Dodgers’ Future Stars Headline Spring Training 2025

The Los Angeles Dodgers are renowned for producing some of the game’s most electrifying talent, and this year’s Spring Training is no different. Among the non-roster invitees, a handful of future stars stand out, bringing excitement and hope to fans as the team gears up for the 2025 season.

Here’s a closer look at six prospects to watch who made both Baseball America’s and MLB Pipeline’s top 100 prospects lists, along with a quick rundown of other non-roster invitees aiming to make an impact.

Headlining Dodgers’ Future Stars

Roki Sasaki – The Phenom from Japan

Sasaki, the Dodgers’ star offseason acquisition, brings ace potential with a 102.5 mph fastball and a devastating splitter, earning comparisons to Shohei Ohtani. Known for a perfect game, record strikeouts, and helping Japan win the 2023 WBC, Sasaki posted a 2.02 ERA with 524 strikeouts in NPB. Despite minor injuries in 2023-24, the 23-year-old’s elite command and three-pitch arsenal make him a high-upside addition to the defending World Series champions’ rotation, with Cy Young potential in his future.

Jackson Ferris – The Polished Young Lefty

Ferris, a 20-year-old left-hander, had a breakout 2024 season after joining the Dodgers, earning Pitcher of the Year honors with a 2.54 ERA and 145 strikeouts over 126.2 innings. Featuring a fastball sitting at 93-95 mph, a revamped mid-80s slider, and a promising curveball, Ferris’ arsenal and improved mechanics make him tough to barrel. A former Cubs prospect, he was traded to Los Angeles in January 2024 and is drawing comparisons to Blake Snell with his upside as a potential front-line starter.

Alex Freeland – The Switch-Hitting Infielder

Freeland, a switch-hitting shortstop, made significant strides in 2024, rising three levels to Triple-A while batting .260/.387/.442 with 18 homers and 31 steals. Known for his excellent swing decisions and power from the left side, he projects as a 20-homer-per-year hitter. A strong defender with reliable hands, plus arm strength, and versatility across the infield, Freeland profiles as an everyday shortstop. His confidence and instincts on both offense and defense make him a standout in the Dodgers’ system.

Josue De Paula – The Rising Teenage Star

De Paula, a 19-year-old left-handed Dominican outfielder, showcases advanced swing decisions, plus power, and middle-of-the-order potential. In 2024, he slashed .268/.404/.405 with 10 homers and 27 steals across two Class A stops, leading the Dodgers’ system in on-base percentage. With a sweet swing and improving pull power, he projects as a 30-homer bat. Though his defense remains a work in progress, De Paula’s combination of pitch recognition, hard contact, and emerging strength draws comparisons to Yordan Alvarez.

Zyhir Hope – The Toolsy Outfield Prospect

Hope, a 19-year-old left-handed hitter, emerged as a top prospect in 2024, slashing .287/.415/.490 at Single-A and excelling in the Arizona Fall League. Acquired from the Cubs with Jackson Ferris, Hope boasts advanced swing decisions, elite exit velocities, and 30-homer potential as he refines his ability to lift the ball. A solid runner and fearless outfielder, he shows promise as a center fielder. With added strength and power, Hope is one of the Dodgers’ most exciting young talents.

Dalton Rushing – A Versatile Slugging Lefty

Rushing, the Dodgers’ 2022 second-round pick, combines power, plate discipline, and versatility, emerging as one of the top minor-league hitters in 2024 with 26 homers. A well-rounded left-handed hitter with a patient approach, he makes consistent hard contact and shows solid speed for his 6’1”, 220-pound frame. While improving as a catcher, the Dodgers began transitioning him to left field in 2024 to maximize his at-bats, positioning him for a 2025 MLB debut alongside Will Smith.

Quick Rundown: Non-Roster Invitees

Sam Carlson: Hard-throwing righty aiming to prove his potential in the bullpen.

Carlos Duran: Big-bodied pitcher with high velocity and raw stuff.

Julian Fernandez: Power arm reliever with upper-90s heat, consistency is key.

Giovanny Gallegos: Veteran reliever, brings experience to the bullpen.

Jose Hernandez: Reliable lefty specialist with strong minor league stats.

Joe Jacques: Groundball pitcher who could add depth to the bullpen.

Justin Jarvis: Developing right-hander with a four-pitch mix.

Jared Karros: Legacy player with potential to refine his tools.

Jack Little: Versatile left-hander, depth option in the bullpen.

Jose Rodriguez: Switch-thrower with intriguing potential and versatility.

Matt Sauer: Power arm with strikeout potential, needs better control.

Griffin Lockwood-Powell: Defense-first catcher, solid depth piece.

Chris Okey: Veteran catcher with MLB experience and leadership skills.

David Bote: Utility infielder with power, adds experience to the roster.

Austin Gauthier: Glove-first infielder with versatility and potential.

Kody Hoese: Former first-round pick looking for a breakout season.

Justin Dean: Speedy outfielder, a solid late-game defensive option.

Ryan Ward: Left-handed hitter with pop, competing for outfield depth.

Why Recapping Non-Roster Invitees Matter

Every Spring Training marks a time for the Dodgers to evaluate their next wave of talent. The mix of international phenoms, rising stars, and reliable veterans ensures there will be no shortage of excitement as the team prepares for another championship run.

As fans eagerly await the regular season, all eyes will be on these young players, hoping to catch a glimpse of the future of Dodgers baseball.