baltimore Orioles infielder Coby Mayo batted .500 with three doubles, one home run and 10 RBIs over 10 Grapefruit League games, returning to third base. Tampa Bay Rays right-hander Mason Englert struck out nine in four back-field innings. Boston Red Sox outfielder Braiden Ward stole 17 bases in 18 attempts, setting a tracked Spring Training record since 2006. New York Yankees right-hander Carlos Lagrange reached 103.1 mph, earning praise from Gerrit Cole, who said he had 'never seen anything like it.' AL Central standouts included Cleveland Guardians outfielder Angel Martínez, who hit .357 with eight extra-base hits in 11 games. Detroit Tigers left-hander Drew Anderson posted 11 scoreless innings with 14 strikeouts against two walks. Minnesota Twins right-hander Mick Abel showed exceptional command even in a lesser outing. Chicago White Sox infielder Sam Antonacci homered against pitchers like Jameson Taillon and Tanner Bibee, noted for hustle. NL highlights featured New York Mets right-hander Kodai Senga touching 99 mph in a strong outing. Washington Nationals right-hander Cade Cavalli was named Opening Day starter after recovery, responding, “Man, thank you so much. Let’s get it. We’re going to set a tone this year.” Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Bryson Stott slashed .400 with a 1.180 OPS including two homers. Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin, MLB's No. 1 prospect, drove in eight runs with three homers. Such performances signal potential roles as camps progress.
