Barrett and Stites to get close look in Spring Training

DENVER -- D-backs general manager Kevin Towers said he expects top prospect Archie Bradley to compete for spot in the starting rotation next spring, but Bradley won't be the only prospect with a chance to make the roster.

Right-handers Jake Barrett and Matt Stites also figure to get looks in the bullpen.

"Pitching should be competitive next year," Towers said. "I'm hoping that guys like Stites and Jake Barrett push some of the guys in our bullpen next year too."

Barrett was the team's third-round pick in the 2012 First-Year Player Draft out of Arizona State University.

The 22-year-old compiled a 0.36 ERA (one earned run in 24 2/3 innings) after being promoted from Class A Visalia to Double-A Mobile. Barrett will get a chance to improve his stock even more in the Arizona Fall League this year.

So will Stites, who was acquired from the Padres in the Ian Kennedy deal. The 23-year-old has not pitched in the Arizona system since the trade due to an appendectomy.