Prospect: Leo Rivas Rank: 29
2015/16 Rank: UR Position(s): Shortstop, Second Base and Third Base
Level: Rookie Ball Age: Entering Age 19 season in 2017.
Height: 5’10” Weight: 150 lb.
Present - Future
Hitting Ability 40 50
Power 30 40
Base running 65 60
Patience 70 70
Fielding 60 65
Range 60 60
Arm 45 50
Overall 45 55
Floor: A defensive specialist and pinch runner. Ceiling: Starting second baseman.
Likely Outcome: A utility infielder and pinch runner.
Summary: Rivas didn’t exactly come out of nowhere as much as he came from relative obscurity. He wasn’t signed as a 16 year old the way most Latin American prospects are, instead Leonardo had to wait until age 17, and even then he signed with the Angels, a team that’s only signing the players that other teams don’t want. That’s what happens when you repeatedly have to rebuild your scouting staff and have restrictions due to the Baldoquin signing. Still Rivas made a nice first impression at age 17, but last year he really took off. Before coming stateside midway through the season (an uncommon practice), Rivas was among the best hitters in the DSL. Upon reaching stateside, he played in the Arizona Summer League, and again was pretty solid there. He’s shown a knack for getting on base, being put in motion and being a sure handed fielder. While he doesn’t have the arm to remain at shortstop at the major league level, he offers more than enough to be a solid candidate for second base or a third baseman like Chone Figgins. Rivas isn’t a slap hitter like Ayendy Perez is, but he is a light-hitter. Leo has a solid line drive approach and is more of a ground ball hitter.
What to expect next season: Coming into his age 19 season, I expect Rivas to play in the instructional leagues and at Orem. If things go right, he may even make an appearance in Burlington. So far, he’s proven capable at all three infield positions he plays, so I’d expect more of him moving around. Inevitably, second base should be his home though.
Estimated Time of Arrival: 2021 - Leo’s age 24 season.
Grade as a prospect: C: Projects to be a utility infielder.
Grades are given from the 20-80 scouting scale. 20-being non-existent ability, 80-being the best I’ve ever seen. MLB average is 50.
