5 prospects who could aid Blue Jays' crusade

TORONTO -- If the Blue Jays are going to end a 21-year postseason drought, it might be up to an emerging youth movement to help a strong veteran group take the next step.

The everyday lineup is expected to be a strength and has plenty of marquee names, but pitching must contribute as well. That's where the rookies come in.

In the latest part of MLB.com's preview for Spring Training, we take a look at the top prospects to watch this spring as at least a couple of them figure to be prominent pieces on the staff.

LHP Daniel Norris: An impressive 2014 campaign by Norris was the breakout season many experts had been waiting for as he rocketed through Toronto's system after resolving command issues that plagued him during his initial years in the Minors. Though Norris made his big league debut as a September callup, he had all but completely run out of gas. He should be back to full strength for the spring and will compete with Marco Estrada for the final spot in the rotation.

Video: Outlook: Sanchez impressive with early successRHP Aaron Sanchez: His future is in the rotation, but for now, it appears Sanchez will be forced to settle into the bullpen, as Toronto was unable to make any significant additions to its relief corps this offseason. He'll likely compete with left-hander Brett Cecil for the closer's role and will look to continue the success that saw him dominate during the second half of 2014.

CF Dalton Pompey: After bursting on to the scene last year, Pompey is expected to open the season as Toronto's starting center fielder. He began the 2014 campaign in Class A Dunedin, quickly rose through the ranks and made it to the big leagues as a September callup. Pompey will have to prove he's not overmatched at the plate once opposing pitchers start making their adjustments. Pompey is particularly adept at working the count and drawing walks, which will be key to his value in 2015.

2B Devon Travis: He will have a chance to compete for the job at second base this spring, but Travis likely will need more time in the Minors before he's ready. There are still some question marks about how he will be able to handle the turf at Rogers Centre, but he is generally regarded to have an above-average bat. Though he has drawn some comparisons to former Blue Jay Aaron Hill, Travis isn't expected to have quite as much power.

RHP Roberto Osuna: Tommy John surgery caused Osuna to miss almost all of 2014, but he returned late in the season and pitched in the Arizona Fall League. Prior to the injury, Osuna was one of the club's top pitching prospects; he'll be looking to prove that he hasn't lost his touch. He has the ability to throw his fastball in the mid-90s, has a plus slider while his changeup remains a work in progress. Osuna likely will begin the year at Dunedin, but it might not be too long before he advances to Double-A New Hampshire.