Three former University of Utah baseball players are set to start the MLB season on Opening Day rosters, highlighting the university's growing impact on professional baseball. Tanner Banks, who pitched for Utah from 2013 to 2014, is on the Philadelphia Phillies' roster. Last season, he pitched a total of 72.1 innings across both the Chicago White Sox and Phillies, showcasing a solid ERA of 3.98. His journey from the 18th round of the 2014 draft to the MLB is a testament to his resilience and skill.

Oliver Dunn, who played for the Utes from 2017 to 2019, will begin his season with the Milwaukee Brewers. Drafted by the New York Yankees in 2019, Dunn made his MLB debut in March 2024, and last season he appeared in 41 games with a .221 batting average. DaShawn Keirsey Jr., a standout from 2016 to 2018, is on the Opening Day roster for the Minnesota Twins after making his debut in September 2024. Keirsey Jr. had limited appearances last season but showed promise with a solo home run in his brief stint.

The Minnesota Twins have finalized their opening day roster, featuring a notable return for right-hander Randy Dobnak, who takes on a long relief role after a four-year gap. Dobnak was added to the 40-man roster following the return of Rule 5 draft pick Eiberson Castellano to the Philadelphia Phillies. Key injuries to relievers Brock Stewart and Michael Tonkin have provided Dobnak's opportunity. Alongside Dobnak, the Twins added Mickey Gasper and Dashawn Keirsey Jr., both earning their first opening day roster spots due to injuries to Royce Lewis and Brooks Lee.

Dobnak, whose journey from an undrafted player to a major leaguer is noteworthy, is set to make $3 million during the last guaranteed year of his contract. His return marks a significant milestone after he spent the last two years in Triple-A, having faced challenges due to injuries. The Twins' bullpen will include Jhoan Duran, Griffin Jax, and other key arms, with Pablo López pitching against the St. Louis Cardinals in their season opener.

Rocco Baldelli made Spring Training memorable for utilityman Mickey Gasper and outfielder DaShawn Keirsey Jr. by delivering the news they earned spots on the Minnesota Twins' Opening Day roster. Gasper, who faced a scare with a cut requiring stitches, expressed his excitement at finally securing a place on an MLB roster. Keirsey, who has played in just six major league games, described the relief and thrill of being selected, marking a significant milestone in his career.

The Twins opted for Keirsey over Austin Martin, emphasizing his defensive skills as an asset to the team. With an outfield that includes Byron Buxton and Harrison Bader, Keirsey is expected to contribute as a defensive replacement or pinch runner. Gasper, a versatile player with limited MLB experience, has shown promise in the minors with a robust on-base percentage. Both players embody the perseverance and determination that define the spirit of baseball.

Mickey Gasper and DaShawn Keirsey Jr. have earned spots on the Minnesota Twins' Opening Day roster, enhancing the team's dynamic for the 2025 season. Gasper, acquired from the Boston Red Sox, is a versatile player trained in multiple positions, while Keirsey, who has shown impressive defensive skills and speed, adds depth to the outfield.

Gasper's journey includes a solid minor league season with a .328 batting average, and he looks to leverage this momentum in the majors. His performance in spring training, where he batted .308, solidifies his role as a backup infielder and catcher. Meanwhile, Keirsey's previous six-game stint last September showcased his potential, and he is expected to contribute significantly off the bench.