Top 3 Trends so far in Spring Training

As MLB Spring Training enters its final stretch, several key trends have emerged, setting the stage for the upcoming season. This year’s camp has been filled with innovation and intrigue, from the continued testing of the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system to the rise of top prospects. Meanwhile, injuries have impacted teams’ preparations, forcing clubs to reassess their depth and roster decisions. With Opening Day on the horizon, we’ll cover these developments in more detail below.

Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) System Testing:

MLB is experimenting with the Automated Ball-Strike System in 13 Spring Training stadiums. This system allows pitchers, catchers, and batters to challenge ball or strike calls, with each team allotted two challenges per game. While the technology aims to enhance accuracy, it has received mixed reactions from players. Batters often feel justified by the system, whereas pitchers have expressed reservations. Despite its trial, the ABS is unlikely to be implemented in the 2025 regular season due to the time required for a full transition.

Max Scherzer on ABS – “Can we just play baseball?”

Strong Performances by Young Players:

Throughout Spring Training 2025, several young players have showcased their talents, making significant impressions:

George Lombard Jr. (New York Yankees): At 19, Lombard Jr. has been turning heads with his performance. In the Grapefruit League, he has gone 5-for-15 with two home runs over eight games. His impressive play has drawn praise from teammates, including Aaron Judge, who noted Lombard’s athleticism and work ethic. nypost.com
Cam Smith (Houston Astros): Celebrating his 22nd birthday during Spring Training, Smith has demonstrated exceptional plate discipline and focus. His unique pre-game routine, involving meditation and listening to Bob Marley, has contributed to his impressive .517 batting average, including two home runs over five games.
Jahmai Jones (Detroit Tigers): Jones made a significant impact in a recent game against the Philadelphia Phillies, hitting a double and a grand slam. His performance has bolstered his case for a roster spot, showcasing his power and offensive capabilities. blessyouboys.com
Aidan Miller and Justin Crawford (Philadelphia Phillies): Both prospects had brief stints in early Spring Training games. Miller played in six games but went hitless in nine at-bats, drawing three walks. Crawford appeared in seven games, achieving a .300 batting average (3-for-10) with two stolen bases. Both are expected to begin the 2025 season in Double-A Reading, with potential advancements as the season progresses.

Injury Concerns Impacting Teams:

Injuries have been a significant concern for several teams. The Yankees have been hit hard, with DJ LeMahieu suffering a calf strain that could keep him out for the start of the season, while Giancarlo Stanton is dealing with tendinitis in both elbows (ouch). If that wasn’t enough, the Rangers are crossing their fingers that Adolis García’s oblique strain doesn’t linger too long, and top prospect Wyatt Langford is working his way back from a similar issue. Meanwhile, the Astros have their own oblique headache with Christian Walker, who was scratched from a game with soreness—never a good sign for a guy with a history of these injuries.

The Cardinals got a weird one—outfielder Jordan Walker tweaked his knee after stepping on a sprinkler head during a game. It sounds like something out of a bad luck comedy, but an MRI showed it’s nothing too serious; it’s just some irritation that should clear up after a bit of rest. Over in Mets camp, the rotation took a couple of hits, with Frankie Montas (lat strain) and Sean Manaea (oblique strain) sidelined. The team is optimistic, though, with Kodai Senga, David Peterson, and Clay Holmes looking strong early on in Spring Training.

While these injuries aren’t ideal, that’s just the nature of Spring Training—managers have to find that balance between getting their guys ready and not overdoing it. With Opening Day around the corner, teams will be holding their breath and hoping they can get through the next few weeks without any more setbacks.