Javier Lopez

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Miami Marlins #25 prospect in 2015
  The tooled-up Lopez was the Marlins' biggest international signee in 2011, when he received a $350,000 bonus. His minor league performances through three pro seasons are not commensurate with his top-shelf tools. After opening the 2014 season at low Class A Greensboro, he saw his development stall due in large part to a subluxed shoulder. When he got healthy, Lopez didn't hit and ultimately received a demotion to short-season Batavia. At times he struggles getting out of the batter's box or gets poor jumps on steal attempts. His shoulder issue no doubt contributed to his .223/.264/.302 batting line in 2014. Lopez has a plus arm but needs to improve his accuracy. Though Lopez has hit just two home runs in 667 professional at-bats, scouts project him to hit for average power, but it's time for him to turn his tools into production as he returns to Greensboro in 2015.
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  Ranked Miami Marlins #26 prospect in 2014
  The Marlins inked Lopez for $350,000, a considerable sum for an organization that doesn't spend much internationally. He struggled in the Rookie-level Dominican Summer League in 2012 but Miami pushed him to short-season Batavia in 2013, where he was the youngest player on the roster. He tantalizes with a live body and a natural feel for the game. While he struggled offensively, he showed a loose stroke and rarely looked overmatched. He makes hard contact and shows power to his pull side. He's an average runner. Lopez has smooth actions at shortstop but tends to get too flashy. He has a plus arm, though his throws were inconsistent and often rushed. The Marlins would like to give Lopez 500 at-bats in 2014, and jump him to low Class A Greensboro. More likely, he'll return to extended spring before he tackles full-season pitching.