Scouting reports for four new A's prospects
This story was excerpted from Martín Gallegos' Athletics Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.
LHP Kyle Muller
Age: 25
Draft: No. 44 overall (second round), 2016, Braves
Scouting report: Muller brings a strong four-pitch mix that includes a fastball that consistently hits 95-97 mph with good carry, along with breaking pitches that have flashed plus in his low-80s curveball and power slider -- which generates plenty of swing-and-miss. He’s also developed a changeup as a fourth offering.
How he fits: He’ll be competing with the likes of Ken Waldichuk, JP Sears, Adrián Martínez, Adam Oller and Zach Logue, though the A’s will bring Muller to Spring Training with the expectation that he’ll begin the season in their starting rotation. Muller is now rated the organization’s No. 5 prospect per MLB Pipeline, viewed as a key member of Oakland’s rotation going forward.
OF Esteury Ruiz
Age: 23
Draft: 2015 international signing, Royals
Scouting report: Originally signed as a second baseman, Ruiz has since developed into a solid outfield defender capable of handling all three spots. He’s an electrifying runner with 80-grade speed and has worked hard on cutting down his chase rate by being more selective at the plate. That along with solid bat speed and promising raw power has led to his emergence as a coveted prospect.
How he fits: Like Muller, the A’s expect Ruiz, who ranks as their No. 6 prospect, to make an immediate impact in 2023. They believe he can handle center field on a regular basis, and his elite speed could be an increased value under MLB’s incoming rule changes that will see bigger bases installed and a limited number of pickoff and step-off moves for pitchers.
RHP Freddy Tarnok
Age: 24
Draft: No. 80 overall (third round), 2017, Braves
Scouting report: Tarnok possesses a four-pitch mix that features a power fastball that leads to plenty of swing-and-miss. His repertoire also includes a curveball, slider and changeup, a pitch that is especially effective against lefties.
How he fits: The A’s don’t rule out a move to the bullpen, where his fastball could play up even better, but they still view Tarnok, now Oakland’s No. 11 prospect, as a starter who will compete for a rotation spot in Spring Training.
RHP Royber Salinas
Age: 21
Draft: 2018 international signing, Braves
Scouting report: Salinas can dial it up to 98 mph with his power fastball and also brings a wipeout slider. He’s worked on adding a curveball and changeup to his mix.
How he fits: Salinas will slot in as Oakland’s No. 26 prospect.