Young Stars Poised for Breakout Years as Teams Look to Replace Departing Icons
This upcoming season in Major League Baseball, several teams are facing teh challenge of replacing key players who departed in the offseason.
Often, franchises turn to free agency or trades to fill these voids.Though, sometimes the answer lies within the organization itself. The following nine players are stepping into positions of greater importance in 2025, carrying the weight of expectation to fill the shoes of departed stars.
Jasson Domínguez, OF, New York Yankees
The Yankees may have acquired outfielder Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs to offset the loss of Juan Soto, but replacing a player of SotoS caliber will require a collective effort. The organization is banking on top prospect Jasson Domínguez to contribute substantially.
Domínguez, ranked MLB Pipeline’s No. 21 overall prospect, showed exciting potential in a brief stint with the Yankees in 2023, hitting four home runs in his frist seven games before undergoing Tommy John surgery. His return to health and performance will be crucial for the Yankees’ offensive firepower.
Jackson Holliday, 2B, Baltimore Orioles
The Orioles’ Jackson Holliday, the first overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, made his major league debut last april but struggled initially. Despite showing improvement in his second stint, holliday’s overall .218/.285/.365 slash line leaves room for growth.
Baltimore is counting on Holliday to provide more offensive punch this year to compensate for the loss of Anthony Santander.Santander’s departure as a free agent leaves a significant gap in left-handed power, as the switch-hitting Santander smashed 32 home runs from the left side in 2024.
MLB Offseason Roster Shakeups: Key Position battles to Watch
the MLB offseason brings roster changes,creating opportunities for players to step into new roles. Here’s a look at three key position battles shaping up for the 2024 season.
Brewers Turn to Megill After Williams Trade
The Milwaukee Brewers will need Trevor megill to step up in a big way after trading closer Devin Williams to the New York Yankees.
Williams was one of the most dominant relievers in baseball, ranking in the top three in ERA and FIP, and leading all relievers with at least 200 innings pitched in opponent’s batting average since 2020. Megill, who enjoyed success as Williams’ fill-in closer during the 2024 season, will have the opportunity to claim the role permanently.
Twins Rely on Miranda After Santana’s Departure
The Minnesota Twins face a void at first base with veteran Carlos Santana signing with Cleveland as a free agent. Jose Miranda, who has seen time at both corner infield positions, will now get the chance to take over first-base duties full-time. While Santana’s offensive production will be missed, the Twins are hopeful Miranda can step up.
Cardinals Opt for O’Neill in Outfield
The St. Louis Cardinals will rely on Tyler O’Neill to fill the void left by the departure of Lars Nootbaar.
O’Neill, a right-handed hitter, will offer a different look for the Cardinals in their outfield.
## Young Stars Aim for Breakout Seasons in 2024
Several young players across Major League Baseball are poised for breakout seasons in 2024, eager to solidify their place as key contributors.
### Minnesota Twins: Miranda’s Defensive Development Key to Success
Jose Miranda, a 26-year-old infielder for the Minnesota Twins, showed offensive promise in 2024 with a 115 wRC+ over 429 plate appearances. Though, his defensive performance remains a question mark. Miranda has recorded -16 Outs Above Average (OAA) in his career, including -4 as a first baseman.
Joining Miranda in the Twins infield, Royce Lewis, Matt Wallner, and another prospect form a talented group. Together, they achieved a stellar 139 wRC+ in limited playing time (953 plate appearances) last season.
### Milwaukee Brewers: Ortiz Steps Up Amid Shortstop Shift
the Milwaukee Brewers, adjusting to life without star shortstop Willy Adames, will look to 26-year-old Joey Ortiz to fill the void. Ortiz impressed in 2024, producing 3.1 WAR (per FanGraphs) with 11 home runs, 60 rbis, and a .726 OPS (101 OPS+) in 142 games as the regular third baseman.
Adames’ departure leaves a significant offensive hole for the Brewers, considering his 32 homers, 112 RBIs and .794 OPS in 2024. While Ortiz may not match Adames’ production, the Brewers anticipate increased offensive output from him as he transitions to shortstop.
### Baltimore Orioles: Rodriguez Eyes a Dominant Second Season
The Baltimore Orioles benefitted greatly from the 2024 acquisition of pitcher Corbyn Burnes. As the team’s ace, Burnes posted a 2.92 ERA with 181 strikeouts over 32 starts and finished fifth in the American League Cy Young Award voting. Burnes signed elsewhere after one season with the Orioles.
Though, the future remains bright for the Orioles’ rotation. Grayson rodriguez, a rising young pitcher, is expected to build upon a promising debut. Rodriguez will aim to solidify his position as a key contributor to the Orioles’ pitching staff.
Baltimore Orioles Seek Internal Solutions After Losing Top Pitcher
The Baltimore Orioles enter the 2024 season with a significant hole to fill in their starting rotation following Corbin Burnes’ departure. burnes signed a lucrative, six-year, $210 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, leaving the Orioles scrambling for a replacement at the top of their pitching staff.
