Christian Cerda

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Arizona Diamondbacks #27 prospect in 2024
  BA Grade: 45/High
  
  Track Record: Born in the Bronx, Cerda followed in the footsteps of his older brother, Allan, a Reds prospect, in moving to the Dominican Republic to train before signing professionally. Originally a third baseman, he moved to catcher, where his soft hands, quick feet and strong arm profiled well, and eventually signed with the Rays for $325,000. The D-backs acquired him for outfielder David Peralta at the 2022 trade deadline. Cerda played his first full season in the D-backs system in 2023 and hit .247/.402/.397 across the Class A levels.
  
  Scouting Report: Cerda is a defense-first catcher with the attributes to be a backup. He has a simple, direct righthanded swing with few moving parts. He uses the whole field with occasional pull power. Cerda’s best offensive attribute at the plate is his eye. He had nearly as many walks (93) as strikeouts (96) last season and is a consistent on-base threat. Cerda is at least an average receiver behind the plate. He blocks well and his above-average arm strength plays up with his accuracy and quick release. He has a thick, stocky build and is a slow runner. Cerda is bilingual and works well with pitchers. He is a good teammate who brings energy, positivity and toughness.
  
  The Future: Cerda projects as a likely backup catcher. He could become more if he develops as a hitter.
  
  Scouting Grades Hit: 45 | Power: 45 | Run: 30 | Field: 55 | Arm: 55