In a sea of promising young prospects, Romer Cuadrado is rising in the ranks after an electrifying 2017 campaign. Cuadrado had an impressive season statistically, and an insanely clutch playoff performance. However, his poise, maturity and leadership are not found in any box score; and are among his finest attributes.
Intangibles
A clubhouse is not easily influenced without a high level of respect for the influencer. This task is not just for a Manager, or coaching staff. Players must be able to step up into leadership roles when necessary. Raptors Manager, Mark Kertenian noted, “to be 19 years old, and be a leader in the clubhouse, and the field, he is absolutely on the right track.” Athletic ability, clutch hitting, as well as the respect of his teammates and staff; all reasons why, Romer Cuadrado belongs on the Dodgers Top 30 Prospects list.
Player Profile – Romer Cuadrado
Born September 12, 1997 (20)
Maturin, Venezuela
6′ 4″ 185 lbs
Bats R Throws R
Hitting Coaches Perspectives
“Romer has a knack of driving the fastball to every part of the field. He can hit an inside fastball to right center field for a homerun,” according to Justin Viele, the Raptors Assistant Hitting Instructor. “He is a very smart hitter, with an idea of what the pitcher is trying to do to him, depending on the situation.” High praise from Pedro Guerrero, the Phillies new Assistant Hitting Coach.
In late June, Cuadrado was asked about his approach at the plate, or if he was a “guess hitter”. Romer responded quickly, “I go up to the plate with a plan.” Failing to plan is, planning to fail. Clearly that word is not in Cuadrado’s vocabulary, or his mindset. Coach Viele added, “what makes him a very special hitter is he works at his craft every day, in all facets. Strict cage routine, strict batting practice rounds, and he sticks to his game plan.”
Pioneer League Champs
Romer Cuadrado was as clutch and as a hitter could be during the Ogden Raptors 2017 playoff run. In 5 games, the young slugger hit .526, ten hits in nineteen at-bats. He drove in six runs, while scoring seven and he finished with sixteen total bases. The Ogden Raptors had an amazing team effort to win the Pioneer League Championship. Amazing teams are lead by fantastic leaders.
On The Horizon
To call the Pioneer League a hitter friendly league, may be putting it mildly. The Midwest League could not be a more different league, where pitchers dominate. There should be zero concern if Cuadrado’s .335/.413/.523 slash line drops as a Loon next season. Still, there will be the naysayers, if that occurs.
Cuadrado has made Coach Justin Viele a believer, “his desire to prove people wrong, day in and day out, is what will make him a big leaguer.” The 20 year old Venezuelan is converting fans every time he takes the field. Fans of Lindquist Field in Ogden, are now devout followers of his. Romer Cuadrado, a name to remember. A prospect to watch in the Dodgers organization.
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