June 7, 2022

Los Angeles Angels pitching prospect Kelvin Caceres hasn't advanced much through the levels of affiliated ball since being signed as an international free agent in 2018. He spent his first two years in Rookie ball and the last two in Single-A. Although a speedier progression would be ideal for the 22-year-old, his production on the mound in 2022 suggests that he could be getting that promotion to High-A soon. Caceres has a phenomenal ability to strike out batters; his 16.67 K/9 rate this season is an anomaly, but it's not too much higher than the double-digit rate he posted in 2021. Caceres also has a lethal fastball that pairs nicely with a strong curveball. The biggest concern with Caceres is his command. Sure, he strikes out batters, but he also walks them. A lot. His BB/9 rate has been above 6.6 for each of the last three seasons, including a whopping 13.02 last year. Caceres finds himself on this list of prospects thanks to a strong week of pitching in Single-A. Through five scoreless innings of relief work, he struck out nine batters, walked just one, and allowed one hit. In an impressive twist, he has issued just one base on balls over his last 11 innings. It remains to be seen if this is sustainable, but it's at least promising to see Caceres battle the biggest obstacle holding him back.--Andersen Pickard - RotoBaller
Source: Fangraphs