Prospect Report — Tink Hence Debuts and Endy Rodriguez Keeps Hitting

Tink Hence, RHP, Cardinals — The Cardinals top pitching prospect came on in the sixth inning, struck out a batter and walked another over a scoreless inning. Hence showed off his signature fastball, slider combination. He struck out Tim Locastro on a nasty slider and got Pete Alonso to ground into an inning-ending double play. Hence’s fastball topped at 97 mph in his first test of the spring. 

Endy Rodriguez, C, Pirates — The Pirates’ top prospect went 2-for-2 with a double and an RBI in Monday’s action after replacing Carlos Santana in the sixth inning. Big things are expected of Rodriguez who ended the 2022 season on a high note as one of the minor leagues best hitters in the second half. Both of Rodriguez’s hits registered exit velocities around 98 mph. 

Spencer Horwitz, 1B, Blue Jays — Horwitz started at first base for the Blue Jays and went 2 for  3. His first single came off of Max Fried on a line drive to right field. Horwitz is an underrated hitter with above-average plate skills and sneaky raw power. He was added to the Blue Jays’ 40-man roster this offseason. 

Lawrence Butler, 1B, Athletics — The hulking Oakland slugger made an impact in Monday’s game against the Rockies. He went 2-for-4 with a double and his first home run of the spring. Butler hit 11 home runs and stole 13 bases during the 2022 season.