Oakland A’s hope to have another hidden gem in Alejandro Manzano

The Oakland A’s have done their part to find players that do not appear on any international prospect radar over the past year or so. After signing Shohei Tomioka out of Japan last season, a pitcher who was not even playing in affiliated ball, the A’s have been trying to find those diamonds in the rough. They may have another attempt with Alejandro Manzano.

There was not a major announcement about the signing of Manzano. All that this move received was a brief note in the minor league transaction log, indicating that he had been assigned to the A’s Dominican Summer League team.

Oakland A’s seeking hidden gem in Alejandro Manzano

There is very little information about Manzano currently available. He will turn 20 years old at the end of February, giving him plenty of time to develop. A right handed pitcher, he is listed as being anywhere between 6′ to 6’2″ tall, and weighing between 160 to 165 pounds.

At that size, Manzano would have plenty of room for growth. He would also seemingly project to add velocity as time goes on, especially as his frame fills out and he adds more strength. Although information regarding his arsenal and current velocity profile is missing, one could easily imagine that he could add a few ticks to his fastball over the next couple of years.

In the end, Manzano appears to be the type of pitcher that the A’s like. He is a projectionable young arm who could add even more to his profile over the next few years as he develops. If he does not cost much and flies completely under the radar, then so much the better.

The Oakland A’s are hoping for a hidden gem in Alejandro Manzano. While there is little information available, he could be an intriguing arm.