Yennsy Diaz

Position: RHSP
Level: High A
Affiliate: Dunedin Blue Jays
League: Florida State League
Born: 11/15/1996 (Age: 27)
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 202
B/T: Right / Right
Acquired: Signed as international free agent, 7/3/2014 (TOR)

Prospect Spotlight

Toronto invested $1.6 million in Diaz’ plus arm strength and premium athleticism, signing him during the 2014 J2  free agent period. Despite being fairly short for a righty at 6’1’’ and a lean 160 pounds, he generated big fastball velocity (93-to-96 mph) in my March backfield looks from a very quick arm. It doesn’t have much plane and he’s still developing command within the zone. His primary off-speed pitch is an 88-to-91 mph changeup that’s thrown with good arm speed and fastball sell, though it’s a bit too firm right now, working more like a sinker than a true fading changeup. His low-80’s curveball is a fringy offering at present, featuring erratic break without much ability to land it within the zone. Occasionally, he’ll snap off a sharper breaking ball that hints that his curve can improve with consistency and improved control. Still just 21, Diaz’ youth allows for plenty of outcomes. He needs to add overall polish and develop his secondary in order to remain in the rotation. Otherwise, his shorter stature and arm strength likely profile in a bullpen role.