Ian Smith

Miguel Hiraldo - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 TOR SS/2B 8 50

Grades Update: Mar 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
50 50 55 50 40 45 50

Mar 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 20 yr
Height: 5-11
Weight: 170 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2017 IFA
RuleV: 2021

Physical Description: Hiraldo is already physically advanced for his age. Stocky frame with a filled out lower half. Broad shoulders and a barrel chest stand out. Some projection remaining as well.

Hit: Hiraldo presents a very sound bat from the right side. Upright, closed stance with his feet square to his shoulders, the 20-year-old keeps his hands at his ears and incorporates a slight leg kick while keeping his back elbow very high throughout his swing. Will show some of the best bat speed in the Blue Jays system while being extremely short to the baseball. Shows ability to get his barrel to the ball anywhere in the zone. Will create some loft to his swing path and has a good feel to spray it all fields. Advanced approach allows him to pick up spin and shows consistent ability to attack the ball early in counts. Limited swing and miss in his approach. Grade: 55

Power: Hiraldo has a current approach that is geared towards creating consistent hard contact from gap to gap, but is slowly growing into more raw power daily. A short, efficient swing that comes with controlled violence allows him to tap into every bit of power that his frame offers, and rarely has to sell out. Average exit velo is currently around 88 and has maxed out at 100+ as a teenager, Hiraldo is quickly developing consistent over the fence power as he continues to add strength to his frame. If you combine his advanced ability to rotate to the ball with all of that, then there's a chance for way more to show down the line. Grade: 50

Field: Hiraldo has average lateral range in both directions and will show soft hands upon receiving. Gets in good position and bends to the ball well, but will sometimes rush on his transfers leading to unforced errors. Has shown position versatility in his short pro career getting time at 2B, 3B and SS already but likely to profile as a 2B or 3B going forward. Grade: 40

Arm: Keeps a consistent arm angle on almost all of his throws. Gets his weight behind his throws and shows decent raw arm strength. Likes to make throws moving and will lose some accuracy. Limited looks overall at the arm. Grade: 45

Run: Will get a very good first step out of the box and reaches top speed quickly due to plus foot speed. Takes short, choppy steps that work perfectly for his frame. Shows very good instincts with his legs as well being a quality base stealer and will always take the extra base. Grade: 50

Overall: This is a very sound profile going forward for Hiraldo. Likely to hit for a very solid average, sneaky speed and growing into some legit raw power to all fields. Second base feels like the eventual long term home for Hiraldo as he develops where his bat can shine through. If you can squint real hard, you can even see some similarities to a young Jose Ramirez.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - Average Everyday Regular
Risk: High


Orelvis Martinez - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 TOR SS 5 50

Grades Update: Mar 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
50 50 45 55 40 50 40

Mar 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 19 yr
Height: 6-1
Weight: 188 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2018 IFA
RuleV: On 40-Man Roster

Physical Description: Martinez presents an athletic frame that has added significant muscle mass since signing in 2018. Very strong in his shoulders and lower half. Still has plenty of projection remaining as well. Will continue to fill out as his body matures.

Hit: There is a lot to unpack with Martinez at the plate. Very wide base in an open stance, bat flat on the shoulder preload. Hands stay shoulder level throughout and bat will pivot off his shoulder to angled above his helmet while incorporating a predominant high hanging leg kick into his swing. Elite level bat speed comes with very noisy hands through the zone. A lot of moving parts in his swing overall, but comes with a linear swing path that creates some loft and works heavily to the pull side. An advanced eye allows Martinez to stay back on pitches and show power to all fields on occasion as well. Will need to quiet his overall swing as he develops to really tap into his full ceiling with the hit tool. Grade: 45

Power: Potential to be the loudest carrying tool in Martinez' game. Has clocked exit velos of 105 as a 17 year old and is only continuing to fill out. All of his power currently is showing to the pull side, with all 7 of his rookie ball HRs coming to LF. Creates impressive rotational acceleration combined with a strong lower half and plus bat speed allows him to attack balls out front. Launch angle currently sits around 8 degrees, so creating a bit more loft on his swing could be beneficial moving forward. Already shows ability to impact the baseball as a teenager, Martinez is going to continue to fill out and add strength giving this tool an even higher raw ceiling. Grade: 55

Field: Shows average range moving in both directions, but rarely will attack the ball. Hands are slow to the baseball, allowing it to get to his body but shows effective movements on his transfers. Footwork is average and has a bad habit of not setting his feet, but his athletic frame allows him to bend and pivot to the ball well. Grade: 40

Arm: Martinez shows the ability to make strong throws from multiple angles and remains accurate throughout those angles. Gets good carry and is able to get his weight behind his throws with ease. Arm has the ability to play anywhere on the diamond. Grade: 50

Run: Will get an explosive first step out of the box and will reach top speed quickly, but doesn't show a true second gear. Clocked 6.9-7.2 in the 60. Grade: 40

Overall: Martinez presents a very risky, albeit very exciting profile for Blue Jays fans going forward. Likely a third baseman or corner outfielder as his body continues to mature, and gives his bat a chance to thrive with less defensive expectations. There's potential for 20+ home run pop at his peak, it's just going to take some refinement as he develops in the talented Toronto system.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - Average Everyday Regular
Risk: Extreme


Josh Lowe - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 TB OF 5 50

Grades Update: Aug 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
50 50 45 55 60 60 60

Aug 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 23 yr
Height: 6-4
Weight: 205 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2016 Round 1
RuleV: On 40-Man Roster

Physical Description: Long, lanky and high waisted frame. High level athlete. Broad shoulders and long arms with room to muscle if needed. Slightly similar build to Christian Yelich.

