- Full name Jhonayker Ugarte
- Born 03/12/2007 in
- Profile Ht.: 6'3" / Wt.: 190 / Bats: R / Throws: R
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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BA Grade/Risk: 50/Extreme.
Track Record: Ugarte received the second-highest bonus, $1.4 million, paid out by the Royals in the 2024 international signing period. He was scouted as a shortstop as an amateur, but he’s since gotten stronger, slowed down and spent most of his first pro season at third base. He had a good season at the plate in the Dominican Summer League, batting .299/.423/.395 and played in the DSL all-star game. He reported to the Royals complex in mid September to participate in instructional league.
Scouting Report: Ugarte goes to the plate with a traditional setup and ease of operation in his swing, using a line drive stroke with the ability to find the barrel. Like many young hitters, he struggles in recognizing breaking balls and has plenty of swing-and-miss vs. that pitch type. He’ll grow into average or better raw power as he gets stronger and learns what pitches he can drive. His inexperience at third base showed this year, as balls got on him quickly and he struggled with angles, but he has the tools for average defense with time. His hands are playable and there’s agility and quickness in his feet, as well as above-average arm strength.
The Future: Ugarte will begin his official stateside career in the Arizona Complex League, likely teaming up again with Yandel Ricardo on the left side of the Royals infield.
Scouting Grades: Hit: 50 | Power: 50 | Run: 50 | Field: 50 | Arm: 55. -
BA Grade: 45/Extreme
Track Record: Ugarte signed with the Royals in the international period that opened on Jan. 15, 2024. The Venezuelan-born shortstop had been training in the Dominican Republic. He recently gone through a growth spurt that saw him add four inches to his frame.
Scouting Report: Evaluators highest on Ugarte believe in his sound swing from the right side, which has a chance to produce both contact and impact. They’ve also noticed significantly more bat speed as he’s matured. He’s a solid defensive shortstop but is only a 40-grade runner and could move to third base if he packs more strength onto his frame.
The Future: Ugarte will begin his professional career in the DSL.
Scouting Grades Hit: 45 | Power: 55 | Run: 40 | Field: 45 | Arm: 60
