1/23/26 : Spring Training non-roster invites

Pitchers : 9

RHP Andrew Bechtold - pitched at two levels in 2025 - broke spring camp with Reading - appeared in 36 games (38 IP) posting a 4.26 ERA with 53 K’s and 20 BB. Promoted to Lehigh Valley on 9/2 - pitched in 5 games - tagged for 8 runs on 8 hits, 2 BB in 4 IP - 3 K’s. Overall pitched in 41 games (42 IP) with a 5.57 ERA - 58 K’s, 23 BB. He has shown a big arm, four seam fastball in the 95-99 mph range with a cutter and slider as secondaries. Was the 2017 5th round draft choice of the Twins as an infielder from Chipola Junior College in Florida - went to Garnett Valley High School in Glen Mills, PA and lives in Chadds Ford. He converted to pitching full time in 2023 with the Twins pitching at the AAA level - was at AA and AAA with the Blue Jays in 2024.

LHP Genesis Cabrera - The now 29 year old was originally signed by the Tampa Rays on 11/1/13 as an international free agent from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The Rays traded him to the Cardinals on 7/31/18. Cabrera was a big part of the St Louis Cardinals bullpen contingent from 2019 to 2023 - he was traded to the Blue Jays mid season 2023 and pitched well for them thru the 2024 season before becoming a free agent in November of 2024 and signing with the Mets. He’s pitched in 312 major league games totaling 318.1 IP with a 4.24 ERA. Last season (2025) he played for four different organizations (Mets, Cubs, Pirates and Twins) appearing in 40 major league games (42.2 IP) with a 6.54 ERA - he also appeared in eight minor league games (9 IP). In his career he’s played for the Rays, Cardinals, Blue Jays, Mets, Cubs, Pirates and Twins. In addition to his major league work he’s made 135 minor league appearances (92 starts) totaling 561.1 IP with a 4.18 ERA. Cabrera is a power pitcher - fastball (both sinker and four seamer) sits in the 94-98 mph range which he couples with a curve, slider, changeup and cutter.

LHP Tucker Davidson - The now twenty-nine year old pitched last season in Korea for the Lotte Giants where he posted a 10-5 record in 22 starts (123.1 IP) with a 3.65 ERA - 119 strikeouts and 48 walks. He was previously drafted and signed as their 19th round selection in the 2016 draft from Tascosa HS in Amarillo, Texas. In his stateside career he advanced to the major leagues in 2020 and has made 56 appearances in the show (17 starts) from 2020 to 2024 with Atlanta, the Los Angeles Angels, Kansas City and Baltimore. He’s pitched 129.1 major league innings with a 5.76 ERA - 100 K’s and 68 walks. In his minor league career he’s pitched in 148 games (104 starts) totaling 625.1 IP with a 3.28 ERA - 619 K’s and 228 walks. In an indoor bullpen session at Maven Baseball Lab (Atlanta, GA) this past December his fastball was sitting in the 93-95 mph range - he averaged 91 mph in Korea. He features a fastball, slider, curve and changeup.

RHP Jonathan Hernandez - The now 29 year old was originally signed by the Texas Rangers on 1/30/13 from the Dominican Republic. He pitched in the Rangers organization from 2013 till 8/2/24 when he was claimed off waivers by the Seattle Mariners - on 1/30/25 he signed as a free agent with the Tampa Rays. Hernandez pitched last season for the Durham Bulls (Rays AAA affiliate) appearing in 12 games and posting a 2.25 ERA in 12 IP with 13 K’s and 6 walks - he spent the majority of the season on the IL with shoulder tenderness. He has pitched in 127 major league games with 3 starts (2019 to 2024) with the Rangers and Mariners with a 4.29 ERA in 153 IP with 150 K’s and 81 walks. He had two strong seasons with the Rangers in 2020 and 2022 (missed 2021 with TJ surgery) posting a combined 2.93 ERA over 61.1 IP with 58 K’s and 25 walks. In his minor league career he’s pitched in 202 games (114 starts) with a 3.66 ERA in 691.2 IP with 638 K’s and 286 walks. His arsenal includes a lively sinking fastball (sits 93-97 mph - has reached 99-100 mph) with a hard slider and changeup. He’s known as a fiery competitor. He pitched this off-season for the Aguilas Cibaenas in the Dominican Winter League.

RHP Michael Mercado - 26 year old who appeared in 42 games (49 IP) with Lehigh Valley posting a 4.59 ERA with 53 K’s and 29 walks - made three major league appearances (3 IP). Finished the season with his best two months (August & September) appearing in 16 games (20 IP) recording a 2.70 ERA with 20 K’s and 10 walks. He has a power arm - four seamer (95-99 mph), cutter, big break curve and change-up. A tall (6’4”) and slender young man who pitches downhill - has had control issues in throwing repeated strikes - when he throws quality strikes has the stuff to succeed as a major leaguer. Was the Rays 2nd round draft pick in the 2017 draft from Westview HS in San Diego, CA. Quiet demeanor, likable young man - was a Stanford commit before signing with the Rays instead. Still has plenty of time to make his mark in the major leagues - after his strong finish to the 2025 season that might just come this spring.

