2023 #54 INF Yordys Valdes
A potentially plus defender across the infield, Valdes could have a future as a utility infielder, but needs to add strength to find a better offensive baseline.
Build & Background
Compact, middle-infielder’s frame. Not much room for projection, but room to add muscle and strength. Born in Cuba but moved to Florida at age 12.Â
What Valdes does well
The carrying tool for Valdes is his glove, arm, overall defensive abilities, and bat to ball ability. He has the chance to be a plus defender at second, and above average at short and third. He’s got good range, natural instincts and plenty of arm for the left side of the infield. He posts above average run times as well.Â
Where Valdes needs to improve
In order to move forward as a prospect, Valdes needs to add strength and improve his ability to hit and impact the ball. He’s been a little overmatched as a hitter in his pro career so far thanks to his lack of strength and bat speed. There is natural feel for contact underlying all of that. He needs to be a more selective runner or instinctive when picking his chances to run.Â
Intangibles
Valdes and his family made the big move to come to the US from Cuba, giving him a unique background and ability to be bilingual. He played against good competition in amatuer ball.
Future
Without added strength, Valdes’ impact as a prospect and player will be limited. He’s a glove first infielder with contact ability, but can’t have the bat knocked out of his hands. He did improve as a hitter late in the season, showing some more strength in the Midwest League playoffs along with that plus glove. He tracks as a utility infielder right now at best, though if his offense doesn’t improve, he could be stalled at Double-A. Any improvement in his bat could help him break through, but time and opportunities could be limited.
Role: 35 - Call-up/utility infielder