Hit: Lowe will set up in the box in a wide, slightly open stance that's just a bit crouched. Keeps his hands just below the ear and tweaked his pre-load a bit, now keeping the bat just a bit off his shoulder. Uses a high leg trigger to start his swing and create quality hip to shoulder separation. Bat speed is above average at worst, and bat path creates a ton of natural loft. Swing has got significantly shorter and more direct in 2021 but can still get handsy through the zone. Will get beat frequently at velocity up in the zone and has had trouble picking up spin at times but will absolutely punish pitches early in the count. Uses the entire field in his approach and the quality of contact is there but the overall free swinging approach will keep leading to high K% and curb the overall ceiling. Grade: 45

Power: During BP, Lowe can simple power to all fields with the ability to flick balls over the fence pull side looks effortless. Creates a ton of loft in his swing path and will attack balls out front conducive to easy power. His ability to incorporate his lower half into his swing, especially with his long frame is impressive and it allows Lowe to even miss hit balls and put them over the fence. Will consistently notch exit velos north of 100 MPH, but the overall approach at the plate could hinder the overall power profile at the big league level. Grade: 55

Field: Lowe could have the best outfield range in the entire Rays system due to his foot speed and ability to cover ground quickly. Has shown the skill to attack balls moving in or towards the wall and has done so at all three outfield positions. Rarely puts himself in a bad position to make a play, and even then brings the athleticism and instincts to make up for it. Glove has the ability alone to carve out a big league role. Grade: 60

Arm: Lowe does a fantastic job of getting his frame behind his throws allowing for consistent carry and strength behind them. Can most nearly any throw you'd want from the outfield, and will stay accurate throughout the throw. Can get rushed on occasion, but overall arm talent is plus. Grade: 60

Run: Lowe uses his frame tremendously on the base pads. Sub 4.2 H-1st times on average, his ability to cover a ton of ground with his stride plus an added second gear is impressive. Can pad his extra base totals yearly with hustle doubles and potentially be a double digit stolen base threat. Grade: 60

Overall: Lowe has an extremely strong foundation to build a current big leaguer behind. Plus tools across the outfield with legitimate plus raw power are going to carry Lowe's profile for his entire career. We have seen a slight swing change in 2021 that has allowed Lowe to make more consistent contact without losing power, and that will be a key in reaching his full potential.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - Average Everyday Regular
Risk: Moderate


Xavier Edwards - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 TB 2B/SS 4 55

Grades Update: Aug 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
55 60 70 30 60 45 70

Aug 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 21 yr
Height: 5-10
Weight: 175 lbs
Hits/Throws: S/R
Acquired: 2018 CBB (SD)
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Athletic, stocky build that's added significant muscle to his frame since being drafted in 2018. Lower half size and strength are present without hindering any of his quickness. Built like an NFL slot receiver.

Hit: A switch hitter, Edwards will keep a near mirror image from both sides of the plate. Operating out of an even, closed stance with his knees slightly bent. Hand sit chest high with some slight bat wiggle pre-pitch. Incorporates a low leg trigger to start his load and hands stay back creating quality separation before showing plus bat speed. Bat path has some loft to it, but his overall ability to manipulate the barrel through the zone changes his bat path in a surprisingly good way where he can work the ball to all fields. Edwards has an innate ability to make contact and has shown a highly advanced eye at the plate with numbers like a near 90% contact rate and never running a K% over 14% across 5 levels of the minors. There are very few holes in the overall approach for Edwards, and if they didn't have someone named Wander then he could possibly have the best hit tool in the system. Grade: 70

Power: You won't find too much raw power from either side of the plate in Edwards' profile with just one career home run across 150+ games played so far. There's some strength in his frame with bat speed but Edwards overall all field approach cap any potential for average over the fence power, but will consistently fill up the extra base hit totals due to his double plus speed and barrel control. Grade: 30

Field: Very sound defensive actions that play at both middle infield positions. Shows athletic movements working in both directions and covers a solid amount of ground for his frame. Shows butter smooth hands on ground balls with speed and ease on transfers. Extremely advanced glove work without looking flashy. Will frequently put himself in good positions due to footwork and instincts, and rarely looks out of position. Grade: 60

Arm: Overall the natural arm strength for Edwards is average at best, but his ability to keep a consistent arm angle and stay accurate with his throws allow the tool to tick up a bit. Will leave his feet on occasion to make throws from the hole, but still remain accurate. Likely an arm to profile at 2B long term. Grade: 45

Run: Edwards has shown the ability to change the game with his legs. Explosive first step out of the box. Has been clocked with sub 4.0 H-1st from both sides of the plate, and even times in the 3.7-3.8 range in his prep years. Takes short, quick steps to reach top speed extremely quickly and will hold that speed with ease on extra base hits. Instincts and elite first step will allow him to be a consistent stolen base threat throughout his career. Grade: 70

Overall: When Xavier Edwards was traded to Tampa Bay, he accidentally earned an infamous nickname that he has shown to be much more than in a very short time. Bringing extremely loud hit and run tools that scream future top of the order hitter and could be in line for an abundance of run scoring opportunities hitting in front of the likes of Wander Franco, Randy Arozarena and Vidal Brujan in the coming years. Overall this entire profile has this ceiling has the potential of an all-star second baseman, or at worst an above average regular.

OFP: 55
Role: 60 - Above-Avg. Regular; Occasional All-Star
Risk: High


Shane Baz - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 TB RHP 2 55

Grades Update: Aug 2021
OFP Role FB CB SL CH Cnt/Cmd
55 60 70 45 60 50 50/45

Aug 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-2
Weight: 190 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2017 Round 1 (PIT)
RuleV: 2021

Physical Description: Well proportioned, athletic frame with present strength in his lower half. Uses his natural athleticism and strength well on the mound, and is a lot stronger then his frame would indicate.

Mechanics: Baz will work exclusively out of the stretch utilizing a chest high leg kick into a traditional three quarters arm slot. Showing some of the best natural arm speed in all of the minors, Baz gets down the mound quickly with impressive extension. Has significantly improved his lead leg block over the past few years, and will now consistently hold his mechanics throughout his outings with more ease. Overall ability to drive through his lower half has grown leaps and bounds in 2021.

