Scouting Report

Video scouting report »

Scouting grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 50 | Run: 55 | Arm: 50 | Field: 55 | Overall: 55

This class is full of talented shortstops, but few have a ceiling as high as Joseph's. With a similar build to Twins outfielder Byron Buxton, Joseph could wind up becoming the infield version of the Minnesota superstar. He's an athletic shortstop with plus speed potential, and although he is not as quick as when he initially burst onto the scene, he still has enough wheels to be a threat on the basepaths.

He is also a threat in the lineup, as scouts have raved about his simple, direct hitting mechanics. The teenage prospect has performed well in recent games -- drawing more walks and hitting for power -- a trend that could continue as he grows into his 6-foot-2 frame. On the other side of the diamond, Joseph has made significant strides at shortstop. Not only does he now project to stick at the position, but scouts believe he could even develop into an above-average defender there.

Joseph trains in the Dominican Republic with Cristian Batista, a member of MLB’s Trainer Partnership Program.

Scouting grades: Hit: 45 | Power: 50 | Run: 55 | Arm: 50 | Field: 45 | Overall: 45

The Mariners started following Joseph three years ago, when he was just 5-foot-10. By the time they brought him in during the 2024 international signing period for $3 million, he had grown to 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds. Given that young frame, most weren’t sure if he’d profile as an outfielder or infielder, with some thinking he had a similar build to Twins center fielder Byron Buxton.

Joseph now exhibits much more body control, with better hands at shortstop. It's more of a power-hitting offensive profile than before, and overall, he’s a physical athlete who projects to play a position up the middle. And just as importantly, he can really control the zone with a simple swing, direct mechanics and projectable power. He’s lost some of the top-end wheels through his growth spurt but still is touted with at least above-average speed, with the ability to be a threat on the basepaths.

Now for the No. 7 prospect from his international class will come the opportunity to play in the Dominican Summer League, where he’ll face stiffer competition and look to incorporate some of the work he’s done with respected trainer Cristian Batista, a member of MLB’s Trainer Partnership Program.

Transactions

Team	Date	Transaction
	06/02/2024	DSL Mariners activated SS Dawel Joseph.
	01/15/2024	SS Dawel Joseph assigned to DSL Mariners.
	01/15/2024	Seattle Mariners signed free agent SS Dawel Joseph to a minor league contract.