The Cincinnati Reds line the field during the singing of the National Anthem during Opening Day Thursday, March 28, 2024 at Great American Ball Park. Cara Owsley/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

Minor League Baseball Analyst Picks Arnaldo Lantigua as Breakout Prospect of the Year

Originally posted on Cincinnati Reds on SI
By Greg Kuffner | Last updated Feb 25, 2025 7:47 AM ET

Minor League baseball writer Chirs Clegg gave his pick for the Reds' breakout prospect of the year.

It was a surprising choice. He went with 20-year-old outfielder Arnaldo Lantigua.

"Lantigua is a DSL repeater and that will be a deterrent for some, but it is actually something that is becoming more common," Clegg wrote. "After 2023 saw him mash seven home runs in 29 games but struggle with contact, Lantigua returned to the DSL in 2024 and dominated. He hit 11 home runs in 49 games and posted a slash of .301/.430/.575, and walked as often as he struck out."

"The power really stands out, though, as Lantigua posted a strong 104 mph 90th percentile exit velocity. His swing is geared for loft, as he posted an air percentage north of 70 percent with a pull rate of 55 percent. It is no surprise that Lantigua was able to hit some big home runs."

If Lantigua can carry that power and plate discipline into the next levels, he could quickly become a name to watch in the Reds' farm system.

Read Clegg's full article here:

This article first appeared on Cincinnati Reds on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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