3 Dodgers prospects who will become household names in 2023

2. Jonny DeLuca

Jonny DeLuca wasn't even among the Dodgers' top 30 prospects in MLB Pipeline's year-end rankings last season. That could change once the 2023 rankings are revealed, but either way, DeLuca is not a highly-touted prospect that fans are clamoring about.

That being said, DeLuca is someone who has consistently performed at every level he has played. Nothing really jumps off the page when it comes to him and his game, but his production at the plate is legitimate.

DeLuca was taken in the 25th round of the 2019 MLB Draft and has had to fight for every opportunity he has gotten. He finally got a full minor league season in 2021 and put together a very solid year. In 101 games split between Low-A and High-A, DeLuca slashed .264/.348/.519 with 22 home runs and 64 RBI.

In 2022, DeLuca saw more of the same success. In 98 games split between High-A and AA, he slashed .260/.347/.541 with 25 home runs and 71 RBI. He's also stolen 37 bags in 199 games over the last two years.

His home run numbers may not translate all the way to the majors, but DeLuca has gap-to-gap power with speed that makes him a valuable defensive player in the outfield. His walk rate is also promising (10.4% over the last two years).

Despite not being a high draft pick or a top prospect the Dodgers obviously, believe in DeLuca in some capacity as the team added him to the 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft in November. Don't be shocked if DeLuca gets a chance in a thin outfield this season and makes the most of it.