RHP Trevor Richards - The 32 year old pitched last season in the Cubs, Royals and Diamondbacks organizations. He appeared in five major league games (three with KC and two with Arizona) posting a 7.94 ERA in 5.2 innings. Most of his 2025 action was at the AAA level in the minor leagues - 7 games with Iowa (Cubs), 10 with Omaha (Royals) and 21 with Reno (Diamondbacks) recording a 5.19 ERA in 38 games (52 IP) with 55 K’s and 19 walks. He was signed by the Cubs in January, released in May, signed by the Royals in May, released in June and then signed by Arizona with whom he finished the season - he elected free agency in October. Richards has pitched in 295 major league games (2018 to 2025) and has a career 4.53 ERA in 565.2 IP. He features a low nineties fastball, changeup (best pitch) and slider. He’s a side-armer who has pitched with the Marlins, Brewers, Blue Jays, Rays, Twins, Royals and Diamondbacks in the majors. He debuted as a starter with Miami in 2018 but transitioned to the bullpen in 2019.

LHP Andrew Walling - after beginning 2025 on the IL with shoulder discomfort the now twenty six year old lefty reliever appeared in 43 games with Reading and Lehigh Valley - 47.2 IP, 3.97 ERA, 54 K’s, .204 BAA - a solid season. Reminds me a bit of former Phillie Jake Diekman in his stuff, motion and arm slot. He can double up on innings in his outings. He was signed by Mike Stauffer who told me a great story in how he discovered him - Andrew didn’t pitch much in college as he battled to throw strikes but Mike had seen him in a blowout game and noted the superior stuff he saw regardless of the location of his deliveries - he continued to follow him and then signed him to a contract after he went un-drafted - Andrew had pitched only 13 innings in collegiate play. He features a four seam fastball (93-97 mph), slider and cutter. A couple years ago now Lehigh Valley Pitching Coach Phil Cundari told me this about Andrew - “I don’t know what’s tougher, playing catch with him or trying to hit him. He’s got electric stuff, very strong young man who throws a bowling bowl of a cutter, varies his slider from a cutter to one that has more sweep, both have great velocity, exceptional breaking stuff. Has a strong fastball already but I believe that velocity down the road with the fastball will be sitting 96–98 mph.”Andrew has the goods to become a major leaguer. With added confidence after a solid campaign this young man (26 years old) is ready to break thru and perhaps earn his initial shot in the major leagues at some point in 2026.

RHP Bryse Wilson - The 27 year old pitched in the Chicago White Sox organization in 2025 making 20 major league appearances (5 starts) recording a 6.65 ERA in 47.1 IP with 28 K’s and 19 walks - he also pitched for Chicago’s AAA affiliate Charlotte appearing in 18 games (8 starts) posting a 4.25 ERA in 48.2 IP with 41 K’s and 11 walks. He’s appeared in 115 minor league games overall (99 starts) with a 3.19 ERA in 550.2 IP with 546 K’s and 140 walks. Wilson has also appeared in 163 major league games (57 starts) from 2018 to 2025 with a 4.82 ERA in 461 IP with 333 K’s and 151 walks. His most successful season in the majors was in 2023 with Milwaukee - 53 games - 2.58 ERA in 76.2 IP as a reliever - 61 K’s, 22 walks. He’s pitched in the show with the Braves, Pirates, Brewers and White Sox. Wilson was the 2016 4th round draft selection of the Atlanta Braves from Orange HS in Hillsborough, North Carolina. He was traded to Pittsburgh on 7/30/21 - the Pirates traded him to Milwaukee on 1/4/23 - he signed as a free agent with the White Sox on 12/18/24 and re-elected free agency on 9/30/25. He has been a durable pitcher in his career with strong fastball command (93-95 mph) - his changeup is his best secondary pitch. Also has a hard slider/cutter and curveball. Known for being a strike thrower, has both a four-seam and two-seam fastball.

LHP Tim Mayza - the 34 year old pitched last season with the Phillies and Pirates. He was released by Pittsburgh on 8/30/25 and claimed off waivers by the Phillies and pitched in eight games (7.1 IP) posting a 4.91 ERA. Mayza elected free agency on 11/2/25. He has appeared in 382 major league games (Toronto, Yankees, Pirates and Phillies) posting a 3.87 ERA in 318.1 innings pitched. The veteran hurler is a local product who graduated from Upper Perkiomen High School and was selected in the 12th round of the 2013 draft from Millersville University.

