PHOENIX - James Tibbs III is no stranger to change, even if it doesn’t come easy for him.
“I’ve always had a hard time at first adjusting,” Tibbs shared this spring. At 23, he’s faced challenges before, from high school to his arrival at Florida State. Now, he stands on the brink of a major milestone: a potential debut with the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers.
Tibbs’ journey in professional baseball has been a whirlwind. Drafted in the first round by the San Francisco Giants in 2024, he was then the key player in a blockbuster trade to the Boston Red Sox for Rafael Devers. Just six weeks later, he found himself on the move again, this time to the Dodgers in exchange for Dustin May.
“It definitely was hard,” Tibbs admitted. “Mentally, I was fried. I just couldn’t find my footing.”
Despite the rapid changes, Tibbs has caught the attention of the Dodgers, who see him as a key part of their future plans. The team boasts a talented group of young outfield prospects, and Tibbs might be the first to make the leap to the majors.
“He’s a championship-type player,” said manager Dave Roberts.
This spring, Tibbs has made his mark, sticking around big-league camp. His maturity and offensive acumen have impressed Dodgers officials. Playing both corner outfield and first base, he’s hit .281 with a couple of home runs, showcasing the power and skill that had the Dodgers eyeing him back in 2024.
The Dodgers have worked to make Tibbs feel at home, understanding the challenges he’s faced. General manager Brandon Gomes acknowledged the rarity of someone being traded twice so early in their career and emphasized the importance of listening and supporting Tibbs.
Tibbs’ unique left-handed swing is part of his charm. Despite his 5-foot-11, 201-pound frame, he generates impressive power, thanks to his athleticism and distinctive mechanics. Each team he’s been with has offered different advice, but the Dodgers encouraged him to return to his roots.
“They’ve just let me be myself,” Tibbs said. “I was trying to find my swing again, find the thing that made me successful in the past.”
Since joining the Dodgers, Tibbs has flourished, posting a .900 OPS with seven home runs in his final 36 games last season. He’s carried that momentum into spring training, likely starting the season at Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Gomes emphasized the importance of understanding what makes a player successful and supporting that, rather than trying to change it.
As Tibbs’ swing has steadied, so has his mindset. He’s found solace in collecting baseball cards, a hobby he shares with Kansas City Royals prospect Jac Caglianone. It’s a way for him to disconnect from the pressures of the game and focus on the people behind it.
Tibbs has been collecting for years and recently expanded his collection. He even owns a card depicting his time at Florida State and enjoys collecting cards of his teammates and other sports stars.
Feeling more grounded now, Tibbs is ready for the season ahead. If things go as hoped, his card collection - and his career - could see significant gains.
“I feel like I’m in a better spot mentally, physically, emotionally,” Tibbs said. “I have a foundation, can control the controllables and go from there.”