Dodgers: Constructing the Future Dodgers Rotation

3. Yadier Alvarez

(Did not have a picture of Alvarez)

As of right now, the 21-year-old Cuban phenom is rated as the Dodgers’ top overall prospect. He cost the organization a total of $32 million to sign, so you know he’s going to get all the chances to succeed. He definitely has all the tools to be a frontline starter.

He’s 6’3, has an electric fastball that sits in the mid to high-90’s and reaches triple digits when needed to. He’s only 175 lbs, so once he fills out more, there is a chance that he can throw even harder. He is still developing his secondary pitches (slider, curveball, and changeup), but they have shown signs of promise.

During his pro debut last year, Alvarez was superb with a 2.12 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, and 81 punchouts in 59.1 innings, while batters hit a measly .185 off him.

This year, however, has been another story. His promotion to Rancho Cucamonga has seen him get knocked around, but he is very young and raw, so it’s understandable.

After a rocky start though, he has slowly begun to get more adjusted and has had a collection of pretty good starts, but even in his struggles has continued to miss bats, which is encouraging. Remember though; he is still filling out his body. He just needs marinating in the minors, and once he gets seasoned, look out.

If Alvarez can get anywhere close to his high ceiling, then the Dodgers would have a potentially tremendous trio leading the staff.