Arizona Diamondbacks Unveil 2026 Non-Roster Invitees

Infielders Breakdown Highlights Intriguing Prospects Fighting for Roster Spots

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:11pm

A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball game or match, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes, capturing the dynamic energy of the sport.The Diamondbacks' non-roster invitees showcase the team's depth and future potential, with a diverse array of infield prospects vying for roster spots.Amarillo Today

The Arizona Diamondbacks have invited several promising infield prospects to spring training, including former Dodgers prospect Jacob Amaya, power-hitting Luken Baker, top-ranked third baseman LuJames Groover, and versatile Ben McLaughlin. These players are vying for roster spots and a chance to contribute to the Diamondbacks' future.

Why it matters

The Diamondbacks' non-roster invitees represent the lifeblood of the organization, offering fresh talent and exciting possibilities. These players have the potential to make an impact on the team's future, either by earning a spot on the major league roster or providing depth and development within the farm system.

The details

Jacob Amaya, a former Dodgers prospect, has an unusual distinction of holding the record for the non-pitcher with the most career plate appearances and a negative OPS+. Despite his offensive struggles, Amaya's defensive skills at shortstop are impressive. Luken Baker, a 21-year-old with a powerful swing, has already made an impact this spring with two home runs, including a 112.5 mph blast. LuJames Groover, a top prospect according to Fangraphs and Prospects 1500, had a stellar season at Double-A Amarillo last year and could be the future at third base. Ben McLaughlin, a ninth-round pick in 2024, has also caught the team's attention with his performance at Double-A Amarillo and his versatility as both a hitter and a pitcher.

  • The Diamondbacks' spring training is currently in full swing.

The players

Jacob Amaya

A former Dodgers prospect who has a unique record of being the non-pitcher with the most career plate appearances and a negative OPS+, but his defensive skills at shortstop are impressive.

Luken Baker

A 21-year-old with a powerful swing who has already made an impact this spring with two home runs, including a 112.5 mph blast, and could be a potential partner for Pavin Smith at first base or as a designated hitter.

LuJames Groover

A top prospect according to Fangraphs and Prospects 1500, ranked as the number six prospect at third base by MLB Pipeline, who had a stellar season at Double-A Amarillo last year and could be the future at the hot corner.

Ben McLaughlin

A ninth-round pick by the Diamondbacks in 2024 who has earned a spring training invite just 18 months after being drafted, and has impressed with his performance at Double-A Amarillo and his versatility as both a hitter and a pitcher.

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The takeaway

The Diamondbacks' non-roster invitees represent the future of the organization, offering a mix of intriguing prospects with diverse skill sets and the potential to make an impact on the team's success. These players will be closely watched during spring training as they compete for roster spots and a chance to contribute to the Diamondbacks' long-term plans.