Key Spring Training Dates
| Date | Event | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| February 12 | Pitchers & Catchers Report | First official workout day |
| February 17 | Full Squad Reports | Position players arrive |
| February 21 | Cactus/Grapefruit League Opens | Exhibition games begin |
| March 27 | Opening Day | Regular season starts |
Position Battles to Watch
New York Mets - Fifth Starter Competition
With the Mets investing $765 million in Juan Soto, every other roster decision becomes cost-effective. The fifth starter spot is wide open between Jose Butto, Christian Scott, and minor league signing Michael Wacha.
The Favorites
Christian Scott (if healthy) showed elite stuff in 2025 before injury. Jose Butto has the experience edge with 18 starts last year. Wacha is veteran insurance.
Baltimore Orioles - Outfield Shuffle
Pete Alonso slots in at first base, but acquiring Taylor Ward creates a crowded outfield. Cedric Mullins, Anthony Santander, Colton Cowser, and Ward can't all play every day. Someone gets traded or platooned.
The Competition
Cedric Mullins returns from injury looking to reclaim center. Cowser had a breakout 2025. Ward brings the lefty bat they needed. Someone sits or gets moved.
Toronto Blue Jays - Catching Dilemma
After losing Danny Jansen to free agency, the Blue Jays need to find a catcher. Brian Serven and Alejandro Kirk will compete, with Kirk's bat being the deciding factor if he can stay healthy.
The Stakes
Alejandro Kirk can hit but fitness remains a question. Brian Serven is a defense-first backup. Toronto may need to add a catcher if Kirk can't handle the workload.
Top Prospects Making Camp Debuts
Every spring training features prospects fighting for roster spots or auditioning for mid-season call-ups. These are the names that could impact 2026 fantasy and betting markets:
Ethan Salas
The 18-year-old phenom won't make the Opening Day roster, but his development will be monitored closely. Any positive spring buzz affects Padres' futures.
Sebastian Walcott
The Rangers' top prospect could push for a spot if he shows he can handle major league pitching. Watch his spring strikeout rate.
Jace Jung
After dominating Triple-A, Jung is the favorite to win Detroit's second base job. His bat is ready; only his glove is in question.
Colson Montgomery
The rebuild continues in Chicago, and Montgomery's glove and bat could both play in the majors this year. Spring training will determine if it's April or June.
Roman Anthony
Boston's top hitting prospect could force his way into the outfield mix. If he rakes in spring, the Red Sox have a decision to make.
Roki Sasaki
The Japanese sensation signed with LA and will get a full spring training look. His impact on the Dodgers' already-loaded rotation could be historic.
Spring Training Betting Strategy
Why Spring Results Barely Matter for Regular Season Bets
Every year, bettors overreact to spring training results. A team that goes 22-8 in exhibition games gets hyped as a contender; a team that goes 10-20 gets written off. The data tells a different story.
Spring training records have virtually zero correlation with regular season performance. Teams rest their best players, try new things, and prioritize player development over wins. The 2024 Dodgers went 14-16 in spring training before winning 98 games and the World Series.
What DOES Matter from Spring Training
Injuries
This is the only spring training factor that consistently moves regular season lines. A torn UCL in March changes everything. Track injury reports daily in February-March.
Position Battle Winners
When a team hands a key role to an unknown, pay attention. Christian Scott winning the Mets' fifth starter job has different implications than Michael Wacha.
New Player Integration
How quickly do big offseason acquisitions gel? Juan Soto's comfort level in the Mets' lineup, Dylan Cease's command in Toronto - these intangibles matter.
Best Markets to Watch During Spring
Win Totals: Lines move during spring training based on news. If you have conviction on an OVER or UNDER, consider betting before camp if you expect good/bad news to shift the number.
Division Futures: Spring injuries can create value on division underdogs. One major injury to an AL East contender could make +800 Rays or +1200 Blue Jays worth a look.
MVP/Cy Young Futures: These markets are most efficient in March. Get your bets in before the season when the public hasn't yet overreacted to April performances.