For me, a sleeper prospect is simply a player that is flying a bit under the radar or a player that is on the verge of breaking out as a prospect but still has a few things to iron out. Here are a few “sleepers” in the Orioles system.
Eduardo Rodriguez
Rodriguez signed for a $175,000 bonus out of Venezuela in 2010.
Rodriguez has been a favorite of mine since a I spoke to multiple GCL scouts about him. He signed for a $175,000 bonus out of Venezuela in 2010.
“As long as he stays healthy he’ll pitch in the majors,” said one scout.
Rodriguez features two above-average pitches in a fastball and curveball, which both have plus potential. He has a deceptive delivery along with a smooth, quick, and loose arm action. He also gets good extension out front. Rodriguez falls off the 3rd base side but throws strikes and uses his front side well.
Not only does Rodriguez have an impressive arsenal, but also an advanced feel for pitching. He could break out in a big way if he adds some weight and muscle, which could lead to additional velocity.
Connor Narron
Narron was a big name when drafted, but the hype surrounding him has slowly faded as he initially struggled to adjust to professional pitching. He is an extremely patient hitter, but at times is too patient and lays off pitches which he should have tried to put in play.
He has outstanding bat speed and the ball simply jumps off his bat. As he matures and fills out his athletic frame, Narron should begin to show more of what earned him a high six figure bonus.
Miguel Chalas
The primary knock on Chalas is his size and that he may eventually be forced to a relief role.
Chalas is a guy that’s still a little bit under the radar. His stats with the Shorebirds aren’t flashy, but he has some outstanding pure stuff. His 92-95 mph fastball and late breaking curveball both scream reliever and scouts like his big league potential in the bullpen.
The primary knock on Chalas is his size and that he may eventually be forced to a relief role. His mechanics don’t show any significant red flags, but his delivery is max-effort.
If Chalas fails to develop his changeup further and it becomes clear he belongs in the bullpen, he could take off once making the move to the bullpen.
Mark Blackmar
Blackmar is an athletic righty from Texas with a good feel for pitching. He has an 88-91 mph fastball that he can command to both sides of the plate. His arsenal also includes a changeup and slider.
With a nice feel for the strike zone and good command of his pitches, Blackmar has back-end of the rotation potential.
Andres Aguilar
Aguilar is a big framed, toolsy outfielder out of Guatemala who was signed this past off season. He has above-average speed, solid power, and quick hands.
He has an advanced approach at the plate, uses all fields, and shows an early ability to ride with the pitch. He is a project, but evaluators who have seen him this season came away impressed.
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