Jhailyn Ortiz

Ortiz was the youngest and best hitter in the New York-Penn League last year. He finished second in wRC+ (185), second in OPS (.961), first in ISO (.258) and was tied for third in home runs (eight) despite playing in just 47 of Williamsport's 74 games. The right-handed slugger crushed left-handed pitching (1.150 OPS) while holding his own against righties (.261/.376/.505). His 25.1 percent strikeout rate may seem high, but given the current offensive climate and the fact Ortiz was three years younger than league average, his swing-and-miss issues are not overly concerning. Despite already measuring in at 6-foot-3, 215 pounds, he should be able to stick in right field long term. He has prototypical middle-of-the-order skills, projecting to get on base at a high clip while providing 35-plus homer power. As a player who offers little defensive value and has not yet played in a full-season league, Ortiz figures to be left off plenty of real life prospect lists. However, he is easily a top-100 prospect for dynasty leagues.

Ortiz was considered one of the better international free agents available in 2015 and was said to have the best raw power in the class. He got a chance to display some of that power in the Gulf Coast League last season, earning an assignment there as a 17-year-old. He hit just .231/.325/.434 in 173 at-bats but homered eight times while also stroking nine doubles and a triple. Ortiz did strike out a lot, but expecting him be a well-rounded hitter while playing against guys older than him and in his stateside debut is too much to ask. He has plenty of time to refine his game as he works his way up the ladder. Ortiz primarily played right field last season, and while he is considered a good athlete, he is likely to eventually move to first base where his ability to hit for power will be even more important when evaluating him as a prospect. The Phillies will likely keep him in extended spring training at the start of the season before deciding on a return to the GCL or a promotion to short-season Williamsport against more advanced draftees.

Ortiz would have rightfully been an afterthought in dynasty leagues this year if he had not made such a good impression in the Florida Instructional League after signing a $4.2 million deal with the Phillies during last year’s J-2 signing period. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. might be the only player from last year’s class of international free agents who can match Ortiz’s raw power, as both players have the potential to hit 35-plus home runs in their peak seasons. He played the outfield before signing, but all indications are that he is destined to play first base long term, given his massive 6-foot-2, 260-pound frame. Keeping his weight under control will be crucial as he continues to mature, but at first base it is less of a concern as long as his swing mechanics and bat speed remain intact. Ortiz should spend his age-17 season in rookie ball, meaning he is at least four years away from the big leagues, but the payoff when he gets there could be huge.