Pittsburgh Pirates: Analyzing Best Position Player Prospect Tools

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SARASOTA, FLORIDA – MARCH 15: Oneil Cruz #61 of the Pittsburgh Pirates fields a ball during the sixth inning against the Baltimore Orioles during a spring training game at Ed Smith Stadium on March 15, 2021 in Sarasota, Florida. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images) /

Arm

Oneil Cruz

FanGraphs: 80

MLB Pipeline: 70

This is the second time Cruz has been brought up today, and it’s because of the cannon on his right shoulder. Not only can his raw power help him demolish baseballs, but he can also make very strong throws.

As stated earlier, Cruz was originally mainly a third baseman but started to play just shortstop in 2018. Cruz’s arm definitely plays on the left side of the infield as he’s able to make the deep throws from the hole at short and in foul territory at third base.

This also makes a strong case for him to move to an outfield spot. Cruz is athletic enough to play in the grass. He’s currently seen as an average to above average runner with a 60-current speed grade on FanGraphs and 50 grade on MLB Pipeline. He’s fast enough to track down balls and make the throw from deep outfield.

Next. Predicting the Pirate Opening Day Roster. dark

Again, Cruz’s final position is up in the air. He’s only played the left side of the infield throughout his career. However, he started to get some work out in center field during Spring Training and will likely continue to get work there at Double-A this season.

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