Luis Vazquez

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Chicago Cubs #16 prospect in 2024
  BA Grade: 45/Medium
  
  Track Record: The Cubs drafted Vazquez as a slick-fielding shortstop out of Puerto Rico in the 14th round in 2017 and signed him for $125,000. Vazquez shined defensively from the outset, but he failed to hit and went unprotected and unpicked in two consecutive Rule 5 drafts. He took an unexpected jump as a hitter in 2023 and surprised even Cubs officials with a breakout season. He hit .273 with 20 home runs, 80 RBIs and an .826 OPS, all career highs by a wide margin, and climbed to Triple-A Iowa.
  
  Scouting Report: Vazquez is a smooth operator at shortstop and the best defensive infielder in the Cubs system. He positions himself well with elite anticipation and instincts, and cleanly fields every ball with his soft, reliable hands. He moves efficiently from side to side and is particularly adept at charging in and making barehanded plays. He has a plus, accurate arm and a quick release to get even the fastest runners. Vazquez long had bat speed, but he finally added strength to hit the ball harder and control his barrel through his swing. He now has the bat control to square up all types of pitches and generate power with ease, especially to right-center. Vazquez’s balance and timing need to improve and he’s an aggressive swinger, but he has the tools to be a fringy hitter with average power.
  
  The Future: Vazquez’s newfound offensive ability makes him a viable potential backup. He is in position to make his major league debut in 2024.
  
  Scouting Grades Hit: 45 | Power: 50 | Run: 50 | Field: 60 | Arm: 60