Track Record: Velazquez went to high school in Florida before moving back to Puerto Rico and becoming one of the island's top draft prospects in 2017. The Cubs drafted him in the fifth round and signed him for $400,000. Velazquez disappointed his first few seasons, but he began to show signs of life before the coronavirus pandemic hit. He broke out in 2021 and led the Cubs system in total bases (191) while advancing to Double-A Tennessee, then won MVP of the Arizona Fall League.
Scouting Report: Velazquez has long had loud tools and is finally turning them into production. He generates above-average power out of his compact, muscular build and has made swing adjustments to better access it. He previously struggled with fastballs and was too pull-oriented, but he flattened his swing to stay in the zone longer and now drives high-velocity fastballs to all fields. He remains prone to chasing breaking balls off the plate but makes enough contact overall to project to hit .240 with 20-plus home runs. Velazquez is a good athlete given his bulk and makes highlight-reel catches in both center and right field. He has average speed and plus arm strength.
The Future: Velazquez is on track to be at least a part-time outfielder in the majors. He was added to the 40-man roster last fall and may make his major league debut in 2022.
Scouting Grades: Hit: 45. Power: 55. Speed: 50. Fielding: 55. Arm: 60.