Catchers : 5

Rene Pinto - The now 29 year old was originally signed by the Tampa Bay Rays on 10/1/13 from Maracay, Venezuela. He was claimed off waivers by the Baltimore Orioles on 11/4/24 and then the Arizona Diamondbacks on 1/10/25. Arizona released him on 8/27/25 - he signed with the Toronto Blue Jays on 9/1/25 and then elected free agency on 11/6/25. Pinto played in 83 major league games with the Rays from 2022 to 2024 and posted a .231/.263/.404 slash line with 10 home runs and 32 RBIs in 237 career plate appearances. Last season he played at the AAA level with Reno (AZ affiliate) and Buffalo (Toronto affiliate) and hit 12 home runs with 47 RBIs in 259 plate appearances. He’s a career .267/.321/.451 minor league hitter with a .772 OPS in 2,767 plate appearances with 90 home runs and 402 RBIs. He played winter league baseball in Venezuela for the Leones de Caracas this off-season. He’s known as a solid defensive catcher (game calling/framing) with a strong arm with some pop.

Kehden Hettiger - LH hitter - began last year with Clearwater - 8 games - 32 plate appearances - was transferred to Jersey Shore on 4/16 - played in 85 games - 355 plate appearances - .232/.330/.389 slash line with a .719 OPS - 20 doubles, 2 triples, 8 home runs and 50 RBIs - promoted to Reading 9/2 - played in 7 games - 26 plate appearances - for the season had a career high 413 plate appearances - 21 doubles, 9 home runs and 55 RBIs. He caught in 61 games and played first base in 30 - threw out 32 of 117 base stealers (27%). In my opinion Kehden made great strides this past season - he was relatively inexperienced as a catcher when he signed with the Phillies but he’s worked hard and has come a long way in throwing, set up, receiving and game calling. Offensively he scrapped being a switch hitter and instead focused on being a full time left handed hitter where he’s displayed pull side power. He’s just 21 years old.

Caleb Ricketts - LH hitter - in 2025 played in 58 games - 238 plate appearances with Reading - 14 doubles, 6 home runs, 27 RBIs - .256/.303/.399 slash line with a .702 OPS. Was placed on the IL on 4/16 - rehabbed with Clearwater & Jersey Shore from 6/5 to 6/17 - 7 games - 29 plate appearances - 3 doubles, 2 home runs, 7 RBIs - .429 batting average. Overall numbers for the season - 267 plate appearances - .275/.315/.438 slash line, .753 OPS, 17 doubles, 8 home runs, 34 RBIs. He had three different months (April - .316, June - .323 and August - .333) where he hit above .300. Defensively had a .986 fielding percentage in 57 games as a catcher. Caleb (25 years old) has been a good offensive player throughout his four year pro career - injuries have set him back each season ranging from hands,back, groin and hamstrings - he’s got real pop as a left handed hitter, a doubles machine driving balls in the gaps and a clutch performer in high pressure spots. Has made big strides in his pitch receiving and game calling - throwing is an area of continuing development - particularly accuracy to his targets - he’s a big fella at 6’3” and sometimes it takes a bit to uncoil throws - works hard at his craft and improvement has been made. Last season was encouraging in stretches - finding consistency and staying healthy are his tickets to advance - can be a big league catcher as the ability is there.

Mark Kolozsvary - The now 30 year old was originally drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the 7th round of the 2017 draft from the University of Florida. He’s from Taveras, Florida and graduated from Taveras High School. After initially playing in the Reds organization Kolozsvary was claimed off waivers by the Orioles on 10/14/22. He signed with the Minnesota Twins as a free agent on 6/20/23 and then with the Boston Red Sox on 12/21/23 with whom he played minor league ball till declaring free agency on 11/6/25. He’s appeared in 11 major league games (2022-2023) with the Reds and Orioles and has 20 major league at bats. The majority of his career has been in the minors - 382 games - .213/.323/.354 slash line in 1,401 plate appearances with 32 home runs and 140 RBIs. He also played in the Olympics for Team USA. Last season was an injury riddled one for him as he made only 30 game appearances at the AA and AAA levels with 95 AB’s. He’s noted for his defense - game calling and a strong arm.  Provides depth at the catcher position for the AAA level with potential as a fill in backup in the major leagues.

Paul McIntosh - RH hitter who spent the majority of last season with Reading - was on the injured list in late April and played three games with Jersey Shore in a rehab assignment (5 for 11 with two doubles). At Reading he played in 58 games (232 PA’s) with 13 doubles, 8 home runs and 35 RBIs posting a .267/.345/.447 slash line and a .792 OPS. Promoted to Lehigh Valley on 8/27 - played in ten games there - 40 PA’s - 2 home runs and 6 RBIs. He had a very strong month of July posting a .388/.464/.571 slash line and an 1.276 OPS in 56 plate appearances with 6 doubles and a home run. Overall on the season had 283 PA’s, 15 doubles, 10 home runs, 44 RBIs with a .259/.343/.441 slash line and a .784 OPS. Defensively caught in 44 games with a .984 fielding percentage. He is 28 years old and is from Miami Gardens, Florida and graduated from Dade Christian HS where he also played football. Attended Motlow State Community College before transferring to the University of West Virginia where he played three seasons and clubbed 21 home runs. Paul was drafted in 2018 after playing at Motlow by the Los Angeles Angels but chose to attend West Virginia instead. He signed as an un-drafted free agent with the Marlins on 7/24/21. Was traded to the Phillies as part of the Jesus Luzardo deal. Whenever I’ve seen Paul play he’s consistently hit the baseball hard, a very strong young man who can drive the ball out of the yard. Defensively does a good job with arm strength and release the two main areas he needs to improve upon. A very nice young man who’s easy to root for.

