The Best Throwing Arms in the Diamondbacks Farm System

Originally posted on Arizona Diamondbacks on SI
By Michael McDermott | Last updated Jan 24, 2024 1:00 PM ET

As continued coverage of the Diamondbacks farm system, here at Inside the Diamondbacks we are going to do a tool-by-tool analysis and pick out the best prospects for each tool. Each tool is graded on the 20-80 scouting scale, where 50 is the major league average.

The next tool is the arm tool. Having a strong throwing arm is an asset defensively, as it adds more potential plays that can be made on the opposing team. Typically the areas where arm strength comes into play is on an exceptionally difficult play or deterring baserunners from advancing further. Having a strong arm is only part of the equation, as it also requires having a quick release and good footwork in order to make not only a strong, but accurate throw to its target.

Here's a table of arm strength, based on the Statcast Leaderboard on Baseball Savant for both infielders and outfielders.

It's worth noting that outfielders post higher arm strength readings as they have more momentum behind their throws than infielders, who operate more with quickness and precision with their throws. Raw arm strength alone will not make or break a defensive profile, but could cap the ceiling as a result.

Here are the best infield and outfield arms in the system:

Outfield: Druw Jones (70)

Full Scouting Report

Jones' strong defensive reputation isn't just based off range, but also throwing arm. The bat will determine his ceiling as a player, but his arm plays well at any of the three outfield positions. Jones could wind up either in center field or in right and be a Gold Glove candidate at either position.

Infield: Blaze Alexander (70)

Full Scouting Report

Alexander was a late round pick, taken for his lofty tools that includes a howitzer for a throwing arm. That arm profiles best in a 3B/RF role, although given the long term uncertainty at the third base position he could see some time there. There's still a lot of questions about his ability to hit, with an elevated strikeout rate in his first year in Triple-A Reno, but is on the 40-man roster and a call-up candidate for 2024.

Other Strong Arms in the System:

Adriel Radney (60) - The projections have the young outfield prospect developing a plus throwing arm as he fills out his frame. He'll have an opportunity to showcase that arm in the Dominican Summer League later this year.
Kristian Robinson (60) - Robinson was viewed in a similar lens as Jones before missing out on three years due to legal issues. With Arizona lacking a right-handed bat for their outfield, there an opportunity for him to earn back the 40-man roster spot he lost during the 2023 season.
Gian Zapata (60) - Zapata is a classic right field projection as a left-handed bat has already exhibited exceptional power already in his career. He'll face more advanced pitching at the Complex compared to the DSL.

This article first appeared on Arizona Diamondbacks on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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