Anel De Los Santos

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Los Angeles Angels #10 prospect in 2008
  The Angels originally signed de los Santos as a third baseman but decided to move him behind the plate during his second season in his native Dominican. He took to the position immediately, and adds to the organization's considerable depth behind the plate. De los Santos has the prototype tools package to be a premium defensive catcher. He's athletic and agile with quick-twitch muscles that allow him to bounce around behind the plate. He has a quiet setup, soft hands and sets a good, low target. His feet and arm action work efficiently during throws to second, and his throws have tremendous carry and hit their target. He nabbed 35 percent of basestealers last season and routinely records 1.78-1.80 second times from home to second base. He has solid-average bat speed and enough leverage to his swing to project to hit for at least average power. He's an average runner under way. Occasionally, de los Santos will take a smooth swing with balance and rhythm, but his approach at the plate is inconsistent and he doesn't repeat his swing. He'll chase breaking balls in the dirt and doesn't work counts well. He's primarily a pull hitter. De los Santos' prospect status is based largely on his defensive skills, so anything he contributes offensively will be a plus. He has athleticism and bat speed, so there's reason to believe he can develop into a .250-.265 hitter with 15-20 homers per year. He'll make his full-season debut this spring at Cedar Rapids.