The Oakland A’s farm system is not quite where it has been in previous years. Tyler Soderstrom is currently the only player considered a top 100 prospect and is easily the jewel of the organization. But he could get pushed for that title in another year or two by Pedro Pineda.
As there has been little actual news due to the ongoing lockout, MLB.com has been taking a closer look at the prospects in each organization. They recently named Pineda as the A’s prospect who is most likely to climb the rankings and become a top 100 prospect by the beginning of the 2024 season.
Pedro Pineda considered future top 100 prospect
It is easy to see why prognosticators would be so bullish on Pineda’s future. The Dominican outfielder had signed for a $2.5 million bonus and was considered to have some of the best tools in the 2020-21 international prospect class. It was a matter of seeing if he would be able to develop as expected.
Pineda made a solid impression in his first season in the A’s organization. He found his way stateside, posting a combined .237/.368/.361 batting line in his 117 plate appearances between the Dominican Summer League and the Arizona Complex League. Although he struck out 41 times, he also drew 18 walks while smacking seven extra base hits and stealing six bases.
As he is so young, it makes sense that Pineda would be a raw talent. However, his tools are intriguing even if they need to be refined. His excellent bat speed and quick hands allow him to hit the ball to all fields with authority, and the natural loft in his swing should lead to solid power production as his body continues to mature.
That could easily happen in the next couple of years. The A’s can be patient as they move Pineda through the system, giving him at least a full season at each level. However, it would not be a surprise if he is ready to take that next step in another year or two.
Pedro Pineda is looked at as a future top 100 prospect for the Oakland A’s. His ascension to that level may not take too much longer.