Johan De Los Santos received the highest bonus handed out by the Pirates during last year's international class, and he didn't disappoint during his first year as a professional.
Playing most of the year as a 16-year-old, De Los Santos hit .353/.451/.460 with nine doubles, three triples, and 34 stolen bases in 44 games played. He also walked (27) more than twice the number of times that he struck out (13).
The biggest question will be how much power he will grow into. There is also quite the differential regarding his height, as some sites have him listed in 5'10" to 5'11" range, but Baseball America lists him at 5'8" in their 2026 update.
That will go a long way in determining how much power he could eventually grow into. Regardless, it's not expected to be more than below average overall. His game will rely on putting the ball into play and using his elite speed.
He's also a capable defender at shortstop, and his speed could allow him to play center field or even second base if need be.
There's a chance he could make the jump straight to Bradenton at 17 years old, but the safer route would be to spend some time in the FCL before getting a look at Low-A before the season ends.
THE ASYLUM
Today's Prospect: Johan De Los Santos
Johan De Los Santos received the highest bonus handed out by the Pirates during last year's international class, and he didn't disappoint during his first year as a professional.
Playing most of the year as a 16-year-old, De Los Santos hit .353/.451/.460 with nine doubles, three triples, and 34 stolen bases in 44 games played. He also walked (27) more than twice the number of times that he struck out (13).
The biggest question will be how much power he will grow into. There is also quite the differential regarding his height, as some sites have him listed in 5'10" to 5'11" range, but Baseball America lists him at 5'8" in their 2026 update.
That will go a long way in determining how much power he could eventually grow into. Regardless, it's not expected to be more than below average overall. His game will rely on putting the ball into play and using his elite speed.
He's also a capable defender at shortstop, and his speed could allow him to play center field or even second base if need be.
There's a chance he could make the jump straight to Bradenton at 17 years old, but the safer route would be to spend some time in the FCL before getting a look at Low-A before the season ends.
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