LOS ANGELES DODGERS BRING ELITE PROSPECTS JOSUE DE PAULA AND ZYHIR HOPE TO SPRING TRAINING

As the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare for MLB Spring Training in Glendale, Arizona, the future of the franchise is getting a glimpse at the big stage. Outfielders Josue De Paula and Zyhir Hope, the team’s top two prospects, have earned invites to spring camp. The announcement solidifies the Dodgers’ commitment to building for the future while simultaneously competing for championships now. These young talents are ready to showcase their skills and make an impression as the Dodgers aim to add more star power to their lineup.

De Paula: A Rising Star on MLB’s Top 100 List

Josue De Paula, the No. 1 prospect in the Dodgers’ system, is making waves in the baseball world. The 20-year-old outfielder has already landed at No. 15 on MLB.com’s Top 100 Prospects list, and his rise through the ranks has been nothing short of spectacular. Signed as an international free agent by the Dodgers in 2022, De Paula wasted no time making his mark, posting a .349/.448/.522 slash line in the Dominican Summer League during his first year as a pro.

In 2024, De Paula spent the season with Single-A and High-A, where he displayed a combination of power and speed that intrigued scouts and fans alike. He hit 10 home runs and stole 27 bases in 107 games, quickly moving up the ladder. His 2025 campaign saw even more development, with 12 home runs and a career-high 32 stolen bases for Great Lakes. Despite a small sample at Double-A Tulsa, where he struggled at the plate, De Paula’s plate discipline and strong walk rate give the Dodgers plenty of reason to be optimistic about his future.

De Paula’s ability to walk at a 13.5% clip and keep his strikeout rate around 20% suggests that his early struggles in Double-A could simply be a result of small sample size. Dodgers fans should be encouraged by his growth at every stop in the minors, and the Spring Training opportunity will give De Paula a chance to show he belongs on the big stage.

Hope: A Fast-Rising Outfielder with Power and Speed

Zyhir Hope, the No. 2 prospect in the Dodgers’ system, has quickly turned heads after being acquired in the January 2024 trade that sent Michael Busch to the Chicago Cubs. Initially seen as a raw talent with limited experience in the Complex League, Hope has rocketed through the ranks, jumping three levels in just one year. By the end of the 2025 season, Hope was playing at Double-A Tulsa, putting up impressive numbers at every level.

In 2024, Hope posted a 143 wRC+ in 54 games at Single-A, and in 2025, he continued to show his offensive potential. Hope slashed .264/.377/.428 with 13 home runs and 26 stolen bases over 524 plate appearances. What stands out about Hope, however, is his ability to adjust quickly to new levels. Unlike De Paula, Hope didn’t stumble at Double-A; he went 6-for-19 with extra-base hits and a stolen base in his brief stint at the level, proving that he is ready for the challenge of MLB Spring Training.

The Dodgers’ Future Outfield Could Feature a Dynamic Trio

With De Paula and Hope heading to spring camp, the future Dodgers outfield could soon be a force to be reckoned with. Alongside these two standout prospects is James Tibbs III, another young outfielder acquired last season from the Boston Red Sox in the trade that sent Dustin May to Boston. Tibbs has already proven himself to be a potent bat, notching a 155 wRC+ at Double-A after joining the Dodgers organization. With De Paula, Hope, and Tibbs all showing signs of promise, the Dodgers have an exciting outfield future ahead.

Patrick Copen: A Remarkable Comeback Story

While the spotlight is on the outfielders, there’s another player with a compelling story in the Dodgers’ spring training mix. Patrick Copen, a pitcher, is making his return after a devastating injury. Copen lost sight in his right eye in August 2024 after being hit by a comebacker, an injury that seemed to end his career. However, the 24-year-old made an incredible recovery and is now competing for a roster spot this spring. His story of resilience and determination adds an inspiring element to the Dodgers’ spring training camp.

What’s Next for De Paula, Hope, and the Dodgers?

As spring training begins, De Paula and Hope will have their chance to prove they belong among the best prospects in the organization. While the duo may not crack the MLB roster in 2026, their time in camp will give the Dodgers’ front office a better understanding of their readiness for future seasons. With both outfielders showing exceptional potential, the Dodgers’ farm system is looking like one of the strongest in the league.

While De Paula and Hope battle for a place in the Dodgers’ long-term plans, Tibbs will also continue to develop, providing the team with a wealth of young talent. Copen’s story will also be one to follow, as the team’s success isn’t just about high-profile prospects—it’s about finding talent and resilience in all corners of the organization.

As the 2026 season approaches, the Los Angeles Dodgers are poised to build a strong pipeline of young talent while simultaneously remaining competitive at the MLB level. Their ability to develop players like De Paula and Hope could help them remain a contender for years to come, as they combine veteran leadership with the influx of youthful energy. The Dodgers’ future is looking brighter than ever, with their outfield depth and player development standing as key pillars of success in the years ahead.

Stay tuned as Spring Training heats up, and the Dodgers look to make their mark with some of the most exciting young prospects in baseball.