The 2023 international signing class could end up being a very productive one for the Angels. The top prospect acquired, shortstop Felix Morrobel, is having a fine U.S. debut this summer and is in the top half of the organization’s top 30. Catcher Juan Flores has already hit full-season ball and isn’t far behind. And now there’s Soto, who signed for $250,000, and after getting his feet wet at age 16 in the Dominican Summer League, took a step forward in terms of stuff and strength with a repeat DSL stint this year.
When the 6-foot-2 Soto started out after joining the Angels, he was throwing his fastball in the 86-88 mph range and topping out at 92. He’s now sitting 92-94 mph and touching as high as 97 after focusing on adding strength to his frame. He backs up the improved heater with a 78-81 mph curve and an 82-85 mph changeup that has the chance to one day be a plus offspeed pitch.
Soto does an excellent job pitching with his fastball and has shown some early acumen for mixing his entire arsenal well. Assuming he continues to trend in this direction, including in his strike-throwing ability, he could start climbing this list as he keeps adding strength and gaining more experience.
