3 SF Giants prospects who are eligible for the Rule 5 draft for the first time this winter

3 SF Giants prospects who are eligible for the Rule 5 draft for the first time this winter

3. Aeverson Arteaga

Aeverson Arteaga really had a nice season in 2023. His improvements were on the quieter side, but there were some traits to be excited about. Before I dive into his season, I do not think there is a good chance that he gets drafted if left unprotected.

Similar to Grant McCray, he has had some success in the lower minors but no upper minors experience to merit a spot on another team's 40-man roster this winter.

Arteaga is still pretty raw in terms of game experience and his offensive profile needs further refinement. Though, it bears mentioning that he has played against older competition in each of the past two seasons.

His overall numbers may not jump off of the page, but I think that context is important. The right-handed bat slashed .235/.299/.410 with 17 home runs, 73 RBI, and 66 runs in 546 plate appearances for the Eugene Emeralds. This includes a 7.3 percent walk rate, 24.2 percent strikeout rate, and a .174 ISO.

The strikeout rate and ISO represented modest improvements compared to his 2022 season. The improved home run output looked to be a function of him getting more backspin on the ball. In 2022, it looked like he was getting more topspin on his swings, leading to more line drives and ground balls. His batted ball profile was nearly identical in 2023 compared to 2022, but it looked like he just got more carry on his swings.

In the field, Arteaga has spent nearly his entire career at shortstop and it is likely that this trend continues. The infield prospect is a sure-handed glove with a strong arm and does a nice job of making the routine plays.

I do not think the Giants will add him to the 40-man roster this winter, but he is quietly rising up the organization's depth chart as he should begin next season in Double-A.