Baseball Prospectus | | Eyewitness Scouting Report


	Yoelqui Cespedes Born: 09/24/1997 (Age: 23)
	Bats: Right	Throws: Right
	Height: 5' 9"	Weight: 205
	Primary Position: CF

Short, stocky frame, strength visible throughout but especially in upper body. Possesses more athleticism than might be expected given that description.

Evaluator	Ben Spanier
Report Date	08/31/2021
Dates Seen	several while at High-A
Affiliate	Birmingham Barons (AA, White Sox)

MLB ETA	Risk Factor	OFP	Video
late 2022	Medium	50	No

Tool	Future Grade	Report
Hit	45	Open stance, closes in conjunction with moderate leg kick. Fairly quiet but uses steep, aggressive, power-oriented swing that is designed to hit mistakes and pitches middle-in. Can get very pull-oriented and is vulnerable against decent breaking stuff down and away, doesn't always get to good velocity up.
Power	60	Isn't yet getting to it with regularity in-game, but it's a beautiful power-hitter's cut and when he zones a pitch he cans send it a long way. Will also hit his share of doubles into the gap. Above-average bat speed, good hip rotation, and plenty of upper body strength.
Baserunning/Speed	60	Plus runner who is aggressive, will take the extra base, stretch extra base hits, and grab a few steals.
Glove	60	Very smooth. Gets good jumps and runs clean routes, hardly ever has to rush to make up for mistakes.
Arm	55	Strong arm and throws get good carry, but don't really pop.

I see Céspedes as someone who, even with hit tool concerns, can be an average regular with a profile built on power, defense, and speed. Has more value as a center fielder but should be able to handle all three spots.