MLB named Los Angeles Dodgers prospects Zach Root and James Tibbs III to the All-Spring Breakout First Team after LA’s win in the event.
The Dodgers’ prospects fell behind early against the Chicago White Sox, training 8-2 in the second inning. Tibbs (No. 11 prospect) sparked the comeback in the bottom of that inning, hitting a three-run home run, and had four RBIs on the day.
He stepped up to the plate four times, reaching base in each, and whiffed on just one of the 23 pitches he saw.
On the other side of the ball, Zach Root (No. 13 prospect) had a dominant outing after he came into the game for the fourth inning. Spring Breakout served as Root’s professional debut, as the Dodgers didn’t have him pitch last season nor during spring training until that point.
The Dodgers’ highest selection in last year’s draft pitched three lights out innings, striking out eight of the 10 batters he faced and allowing just one hit. His eight Ks tied the record for most by a single pitcher during a Spring Breakout game.
LA had plenty of standouts during the game, though these two were the only ones to receive honors in the aftermath. No. 1 prospect Josue De Paula scored two runs during the game, hitting an RBI double to tie the game in the third, and Top 5 prospects Zyhir Hope and Emil Morales both had RBIs in the first inning.
Feb 23, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman James Tibbs III against the Seattle Mariners during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesWhen Will James Tibbs III and Zach Root Reach MLB?
Tibbs, a former first round selection, is a little further in his development now having a year and a half of professional experience. He will start the year in Double-A, and will look to impress the Dodgers as he attempts to climb the ladder into the bigs.
His current MLB ETA is 2027, per MLB.
Root likely has a longer path to the majors, as he is yet to make his regular season debut at any level of professional baseball. He still showed promising stuff in Spring Breakout, though, so he could quickly rise through the organization.
That’s all yet to be seen, though, and MLB has him listed with a 2028 ETA for the time being.
LA Baseball Report
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