Infielders : 9

1B Keaton Anthony - RH hitter/thrower - began last year with Reading - .330/.380/.522 slash line and .902 OPS in 49 games (200 plate appearances) with 21 doubles, 4 home runs, 29 walks, 40 K’s - promoted to Lehigh Valley on 6/11 - .313/.374/.433 slash line with a .807 OPS in 33 games - 148 plate appearances - 10 doubles, 2 home runs, 10 RBIs, 13 walks and 33 K’s. Overall for the season posted a .323/.378/.484 slash line and .862 OPS in 348 plate appearances with 31 doubles, 6 home runs and 73 RBIs. In his three year minor league career has a .324/.402/.467 slash line and .869 OPS with 52 doubles, 16 home runs and 115 RBIs in 847 plate appearances. He is 24 years old and is from from Hoschton, Georgia and graduated from Mill Creek High School. Was a two way player in both high school and college appearing in ten games as a pitcher at Iowa (six starts) totaling 22 innings pitched. Had much more success as a hitter - career .372/.476/.686 slash line and 1.162 OPS in three seasons at Iowa (97 games - 443 plate appearances) with 43 doubles and 22 home runs. As a pro has continued to excel offensively - is a pure professional gap to gap line drive doubles machine hitter with occasional over the fence pop, also repeatedly drives outside pitches the opposite way - transitioned to first base and won a minor league gold glove there in 2024. Is not a good runner which limits him defensively, has all the other skills to become a major leaguer - especially his hitting capability.

2B/SS/3B Christian  Cairo - The now 24 year old was drafted by the Cleveland Guardians in the 4th round of the 2019 draft from Calvary Christian HS in Clearwater, Florida. He is the son of former long time major leaguer Miguel Cairo who played in 18 major league seasons with nine different organizations and has also both coached and managed in the major leagues. Christian played last season with Columbus (Guardians AAA affiliate) posting a .237/.338/.331 slash line with a .669 OPS - he hit 21 doubles, 3 triples and 2 home runs and stole 33 bases. In his minor league career he’s got a .225/.354/.318 slash line and .672 OPS in 1,806 plate appearances. He’s played every defensive position except pitcher and catcher in his career but has seen most of his time at second base, third base and shortstop. He spent 2025 big league spring training with the Atlanta Braves after being selected in the 2024 Rule 5 draft but was returned to Cleveland by Atlanta prior to the start of the regular season. His age, versatility and speed made him one of the more sought after minor league free agents this offseason.

SS Aidan Miller - 21 year old RH hitter/thrower -  played in 116 games in 2025. Made 489 plate appearances with Reading - .259/.382/.427 slash line and .809 OPS with 25 doubles, 2 triples, 13 home runs, 41 RBIs, 73 walks, 116 strikeouts and 52 stolen bases. Promoted to Lehigh Valley 9/9 - 37 plate appearances - .333/.514/.519 slash line and a 1.033 OPS with 2 doubles, a home run, 9 walks, 7 strikeouts and 7 stolen bases. Overall season numbers - 526 plate appearances - .264/.392/.433 slash line, .825 OPS with- 27 doubles, 2 triples, 14 home runs, 42 RBIs, 82 walks, 123 strikeouts, 59 stolen bases. Was the August organizational player of the month - .348/.454/.629 slash line and a 1.083 OPS in 108 plate appearances with 13 doubles, 4 home runs, 16 RBIs and 13 stolen bases. He finished the season on a high note - September numbers - .370/.554/.565 slash line and a 1.119 OPS in 65 plate appearances. I’ve had the good fortune to interact with Aidan on multiple occasions - it’s easy to see that he’s a genuinely good person. He’s also a diligent worker who neither wants or expects to be treated any differently than his teammates. Once he gets comfortable in the environment around him he excels, is a hands on learner. This past season there were some physical setbacks but he pushed thru them and had a very good year. Is an intelligent player - for example, isn’t a roadrunner as a base stealer but he took advantage of the rules, read pitcher’s moves and was willing/able to take chances that more often than not had positive outcomes. As a hitter has learned how to adjust to pitch types, velocities and to drive the baseball with authority when it’s in his impact zone. Has both power and patience along with bat to ball skills. Defensively is a no doubt about it shortstop, very strong arm, hands and range - wants to play shortstop - that said, has a team first mindset and is willing to play other positions as needed. He’s very athletic and I have no doubt that he can play second, third or even the outfield if that’s what is required to get to the show. He’s got all the tools to be a long term major league contributor, perhaps beginning as soon as this coming season.

