Breakings News: 9 players who must rise to the occasion following key departures within the roster itself. The following nine players are poised to take on expanded roles in 2025, as their teams will rely on them to fill the void left by key offseason departures.
Jasson Domínguez, OF, Yankees
After Juan Soto’s departure to the Mets, the Yankees brought in Cody Bellinger from the Cubs, hoping he would help offset the loss of Soto’s bat. However, even with an improved performance from Bellinger, the Yankees will also be counting on Domínguez, MLB Pipeline’s No. 21 prospect, to deliver on the promise he showed in his brief 2023 MLB stint. The young outfielder’s potential was evident when he hit four home runs in his first seven games, but his 2024 season was marred by Tommy John surgery. Domínguez’s ability to rebound and contribute offensively will be critical for the Yankees.
Jackson Holliday, 2B, Orioles
Selected first overall in the 2022 Draft, Holliday struggled in his 2024 debut but showed improvement after being recalled later in the season. With Anthony Santander’s exit, the Orioles will look to Holliday to bolster their offense. Santander’s power from the left side will be missed, and Holliday’s ability to step up will be crucial for the team’s lineup.
Trevor Megill, RP, Brewers
After Devin Williams was traded to the Yankees, Megill is set to step into the closer role for the Brewers. In 2024, he thrived as a fill-in closer, posting impressive numbers, including a 2.41 ERA and 20 saves. Now, with Williams gone, Megill will be asked to take on the full-time closer duties.
Jose Miranda, 1B, Twins
Carlos Santana’s departure leaves a gap at first base for the Twins, and Miranda is expected to take over. Although Miranda’s offensive production has been solid, his defensive performance has been a concern. The Twins will need him to improve defensively if they are to replace Santana’s Gold Glove caliber play.
Joey Ortiz, SS, Brewers
With Willy Adames signing with the Giants, Ortiz is slated to take over as the Brewers’ shortstop. After a productive 2024 season at third base, Ortiz faces higher expectations in 2025. While replicating Adames’ production may be unrealistic, the Brewers will need Ortiz to step up both offensively and defensively.
Grayson Rodriguez, SP, Orioles
With Corbin Burnes leaving for the D-backs, Rodriguez will need to take the next step in his development. Although Rodriguez has shown flashes of brilliance, consistency has been an issue. In 2025, he will be expected to fill the top-of-the-rotation role, and the Orioles are hoping for a breakout season.
Spencer Schwellenbach, SP, Braves
With Max Fried departing and uncertainty around other pitchers like Spencer Strider, Schwellenbach may have to play a larger role in the Braves’ rotation. His solid rookie season in 2024, where he posted a 3.35 ERA, gives the Braves hope that he can step into a more significant role.
Robbie Ray, SP, Giants
With Blake Snell leaving for the Dodgers, the Giants will look to Ray to bolster their rotation behind ace Logan Webb. Ray’s 2024 return from Tommy John surgery was underwhelming, but his underlying metrics suggest a bounce-back is possible. Ray’s performance will be key to the Giants’ playoff aspirations.
Trevor Story, SS, Red Sox
After the loss of Tyler O’Neill’s right-handed power, the Red Sox will rely on Story to regain his form from his time with the Rockies. Injuries have plagued him in Boston, and the 32-year-old has not been able to replicate his former success. The Red Sox will need him to stay healthy and contribute offensively in a lineup heavy on left-handed hitters.
Each of these players will need to step up to meet the challenge posed by the departure of key teammates, with their teams looking to them for increased production and leadership in 2025.