Fastball: 96-99, T100; You'll be hard pressed to find easier, consistent upper 90s velocity from a 22-year-old after watching Baz pitch. Using his plus arm speed combined with the torque created from driving through his lower half, Baz can reach back for 99 and triple digits without adding stress to his delivery. It's a high efficiency, high spin offering that will show elite fastball RPMs in the 2400-2750 range consistently, and will get a ton of late life at the top of the zone. Baz will add some cut to it when working down in the zone to give hitters a slightly different look, and overall can command the pitch anywhere he wants in the strike zone. Fastball has been a plus pitch for Baz since his prep days, but now is flirting with a double plus offering. Grade: 70

Curveball: 75-79; A pitch Baz has slowly gone away from since joining the Rays organization, but still shows qualities to be a 3rd or 4th pitch down the line. Holds consistent quality 12/6 shape and has the most velocity separation out of any offering he throws. Will primarily use the curveball early in counts to get ahead, and tends to rarely deploy it in any other situation. Baz has the feel to spin on the pitch but overall command of the pitch will waver. Lack of use besides as a get me over pitch will likely limit the growth of the pitch, but has qualities that will play. Grade: 45

Slider: 85-90; A quality second pitch, Baz has run the slide piece up to 92 in the past, and settles in the mid/high 80s with this offering. Shows an advanced ability to manipulate the pitch from having a ton of sweep to RHH or gyro type movement with tight shape to LHH where he creates a ton of vertical break. Has confidence in the ability to throw this pitch in any count and will create a high number of whiffs on a nightly basis. Can land this pitch wherever he wants glove side, and continuing to improve working backdoor to RHH could take this pitch to a whole different level. Grade: 60

Changeup: 83-88; Firm out of his hand, with late tumbling action. Baz has had some trouble in the past maintaining his arm speed on the pitch, but is showing big improvements so far this season in that regard. Has been frequently elevating the pitch to tunnel off the fastball better and has been creating a high number of ugly swings. Overall has been deploying the pitch at a much higher clip to LHH and the results are improving. Command can still be spotty on the pitch, but the confidence Baz has shown to throw it more deeper in counts is impressive. Adding a consistent changeup to Baz' arsenal is key to his overall ceiling, and slowly we're seeing the makings of above average pitch. Grade: 50

Control and Command: The overall growth Baz has made in his control in 2021 has been outstanding. A career BB/9 of over 4.5 coming into this year, Baz currently has 8 walks in nearly 52 innings. Fastball and slider command are head and shoulders above the rest of his pitch mix, but the development of the changeup has made things much easier to project. Control: 50 | Command: 45

Overall: Since joining Tampa Bay and their widely known player development team in 2019, Baz has taken his game to a higher level. K rates are up, Walk rates are down, and the entire pitch mix continues to get more lethal as he pushes through the minors. At the beginning of Shane Baz' career you were likely looking at a high leverage reliever at best, but now we are seeing close to a fully developed starting pitching prospect who's ceiling could be that of a #2 or #3 in s big league rotation.

OFP: 55
Role: 60 - Mid-Rotation SP #3
Risk: High


Braxton Garrett - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 MIA LHP 24 40

Grades Update: May 2021
OFP Role FB CB SL CH Ctr/Cmd
40 40 40 55 40 50 50/45

May 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 23 yr
Height: 6-2
Weight: 202 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/L
Acquired: 2016 Round 1
RuleV: On 40-Man Roster

Physical Description: Lean, high waisted frame. Not overly physical. Long limbs, with some room to add muscle. A Tommy John surgery survivor.

Mechanics: Garrett will work primarily out of the windup, using a slight rocker step into chest high leg kick. True over the top arm slot and works down the mound very well, despite having minimal extension. Very good body control with a great ability to repeat his delivery.

Fastball: 89-91; With the velocity where it currently is, Garrett lacks the ability to blow hitters away, but will utilize some late arm side run to miss barrels. Will command the pitch well at the bottom of the zone, but has been hit hard when he gets behind in counts. Grade: 40

Curveball: 78-81; Garrett's best pitch and the main reason he was a first round pick back in 2016. A legit power curveball that shows tremendous 12-6 shape and depth that is commanded extremely well. Will live at the bottom of the zone and below, and create a ton of empty swings because of it. Has the confidence to throw this pitch in any count. Grade: 55

Slider: 83-84; A bit of a change of pace or get-me-over pitch for Garrett that he will throw early in counts. Will take a slight gyro shape with minimal sweep. Grade: 40

Changeup: 82-85; Will throw this pitch decently hard with some great late fade, and could play up with some added velocity on the fastball. Garrett shows great feel and maintains arm speed well to mimic off the heater, and could potentially become more of a weapon over time. Grade: 50

Control and Command: Garrett does a really good job of commanding the curveball and changeup, and for the most part the fastball as well, but will leave pitches in the middle of the zone on occasion. Ultimately works too many long counts nibbling at the corners, but not considered wild by any means. Control: 50 | Command: 45

Overall: Garrett has been dealt a up and down hand since being drafted in 2016. First Tommy John in your first pro season, then a tremendous come back year in 2019 then to face the 2020 that everyone faced. Ultimately was able to make his big league debut in 2020, showing the type of pitcher we are likely to see long term. A crafty LHP who's likely to never blow you away but miss plenty of bats with a plus breaking balls and starters pitch mix. Likely never more than a 4 or 5 guy or depth in the rotation.

OFP: 40
Role: 40 - Spot Starter or Bulk Reliever
Risk: High


Frederico Polanco - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 MIA SS 45 35

May 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 20 yr
Height: 5-10
Weight: 155 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2017 IFA (NYM)
RuleV: 2021

Overall: A former New York Mets international signing who made his way into the Marlins organization this offseason via the Jordan Yamamoto deal. Polanco has a stocky frame at 3B with some raw strength in his lower half. Compact LH swing that creates a bit of loft and shows ability to manipulate the barrel in the zone. Not a ton of raw power in the profile, but bat to ball skills are present. Shows a strong arm at the hot corner and good footwork as well. Could end up being a quality low risk acquisition for this Marlins organization.