2B/3B Aroon Escobar - 21 years old RH hitter/thrower - plays primarily second base - makes great turns at second on double plays, strong accurate arm, quick exchange - good range as well - has also played third base. Began last year with Clearwater - 69 games - 316 plate appearances - .285/.377/.452 slash line, .829 OPS - 12 doubles, 11 home runs, 42 RBIs, 32 walks, 51 strikeouts and 10 stolen bases. Promoted to Jersey Shore on 7/8 - 46 games - 198 plate appearances - .256/.348/.369 slash line, .717 OPS - 3 triples, 4 home runs, 19 RBIs, 22 walks, 41 strikeouts and 14 stolen bases. Promoted to Reading on 9/8 - played in 5 games - 24 plate appearances. Overall season numbers - 120 games - 538 plate appearances - .270/.361/.413 slash line, .774 OPS - 13 doubles, 4 triples, 15 home runs, 62 RBIs, 56 walks, 98 strikeouts, 24 stolen bases. Aroon had a breakout season - strong stocky build - ball jumps off his bat, quick hands, powerful swing - hits the ball hard, patient hitter who will take his walks, when he hits it can drive the ball out of any park. We first met him a few years back, initially saw him play in person in 2024 on the backfields of the FCL where he performed very well before being sidelined by shin splints. Has all the tools along with the passion and desire to reach the majors as a lineup regular - loves the game and playing it - shines thru - infectious smile. Has fun playing - has his own version of the Soto Shuffle.

3B/SS Carson DeMartini - 23 years old LH hitter - RH thrower - began last year with Jersey Shore - 53 games - 229 plate appearances - .284/.402/.474 slash line with a .876 OPS - 10 doubles, 8 home runs, 30 RBIs, 31 walks, 64 strikeouts and 18 stolen bases. Promoted to Reading on 6/9 - 66 games - 292 plate appearances - .202/.291/.288 slash line with .579 OPS - 10 doubles, 3 triples, 2 home runs and 22 RBIs - 28 walks, 75 strikeouts and 27 stolen bases. Overall numbers - 119 games - 521 plate appearances - .237/.340/.367 slash line with a .707 OPS - 20 doubles, 4 triples, 10 home runs, 52 RBIs, 59 walks, 139 strikeouts and 45 stolen bases.  Defensively played 89 games at third base (.918 fielding percentage) and 25 games at shortstop (.918 fielding percentage). He is from Virginia Beach, Virginia and graduated from Ocean Lakes HS. He played club ball with the Tidewater Orioles. In three seasons at Virginia Tech posted a .311/.435/.642 slash line and 1.077 OPS in 752 plate appearances with 39 doubles, 10 triples, 46 home runs and 164 RBIs. He’s got a compact and powerful swing - has shown he can drive the ball to all fields. Defensively has shown a strong arm - a hard worker who steadily improved over the course of last season - has the skills and instincts to become an asset at third base. After arriving in Reading battled an injury before being placed on the IL 9/5.

UTL Liover Peguero - a 24 year old who played last season for AAA level Indianapolis in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization and posted a .247/.313/.375 slash line with a .688 OPS in 75 games (303 plate appearances) with 14 doubles, 1 triple, 6 home runs, 40 RBIs, 27 walks, 59 strikeouts and 8 stolen bases. He’s appeared in 96 major league games with Pittsburgh from 2022 to 2025 including 33 this past summer (he hit 4 home runs for the Pirates) and has a career .227/.278/.368 slash line in 315 major league plate appearances with 6 doubles, 11 home runs, 36 RBIs, 18 walks, 97 strikeouts and 10 stolen bases. He played in 30 games at shortstop last season for Indianapolis, 23 at third base, 9 at second base, 5 at first base and 8 in center field. Was originally signed by the Arizona Diamondbacks as an international free agent from Higuey, Dominican Republic on 7/2/17 and was traded to the Pirates on 1/27/20 in a deal where Starling Marte was acquired by Arizona. Is known for having outstanding speed and as a strong defender. He’s shown power but also has been inconsistent, is an aggressive hitter and has struggled with off-speed deliveries. Provides depth at the AAA level - has played there each of the past three seasons producing 21 home runs and 124 RBIs in 210 games played. Over his minor league career has a .266/.325/.416 slash line and .741 OPS with 118 doubles, 22 triples, 62 home runs, 320 RBIs, 201 walks, 555 strikeouts and 117 stolen bases in 2,554 plate appearances.

