Dodgers Unveil Massive Spring Training NRI List Featuring Top Prospects, Familiar Names, and Trade Chips
Shohei Ohtani was one of the first faces to arrive early at Dodgers spring training in Glendale, setting the tone for a season of high expectations. But while Ohtani was already getting his reps in, the organization took its time unveiling its full list of non-roster invitees - and when it finally dropped, it was a tidal wave.
On Monday, the Dodgers announced a whopping 32 non-roster invitees (NRIs) for spring training, a group that includes nine of their top prospects, a few former top-tier names looking to bounce back, and several big-league veterans trying to claw their way back into the show. It’s a deep, diverse group - and exactly the kind of spring mix you’d expect from a front office that values both player development and trade leverage.
Among the newly revealed names were some previously unreported signings, including catcher Seby Zavala and infielder/outfielder Nick Senzel. Also joining the mix is left-hander Cole Irvin, a pitcher with major league experience who’s hoping to carve out a role in a crowded Dodgers pitching staff.
But the real headliners are the kids - and there’s no shortage of intrigue there.
Top Prospects Take Center Stage
Leading the charge are outfielders Zyhir Hope and Josue De Paula, the Dodgers’ No. 1 and No. 2 prospects at the end of 2025. Both are still a couple of years away from cracking a big-league lineup, but their inclusion in big league camp is a sign the organization wants them immersed in the culture early - and wants to see how they stack up against major league competition.
Joining them are several other high-upside names acquired in recent trades. Lefty Adam Serwinowski, picked up in the Ben Rortvedt deal at last year’s deadline, will be in Glendale.
So will outfielders James Tibbs III and Zach Ehrhard, two pieces from the Dustin May trade. This spring is less about making the Opening Day roster for these players and more about development - and, potentially, showcasing their value to other teams.
A Glimpse at the Future - or Future Trade Packages?
Let’s be honest: with Teoscar Hernández locked into left field, Andy Pages in center, and Kyle Tucker patrolling right, there’s not exactly a clear path to the Dodgers’ outfield for these young prospects. Hope, De Paula, Eduardo Quintero (ranked No.
3), Mike Sirota (No. 5), Tibbs, Ehrhard, and Kendall George - all outfielders - are essentially battling each other for future opportunities, whether that’s in Los Angeles or elsewhere.
Right now, only two players projected to start on Opening Day are homegrown Dodgers: Pages and catcher Will Smith. That’s not an accident.
This front office has built a machine that blends elite scouting with aggressive roster construction. And while they’ll always say the right things about player development, history tells us what often happens next: these spring training reps are as much about building trade value as they are about development.
If a few of these prospects light it up in camp, don’t be surprised if their next stop isn’t Dodger Stadium, but rather part of a package for an impact arm like Joe Ryan or Tarik Skubal. That’s the playbook - and it’s worked before.
Veterans Looking for a Second (or Third) Chance
Beyond the prospects, there’s a handful of veterans hoping to catch on. Nick Senzel, once a top prospect in Cincinnati, is looking to reboot his career.
Seby Zavala brings catching depth and could play a role if injuries hit. Cole Irvin, who’s bounced around the league, is another name to watch - especially if the Dodgers need innings early in the season.
And then there’s Nick Frasso, a former top prospect who’s battled injuries but still has intriguing upside. If he can stay healthy, he could be a sleeper to watch this spring.
What It All Means
This spring training roster is a snapshot of where the Dodgers are right now: loaded with talent, deep with options, and always thinking a few moves ahead. For the prospects, it’s a chance to learn, grow, and maybe make some noise.
For the veterans, it’s a shot at redemption. And for the front office, it’s a chessboard - one where every piece could be moved to bring in the next big upgrade.
So while Ohtani is already in midseason mode and the stars are locked into their roles, don’t overlook the names further down the list. Some of them could be part of the next big trade. Others might just surprise us and force their way into the Dodgers’ plans.
Either way, spring is here - and in Glendale, the competition is already heating up.