Los Angeles Dodgers set to add another top catching prospect

According to reports, the Los Angeles Dodgers will be adding another top catching prospect during the upcoming international signing period.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have an abundance of riches behind the plate in their farm system. Keibert Ruiz is considered one of the top catching prospects in the game, and ranks second in the Dodgers system. Another stellar prospect, Diego Cartaya, ranks as the Dodgers fifth ranked prospect.

Another catcher will be joining these ranks when the international signing period begins. According to reports, the Dodgers are set to land Venezuelan catcher Jesus Galiz.

Galiz was ranked as the eighth best international prospect, and the top catcher, by MLB.com. His decision to sign with the Dodgers is a surprise, as it had been assumed he would sign with the Yankees. However, with the new rules regarding the trade of international slot money, New York was unable to live up to their promises.

A middle infielder until two years ago, Galiz is still very raw defensively. He is considered to have quick feet and a strong arm behind the plate, and his natural athleticism will be an asset. While his soft hands should be a positive, he is still going to need to learn the nuances of receiving and pitch framing.

There is a lot to like about Galiz in the batter’s box as well. His swing is compact and generates excellent bat speed and pop, as he has an ability to hit the ball hard to all fields. As he matures physically, Galiz should add even more power to his profile, making him an intriguing prospect.

As it is, the Dodgers already have a logjam behind the plate. Will Smith has established himself as their starting catcher, leaving Ruiz without a role. He could presumably be trade bait, but the Dodgers seem loathe to part with him.

However, one can never have enough talent behind the plate. The Los Angeles Dodgers appear to believe in that adage as they are now expected to sign Jesus Galiz.