Charlee Soto

School: Reborn Christian Academy HS, Kissimmee, Fla. Source: HS

Commit/Drafted: Central Florida
Age At Draft: 17.9
BA Grade:55/Extreme
Tools:Fastball: 60. Slider: 55. Changeup: 60. Control: 45.

Soto took a massive leap forward during the 2022 summer showcase circuit, and became one of the most intriguing, power-armed righthanders in the class. A former shortstop, Soto is relatively new to pitching and won’t turn 18 until more than a month after the draft, making him one of the youngest players in the class. Listed at 6-foot-5, 197 pounds, Soto has a great pitcher’s frame and throws with good arm speed from a three-quarter slot, with some violence that includes recoil and a head whack. After touching 91-92 mph during the fall of 2021, Soto regularly pitched in the 93-95 mph range in 2022 and touched 97-98 mph at peak velocity. On top of a plus fastball with great life, Soto has also shown a pair of secondaries with above-average or better potential. His mid-80s changeup is regarded as one of the best changeups in the class and features heavy arm-side fade and excellent tumble at its best, while his mid-80s slider is a power breaking ball that features impressive bite and spin rates in the 2,400 rpm range. Both pitches have plus potential with more consistency. Soto had an up-and-down spring, with some scouts going in and being blown away and others coming on different days and seeing more lukewarm outings. He needs more overall consistency that should come with more reps and experience. While there are some reliever concerns, Soto’s standout athleticism should give him every opportunity to start at the next level. He’s committed to Central Florida but could be picked in the first round.