Rivas' performance never has matched up to his tools, but at least he showed signs of making progress in 2005. He spent the entire year in a full-season league and was named to the low Class A South Atlantic League's midseason all-star game. His production wasn't overwhelming but was relatively consistent for a notoriously streaky player. Most important, he got 434 at-bats, nearly matching his total from his first four seasons, when he constantly battled nagging injuries. Rivas is an exciting player if you see him on the right day, showing all five tools and playing a smooth center field with a plus arm. He has a nice swing with a little pop, but he too often tries to hit for power rather than putting the ball in play. He did show the willingness to take a walk last season, but he'll need to cut down on his strikeouts to hit at the top of the order. He batted in every slot except ninth at Delmarva, so he's still feeling his way. His cocky attitude also has turned off some members of the organization. Rivas' performance in high Class A this year will determine whether he moves up this list or off it.
Rivas, who signed with the Orioles when he was 16, skipped the Rookie league in his native Venezuela and came straight to the United States to make his professional debut in 2001, making him the youngest player in the system at the time. Rivas played well at Bluefield last season, encouraging the organization that he's a potential impact player. It's much too early to call him a five-tool prospect, but all five of his tools have potential. Rivas is athletic with good speed. His best tool might be his arm, which helped him lead Appalachian League outfielders with five double plays in 2002. He also shows good power potential. The key will be how he develops as a hitter. He has little knowledge of the strike zone or how to hit breaking pitches at this point, though he did improve a lot in a year. Some in the organization also have questioned his work habits. Rivas probably will make his full-season debut in low Class A this season if he has a good spring training.
Best Tools List
Rated Best Outfield Arm in the Baltimore Orioles in 2007
Rated Best Outfield Arm in the Baltimore Orioles in 2006
Download our app
Read the newest magazine issue right on your phone