SPECULATOR: Skills in search of roles

Over the course of a 162-game season, eventually almost every player gets a chance to demonstrate his skills. Even the 25th man gets pressed into action for a few weeks as injuries strike, or the club just seeks a spark. In this way, the season serves as a proving ground for talent.

But here in mid-May, some players are still waiting for their opportunity; perhaps trapped behind a player to whom their organization is more committed. Their time may yet come, though. This week, we look at a dozen non-starters who might offer value later in the season, categorized by what sort of help they might offer... if the opportunity arises.
 

Power

Mike Carp (1B/OF, BOS) has done plenty of damage off the bench this year already, hitting .351 with a...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From Speculator

We continue the rookie class check-in outside the Top 25 in this year's HQ100.
Jul 29 2026 3:09am
We check in on the Top 25 preseason prospects who have made their MLB debut so far, and speculate on their outlooks moving forward.
Jul 22 2026 3:06am
How much can we trust certain pitchers entering uncharted workload territory in the second half?
Jul 15 2026 3:07am
Aroldis Chapman is likely on the move, but instead of speculating on where he might go, we'll dive into potential fill-ins.
Jul 8 2026 3:07am
A retrospective look at first-half all-stars taken late in drafts, including CHW duo Miguel Vargas and Sam Antonacci.
Jul 1 2026 3:06am

Tools