While Burnes’ departure creates a challenge, the Orioles have internal candidates who could step up. Grayson Rodriguez, a former top prospect, is an intriguing option. Rodriguez has shown flashes of brilliance in his two MLB seasons, but injuries and inconsistency have hampered his progress.
Entering his age-25 season, Rodriguez could be poised for a breakout year.
In 2024, he made notable strides, posting a 3.86 ERA with a 3.66 FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching) and a 3.61 K/BB ratio (strikeouts per walk). This suggests that Rodriguez has the potential to be a reliable starting pitcher.
Braves Rotation depth Tested After Losing Key Pitchers
The Atlanta Braves also face uncertainty in their starting rotation following the departure of Max Fried and the retirement of Charlie Morton. While Chris Sale’s return from injury and Reynaldo Lopez’s continued success could help offset these losses, the Braves still have questions to answer.Spencer Strider is recovering from right elbow surgery, and Grant Holmes and Ian Anderson, both lacking significant Major League experience, could be called upon to fill rotation spots.
Amidst this uncertainty, Spencer Schwellenbach emerges as a potentially crucial piece for the Braves. Schwellenbach impressed in his rookie season, posting a 3.35 ERA with 127 strikeouts and 23 walks (5.52 K/BB) over 123 2/3 innings.
If Schwellenbach can build on this promising start, he could provide the Braves with a much-needed reliable arm in their rotation.
Giants Turn to Robbie Ray after Snell Departure
The San Francisco Giants will rely on veteran left-hander Robbie Ray to fill the void left by Blake Snell, who signed a five-year, $182 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ray,who struggled in his first season with the Giants after returning from Tommy John surgery,posted a 4.70 ERA in seven starts. However, advanced metrics suggest a more promising outlook for the former cy young winner .
Ray’s Underlying Metrics Offer Hope
Despite the high ERA,Ray displayed impressive strikeout numbers,achieving a 36% whiff rate and a 33.3% strikeout rate. His expected batting average allowed (.180) also indicates he pitched better than his ERA suggests. This could bode well for Ray’s ability to bounce back and contribute significantly to the Giants’ rotation.
Sox Banking on Story’s Resurgence
the Boston Red Sox are hoping for a healthy and productive season from shortstop Trevor story. After a disappointing three seasons plagued by injuries, Story is tasked with returning to the form he displayed during his six years with the Colorado Rockies.
Story, who signed a six-year, $140 million deal with Boston in 2022, has struggled to stay on the field and replicate his past performance. The Red Sox are counting on him to rediscover his power and hit for average, which would be a major boost to their lineup.
The 2024 MLB offseason has brought significant changes and opportunities for teams across the league. Here’s a breakdown of the key storylines and players to watch:
MLB Offseason Roster Shakeups: Key Position battles to watch
the MLB offseason brings roster changes,creating opportunities for players to step into new roles. Here’s a look at three key position battles shaping up for the 2024 season.
Brewers Turn to Megill After Williams Trade
The milwaukee brewers will need Trevor megill to step up in a big way after trading closer Devin Williams to the new York Yankees.
Williams was one of the most dominant relievers in baseball, ranking in the top three in ERA and FIP, and leading all relievers with at least 200 innings pitched in opponent’s batting average as 2020. Megill, who enjoyed success as Williams’ fill-in closer during the 2024 season, will have the opportunity to claim the role permanently.
Twins Rely on Miranda After Santana’s Departure
The Minnesota Twins face a void at first base with veteran Carlos Santana signing with cleveland as a free agent. Jose Miranda, who has seen time at both corner infield positions, will now get the chance to take over first-base duties full-time. While Santana’s offensive production will be missed, the Twins are hopeful Miranda can step up.
Cardinals Opt for O’Neill in Outfield
The St.Louis cardinals will rely on Tyler O’Neill to fill the void left by the departure of lars Nootbaar.
O’Neill, a right-handed hitter, will offer a different look for the Cardinals in their outfield.
## Young Stars Aim for Breakout seasons in 2024
Several young players across Major League Baseball are poised for breakout seasons in 2024, eager to solidify their place as key contributors.
### Minnesota Twins: Miranda’s Defensive Advancement Key to Success
Jose Miranda,a 26-year-old infielder for the Minnesota Twins,showed offensive promise in 2024 with a 115 wRC+ over 429 plate appearances. Tho, his defensive performance remains a question mark. Miranda has recorded -16 Outs Above Average (OAA) in his career, including -4 as a first baseman.
Joining Miranda in the Twins infield, Royce Lewis, Matt Wallner, and another prospect form a talented group. Together, they achieved a stellar 139 wRC+ in limited playing time (953 plate appearances) last season.
