5 minor league outfielders contending for a 40-man roster spot

5) NY Mets outfielder contending for a roster spot: Lorenzo Cedrola

The difference between Lorenzo Cedrola and the other four mentioned is MLB experience. Cedrola has yet to reach the big leagues. The odds of him doing so with the Mets this year are slim, but he can do himself a big favor and stick around.

Cedrola brings something different to the table. At only 25 and listed as a 5'8 righty filling out his uniform with only 152 pounds, he’s a small-framed speedster with a specific talent he can bring.

Cedrola hasn’t been an exceptional base thief at the higher minor league levels. He swiped just 15 in 21 attempts last year in Triple-A for the Cincinnati Reds. A decent hitter who has slowed down since reaching the highest level of the farm, Cedrola is the early alternative to calling up Locastro.

Working as a center fielder for most of his professional career, Cedrola has seen significant time at both corner spots, too. He’s definitely a low-risk, medium-reward type of offseason free agent signing. Adding him to the 40-man roster before Opening Day doesn’t seem likely. However, his age and Rule 5 Draft eligibility could have the Mets changing things later on this year.

Cedrola will be one of the younger outfielders the Mets carry with them into the start of the season, likely beginning in Triple-A. He’s someone to keep an eye on as the year progresses. Thanks mostly to his speed, there is a way for the big league Mets to find playing time.