OFP: 35
Risk: High


Osiris Johnson - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 MIA SS 29 40

May 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 20 yr
Height: 6-1
Weight: 211 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2018 Round 2
RuleV: 2022

Overall: After being one of the youngest players drafted in the 2018 draft, Johnson has had nothing but setbacks to begin his pro career playing just 48 games since being drafted, but looks like a brand new player in 2021. Added physicality and a new, reworked swing has stood out in early looks this season. Swing is significantly shorter allowing his plus bat speed to impact the baseball and show his above average raw power. There is still some swing and miss to his game, but has refined his overall approach that should lead to better results. There are still some question marks to where Johnson will end up defensively, but it's very likely 3B or even a corner OF spot could be in his near future. Still just 20 years old, 2021 will be a major point in his development.

OFP: 40
Risk: Extreme


Evan Fitterer - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 MIA RHP 18 45

Grades Update: May 2021
OFP Role FB CB CH Ctr/Cmd
45 40 45 55 50 50/45

May 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 21 yr
Height: 6-3
Weight: 192 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2019 Round 5
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: High waisted, with long limbs in his upper and lower half. Some projection remaining on the frame, but room to add plenty of strength.

Delivery & Mechanics: Fitterer will work mostly from a semi windup that utilizes a slide step into a high close to body leg kick. Creates big extension quickly down the mound with a lower release point from a high arm slot.

Fastball: 90-92; Has been up to 96 in a past bullpen, but will live in the low 90s with late sinking action. Fitterers' low release allows his fastball to play very heavy at the bottom of the zone. Showed a good ability to command the pitch in his brief pro stint so far. Grade: 45

Curveball: 80-82; Holds quality velo and big depth with this above average pitch. Utilizes quality spin and feel while holding a tight 11-5 shape. Will use this creates predominantly as a swing and miss pitch. Grade: 55

Changeup: 80-82; Fitterer shows an advanced feel for a change, maintaining arm speed and showing late tumble action as it crosses the plate. It gives him a quality pitch that he can command very well. Grade: 50

Control and Command: Fitterer has shown the ability to command the trio of the fastball, curveball, and changeup very well in his first taste of pro ball. Will live at the bottom of the zone with ease, but will nibble at the corners too much sometimes. Control: 50 | Command: 45

Overall: Fitterer was one of the highest overslot selections in the 2019 Draft, taking over a million over to steal him away from his UCLA commitment. Armed with a strong three pitch mix with likely more in the tank going forward and projectable frame, Fitterer could have a rotation spot in A ball in 2021. This is likely the year we see what the Marlins have in the 20-year-old.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Backend SP #5
Risk: High


Peyton Burdick - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 MIA OF 7 50

Grades Update: May 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
50 50 45 60 50 60 50

May 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 24 yr
Height: 6-0
Weight: 205 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2019 Round 3
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Formerly known to be built like a young Mike Trout, Burdick may have taken his physique to NFL running back status. Armed with possibly the largest shoulders and forearms I've ever seen on a baseball player, Burdick is an imposing figure in a stocky, six-foot frame.

Hit: Operates out a wide base with a very open stance. Burdick stands slightly crouched with his hands at his ear and a pronounced bat wiggle. He incorporates a large leg trigger into his swing showing a tremendous amount of balance and bat control through the zone. He stands nearly on the inside of the plate, so he can ultimately take away a third of the plate from opposing pitching. Bat path creates easy loft through the zone with plus bat speed behind it. There is clearly some effort in Burdick's swing leading to some swing and miss concerns, but the body control and bat-to-ball skills are very strong. Some chance for an above-average grade here going forward. Grade: 45

Power: Burdick will produce some of the loudest contact you will see in batting practice, i've dubbed his BP sessions as simply controlled violence. It's easy carry to all fields and almost never has to sell out for HR pop. Big time bat speed and a bat path that creates some loft allows Burdick to incorporate all of his raw strength into his swing creating monster exit velocities. Above average foot speed adds an extra tick to his tool by taking an extra base frequently. Grade: 60

Field: Another guy who just looks the part when he's in the corner. Burdick will flash a plus glove on occasion. Moves extremely in a well directions and gets a consistently great jump on fly balls. Even in times when he can get in a bad position, his arm strength allows himself to make the play. Grade: 50

Arm: Burdick shows the arm strength for all three outfield positions. Has ability to incorporate his strength into throws without losing accuracy, and shows consistent carry on those throws. Shows to be very confident in his arm talent. Grade: 60

Run: A very capable runner for his size. Takes an aggressive first step out of the box and on the base paths. A short stride due to his frame, but will reach top quickly and even shows a second gear in stride. Grade: 50

Overall: Burdick is now a 24-year-old who's been a non-stop hitting machine both at Wright State and in his debut in 2019 with big time ability to impact the baseball. Likely to start the 2021 season at either the high A or AA level, if Burdick can continue to show that his hit tool will play at the higher levels then his ceiling could be even greater going forward.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - Average Everyday Regular
Risk: High


JJ Bleday - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 MIA OF 3 55

Grades Update: May 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
55 60 60 55 55 60 45

May 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 23 yr
Height: 6-3
Weight: 205 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/L
Acquired: 2019 Round 1
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Bleday just looks like the prototype corner outfielder. Tall, thick frame with broad shoulders and strong lower half. Not very much wasted weight on his frame, ton of lean muscle.

