Liover Peguero

Position: SS
Level: Instructs
Affiliate: Diamondbacks Instructs
League: Instructional League
Born: 12/31/2000 (Age: 23)
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 175
B/T: Right / Right
Acquired: Signed as international free agent July 2, 2017 (ARI)

Prospect Spotlight

Still just 17-years-old, Arizona signed the Dominican shortstop for $475K as part of their 2017 J2 class. He performed well in his pro debut, playing well enough to reach the AZL for 19 games to close the year. I caught a look at Peguero this October during Instructional League.

Peguero’s standout tool is his hitting ability. His feel for the zone is advanced for his age, and he shows a patient approach. He’s able to work into hitters counts and barrel up both fastballs and spin, shortening up with two strikes for more bat control. His plus bat speed, loose hands, and quick wrists all have the look of a future plus hitter at the big league level. He could grow into average raw power as the frame matures, able to get to all of it in games given his high-contact approach and hitterish feel. Defensively, Peguero has solid actions at short with the lateral movement, instincts, and hands to stick there should he not grow out of the position. A 45-grade arm projects up to average with physical maturity, which should be enough to keep him on the left side of the infield.

Peguero’s offensive upside gives a high ceiling, especially if he’s able to remain at shortstop. He might outgrow the position and move over to the hot corner, but I saw enough mobility at short to project him there as a playable average defender. The ceiling is a first division regular with plus hitting ability and average power, though he’s still years away from big league ready and requires plenty of projection.