The 2026 MLB Spring Breakout games have fans buzzing, but there's plenty more happening as teams finalize their Opening Day rosters. Amidst this excitement, some young stars are celebrating, while others face tough news.
Take Dylan Crews, for instance. Once a top prospect for the Washington Nationals, Crews has struggled since his 2024 MLB debut.
His journey hit another bump as the Nationals decided to start him in Triple-A for the 2026 season. It's a surprising move, given his high draft status and potential, but his recent performance numbers tell the story.
With a spring training slash line of .103/.206/.103 and a -19 wRC+, the decision seems justified. Crews’ past seasons weren’t much better, with wRC+ scores of 80 and 77 in 2024 and 2025.
Meanwhile, the Kansas City Royals are feeling optimistic about their own prospect, Blake Mitchell. Drafted eighth in 2023, Mitchell’s stock is rising.
After a strong showing in the Arizona Fall League and an impressive spring training, where he posted a 1.030 OPS and a 158 wRC+, Mitchell is making waves. Despite an injury setback in 2025, he’s bounced back in style.
While it’s too early to declare Mitchell a better player than Crews, his current trajectory is promising. Each prospect follows their unique path, and while Crews might need more time to hit his stride, Mitchell is seizing his opportunities.
Royals fans, who once wondered about missing out on higher draft picks, might find some solace today. As they watch Mitchell’s progress, the sting of not landing a player like Crews feels a bit less sharp.