Reds’ Carlos Jorge Brings Well-Rounded Game To Low-A

The Reds have seen several quality performances from their 2021 international signing class, but of the group it has been second baseman Carlos Jorge who has been the most productive.

While Jorge is a bit undersized at 5-foot-7, 176 pounds, that hasn’t hindered the lefthanded hitter at the plate.

“He’s not the biggest dude in the world, but he’s got some pop, and the ball carries,” Reds vice president of player development Shawn Pender said.

Signed out of the Dominican Republic in January 2021, Jorge debuted that season in the Dominican Summer League. Last year he advanced to the Arizona Complex League and hit .261/.405/.529 with seven home runs and a league-leading 27 stolen bases in 42 games.

“He had a really good offensive year,” Pender said of Jorge, whose .934 OPS ranked fourth in the ACL. “. . . His exit velocity has got to get better, but that’s all a part of strength increase. He’s already a solid hitter.”

It’s not just what he’s been able to do with the bat that’s been impressive. While stolen base totals in the Rookie complex leagues can be exaggerated, Jorge has stolen 54 bases and been caught just nine times in his career with above-average speed.

After splitting time between shortstop and second base in 2021 with Leonardo Balcazar, Jorge moved to second last summer. His average arm plays a bit better at second than at shortstop.

The 19-year-old Jorge will likely advance to the Florida State League to play for Low-A Daytona in 2023. The FSL is one of the most pitcher-friendly leagues in the minors, but Jorge’s well-rounded skill set could make him one of the more exciting players to watch this year.