Baltimore Orioles: Top Prospects to Watch at Each Position This Spring

As the 2025 Spring Training season kicks off, the Baltimore Orioles are looking to build on their recent success and continue to develop their farm system, which is brimming with young talent across all positions. With an eye toward the future, several of the Orioles’ top prospects are poised to make an impact in the coming years. Whether they are pushing for a spot on the opening day roster or looking to continue their development, these players are ones to keep an eye on this spring. Let’s take a closer look at the top Orioles prospects to watch at each position.

Catcher: Samuel Basallo

At just 20 years old, Samuel Basallo is already one of the most exciting young talents in the Orioles’ system. The switch-hitting catcher has been climbing through the ranks quickly and for good reason—his bat is a force to be reckoned with. In 2024, Basallo demonstrated his power potential by hitting 19 home runs across Double-A and Triple-A, while also showing the ability to steal bases (10 stolen bases). Defensively, Basallo has been steadily improving and is viewed as a solid option behind the plate, making him a complete prospect to watch this spring. His combination of power, speed, and defensive skills has earned him a spot near the top of the Orioles’ prospect list. With a strong spring, he could very well secure a future spot in the Orioles’ lineup.

First Base: Coby Mayo

Coby Mayo, 23, is a towering presence at first base, standing 6’5″ and boasting raw power that few can match. In 2024, Mayo proved he was ready for the next level by slamming 25 home runs and posting an impressive .592 slugging percentage across Double-A and Triple-A. While he did have a brief stint with the Orioles in 2024, Mayo’s major-league debut was a learning experience, and he will be aiming to build on that this spring. Mayo has elite power potential, and his bat could be a big factor in the Orioles’ lineup as they continue to develop their young roster. His performance in Spring Training will be crucial for determining his readiness for a more prominent role in Baltimore.

Second Base: Max Wagner

Max Wagner, 22, is a solid second base prospect with a well-rounded game. While not as flashy as some of his peers, Wagner’s ability to make consistent contact and play strong defense makes him an intriguing player to watch this spring. His bat-to-ball skills have impressed scouts, and his development at the plate will be critical as he moves up the ranks. Wagner has the potential to be a solid contributor at the major-league level, but his performance during Spring Training will provide a clearer picture of how close he is to breaking into the Orioles’ plans.

Shortstop: Jackson Holliday

Jackson Holliday, 20, is widely regarded as one of the top young shortstops in all of baseball. After being selected first overall in the 2022 MLB Draft, Holliday has shown why he’s deserving of that distinction. His plate discipline, exceptional hitting ability, and smooth defensive skills have made him a standout at every level. In 2024, Holliday showcased his abilities by tearing through Double-A, and he could soon be knocking on the door of the major leagues. His Spring Training performance will be highly anticipated as he continues to develop and potentially earns an even bigger role in the Orioles’ future.

Third Base: Coby Mayo

While Mayo’s primary position is first base, his versatility allows him to also play third base, giving him the ability to play multiple roles within the infield. This spring, Mayo will continue to hone his skills at both positions, and his continued growth as a power hitter will be one of the most exciting storylines for the Orioles this season. If he can improve his defensive consistency at third base, Mayo could be an option for the Orioles to use at either infield corner in the future. His ability to swing the bat with power while providing flexibility in the infield gives him immense value as the Orioles move forward.

Outfield: Dylan Beavers

Dylan Beavers, 23, is an outfielder who offers a tantalizing combination of power and speed. In 2024, Beavers demonstrated his abilities by hitting 15 home runs and stealing 31 bases across Double-A and Triple-A. His potential to impact the game both offensively and defensively makes him a well-rounded prospect that could play a role for the Orioles in the near future. Beavers’ development in Spring Training will be important as he looks to refine his approach at the plate and increase his consistency. If he performs well in camp, there could be a spot for him on the Orioles’ roster sooner rather than later.

Right-Handed Pitcher: Chayce McDermott

Chayce McDermott, 26, is a right-handed pitcher who is beginning to make his mark in the Orioles’ farm system. McDermott’s impressive fastball and slider combination have helped him rack up strikeouts, and in 2024, he finished second in the International League in strikeouts. While his control and command will need to improve as he continues his ascent, McDermott has the tools to be an effective starting pitcher or reliever for the Orioles in the future. His performance this spring will be vital for determining his future role with the big league team. With his high strikeout potential, McDermott is a pitcher to watch closely during Spring Training.

Left-Handed Pitcher: Thomas Sosa

Thomas Sosa, 22, is a left-handed pitcher with a lot of upside, but one who has yet to fully break out. Sosa’s repertoire includes a fastball, slider, and changeup that, with some fine-tuning, could make him a potential contributor for the Orioles. While his overall production has not been stellar to date, Sosa has the kind of potential that could develop quickly. His performance during Spring Training could determine how soon he might make his way to the majors. The Orioles’ left-handed pitching depth will be tested in 2025, and Sosa will play a role in determining the future of the club’s bullpen and rotation.