Players Who Will Change Their Game Changers to Get Promoted
In the highly competitive world of professional sports, securing a promotion—whether it’s moving up from a minor league to the major leagues, earning a starting position, or transitioning to a new team—often requires more than just talent. Players must be willing to adapt, refine their skills, and sometimes even reinvent their approach to stand out and achieve their career goals. Here’s a look at some players across various sports who are poised to make significant changes to their game in order to secure their next big promotion.
1. Gleyber Torres (MLB)
Current Team: New York Yankees
Potential Move: Return to All-Star Form
Gleyber Torres, once an All-Star and one of the brightest young talents in baseball, has faced some challenges in recent seasons. To get back to his peak performance and secure a more prominent role, Torres is focusing on refining his swing mechanics and improving his defensive consistency. His ability to adapt and address these areas could be key in regaining his status as one of the top players in the league.
2. Tyrese Haliburton (NBA)
Current Team: Indiana Pacers
Potential Move: All-Star Status
Tyrese Haliburton has already shown flashes of brilliance as a young guard, but to make the leap to an NBA All-Star, he will need to further develop his scoring ability and defensive prowess. Haliburton is working on expanding his offensive game, including improving his three-point shooting and becoming more aggressive in the paint, which could significantly boost his chances of earning an All-Star nod.
3. Mason Greenwood (Soccer)
Current Team: Available (previously Manchester United)
Potential Move: Top European Club
Mason Greenwood has immense potential as a forward, but to make a successful move to a top European club, he will need to refine his technical skills and adapt to different tactical systems. Improving his versatility and defensive work rate will be crucial in proving himself at a higher level of competition.
4. Andrej Šimunović (NHL)
Current Team: Chicago Blackhawks (AHL)
Potential Move: NHL Roster Spot
As a promising defenseman in the AHL, Andrej Šimunović is working to refine his playmaking and decision-making skills to earn a spot on the Chicago Blackhawks’ NHL roster. Focused on improving his physical conditioning and defensive zone coverage, Šimunović aims to prove that he can handle the increased pace and pressure of the NHL.
5. Sophia Smith (NWSL)
Current Team: Portland Thorns
Potential Move: International Success
Sophia Smith is a rising star in the NWSL, and to take her game to the next level, she is working on expanding her skill set to include more creative playmaking and enhanced tactical understanding. Her goal is to make a significant impact on the international stage, potentially earning a spot on a top European club or becoming a key player for the U.S. Women’s National Team.
6. Jonathan India (MLB)
Current Team: Cincinnati Reds
Potential Move: NL MVP Consideration
Jonathan India had a standout rookie season, but to rise to MVP consideration, he needs to enhance his power-hitting and improve his on-base percentage. India is focusing on increasing his plate discipline and refining his swing mechanics to become a more consistent offensive force.
7. Anthony Edwards (NBA)
Current Team: Minnesota Timberwolves
Potential Move: NBA Superstar
Anthony Edwards has shown the potential to become a superstar, but to achieve that status, he needs to improve his defensive capabilities and efficiency in scoring. Edwards is working on developing a more well-rounded game, including better shot selection and defensive positioning, to solidify his place as one of the league’s elite players.
8. Karla Pineda (Soccer)
Current Team: Liga MX Femenil
Potential Move: U.S. Women’s National Team
Karla Pineda, a standout player in Liga MX Femenil, is focusing on enhancing her tactical understanding and leadership qualities to catch the attention of the U.S. Women’s National Team selectors. By improving her versatility and decision-making on the field, Pineda aims to make a significant impact on the international stage.
9. David Montgomery (NFL)
Current Team: Chicago Bears
Potential Move: Pro Bowl Running Back
David Montgomery is aiming to elevate his game to become a Pro Bowl-caliber running back. To achieve this, he is working on increasing his speed and agility while also improving his pass-blocking and receiving skills. Montgomery’s goal is to become a more complete back who can contribute significantly in both the running and passing games.
10. Zac Charbonnet (NFL)
Current Team: Seattle Seahawks
Potential Move: Starting Running Back
Rookie Zac Charbonnet is vying for a starting role with the Seattle Seahawks. To secure this position, he is focusing on refining his footwork and vision, as well as developing a more dynamic playmaking ability. Charbonnet’s adaptability and readiness to contribute in multiple facets of the game will be crucial for his promotion.