Hit: One of the easiest plus tools I've written this year. Bleday again just looks the part when he steps in the box, while bringing equal production. Working out of a slightly open stance with a shoulder width base, Bleday will keep his hands at eye level and rear elbow high. Will stand nearly upright with his knees barely bent into incorporating a small leg trigger to begin his swing. Creates easy bat speed and tremendous barrel lag through the zone while covering both sides of the plate well. Bleday will attack balls out front creating simple loft in his bat path that works to all fields. It's Bleday’s highly advanced approach at the plate that gives this tool an extra boost. Shows a great eye for spin and will show power against LH and RH pitching. Overall one of the safer hit tools in the system. Grade: 60

Power: Bleday creates easy plus raw power, and shown ability to show plus in-game but likely above average long term. Combining a strong frame and a swing path that is completely optimized for power, Bleday does not need to sell out for any type of added juice, and pull side power seems effortless. With the swing path and plus approach, there's even a chance this power can grow into a long term plus tool. Grade: 55

Field: A tireless worker on the defensive side of his game. Will take advanced routes to the ball moving both towards the plate and balls over his head. Bleday will position himself well to make good jumps and allow himself to make the play easier than it should be. Plus arm strength only helps the glove and shows the ability to be an above average defender in RF for a very long time. Grade: 55

Arm: Overall the loudest tool in Bleday's defensive profile. Shows tremendous accuracy throwing to all bases with carry. Rarely needs to add unnecessary effort into throws due to natural strength and easy arm action. Easy arm to have a long term home in either corner. Grade: 60

Run: Bleday will show sneaky foot speed on both sides of the ball. Gets an explosive first step of the box and on fly balls. Not a burner by any means, but will reach top speed quickly and cover a bunch of ground with his strides. Will even stretch the occasional double into a triple. Grade: 45

Overall: Bleday is the type of player any team would love to have. Physical, strong corner outfielder who presents a safe plus hit tool and perennial above-average power potential. You combine that with a long track record of results and very strong defensive profile, and it's clear to see why lofty expectations are being projected. Bleday is likely to start the 2021 season at the AAA level, and could be loanDepot park sometime later this summer.

OFP: 55
Role: 60 - Above-Average Regular; Ocasional All-Star
Risk: Moderate


Baron Radcliff - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 PHI OF 23 40

Grades Update: Feb 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
40 40 30 60 40 45 55

Feb 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-4
Weight: 228 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2020 Round 5
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: An absolute physical freak. Hulking shoulders and chiseled frame that's completely maxed out. Built very similar to another former Georgia Tech great, Calvin Johnson.

Hit: Imposing figure when stepping into the box. Radcliff gives himself a wide base, open base to work out of with his hand and elbow sitting high preload. Will incorporate a heel turn and toe tap to begin his swing into a short, compact swing for his frame. Keeps the barrel through the well and impacts the ball with purpose. Bat speed is easy to see and uses his lower half well. Minimal wasted effort in his overall swing. There is a slight uppercut to his bat path to create loft, and will use the entire field when he's locked in. Problem is, he's not always locked in. There is a fair amount of swing and miss to Radcliff's game, and most concerning is the frequency of zone misses. He's patient to the point of passive frequently getting himself deep into counts, which will lead to walks, but also plenty of Ks. Grade: 30

Power: Legitimate plus-plus raw power explodes off of the bat of Radcliff. His shots at Georgia Tech were simply known as "Baron Missiles". Short, simple swing allows his plus bat speed to attack the ball at quality points of contact consistently, while creating easy carry on the ball. Nearly half of Radcliff's hits in college came via the extra base hit. Power can play up to all fields with an average exit velo in 2020 of north of 96MPH, and a max of nearly 120. Simply put, there's very few players with this type of true raw power ability in their profile. It's all a matter of making contact. Grade: 60

Field: Another area where Radcliff's athleticism stands out. Makes quality reads and will take efficient routes to the ball. Long strides and his massive frame allow Radcliff to cover a wide range of ground in either corner. Footwork for his size is not too common, and shows the confidence and ability to attack balls moving forward or on the chase. His hands are another story as he struggles to get into good fielding positions whether in the outfield or at first base. Like much of Radcliff's game the tools are there, it's all a matter of honing them into skills. Grade: 40

Arm: Radcliff will uncork some big throws with easy carry but can lose some accuracy often. Short arm action forces Radcliff to more or less push the ball to the target instead of getting his weight behind his throws. Grade: 45

Run: Moves extremely well for his size. Has been clocked at near plus times in the 60 with elite level splits. A long strider who will cover tons of ground while reaching top speed quickly. Could lose a step as he continues to mature, but his athleticism could keep Radcliff a high level for a long time Grade: 55

Overall: Radcliff fits the mold of a prototype power hitting corner outfield to a tee. Armed with some of the best raw power in the entire Phillies organization, as well as near plus speed, Radcliff has a chance to dig out a consistent big league role if he can make enough consistent contact going forward.

OFP: 40
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Bench / Platoon
Risk: High


Jamari Baylor - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 PHI SS 7 45

Grades Update: Feb 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
45 40 50 55 55 60 55

Feb 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 20 yr
Height: 5-11
Weight: 190 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2019 Round 3
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Slim build with plenty of projection remaining in the upper half. High waisted with long arms. Will make his 5'11" frame play a lot bigger with elite athleticism.

Hit: Pure hitter. Baylor operates out of a narrow, open stance. Standing in a near upright position with his hand below the ears preload then as he starts his swing, hands dip slightly with the barrel dropped to his shoulder. Hands stay back while he incorporates a small, quick leg trigger to keep everything on time. Shows advanced body control throughout his swing with minimal wasted effort in his lower half. Bat speed is just average, but will create plus acceleration from a bat path that's optimized for future power. Will need to monitor how he handles plus velocity going forward with his swing path. Grade: 50

Power: Baylor will tap into some unexpected pull side pop. Natural loft and barrel acceleration allow him to impact the ball for exit velos north of 105. Above average foot speed will help to his overall power profile with added XBHs. If Baylor can grow into more bat speed as he develops, then there's a chance for a plus tool here. Grade: 55

Field: Baylor's actions in the dirt are as smooth as you'll find. Will show advanced footwork and quickness moving in both directions with extended range. Will field the ball out in front and use extremely quick and soft hands on the transfer. Rarely will look overmatched and has the confidence to make every play on the field. Grade: 55

