The countdown is on. Seventy-one former Diamond Dogs have already made it to the big leagues—Major League Baseball. But who will be the elusive number 72? The answer likely lies within the group of Bulldogs who ended the 2025 season just one step away from the majors, at the Class AAA level. As February arrives and the chill of winter begins to fade, the baseball world shifts its focus to the preseason. Pitchers and catchers are gearing up to report to spring training camps in Florida and Arizona, with full team drills kicking off by month’s end. This is when the real anticipation begins—who among these talented players will be the next to don a Major League uniform? And here’s where it gets exciting: the frontrunner might just be RHP Will Bednar of the San Francisco organization (Richmond). But is he a sure bet, or could someone else surprise us?
Bednar, a first-round draft pick with a substantial signing bonus and a rookie contract nearing its end, is poised to make his Major League debut before 2026 wraps up. His stats speak volumes: in 19 of his last 20 outings in 2025, spanning 29 innings, he allowed one earned run or less. His August performance was particularly stellar, with a 0.75 ERA over 12 innings, six walks, and 17 strikeouts. On September 16, he was promoted to Class AAA Sacramento from Richmond, further solidifying his trajectory. But here’s the controversial part: with so much riding on his performance, can he handle the pressure of being the next big thing?
As the preseason unfolds, the question remains: Who will be the 72nd Diamond Dog to reach the majors? Will it be Bednar, or will another player rise to the occasion? And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about talent; it’s about timing, opportunity, and resilience. What do you think? Is Bednar a lock, or could someone else steal the spotlight? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the debate!
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