Prospect Profile: #11 Los Angeles Angels Jose Rondon

When AngelsWin.com went to Orem to scout the players, there were several standouts. One of those who did was shortstop Jose Rondon. The way he played the game made it seem like he was (as one scout put it) “a man amongst boys.”

Right now, Rondon is a 4-tool player with the potential to add the 5th tool, power, as he physically matures. Defensively, the Angels have him playing shortstop, where he shows good range. He has a strong, accurate arm, makes all the routine plays and some of the exceptional ones.

Offensively, Rondon has great pitch recognition and selection. In 276 PAs, he only struck out 31 times and he walked 30 times. That 1:1 ratio in K:BB makes him rather rare for both a young player and a Latin player, who typically are more aggressive at the plate. Rondon rarely swings and misses and squares up the ball well. While not a speed demon, Rondon runs well. He turns the corner well on bases, allowing him to take an extra base. He has the potential to steal 10-20 bases regularly in the Major Leagues.

The only skill that is lagging right now is Rondon’s power. While he regularly hits the gaps (22 doubles and 2 triples), Rondon only hit 1 HR last year. But, most scouts still believe that his power will grow as he physically matures. Prior to the 2013 season, Rondon added about 20 lbs. Since he is only 20, it is very likely that he will continue to add muscle necessary to make Rondon a 5-tool player.

As AngelsWin.com predicted, the Angels are being aggressive with Rondon in 2014, pushing him up to the IE66ers and jumping a level. It will be interesting to watch him respond to the challenge. Fans should definitely make the trip out to the 66ers this year to check out Rondon and all the other prospects on the team.

Please click here to watch an interview we recorded with Jose Rondon.