1B/3B/OF Felix Reyes - 24 years old RH hitter/thrower - played in 101 games last year - 395 plate appearances with Reading - .335/.365/.572 slash line and .937 OPS - 34 doubles, 4 triples, 15 home runs, 65 RBIs, 18 walks, 61 strikeouts and 13 stolen bases. Promoted to Lehigh Valley 9/16 - 6 games - 26 plate appearances - .261/.320/.391 slash line and .711 OPS with a home run and two RBIs - overall numbers - .331/.362/.562 slash line in 421 plate appearances - 34 doubles, 16 home runs, 67 RBIs - defensively played RF 29 games, LF 31 games, 1B in 18 games and 3B in 4 games. Won the Eastern League batting title and led the league in doubles, slugging percentage and OPS - was 5th in OBP. He won the Eastern League MVP award - had an absolute breakout season after beginning the year in extended spring training. Felix is an aggressive hitter that puts the ball in play and consistently hits it extremely hard. He doesn’t walk (5 % of PA’s in his career) or strike at a high rate (17 % of PA’s in his career) and his bat to ball skills are excellent. Defensively he’s played mostly in the outfield corners, will surprise folks with his athleticism albeit foot speed will always be a challenge. He’s a very pleasant young man, has a great smile and is very well liked. Hitting rockets consistently is a good thing, he’s always done that including his seven Grapefruit League ST AB’s where he’s 3 for 7 with two doubles and five RBIs. He’s from the Dominican Republic and told me “I grew up in a small town in Bani called Catalina. I was born and still live in the same place. I'm proud to represent my family and my town for having one more of the professionals in baseball.”  He’s an upbeat young man - uses “the positive” as his social media handle : “Well, the positive means that I always believe in what I do, always positive that everything will turn out well for me. Never negative.”  He attributes his success this past season to his off-season work and 2024 winter league play in Colombia : “The winter league helped me a lot because I have played with a lot of experienced players. I changed my swing since I was hitting the ball too low. With the help of coordinator Manny Amador, I trained after playing in the winter league to adjust more.”

SS Bryan Rincon - 21 years old switch hitter - RH thrower - played in 84 games in 2025. Made 359 plate appearances - .181/.304/.298 slash line with a .602 OPS - 13 doubles, 2 triples, 6 home runs and 31 RBIs, 50 walks, 103 strikeouts and 40 stolen bases. Defensively played in 80 games at shortstop - .975 fielding percentage in 285 chances. Was placed on the IL on 8/6 and ended the regular season there - he later played in the Arizona Fall League for second consecutive season. Scouts rank Bryan highly for his defensive prowess at shortstop and for good reason, he has all the attributes of a superior fielder. It’s the offense that’s lagged behind - in 2024 a hamstring injury held him to just thirty-five games and this past year a hamate bone injury ended his regular season early. He was slated to continue rehab work at the complex but was chosen to replace Aidan Miller in the AFL instead. Bryan hit multiple balls hard in the AFL but the offensive numbers weren’t good. He loves baseball - is from Venezuela but left home at the age of 16 to move in with his Uncle in Pittsburgh in order to play high school baseball in the United States. He had committed to play for San Jacinto Junior College but instead signed with the Phillies. I first saw him play in the FCL - noted the power from the left side of the plate and of course the defense. He’s still a very young player, a very hard worker and a good young man - always says hello when I see him - hopefully it all clicks for him this spring along with an injury free season and he shows out all around.

2B/SS/3B Jose Rodriguez - 24 year old RH hitter/thrower - returned from suspension on 6/5/25 - played 11 games - 44 plate appearances with Clearwater - .273/.273/.318 slash line - transferred to Reading 6/24 - played in 26 games - 108 plate appearances - .303/.343/.384 slash line with .727 OPS - 5 doubles, home run, 16 RBIs, 6 walks, 16 strikeouts and 5 stolen bases. Was placed on IL 7/9 - on 8/12 sent on rehab assignment with Jersey Shore - played four games there - 13 plate appearances - posted a .333/.385/.333 slash line - returned to Reading 8/19.  Defensively played shortstop in 15 games, second base in 18 games  and in the outfield for the first time in his career seeing action in center field two games and left field in one. Was on the winter league roster of Aguilas Cibaenas in the Dominican Winter League. He played in one major league game with the White Sox in 2023. Was originally signed by the Chicago White Sox on 2/13/18 as an international free agent from Valverde, Dominican Republic. He’s been a decent offensive player throughout his career - the Phillies acquired him for cash as the White Sox were in a roster crunch and needed to remove him from their 40 man roster. Jose was suspended in June of 2024 for one year for violating MLB’s betting policy - was suspended for betting $724 on MLB games. After his suspension ended this June the Phillies non-tendered him to clear a 40 man roster spot and then signed him back to a minor league contract. He was slated for minor league free agency but re-signed with the Phillies for the 2026 season. He’s an aggressive hitter with a gap to gap approach and some pop, will chase pitches out of the zone. Good range and decent arm as a middle infielder - sometimes the motor wanders - that needs to be more consistent. He hits the baseball hard, potential double digit home run prowess. Has been given a second chance to play pro ball - has talent - could be a lineup regular at either Reading or Lehigh Valley.

