The New York Yankees have had incredible success signing top international prospects, especially after landing Jasson Dominguez several years ago. However, their quest to find elite talent is never over, as the Bombers are preparing to sign Roderick Arias, a 17-year-old shortstop who is best compared to Wander Franco at his age.
Arias is the consensus number one international prospect, and adding another potentially elite shortstop to the max is never a bad move.
MLB.com had only amazing things to say about Arias, who features a plus arm and above-average bat skills:
The top international prospect in the class, Arias is an extraordinary talent and the consensus No. 1.
There’s a lot to like about the teenager. Starting on the defensive side of the ball, Arias has plus arm potential. His throws are accurate and effortless, and he’s always in a position to make the throws. His arm is strong from any angle. He also shows good footwork with soft hands and above-average range.
At the plate, he exhibits above-average bat-to-ball skills and strike zone awareness. He shows good plate discipline and doesn’t swing and miss often. He shows power from both sides of the plate, especially by the right side. There’s good opposite-field power from the left side, and the overall package that could develop into a plus-plus hitter.
Top international prospect Roderick Arias is expected to sign with the New York Yankees on January 15, 2022. The 17 year old switch hitting shortstop has some serious pop.
?: Roderick Arias pic.twitter.com/8ushiPBXSW
— Eli Fishman (@elijfishman) December 4, 2021
The Yankees also have Anthony Volpe and Oswald Peraza developing their farm system at shortstop. As one of the most lucrative positions and important infield spots, having quality developmental talent is always necessary.
At 6’1″, Arias isn’t just a quality defender, he also features a switch-hitting approach, featuring incredible power and fundamentals for a player of his age.
The Yankees’ minor-league system will be a great place for him to continue his development, but we probably won’t see him for at least another 3–4 years. Luckily, the presence of Volpe and Peraza spark positivity, despite the Yankees’ desperate need of a shortstop for the 2022 season.