Andry Arias

Position: 1B
Level: Extended Spring Training
Affiliate: XST Nationals
League: Extended Spring Training
Born: 06/19/2000 (Age: 23)
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 180
B/T: Left / Left
Acquired: Signed as international free agent July 2, 2017 (WAS)

Prospect Spotlight

Arias was part of the Nationals 2017-2018 J2 class, signing from the Dominican Republic. He has yet to make his stateside debut but put up strong numbers in the DSL last summer, slashing .270/.360/.412 with enthusing strikeout and walk rates for his age. After solid showings during Instructional League and Extended Spring Training, Arias is starting to get some attention on the backfields of Florida.

At 6-foot-3 and 180 pounds, Arias has a tall, lean body that still has strength to gain. His actions are loose and coordinated, and though he’s listed primarily as a 1B, Arias has played corner outfield and looks athletic enough to avoid being landlocked early in his career. The only issue is his throwing arm, something he’ll need to develop to stay away from 1B-only and remain in the outfield. A smooth, balanced lefty stroke looks like it could hit for both average and power down the road. The offensive rhythm and timing were sound, allowing advanced zone awareness and a mature presence in the batter’s box. There’s reason to project power given the loose swing and rangy frame.

Still just 18-years-old, he’s far enough away that it’s tough to pinpoint exactly the type of player Arias will become. Lots will depend on how his body develops, and subsequently, what position he lines up at defensively in the long run. Even so, the tools at the plate and general offensive upside make him an interesting sleeper prospect in the lowest part of the system.