The Orioles are gearing up for spring training in Sarasota, and they’re bringing a sizable group of fresh faces with them. On Monday, the team extended non-roster invitations to 30 players-15 pitchers and 15 position players-offering a mix of rising prospects, intriguing bounce-back candidates, and a few names fans might already know.
Let’s start with the most familiar face in the bunch: right-hander Albert Suárez. A year ago, he was just another spring invitee.
By season’s end, he had made 24 starts-tied for the second-most on the club. That’s not just a good story, that’s the kind of unexpected production that can swing a season.
Now, he’s back in camp, looking to prove that last year was no fluke.
Among the pitchers, Trey Gibson stands out as one to watch. He earned the title of the organization’s minor league pitcher of the year, and now he gets a chance to show what he can do in front of big-league coaches. Spring training is often where prospects start to turn heads, and Gibson has the kind of upside that could fast-track his development.
On the position player side, outfielder Enrique Bradfield Jr. returns for his second spring training invite. The club’s top pick in 2023, Bradfield brings elite speed and defensive tools that already have fans excited. While he’s still developing at the plate, his presence in camp gives him valuable reps and a closer look from the coaching staff.
Then there’s Jhonkensy Noel-nicknamed “Big Christmas”-a power-hitting outfielder who was briefly on the roster after being claimed off waivers from Cleveland. He’s known for his raw strength and big bat, and while he didn’t stick on the 40-man roster, the Orioles clearly see something worth exploring further.
The rest of the invitees form a deep and diverse group, each with something to prove. On the mound, right-handers Jeisson Cabrera, Hans Crouse, Nestor German, Keagan Gillies, Richard Guasch, Jean Carlos Henriquez, Enoli Paredes, Levi Wells, and Cameron Weston will all be looking to make an impression. The lefty contingent includes Luis De León, Andrew Magno, Eric Torres, and Josh Walker.
Behind the plate, the Orioles will get extended looks at Ethan Anderson, Silas Ardoin, Maverick Handley, Sam Huff, and Creed Willems. Huff, in particular, brings some big-league experience and power potential, while the others offer depth and defensive upside.
In the infield, José Barrero-formerly a top prospect with Cincinnati-joins Payton Eeles, Aron Estrada, Ryan Noda, Willy Vasquez, and Luis Vázquez. Noda, who’s shown a keen eye and some pop at the plate, could be a sneaky name to watch if he gets hot in camp.
Rounding out the group are outfielders Jud Fabian and Will Robertson, both of whom bring tools and pedigree that could translate with the right development path.
Spring training is always full of storylines, and this year’s non-roster invitees give the Orioles no shortage of possibilities. Whether it’s a prospect on the rise, a veteran looking for a second chance, or a surprise breakout like Suárez last year, this group is full of players ready to compete-and maybe even carve out a spot on one of the most exciting young rosters in baseball.