Outfielders : 4

LF/RF Bryan De La Cruz - The 29 year old native of the Dominican Republic is a right handed hitter and thrower. He’s played 491 games in the major leagues with Miami, Pittsburgh and Atlanta - has 85 doubles, 58 home runs, 208 RBIs and a career .251/.295/.402 slash line with a .697 OPS in MLB games from 2021 to 2025 - last season played in 16 games with Atlanta. De La Cruz finished the 2025 season with the Yankees (was claimed off waivers from Atlanta on 5/1) playing for their AAA affiliate Scranton Wilkes-Barre where he posted a .271/.340/.456 slash line and .796 OPS in 91 games - 368 plate appearances with 14 doubles, 15 home runs and 48 RBIs. Defensively he played primarily right field for SWB but also played some left field. As a major leaguer he’s played all three outfield positions but mostly left field. He’s not a strong defender in range or arm strength but has spent significant time trying to improve those areas along with his base running. He played for the Toros del Este in the Dominican Winter League this off-season where he was named the league MVP posting a .301/.372/.515 slash line in 188 PA’s with a .888 OPS - 9 doubles, 8 home runs and 40 RBIs in 46 games played.

CF Justin Crawford - 22 years old LH hitter - RH thrower - had an outstanding 2025 season - .334/.411/.452 slash line in 506 plate appearances with an .863 OPS in 112 games played for Lehigh Valley - 199 total bases, 88 runs, 23 doubles, 4 triples, 7 home runs, 47 RBIs, 58 walks, 91 strikeouts and 46 stolen bases. Won the International League batting title and also led the league in runs scored. He was in the top three in hits (2nd), stolen bases (3rd) and OBP (3rd). Defensively played center field in 76 games and left field in 30 games. His season ended on 9/5 when he collided with third baseman Otto Kemp on a fly ball down the left field foul line and suffered a concussion along with some displaced teeth. Finished the year on the IL. In his four year minor league career has a .322/.385/.446 slash line and a .831 OPS with 70 doubles, 17 triples, 19 home runs and 145 stolen bases in 1,459 plate appearances. The first time I saw Justin play in an “official” game was in 2022 on the backfields - his pro debut in the FCL - in his very first plate appearance he walked and then immediately stole second base, he was hit by a pitch in his second plate appearance and walked again in his third PA promptly stealing another bag. In his second game a couple days later he delivered his first pro hit - a bunt single laid perfectly down the third base side - I marveled at how quickly he motored to first base! He then stole second base. His second hit was a soft line drive single to left field. I mention those first two games because they epitomize the type of player he’s consistently been since. Justin has elite speed and uses it to full extent. Folks who love the art of bunting are in for a treat when they see him for the first time as it’s definitely a part of his offensive repertoire. There’s a lot of discerning opinion about him hitting the ball on the ground too often to be an effective major leaguer - I am not of that opinion - in the many games and at bats I’ve actually watched him in he’s also produced line drive hits both of the flared and smoked varieties and has driven the ball as well. His stance is definitely unorthodox, holds his hands high and spreads out - it’s not the pretty cookie cutter left handed swing and there are often times where he looks bad on swings and misses yet he’s a career .322 hitter in an age where .300 plus hitters are infrequently found - the point is - he delivers. As a person he’s genuine - I remember a day at the complex where a man who was serving in the military was on hand watching - Justin sought him out and thanked him for coming out to watch, he was genuinely touched and grateful for this person, a complete stranger to him but someone he valued due to his work as a military member. Defensively folks doubt whether he can play center field and I admit that I’ve seen issues with balls hit right at him in regard to tracking them. However side to side he’s fine as his speed helps overcome whatever lack of reads he may get initially. There is no issue with arm strength - I’ve seen him put the ball on the fly into the catcher’s mitt at the plate from deep center field. Is he a better left fielder than center fielder at this point - probably - maybe even an elite one, doesn’t mean that he can’t develop more defensive acumen in center, he’s still a very young player and is a tremendous worker - with continued daily reps I think he will overcome the deficiencies that exist - the tools are there. As a hitter there’s pop and in my opinion he’s capable of double digit home run totals, that’s not his game but with added strength by growing into his body more I do believe that will come. Long story short he’s ready to be a major league regular at the young age of 22 this coming spring - that’s saying a lot - I firmly believe he will do very well.