Arm: Keeps a consistent arm angle on his throws with easy, natural strength. Clocked 90MPH across the diamond going into the draft, with likely more to come as he fills out. Will get consistent carry on his throws with consistent accuracy. Arm talent is a true plus tool, and with even more to come down the line. Has even touched 93 on the mound in high school. Grade: 60

Run: Clocked as a sub-6.6 runner in the 60. Baylor will get out of the box quickly, and reaches top speed with ease. Keeps his body under control while using his entire frame to stride out, covering ground with ease. Grade: 55

Overall: Baylor gives you the solid foundation of an above average glove at a premium position, combined with plus speed and a chance for impactful power. After exploding his draft spring (he nursed an arm injury during his pre-draft summer) Baylor had a shot to vault his prospect status in 2020 with another strong performance. However, with the canceled minor league season his lost development time in 2020 "potentially" has added some risk to the profile. The player oozes potential and a 2021 breakout is possibly in the cards. We just need to see more before pushing him to a projected everyday role.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Bench / Utility
Risk: Extreme


Cade Cavalli - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 WAS RHP 2 55

Grades Update: Jan 2021
OFP Role FB CB SL CH Cnt/Cmd
55 60 60 55 60 50 50/45

Jan 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-4
Weight: 220 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2020 Round 1
RuleV: 2024

Physical Description: Physical, XL frame with limited projection remaining. Barrel chest with broad shoulders and a thick lower half. It's rare to see a pitcher with this type of measurables and muscle definition. Has battled some injuries throughout amateur career, but offers a pro-ready body right now.

Delivery & Mechanics: Makes it look effortless on the mound. Cavalli works off the first base side of the rubber in a traditional windup. Slight rocker step and gets very tall before exploding to the plate. Arm speed jumps out at you. Arm slot comes from a high three quarters while getting elite extension. Lacks some deception in his arsenal, but top-tier velocity helps overcome some. Will show impressive hip and shoulder separation combined with high level flexibility. Very simple, loose delivery with limited added effort and easy repeatability. Clean all the way through finish.

Fastball: 96-99; Very easy plus-plus velocity. Will get a ton of late life at the top of the zone. Lacked some deception on the pitch in college by trying to live at the bottom of the zone, and ultimately left too many pitches to be hit hard. Command of the pitch will waver on occasion, but shows the ability to be a high K pitch due to velo and movement profile. Solid chance for triple digits very soon.  Grade: 60

Curveball: 81-85; A true power curveball that has just been steadily improving. Cavalli has turned a solid pitch into a 12/6 hammer with tremendous shape over the past year. Throws the pitch extremely firm with very good depth creating a bunch of empty swings. Loses command of the pitch occasionally, and that's seemingly keeping this pitch away from being true plus.  Grade: 55

Slider: 86-89; The most underrated weapon in Cavalli's arsenal. Gyro-heavy movement with heavy velocity, and the confidence to throw in any counts. Will kill sweep on the pitch and gets devastating vertical movement in the zone. Tunnels the pitch extremely well off of the fastball. Has some cutter aspects to the pitch and shows ability to miss a ton of bats.  Grade: 60

Changeup: 87-90; Another above average pitch that Cavalli can get a ton of empty swings with. Gets big tumbling action while consistently landing the pitch for strikes. Velo separation could be better, but maintains arm speed and tunnels the pitch well.  Grade: 50

Control and Command: Cavalli shows a good ability to throw strikes, but overall command is very average as we stand today. Fastball command leads the way, but secondaries need a bit more consistency. Overall control took a big stride in a small sample in 2020, and will be important to see if that continues to trend up given the lack of projection remaining.  Control: 50 | Command: 45

Overall: This is a very high octane package coming from the former Boomer Sooner. Can potentially have three plus pitches before it's all said and done led by the FB/SL combo. If Cavalli can continue to make strides in command, this could be an SP2 type of ceiling with a very strong foundation to fall back on.

OFP: 55
Role: 60 - #3 SP
Risk: High


Freddy Valdez - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 NYM OF 11 40

Grades Update: Feb 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
40 40 40 55 45 50 40

Feb 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 19 yr
Height: 6-3
Weight: 212 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2018 IFA
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Big, broad shoulders with long arms that have a ton of room left for growth. Really physical frame throughout. Eloy Jimenez type body.

Hit: A known swing tinkerer, Valdez has made small adjustments to his approach multiple times since earning the Mets organization. Operation now starts out of an open stance with his hands right below his ears. Will incorporate a high leg kick while lowering his hands to his chest. He will simultaneously bring his knee to his elbow, then fire his lead leg down combined with plus bat speed. Bat path will vary between creating some natural loft and a flat, line drive approach. Will work predominantly pull side and will abuse velocity, but free swinging approach will allow breaking balls to keep him out front and roll over the ball. Grade: 40

Power: Loudest carrying tool for Valdez. Natural raw strength in the frame along with plus bat speed allow for near plus pull side power. Bat path will flash as an optimal path to power often, and allows Valdez to attack fastballs at a quality point of contact consistently. Grade: 55

Field: Will make good reads and shows enough range to handle a corner outfield spot, but a bit uncoordinated in his lower half on long routes. Shows some flexibility when attacking balls and bends well at the waist, but lack of overall athleticism will curb the profile. Grade: 45

Arm: Valdez will show a ton of raw arm strength with some accuracy, but coming with a bunch of extra effort. Will throw his entire body into throws with a substantial amount of head whack. Gets good carry on throws, and has the frame and strength to evolve into a more composed thrower. Grade: 50

Run: Does not take a long stride for his frame, and therefore does not reach top speed quickly. Will lumber down the line at times but can get some momentum on XBHs. Grade: 40

Overall: The hulking 2018 international product fits the profile of a power hitting corner outfielder to a tee. Will show big raw power in the bat and the arm, albeit coming with some serious refinement needed in both areas. Valdez had a very loud showing in his professional debut in 2019 earning the Mets DSL hitter of the year title, and will look to build on that going into the 2021 season.

