Position: SS
Age: 16
Height: 5-11
Weight: 160
B/T: S/R
Acquired: Signed as Intl Free Agent on 7/27/11
The Royals have made a habit of signing slender defensive minded shortstops out of the Dominican over the past couple of seasons. This is a habit that I fully endorse. However, I expect that with the cap now instituted for International Amateurs this habit will change. I still anticipate the signings of players similar to Adalberto Mondesi's ability and projection, but I suspect he is the exact kind of player whose bonus will be greatly suppressed by the new rules.
Mondesi is so skinny that it is clear his body won't push him out of the shortstop position. According to Baseball America Mondesi is a good runner with an average arm. Of course needless to say Mondesi has strong bloodlines, being the son of former Major Leaguer Raul Mondesi.
For those of you familiar with the development of Latin American prospects, the transition to American life and culture is often a pivotal step. Because Mondesi comes from the family that he does, he already has an advantage over his peers in this regard.
I expect Mondesi to be assigned to the Arizona League Royals after spending the early summer months in the warm environment of extended Spring Training.
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