Every prospect feels pressure to surpass expectations upon reaching the major leagues. After all, if the player is a high-profile prospect, then chances are he’s already viewed as a potential franchise cornerstone.
However, that’s nothing compared to the pressure felt by a prospect tabbed for an everyday role in The Show to begin a season. Such a scenario usually involves prospects that have at least tasted the major leagues—guys who understand what’s at stake and will do everything in their power to relish the opportunity.
This offseason, there have been numerous trades and signings that have affected a prospect’s standing on his organization’s depth chart.
Here’s a look at seven top-ranked prospects that will feel pressure to produce out of the gate in 2014.
*All stats courtesy of FanGraphs.com unless otherwise noted
*All videos courtesy of MLB Advanced Media