Among the prospects likely vying for spring training positions, Zebby Matthews was one of the closest candidates to secure a spot, alongside Zac Veen. After a brief call for Zac Veen, who is now starting in right field for the Rockies, attention shifts to Matthews, whose potential rise might soon be confirmed due to a recent injury to ace Pablo Lopez. While Matthews had a rocky major league debut last season, he displayed impressive skills in the minors with a strong 2024 performance. Expect him to capitalize on any opportunity that comes his way.

FIVE ON THE VERGE

Here are some high-priority prospects for fantasy leagues:

Zebby Matthews, SP, Twins

2024 minors: 6-3, 2.60 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, 97 IP, 7 BB, 114 K
2024 majors: 1-4, 6.69 ERA, 1.65 WHIP, 37 2/3 IP, 11 BB, 43 K
2025 minors: 10 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 13 K
Expect Matthews to excel as soon as he gets a chance again.

Nick Kurtz, 1B, Athletics

2024 minors: .368 BA (38 AB), 4 HR, 1.283 OPS, 12 BB, 10 K
With ten home runs already this season, he’s likely to be pushed to the majors very soon.

Bubba Chandler, SP, Pirates

_2024 minors: 10-7, 3.08 ERA, 1.02 WHIP, 119 2/3 IP, 41 BB, 148 K
Recent outings have put him in primed contention for a call-up.

Roman Anthony, OF, Red Sox

2024 minors: .291 BA (454 AB), 18 HR, 21 SB, .894 OPS, 79 BB, 127 K
Despite a rough start, he remains a crucial stash.

Dalton Rushing, C, Dodgers

2024 minors: .271 BA (420 AB), 26 HR, .896 OPS, 64 BB, 103 K
Rushing is a prospect to monitor for a potential promotion following injuries to their starters.