### Milwaukee Brewers: Ortiz Steps Up Amid Shortstop Shift
the Milwaukee Brewers, adjusting to life without star shortstop Willy adames, will look to 26-year-old Joey ortiz to fill the void. Ortiz impressed in 2024,producing 3.1 WAR (per FanGraphs) with 11 home runs, 60 rbis, and a .726 OPS (101 OPS+) in 142 games as the regular third baseman.
Adames’ departure leaves a significant offensive hole for the Brewers, considering his 32 homers, 112 RBIs and .794 OPS in 2024. While Ortiz may not match Adames’ production, the Brewers anticipate increased offensive output from him as he transitions to shortstop.
### Baltimore Orioles: Rodriguez Eyes a Dominant Second Season
The Baltimore Orioles benefitted greatly from the 2024 acquisition of pitcher Corbyn Burnes. As the team’s ace, Burnes posted a 2.92 ERA with 181 strikeouts over 32 starts and finished fifth in the American League Cy Young Award voting. Burnes signed elsewhere after one season with the Orioles.
Though, the future remains bright for the Orioles’ rotation. Grayson rodriguez, a rising young pitcher, is expected to build upon a promising debut. Rodriguez will aim to solidify his position as a key contributor to the Orioles’ pitching staff.
Baltimore Orioles Seek Internal Solutions After Losing Top Pitcher
The baltimore Orioles enter the 2024 season with a significant hole to fill in their starting rotation following Corbin Burnes’ departure. burnes signed a lucrative, six-year, $210 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, leaving the Orioles scrambling for a replacement at the top of their pitching staff.
While burnes’ departure creates a challenge, the Orioles have internal candidates who could step up. Grayson Rodriguez, a former top prospect, is an intriguing option. rodriguez has shown flashes of brilliance in his two MLB seasons, but injuries and inconsistency have hampered his progress.
Entering his age-25 season, Rodriguez could be poised for a breakout year.
In 2024, he made notable strides, posting a 3.86 ERA with a 3.66 FIP (Fielding Independant Pitching) and a 3.61 K/BB ratio (strikeouts per walk). This suggests that Rodriguez has the potential to be a reliable starting pitcher.
Braves Rotation depth Tested After Losing Key Pitchers
the Atlanta Braves also face uncertainty in their starting rotation following the departure of Max Fried and the retirement of Charlie Morton.while Chris sale’s return from injury and Reynaldo Lopez’s continued success could help offset these losses, the Braves still have questions to answer.Spencer Strider is recovering from right elbow surgery, and Grant Holmes and Ian Anderson, both lacking significant Major League experience, could be called upon to fill rotation spots.
Amidst this uncertainty, Spencer Schwellenbach emerges as a perhaps crucial piece for the Braves. Schwellenbach impressed in his rookie season, posting a 3.35 ERA with 127 strikeouts and 23 walks (5.52 K/BB) over 123 2/3 innings.
If Schwellenbach can build on this promising start, he could provide the Braves with a much-needed reliable arm in their rotation.
Giants Turn to Robbie Ray after Snell Departure
The San Francisco Giants will rely on veteran left-hander Robbie Ray to fill the void left by Blake snell, who signed a five-year, $182 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ray,who struggled in his first season with the Giants after returning from Tommy John surgery,posted a 4.70 ERA in seven starts. However, advanced metrics suggest a more promising outlook for the former cy young winner .
Ray’s Underlying Metrics Offer hope
Despite the high ERA,Ray displayed notable strikeout numbers,achieving a 36% whiff rate and a 33.3% strikeout rate. His expected batting average allowed (.180) also indicates he pitched better than his ERA suggests. This could bode well for Ray’s ability to bounce back and contribute significantly to the giants’ rotation.
Sox Banking on story’s Resurgence
the Boston Red Sox are hoping for a healthy and productive season from shortstop Trevor story. After a disappointing three seasons plagued by injuries, Story is tasked with returning to the form he displayed during his six years with the Colorado Rockies.
Story, who signed a six-year, $140 million deal with Boston in 2022, has struggled to stay on the field and replicate his past performance. The Red sox are counting on him to rediscover his power and hit for average,which would be a major boost to their lineup.
## MLB Offseason Q&A
**Q: Which team faced the biggest pitching loss this offseason?**
**A:** The Baltimore orioles will be feeling the absence of ace corbin Burnes, who signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
**Q: Who are some young players poised for breakout seasons in 2024?**
**A:** Keep an eye on Jose Miranda (Twins), Joey Ortiz (Brewers), Grayson Rodriguez (Orioles), and Spencer Schwellenbach (Braves).
**Q: What can we expect from Robbie Ray with the giants in 2024?**
**A:** while his ERA wasn’t great in 2024, Ray’s strong strikeout numbers and low expected batting average suggest a rebound could be in store.
As spring training approaches, these position battles and player development stories will continue to unfold, shaping the landscape of the 2024 MLB season.
