Provided are methods for preparing T cells for cell therapy, compositions produced by the methods, and methods of administering the cells to subjects. In particular, the disclosure relates to preparation of engineered T cells, such as those expressing genetically engineered receptors, such as genetically engineered antigen receptors such as engineered (recombinant) TCRs and chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), or other recombinant chimeric receptors. Features of the methods include producing a more consistent and/or predictable T cell product and/or lower toxicity compared with other methods. The provided methods include incubating cells under stimulating conditions to induce expansion or proliferation of naive-like T cells compared to non-naive like T cells in the stimulated composition, which in turn can result in preferential transduction of cells derived from the naive-like T cells. Features of the methods can also include reduction in costs, numbers of steps, and resource expenditure compared with other methods.