3 Overlooked Baltimore Orioles Prospects Who Could Break Out in Spring Training 2026

The Baltimore Orioles have officially announced their non-roster invitees for 2026 spring training, and while several top prospects are grabbing headlines, a few under-the-radar players could emerge as surprise standouts. With spring training set to begin in Sarasota, Florida, the organization will have 70 players in camp, including 30 non-roster invitees hoping to impress the major league staff.

Fans and analysts are already familiar with high-profile prospects like Enrique Bradfield Jr. and Trey Gibson, but spring training often serves as a proving ground for lesser-known talents. Three overlooked Orioles prospects—Luis De León, Aron Estrada, and Creed Willems—have a golden opportunity to make a statement and raise their stock ahead of the 2026 MLB season.

Orioles Spring Training 2026: A Chance for New Faces to Shine

The Orioles continue to build one of the deepest farm systems in Major League Baseball, and their 2026 spring training roster reflects that depth. Eight players from Baltimore’s Top 30 prospects list were invited to major league camp as non-roster participants, including De León, Estrada, and Willems.

While many invitees are unlikely to break camp with the big league club, strong performances in the Grapefruit League can significantly accelerate a prospect’s development timeline. Spring training also gives young players exposure to major league coaching, advanced competition, and valuable experience in high-pressure situations.

Among the invitees, these three overlooked prospects stand out as potential breakout candidates.

Luis De León Could Emerge as a Future Rotation Option

Left-handed pitcher Luis De León enters spring training ranked as the No. 18 prospect in Baltimore’s organization and is coming off a strong 2025 campaign. Across multiple minor league levels, the 22-year-old posted a 3.30 ERA over 87 innings while striking out 107 batters, demonstrating impressive swing-and-miss ability.

De León’s performance in the Arizona Fall League further boosted his profile, as he showcased his electric arsenal and ability to miss bats against top prospects. His consistent strikeout numbers and improving command suggest he could develop into either a reliable starter or a high-leverage bullpen arm in the future.

Although he has yet to pitch above Double-A, a strong spring showing could accelerate his path through the minors in 2026. Scouts have already noted his raw stuff and potential, making him one of the most intriguing pitching prospects outside the Orioles’ top tier.

If De León impresses during spring training, he could position himself as a future call-up candidate and a key piece of Baltimore’s long-term pitching plans.

Aron Estrada Brings Versatility and Offensive Production

Infielder Aron Estrada is another prospect to watch closely this spring. Ranked No. 22 in the Orioles’ system, the 21-year-old Venezuelan has quietly put together impressive numbers in the minor leagues.

During the 2025 season, Estrada hit .288 with an .813 OPS, 10 home runs, and 53 RBIs across High-A and Double-A. His ability to produce offensively while maintaining a solid approach at the plate has made him one of the organization’s more promising young hitters.

Estrada’s versatility is another major asset. He has experience playing multiple infield positions and even some outfield, giving the Orioles flexibility in how they develop him. Players who can contribute across the diamond while offering speed and on-base skills are highly valuable in today’s MLB game.

With his strong offensive production and positional flexibility, Estrada could draw significant attention from the coaching staff during spring training. A standout performance in the Grapefruit League may push him closer to a major league opportunity in the coming seasons.

Creed Willems Has Power Potential Behind the Plate

Catcher Creed Willems may be ranked just No. 30 in the Orioles’ prospect rankings, but he brings intriguing power potential to spring training. The 22-year-old backstop had a solid season at Double-A in 2025, hitting .253 with 16 home runs and 59 RBIs.

Catching depth within the Orioles organization is strong, which makes it easy for Willems to fly under the radar. However, power-hitting catchers are always valuable, and Willems’ ability to drive the ball could help him stand out in camp.

Spring training typically features a large number of catchers, making it challenging to earn playing time and recognition. Still, a few well-timed home runs or strong defensive performances could elevate Willems’ profile within the organization.

If he continues to develop his offensive consistency while refining his defensive skills, Willems could become a legitimate depth option for Baltimore in the coming years.

Spring Training Provides the Perfect Stage for Breakouts

Spring training is often where overlooked prospects begin to gain momentum. For Luis De León, Aron Estrada, and Creed Willems, the 2026 Grapefruit League represents a crucial opportunity to showcase their talent against top-level competition.

While they may not be the most talked-about names in the Orioles’ farm system, each player possesses unique skills that could eventually translate to the major league level. Strong performances in camp won’t guarantee immediate promotions, but they can significantly impact how the organization views these prospects moving forward.

As the Orioles continue building a contender for the future, identifying hidden gems within their farm system will be essential. These three overlooked prospects have a chance to prove they belong in the conversation and could emerge as important contributors in Baltimore’s long-term plans.