Drafted in the fourth round out of Puerto Rico, Gustavo Melendez did not make his professional debut after signing. A left-handed hitting shortstop, Melendez was the 140th-ranked prospect on MLB Pipeline and 123rd on Baseball America.
Both sites like his feel to hit, but his size (listed at 5'8") may limit his impact on the ball; both sites had below-average grades for his power tool. While they like his arm and the fact that he could play at shortstop, most believe he'll end up at second base long term.
Wherever he plays defensively, Melendez will likely begin his pro career in the Florida Complex League. He was one of the younger players in the draft and will be 18 for the entire 2026 regular season.
Melendez played 24 games in the Puerto Rican winter league, batting .241/.359/.278 with two doubles, a stolen base, and five RBI.
THE ASYLUM
Today's Prospect: Gustavo Melendez
Drafted in the fourth round out of Puerto Rico, Gustavo Melendez did not make his professional debut after signing. A left-handed hitting shortstop, Melendez was the 140th-ranked prospect on MLB Pipeline and 123rd on Baseball America.
Both sites like his feel to hit, but his size (listed at 5'8") may limit his impact on the ball; both sites had below-average grades for his power tool. While they like his arm and the fact that he could play at shortstop, most believe he'll end up at second base long term.
Baseball America's write-up even mentioned that some scouts were curious about the thought of him catching at the next level.
Wherever he plays defensively, Melendez will likely begin his pro career in the Florida Complex League. He was one of the younger players in the draft and will be 18 for the entire 2026 regular season.
Melendez played 24 games in the Puerto Rican winter league, batting .241/.359/.278 with two doubles, a stolen base, and five RBI.
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