Here's the D-backs' Spring Breakout roster
Steve Gilbert
@SteveGilbertMLBSCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Last year¡¯s inaugural Spring Breakout game gave Diamondbacks fans a chance to get a look at the cannon of an arm from outfielder Druw Jones, as well as a look at lefty Yu-Min Lin, who tossed two shutout innings in an impressive outing.
This year, who will stand out remains to be seen, but plenty of Arizona¡¯s top prospects will be taking the field for the game on March 14, including seven of its Top 10, per MLB Pipeline.
Here¡¯s what you need to know about the Diamondbacks¡¯ Spring Breakout game this year:
What is Spring Breakout?
MLB Spring Breakout is a four-day event showcasing baseball¡¯s future: the current stars of Minor League Baseball. The second edition will be held from March 13-16 at Grapefruit and Cactus League stadiums during Spring Training. Sixteen exhibition games will be played between teams comprised of each MLB organization¡¯s top prospects, creating a new touchpoint on the baseball calendar that celebrates the sport¡¯s budding talent.
When is the Diamondbacks¡¯ game?
March 14 beginning at 5:10 p.m. MST, the Diamondbacks¡¯ top prospects will square off against the Royals¡¯ top prospects at Salt River Fields. Fans who purchase tickets for the 1:10 p.m. MST Major League game between the Reds and Diamondbacks at Salt River Fields that day can stay for the Spring Breakout game.
How can I tune in?
Which position players are expected to play?
Seven of the Top 10 prospects in Arizona¡¯s system, per MLB Pipeline, are on the roster, including infielder Demetrio Crisantes, who was the biggest riser in the Diamondbacks¡¯ prospects rankings this year going from unranked all the way to No. 2. Two of Arizona¡¯s top picks from a year ago, outfielders Slade Caldwell (No. 3) and Ryan Waldschmidt (No. 6) are also on the roster. Rounding out the position players on the roster who are ranked among Arizona¡¯s Top 10 prospects are Jones (No. 7), shortstop Tommy Troy (No. 8), infielder Jansel Luis (No. 9) and infielder LuJames Groover (No. 10).
Which pitchers are expected to play?
Four of the Top 20 prospects in Arizona¡¯s system, per MLB Pipeline, are on the roster. Right-hander Daniel Eagen, who the Diamondbacks selected in the third round out of Presbyterian College last year leads the hurlers, ranking No. 16 in the system. He will be joined by right-hander Yordin Chalas (No. 17), lefty Spencer Giesting (No. 18) and right-hander Dylan Ray (No. 20).
Why are certain top prospects not listed on the roster?
Last year, the Diamondbacks¡¯ top prospect, Jordan Lawlar, who remains No. 1 this year, played in the game, but this year the shortstop is in Major League camp and trying to win a roster spot. Though his path to the Opening Day roster seems unlikely right now, he has been impressive in camp both offensively and defensively. Left-hander Yu-Min Lin (No. 11) is also not on the roster. Lin was delayed coming into camp due to his military commitment in Taiwan.
What is the full roster?