Eliézer Alfonzo caught professionally for 15 years, at least touching the big leagues in six of them with the Giants, Padres, Mariners and Rockies. Now, it’s his son Omar’s turn. The younger Alfonzo was signed by the Pirates in August 2019 for $150,000. He wasn’t able to make his pro debut until 2021, but he immediately showed off his approach at the plate in the Dominican Summer League. After struggling in the Florida Complex League, he took a nice step forward, getting bumped up quickly from the FCL to full-season Bradenton.
A left-handed-hitting catcher with a big frame, Alfonzo has the chance to have some serious impact offensively. He’s shown a willingness to work counts and draw walks from the outset of his career, carrying a .380 on-base percentage into the 2024 season. He recognizes spin well and doesn’t chase much. It’s a hit-over-power profile, kind of like his dad, but there is some strength he can learn to tap into.
Behind the plate, Alfonzo can be a solid average defender. He receives well with decent hands, has a strong enough arm that has done a good job of controlling the running game and he handles a pitching staff very well -- thanks in part to him being bilingual and having grown up around the game. He’s also shown some versatility in playing first base. It might be a backup profile, but if he can unlock more offensive impact, he could develop into a regular.
