2022 Pre-Season SF Giants Prospects: 20-11

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19. Diego Rincones

Position: OF
Age: 22
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 175 lbs.
Projected Level: Sacramento (Triple-A)
MLB ETA: 2022

Rincones had one of the most successful seasons for a position player in the farm system in 2021, where he hit well in Eugene and hit even better when he got promoted to Richmond in the second half of the season. He even had a walk-off home run in the Olympic qualifiers representing Venezuela.

All that Rincones did so far in his professional career was hit and he took his hitting to another level this season while doing it in a pitcher-friendly environment. Rincones eliminated much of his forward momentum with his leg kick, only stomping to the ground and making him mostly a rotational hitter. He also has a pronounced top-hand swing, extending with a good amount of effort, causing him to drift towards the third-base dugout in his follow-through.

It is a unique and tough swing to duplicate but Rincones has mastered it and also has great timing, feel for the barrel, and plate coverage, especially down in the zone, to make his swing fork for him. Along with his bat-to-ball skills, Rincones also improved his strike zone discipline and is a tough guy to sequence off. The loft in his swing allows Rincones to tap to his raw power consistently, golfing pitches down in the zone to the seats.

There is little doubt that Rincones has the hitting ability to make it to the big leagues. However, he has to hit as his other tools are subpar. Even though Rincones has a sound glove and a strong arm that is a fit in the right field, he weighs around 60 pounds heavier than his current listed weight, resulting in well below-average speed on the bases and range in the outfield. Being a full-time DH is the most likely role for Rincones in the big leagues.

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