OFP: 40
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Platoon
Risk: Extreme


Logan Brown - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 ATL C 29 40

Grades Update: Dec 2020
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
40 40 40 30 50 55 30

Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 24 yr
Height: 6-0
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2018 Draft, Round 35
RuleV: 2021

Physical Description: Stocky build with a thick core and broad shoulders. Shows impressive flexibility in the crouch and explosive out of the crouch. Ideal body overall for the current MLB catcher.

Hit: Open feet with his hands at the numbers. Operates out of a slightly crouched stance that uses a wide base and incorporates a big leg kick timing mechanism. Swing path takes an uppercut approach and can show above average bat speed at times. Hips will fly open on offspeed early in counts. Batted ball approach is very up the middle oriented currently. Overall pitch recognition at the plate is below average. Grade: 40

Power: Above-average bat speed and swing path is conducive to power, but it hasn't shown yet in game. Will show decent pull side power when he barrels up, but lack of consistency doing so will limit the overall power profile. Grade: 30

Field: Shows very soft hands when receiving. Will have trouble on foul tips and some high fastballs. Operates out of a traditional crouch, and will show great flexibility. Ranges well to both sides of the plate and gets out in front of the ball quickly. Framing made big strides over the course of 2019, and is still improving currently. Pop times are currently grading above average in the 1.98-2.04. Grade: 50

Arm: Big time tool here with plus arm strength and gets long carry on his throw. Will beat runners to the bag consistently but needs to tighten up accuracy to get quality caught stealing numbers. Grade: 55

Run: Slow first step out of the box. Will gain speed on XBH when his short, choppy steps turn into a decent stride. Grade: 30

Overall: Defensive minded catcher that has made big improvements since being drafted. Elite makeup, and game manager with big league bloodlines being the son of former 10 year vet Kevin Brown. Was added the Braves 60 man roster in 2020, and earned quality instruction at the alternate training site. Will likely never hit for a ton of power, but will hit enough to keep a spot on an MLB roster as a backup.

OFP: 40
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Bench
Risk: Extreme


Vaughn Grissom - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 ATL SS 20 40

Grades Update: Dec 2020
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
40 40 45 50 50 50 45

Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 20 yr
Height: 6-3
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2019 Draft, Round 11
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Physical, athletic build with long levers. Lots of room for growth in his lower and upper half. Should be able to put on healthy weight without hindering his overall frame.

Hit: Feet square with a high handset. Operates out of an upright stance with a slightly wide base. Stays on his back leg well and incorporates a small leg trigger to stay balanced and in time. Quiet hands that will fire a linear bat path through the zone. Bat speed stands out on film. Will get on his front foot on occasion and swing can get long on off-speed. Grade: 45

Power: Presents impressive mobility at the plate with a very rotational swing that shows present power to all fields. Will ambush fastballs early in the count. Incorporates his lower half well. Plus bat speed and barrel acceleration allow him to tap into massive power in BP, but currently hasn't translated the true raw power into games. Grade has a chance to tick up with added strength. Grade: 50

Field: Smooth actions in both directions. Will field the ball out front and shows soft hands on transfer. Shows plus range with easy movements and advanced flexibility. Grade: 50

Arm: Loose, low slot delivery that will get good carry across the diamond. Can make strong throws ranging in both directions and from multiple angles. Grade: 50

Run: 6.78 in the 60. Quick first step. Long strider who will cover ground quickly, and should be able to stretch routine singles into XBHs. Grade: 45

Overall: Gives you the look of a power hitting SS who should hit for a solid enough AVG while sticking at short long term. Likely a bench bat with a chance to pick up a few starts a week.

OFP: 40
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Bench / Utility
Risk: Moderate


Austin Hansen - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 HOU RHP 27 40

Grades Update: Jan 2021
OFP Role FB CB SL CH Cont/Cmd
40 40 55 45 55 30 45/40

Jan 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 24 yr
Height: 6-0
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2018 Draft, Round 8
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Stocky, medium build. Wide lower half with present strength. Very broad shoulders. Very compact frame overall.

Delivery & Mechanics: Will work exclusively out of the stretch. Sets up at the far third base side of the rubber with a true three quarters slot. Implements a drop and drive delivery, working extremely quickly to the plate. Some effort in the finish of his delivery with a slight head whack. Will get into his back hip extremely well and gets good extension. Arm speed is above average, and he will get the most out of his simple mechanics.

Fastball: 93-96; will get good ride at the top of the zone. Creates a bunch of swing and miss due to near flat approach angle from his low release height. Can try to nibble the corners too much sometimes and will get behind in counts. Overall command of the pitch is average, but the combination of his movement profile, velocity, and approach angle tends to show this pitch an above average offering. Grade: 55

Curveball: Slightly distant third pitch. Sits mid 70s with true 12 to 6 shape. Shows quality depth with a very loopy shape, but does not get on top of the ball at a consistently enough basis. When in on, and you combine the velo separation and movement then it can flash as a plus offering. Grade: 45

Slider: Hansen will work this pitch in the low to mid 80s with wipeout horizontal movement at times. Has been his bread and butter strikeout pitch to this point in his career. Will get very tight, sweeping shape to the break, but sometimes shows the tendency to hold on too long and is prone to yanking pitches glove side. Tunnels well off the fastball, but will need to improve his overall command of the pitch for it to grow into its full potential. Grade: 55

Changeup: Very limited looks in the CH. Showed some feel for the pitch, and can maintain arm speed well. Grade: 30

Control and Command: This is the area of Hansen's game that may ultimately decide if he starts or comes out of the bullpen long term. Will command his FB better than anything in his arsenal, but still will seem to overthrow when he gets behind. SL and CB command are spotty at best, and will be prone to a handful of wild pitches, regardless who's behind the plate. Control: 45 | Command: 40

Overall: Houston gave the former Boomer Sooner the chance to start in 2019, but Hansen's profile gives you all the makings of a 6th/7th inning guy who will come in with an explosive FB/SL combo to shake any lineup up. Will be the best option to limit control concerns while likely always being a high K/9 guy.

