Yoan Moncada

Position: 3B
Level: Double-A
Affiliate: Portland Sea Dogs
League:
Age: 20
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 205
B/T: Both / Right
Acquired: Signed as international free agent March 12, 2015 (BOS)

Prospect Spotlight

The Potential Tools: 70 run, 60 hit, 60 arm, 50 power, 50 glove

Strengths: Five-tool potential; mature, physical build; plus bat speed from both sides of the plate; natural hitting ability and feel for hard contact; easy swing from the left side; linear swing path with ability to lift pull side from left side; strong wrists and hands; unique barrel control through hitting zone; strength for plus raw power; pitch recognition skills and advanced approach at the plate; plus-plus run; quick-twitch athlete with explosive first speed; will be a base-stealing threat; plus arm strength – could handle left side of infield; average reads and reactions off the bat; above-average range.

Weaknesses: Linear swing path limits power projection; game power could play below average; reactions in the field limit him to second base; defense could play below average; swing and miss in his swing on pitches up in the zone; will expand vs. quality secondaries presently; mental mistakes imminent during games and mental approach to game still needs work; limited pro ball experience.

Role Ceiling: 60; first-division regular; potential all-star second baseman.

Risk: Moderate; limited pro ball experience; mental approach needs work.

Summary: There were not many international prospects as hyped as Moncada – and rightfully so. He brings a unique five-tool skillset to the game along with a high baseball IQ. At the plate, Moncada features plus bat speed from both sides of the pate, and he shows off above-average raw power in BP. While his swing looks better from the left side, and he has shown more power there, his overall approach from both sides is advanced, and he should handle quality pitching with ease. In the field, Moncada has the athleticism and arm to play both middle infield positions, but his average reactions should make second base his defensive home. The tool that stands out the most for Moncada is his plus-plus run. It’s game-changing speed, that, when factored in with everything else, could make him top prospect in the game by year’s end.