Atlanta Braves International Free Agent Luis Guanipa is off to a Sizzling Start

The Atlanta Braves had to wait a few years before being heavy players back in the international free-agent market. Over the last couple of years, they have signed a few higher profile international prospects, including Luis Guanipa this past year.

How is he doing?

Pretty well albeit in a small sample size! In his first 13 games coming into today, Guanipa has 60 plate appearances, hitting .296/.367/.519 3 doubles, 3 HR, 12 R, 8 RBI, & 10 SB.

A great start for the young outfielder. It appeared he had another good day at the plate as well.

Now, it is a small sample of fourteen games, plus Summer League games are always hard to truly evaluate. However, one can never be upset with great production, and the Braves are reaping the benefits of signing Guanipa so far.

He came into the year as the Braves 16th ranked prospect according to MLB pipeline. He is a bit undersized at 5'11 188 pounds, however, every report says he plays big. This is due to his impressive blend of power and speed. This includes a report of plus bat speed that allows the ball to jump on his bat. Guanipa shows the ability to hit to all fields, and the expectation is that he will continue to add power with a good training program.

As mentioned, he is a plus runner, which helps on the basepaths, but also helps defensively. Add in good instincts, and most scouts believe he has what it takes to stick in center field as he progresses through the ranks of the minor leagues.

There is plenty of reason to be excited here based on all the reports. Scouts believe at his ceiling he is a dynamic up-the-middle type of player who provides plenty of value with both the bat and the glove.

He is young, and several years away, so we will not get too far ahead of ourselves. Right now though, Luis Guanipa looks like a solid addition to the lower level of the Braves minor leagues.