Jhailyn Ortiz

Position: RF
Level: Class A
Affiliate: Lakewood BlueClaws
League: South Atlantic League
Born: 11/18/1998 (Age: 25)
Height: 6'3''
Weight: 215
B/T: Right / Right
Acquired: Signed as international free agent (Dominican Republic) 7/10/15 (PHI)

Prospect Spotlight

The Phillies gave Ortiz over $4 million to sign out of the Dominican Republic in July 2015, and he rewarded that bonus by performing in the New York-Penn League just two summers later as an 18 year old. While most state-side players his age were graduating high school, Ortiz slashed .302/.401/.560 with eight home runs, ranking as one of the best prospects in the league.

Built with an extra-large frame that will keep getting thicker, Ortiz stands 6’3’’ and is generously listed at 215 pounds. He is probably heavier than that right now, and he certainly will be after fully growing into his frame. He digs in and takes a big hack, hitting from an aggressive base that uses a toe-tap trigger and leg kick to start the swing. It’s a fast bat through the zone, though the way Ortiz lets it rip doesn’t lend itself well either to swing consistency or barrel control. Between his strong frame and fast hands, it’s easy to see where his massive power potential comes from. Able to drive balls out of any part of the park, he already shows above-average raw power that could finish as high as  a 70-grade at maturity. In the field, Ortiz moves surprisingly well for a big body in the corner outfield, though many expect him to be limited to first base given the thickness in his frame. It would be a shame if he’s limited there, as Ortiz shows a no-doubt plus arm from right field with velocity and low carry on his throws.

Given his age, bat-first profile, and proximity from the majors, Ortiz falls into the “extreme risk” category. Even so, the ceiling is that of a middle-order bat, albeit one who will require patience. He will need to shorten his swing to actualize his lofty ceiling.