OFP: 40
Role: 40 - Low Leverage Reliever
Risk: High


Colin Barber - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 HOU OF 10 45

Grades Update: Jan 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
45 40 50 50 55 55 60

Jan 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 20 yr
Height: 6-0
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/L
Acquired: 2019 Draft, Round 4
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: High waisted. Muscular, athletic frame. Large forearms and quads. Plenty of room remaining to add muscle in his upper half. High-end athleticism will likely hold up as he matures.

Hit: Barber gives you so much to like at the plate. Hands settle in at his ear with his elbow high to the backstop. Feet are slightly open and a hair narrow. Short, quick leg trigger that simultaneously brings his hands back creating good barrel lag through the zone. Takes a short bat path to the ball creating a hard line drive approach to all fields with limited wasted effort. Lightning quick hands. Swings through the ball, and gets a long finish. Bat speed is easy, and will impact the ball consistently. Shows an advanced eye for spin and will sit on his pitch. Can be overly patient on occasion, and get behind in counts but not something to be overly concerned about. Grade: 50

Power: Present strength and slight change in bat path has led to an uptick in power from Barber. Was clocking some 100+ exit velos at Astros instructs, after a previous high was reported in the low 90s. Bat speed and barrel acceleration combined with a simple left handed swing give him the tools to show plus pull side power, but will get under the ball at times. All fields approach and Plus speed will help his overall power profile by padding his extra base hit totals. Grade: 50

Field: Takes an aggressive approach to the ball. Will commit early and attack moving in all directions. Plus foot speed and instincts allow to be in good positions to field consistently. Shows the range and athleticism to stick in CF long term, but arm strength would allow him to slide to RF if need be. Grade: 55

Arm: Easy throwing action. Gets his weight behind the ball and really opens up his hips to get good carry. Was clocked at 89 MPH at PG National in 2019. Grade: 55

Run: 6.51 runner in the 60. Gets an explosive first step and will reach top speed quickly. Long legs and athleticism will likely give him the ability to keep his foot speed long term. Grade: 60

Overall: Barber gives you an extremely interesting set of tools. Nothing he does on the diamond is going to hurt your ball club, but he doesn't give you that star potential projection. He's a Top of the order type of bat who's going to go all out for every fly ball. A glue guy if I may, but a glue guy who shows the makings of an everyday centerfielder in just a few years.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Bench or Platoon
Risk: High


Alex Santos - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 HOU RHP 6 50

Grades Update: Jan 2021
OFP Role FB CB SL CH Cont/Cmd
50 50 55 60 45 45 55/50

Jan 2021 Report

Evaluator: Ian Smith

Age: 19 yr
Height: 6-3
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft, Round 2
RuleV: 2024

Physical Description: Lanky, projectable frame with tons of room for growth. High waist with long arms. Has added muscle in his lower half since being drafted. Plenty of room to add good weight going forward as well.

Delivery & Mechanics: Santos makes it look extremely easy on the mound. Works primarily out of the stretch on the first base side of the rubber. Arm slot sits in a high three quarters. Shows present plus arm speed with a strong lead leg block. Will have complete control of his frame throughout his delivery with very little added effort. Will really sink into the back leg and explode through finish. Uses his long levers to his advantage getting above average extension with a low release point.

Fastball: Santos has worked hard to improve an already quality pitch this offseason. Sitting 92-94 at draft day, Santos has recently touched 97 in a bullpen with velo trending up. Spin efficiency is consistently over 90% with very high spin rates north of 2600 RPMs. Gets impressive arm side run and rarely goes over the middle of the plate. Movement profile stands out with an average induced vertical break of 16" in recent pens with plus horizontal movement. His frame and delivery also make the pitch appear to have more life creating uncomfortable At-Bats consistently. Santos will command his fastball as well as any pitch in his arsenal, and has the confidence to match. Grade: 55

Curveball: 77-80; with more velocity to come potentially. High spin rates. Creates an insane amount of depth out of a very tight 11/5 shape. Will rarely start the pitch above the hands while getting hard, late break that disappears at the bottom of the zone. Creates an optimal release point, and tunnels extremely well off of the fastball. Command and confidence to throw in any count. Will creates a ton of lost swings, and made a lot of great hitters look foolish at the prep level. It's an easy to see plus pitch. Grade: 60

Slider: 81-85. Third pitch in Santos advanced arsenal. Has begun to make big improvements with this pitch over the last 6 months. Gets big sweeping movement, with a late break that is devastating to RHH. Command isn't on the same level as the FB/CB but will throw this pitch in two strike counts often for the swing and miss. Grade: 45

Changeup: 85-87. Gives Santos a true starters mix. Mimics the fastball well in arm speed. Shows good feel for the pitch and will throw it early in counts to get ahead, but not a real weapon yet for swings and misses. Command is plus, but doesn't throw the pitch enough. Limited velo separation currently but if the fastball velocity keeps trending up, then you will see this pitch blossom. Grade: 45

Control and Command: Santos will control the entire strike zone. Pounds the zone with three pitches. Will consistently work his fastball on the black while breaking off the curveball off the plate. The development of his slider command will ultimately determine if this is a plus tool long term. Showed an advanced feel to pitch in the biggest of moments at the prep level.  Control: 55 | Command: 50

Overall: Santos was the first player Houston was able to draft in 2020, and shows plenty of ability to give a great return of investment. Big time FB/CB with plus command with tons of projection remaining. The cold weather prep was able to turn heads at the Astros instructional league this fall, and gives you all the makings of someone you can see developing into a high strikeout mid-rotation arm with this Astros player development.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - #4 - #5 SP or Average High-Leverage Reliever
Risk: High