2025 Spring Demotions: Jac Caglianone, David Festa Moved Down

Arguably the most notable demotion is of Caglianone, who as of writing leads the Royals in home runs (3) this spring. Caglianone also had three recorded Barrels in spring camp, putting him in the top-40, along with a 25.6% Whiff%.

Despite the strong numbers, it’s not surprising to see the Royals demote Caglianone. The Royals have an established first baseman with Vinnie Pasquantino, and Salvador Perez can also play first. But more importantly, the former Florida standout has limited pro experience.

Caglianone, a non-roster invitee this spring, played 29 games last season. He posted a sub-.700 OPS in High A and struck out 26 times.

Twins demote Festa & Matthews

The Twins announced five demotions on March 16, as three players were optioned to Triple-A, while two were re-assigned to Minor League camp. Minnesota optioned reliever Kody Funderburk and starters David Festa & Zebby Matthews. Pitcher Alex Speas and infielder Luke Keaschall were sent to Minor League camp.

Festa and Matthews were fighting for a rotation spot alongside Simeon Woods-Richardson. However, the two will head to St. Paul (AAA) for further work.

David Festa struggled badly in spring camp, as he conceded 19 hits and 15 runs over 11.1 IP. Command has been a sticking point in the past for Festa, a right-hander with impressive stuff but one who struggled to find a consistent groove at the MLB level last season.

Matthews (12 K over 9.1 IP) pitched better than Festa in spring camp. However, Matthews, who left his March 6 start early thanks to hip discomfort but returned a week later, had problems getting hitters to chase and miss after a dominant run in the Minors last season. He also conceded (14% Barrel%) a lot of hard-hit contact.

Athletics & Cardinals continue to trim

Both the Athletics and Cardinals made cuts this past weekend.

The A’s demoted nine players, highlighted by Esteury Ruiz — likely a blow to fantasy owners hoping the speedster would break camp. Ruiz, who stole 67 bases in 2023, doesn’t get on base a lot, a problem when it comes to stolen bases. He has just a career .297 OBP and in 2023, posted an extremely low Barrel% (2.5%).

It also doesn’t help Ruiz’s case that the Athletics’ outfield has options, between Miguel Andujar and Seth Brown, to handle left field.

Ruiz was optioned to Las Vegas (AAA) alongside Elvis Alvarado, J.T. Ginn, Grant Holman, and Darell Hernaiz. Matt Krook, Logan Davidson, Willie MacIver, and Alejo Lopez were re-assigned.

As for the Cardinals, St. Louis optioned infielder Thomas Saggese to Triple-A Memphis alongside Matt Koperniak and Michael Helman.

White Sox cut down by 11

On March 17, the White Sox trimmed their MLB spring roster by 11.

Outfielder Dominic Fletcher was optioned to Triple-A. Corey Julks, Zach DeLoach, Andre Lipicus, Cal Mitchell, Kyle Teel, Edgar Quero, Mason Adams, Justin Dunn, Jonathan Heasley, and Peyton Pallette were re-assigned.