Jumbo Diaz Stats & Scouting Report

Top Rankings

Not to be confused with the Jose Diaz who made last year's Dodgers prospect list and now is known as Joselo Soriano, this Diaz is simply known as "Jumbo" throughout the organization. Both fire mid- to upper-90s heat, but Jumbo demonstrates a better feel for pitching. Originally signed for $100,000, he's physically imposing and can overpower hitters with one of the best fastballs in the system. He tops out at 97 mph and pitches at 94-95. He also has some aptitude for a slider which distinguishes him from other live arms in the lower levels. Diaz needs to get innings and experience, though he'll move up the ladder as a reliever. He has the build of a tight end, drawing obvious parallels to Armando Benitez. Diaz could close in low Class A this year and has a shot to advance higher.

The 6-foot-4, 240-pound Diaz used his sheer mass to overmatch GCL hitters in the first half, earning a promotion to the Rookie-level Pioneer League. "He was too good for this league," Marlins manager Jesus Campos said. "He was a fighter. He went right after hitters with his fastball." Diaz always was around the strike zone with his pitches but his breaking ball needs work. Though he looks heavy, his big body is viewed as a strength. He pitched at 93-97 mph, touching 98 in every outing.