As preparations intensify for the 2025 baseball season, the New York Yankees have unveiled their comprehensive list of non-roster invitees (NRIs) for Major League spring training. The organization has extended 26 invitations, bringing the total spring training roster to 65 players, representing a strategic mix of experienced veterans and emerging prospects.
The invitation list comprises 12 newcomers to the Yankees organization, each signing minor league contracts for the upcoming season. Notable additions include veteran right-handed pitcher Carlos Carrasco, former Cubs prospect Brennen Davis, and versatile position players Pablo Reyes and Dominic Smith. The organization has also retained three players from 2024—Sean Boyle, Omar Martínez, and Leonardo Pestana—through new agreements. Ten additional invitees represent homegrown talent from the Yankees’ farm system, including highly-regarded prospects Roderick Arias and Spencer Jones. The roster gained further depth with catcher Alex Jackson, acquired from Cincinnati in December 2024.
The 2025 non-roster contingent features a balanced distribution of talent: 13 pitchers (12 right-handers, one left-hander), three catchers, four outfielders, three infielders, and three utility players capable of both infield and outfield duties. Notably, 11 invitees bring Major League experience, led by Carrasco’s 15-year tenure and Smith’s eight seasons of MLB service. Additional veterans include Colten Brewer, Wilking Rodriguez, Andrew Velazquez, and Geoff Hartlieb, each offering valuable professional experience in their pursuit of Opening Day roster spots.
Spotlight on key non-roster invitees
Rising Star: Roderick Arias shows promise
The Yankees’ investment in Roderick Arias continues to generate excitement as the 20-year-old switch-hitting infielder enters his first major league camp. Across 182 minor league games, Arias has demonstrated his multifaceted talent, compiling a .232 batting average with 22 home runs, 74 RBIs, and 64 stolen bases. His 2024 performance at Single-A Tampa proved particularly impressive, as he led the Florida State League in multiple offensive categories. Baseball America ranks him third among Yankees prospects, highlighting his exceptional arm strength and recognizing him as the organization’s premier international signing from 2021.
Veteran presence: Carlos Carrasco seeks redemption
Carlos Carrasco brings substantial experience to Yankees camp, having accumulated over 1,600 major league innings. The 37-year-old right-hander aims to rejuvenate his career following a challenging 2024 season with Cleveland, where he posted a 5.64 ERA across 21 starts. His Roberto Clemente Award recognition underscores his value beyond statistical contributions.
Power potential: Spencer Jones draws attention
Spencer Jones ranked sixth among Yankees prospects, represents the organization’s power-hitting future. The imposing 6-foot-6 outfielder demonstrated his potential at Double-A Somerset in 2024, accumulating 17 home runs and 78 RBIs. His combination of raw power and athletic ability positions him as a potential impact player in the Yankees’ future outfield configuration.
Versatile veteran: Dominic Smith’s new opportunity
Former Met Dominic Smith brings nearly 700 games of MLB experience to camp. The left-handed hitter’s .246 career average and recent experience with Boston and Cincinnati (.233, six home runs, 34 RBIs in 2024) provide valuable depth and versatility to the Yankees’ roster considerations.
Redemption story: Brennen Davis on line for revival
Once a highly-touted Cubs prospect, Brennen Davis arrives in Yankees camp seeking to overcome injury setbacks and offensive challenges. At 25, Davis possesses the raw tools to potentially contribute to the Yankees’ outfield depth, provided he can recapture his previous form.
Homecoming: Andrew Velazquez returns
Andrew Velazquez‘s return to the Yankees organization carries particular significance given his previous stint in 2021. The Bronx native’s 2024 performance in Triple-A Gwinnett (.242, 16 home runs) demonstrates his continued development as a versatile defensive asset.
Notable pitching prospects
Chase Hampton: Future rotation piece
Chase Hampton’s development continues to impress, with the 23-year-old right-hander posting a 3.45 ERA and 161 strikeouts across 125 innings in recent seasons. His recognition as the 2023 Yankees’ Minor League Pitcher of the Year and Baseball America’s assessment of his fastball quality highlight his potential impact.
Sean Boyle’s continued development
Six seasons in the Yankees system have established Sean Boyle as a reliable organizational arm, evidenced by his 3.54 ERA over 351 innings. His versatility as both starter and reliever enhances his value to the pitching staff.
Veteran relief options
Colten Brewer and Geoff Hartlieb bring established MLB experience to the bullpen competition. Brewer’s career 5.10 ERA includes moments of effectiveness, while Hartlieb seeks to secure a role following his October 2024 signing.
Wilking Rodriguez’s return
Rodríguez’s journey through multiple baseball levels, including Mexican League and winter ball, leads him back to the Yankees organization. His previous MLB experience from 2014 provides context for his current opportunity.
Additional notable invitees
The remaining invitees represent a diverse group of talent:
- Rafael Flores (C): Hit .279 with 21 home runs in 2024
- Cristian Hernández (RHP): Posted 3.50 ERA across three minor league levels
- Alex Jackson (C): Brings MLB experience from multiple organizations
- Erick Leal (RHP): Excelled in the Mexican League with a 2.91 ERA
- Brandon Leibrandt (LHP): Contributed 4.41 ERA in Triple-A
- George Lombard Jr. (INF): Ranked second among Yankees prospects
- Omar Martínez (C): Demonstrated patience with team-leading walk total
- Ismael Munguia (OF): Hit .286 with 18 stolen bases in 2024
- Leonardo Pestana (RHP): Maintained 2.78 ERA across High-A and Double-A
- Pablo Reyes (INF/OF): Carries a .248 average across 234 MLB games
- Eric Reyzelman (RHP): Posted dominant 1.16 ERA in 2024
- T.J. Rumfield (INF): Led organizational minor league hits
- Cam Schlittler (RHP): Earned South Atlantic League pitching honors
- Kevin Stevens (RHP): Recorded seven saves with a 2.54 ERA at Double-A
2025 Spring Training outlook
The Yankees’ spring training roster composition reflects a strategic balance between immediate competitive needs and long-term organizational development. The 26 non-roster invitees will compete for limited roster spots, with several candidates positioned to impact the major league team. The veteran presence of Carrasco, Smith, and Velazquez provides experienced depth, while prospects like Arias, Jones, and Hampton represent the organization’s future.
Key roster decisions remain pending, particularly regarding third base and bullpen composition. However, the depth and quality of talent assembled for spring training suggest the Yankees maintain strong organizational depth entering the 2025 season. The coming weeks will determine which of these non-roster invitees can secure their place in the Yankees’ plans for the upcoming campaign.
What do you think? Leave your comment below.