CF Dante Nori - 21 year old LH hitter/thrower - played at three levels in his first full pro season in 2025 - began with Clearwater - 109 games - 502 plate appearances - .262/.363/.381 slash line and .744 OPS with 63 runs, 16 doubles, 11 triples, 4 home runs, 43 RBIs, 66 walks, 75 strikeouts and 37 stolen bases. Promoted to Jersey Shore 8/26 - 11 games played - 53 plate appearances - .279/.396/.326 slash line, .722 OPS with 8 runs scored, 2 doubles, 4 RBIs, 8 walks, 8 strikeouts and 13 stolen bases. Promoted to Reading on 9/8 - played in 5 games - 22 plate appearances - 1 double, 2 stolen bases. Overall regular season numbers - .261/.361/.372 slash line in 577 plate appearances - 18 doubles, 12 triples, 4 home runs, 47 RBIs, 75 walks, 85 strikeouts and 52 stolen bases. Finished 3rd in the Florida State League in hits (111), second in doubles, seventh in stolen bases, seventh in BA, OBP and OPS and 9th in OPS amongst qualifiers. Defensively played CF in 98 games and LF - 4 games. Was selected to play in the Arizona Fall League and did very well - finished the regular season there with a .308/.386/.436 slash line with a .822 OPS in 44 plate appearances with 2 doubles, 1 home run, 7 RBIs, 5 walks, 7 strikeouts and 2 stolen bases. I first met Dante’s dad Micah Nori at Roberts Field watching Dante in one of his initial workouts after signing - Dante then introduced himself later - both very down to earth folks who are cordial and respectful - when they chat or correspond about baseball their love of the game shines thru - my kind of people. My very first impression of Dante in his build, carry and play was that I was watching Lenny Dykstra play again - Dante didn’t know who that was when I told him but their games are very similar - speed, defense, works counts, take walks, puts the ball in play, hates to strikeout and plays with unbridled passion to win. That’s what I see in Dante - his confidence in his abilities and want to succeed is top drawer. The first couple months of the this past season were a bit of a struggle but he never stopped posting up, a switch to the infamous “Torpedo” bat brought success, he lets the ball get deep and the extra girth of those bats allows him to make a more solid impact than a thin handled one. He had a strong month of June (.304/.387/.391 in 106 plate appearances) and an even better July (.324/.446/.541 and .986 OPS in 93 plate appearances) winning the organization’s co-player of the month award. The young man is a hard worker, there were times when I saw him in the morning hours taking extra BP at either the complex or stadium when he was at Clearwater. Defensively he’s a very good center fielder with strong reads and routes. He has excellent speed and utilizes it both on the base paths and defense - 52 stolen bases was quite a feat in his first year - there’s capabilities for more, is a true burner with instincts and a desire to run. He went to the AFL and continued to shine. I really enjoy watching the young man play and getting his feedback afterwards - very advanced approach for a fella so young - this kid will not only play in the show someday but he will likely be a spark-plug energizer ala Lenny Dykstra back in the day.

UTL Dylan Campbell - 23 year old RH hitter/thrower - began last year with Jersey Shore - 58 games - 243 plate appearances - .221/.302/.390 slash line with a .692 OPS - 11 doubles, 2 triples, 7 home runs, 35 RBIs, 22 walks, 58 strikeouts and 15 stolen bases. Promoted to Reading on 6/23 - 64 games - 271 plate appearances - .209/.295/.347 slash line with a .642 OPS - 12 doubles, 7 home runs, 25 RBIs, 29 walks, 52 strikeouts and 18 stolen bases. Overall regular season numbers - 23 doubles, 14 HR’s, 60 RBIs and 33 stolen bases. Set career highs for games played, plate appearances, home runs and RBIs. Best month was June - .321/.402/.487 in 92 plate appearances with 7 doubles and 2 home runs. Defensively played center field (87 games), right field (18 games), left field (5 games) and second base (11 games). Was selected to participate in the Arizona Fall League (AFL) and did well - 19 games - 74 plate appearances - .304/.419/.625 slash line and 1.044 OPS with 4 doubles, 1 triple, 4 home runs, 16 RBIs, 14 walks, 17 strikeouts and 4 stolen bases. Added first base and third base to his defensive positions in the AFL. He is from Houston, Texas and graduated from Strake Jesuit HS - played varsity shortstop all four years of high school and also starred in football. Enrolled and played baseball three seasons at the University of Texas - .295/.392/.529 slash line and .921 OPS in 564 plate appearances with 30 doubles, 24 home runs and 86 RBIs. Was then drafted in round 4C of the 2023 draft by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Traded to the Phillies in exchange for International Pool allocations. I first saw him play at the complex in 2024 HP Camp Two - told him I thought he would either start or end up with Reading. He’s an excellent defensive outfielder with a plus arm whose ability to track the ball shines thru - saw that in a couple games in Reading when he played center field. Is a line drive hitter - his defensive versatility shined thru this past season - he played six positions and performed well at each of them.  Could bump up a notch to AAA Lehigh Valley out of spring training camp.

Happy Day, Happy Baseball ⚾️

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