Spring training has been in full swing for nearly a week, bringing back the daytime thrill of baseball on screens, a wealth of stats to analyze each night, and numerous storylines to follow.
Among the most captivating narratives this spring are the various jobs still up for grabs. While many players arrive knowing their positions for the start of the season, several are vying for a starting role within their teams. For these individuals, each at-bat and inning pitched carries heightened significance as both fans and clubs attempt to assess whether they will emerge as valuable starters in real life and in fantasy leagues, or fade into obscurity as reserves.
As you re-establish your routine of tracking stats during spring training, here are the key position battles to watch in the American League.
Boston Red Sox Outfield – Ceddanne Rafaela vs. Wilyer Abreu
The Red Sox face the pleasant dilemma of having more starting-caliber outfielders than spots available. Roman Anthony is set to be a central figure in the lineup on Opening Day and a top-70 draft pick. Meanwhile, Jarren Duran is expected to see playing time, despite rumors suggesting a shift to mainly DH duties.
2025 Stats (587 PA): .254 AVG | .295 OBP | .414 SLG | 16 HR | 63 RBI | 84 R | 20 SB
Rafaela, a potential 20-20 hitter and outstanding defender, secured an American League Gold Glove last season in center field. Drafted by the Red Sox in 2017, he’s shown momentous defensive prowess in the minors. The question remains whether he can maintain his fantasy relevance considering his bat’s fluctuations last year, where he shone briefly before his production waned.
2025 Stats (417 PA): .247 AVG | .317 OBP | .469 SLG | 22 HR | 69 RBI | 53 R | 6 SB
Abreu had a promising start to 2025 before an injury hindered his potential for a 30-home run season. With the right number of at-bats, he could emerge as a valuable player, although the Red Sox’s tendency to use him in a platoon complicates his fantasy outlook.
Fantasy Relevance
Either Rafaela or Abreu could finish the season among the top 75 hitters, but both face uncertain trajectories. If either falls to you at decent value during the draft, they might be worth the risk. Additionally, keep an eye on Masataka Yoshida and Kristian Campbell, who are facing their own challenges regarding roster spots.
Cleveland Guardians Outfield – Chase DeLauter vs. George Valera
The Guardians hope that top prospect Chase DeLauter can secure a starting outfield role, though his health history raises some doubts. Injuries plagued him in 2025, but he made his MLB debut in the Division Series against the Detroit Tigers, providing him a taste of the big leagues.
2025 Stats (41 PA): .220 AVG | .333 OBP | .415 SLG | 2 HR | 5 RBI | 7 R | 0 SB
Once the top Cleveland prospect, Valera’s progress was sidetracked by a serious injury. Now back to full health, he aims to prove his worth on the field. His previous status makes him a player to watch, as he attempts to regain his footing in the organization.
Fantasy Relevance
DeLauter’s upside warrants a late-round selection, while Valera is more of a wait-and-see option. Also, consider Nolan Jones, who had a breakout year in 2023 but has struggled since, as the Guardians hope he can regain his form.
Tampa Bay Rays Closer – Griffin Jax vs. Garrett Cleavinger
With longtime closer Pete Fairbanks gone, the Rays face a vacancy in their closing role that may be filled by a committee approach or by a single player seizing the opportunity.
2025 Stats (66 IP): 1-7 | 4.23 ERA | 99 K | 1.29 WHIP | 28 Holds | 0 Saves
Despite not having a history as a closer, Jax showed promise last season and could secure the role. His pitching style suggests the potential for significant contribution moving forward.
2025 Stats (61.1 IP): 2-6 | 2.35 ERA | 82 K | 0.95 WHIP | 21 Holds | 2 Saves
Cleavinger excelled last season, boasting a career-best ERA and demonstrating a solid strikeout rate. His ability to complement Jax will be crucial as the Rays evaluate their options for the closure role.
Fantasy Relevance
Jax and Cleavinger are valuable fantasy assets in most formats, particularly for those not solely chasing saves. Keep an eye on Edwin Uceta, as he could also emerge as a contributor in this dynamic bullpen.
