Simon Muzziotti’s Winding Road Leads To Phillies
Simon Muzziotti took a circuitous route to the Phillies’ minor league system, but he’s on a solid track now.
The 21-year-old outfielder is expected to reach Double-A at some point in 2020 after a good showing in the high Class A Florida State League last season. Muzziotti hit .287 with 21 doubles, three triples, three home runs and 21 stolen bases while playing a standout center field.
“He’s a very good-looking player, a natural center fielder, and he has a strong understanding of the game,” farm director Josh Bonifay said.
In the field, Muzziotti impresses with his breaks, ability to run good routes and his above-average throwing arm. He has drawn some comparisons to fellow Venezuelan outfielder Ender Inciarte.
At the plate, Muzziotti impresses with strong bat-to-ball skills. He struck out just 60 times in 425 at-bats last year, while drawing 32 walks.
Muzziotti originally signed with the Red Sox out of Venezuela in July 2015, but was declared a free agent a year later after Boston was found to have broken international signing rules.
The Phillies knew Muzziotti well from previous workouts he had done in front of scouts Carlos Salas and Sal Agostinelli before signing with the Red Sox. When Muzziotti was declared a free agent, the Phillies quickly signed him for $750,000.
“It’s been a great experience here with the Phillies,” Muzziotti said. “The coaches I’ve had here have always had my back and supported about me and helped me.”
Muzziotti weighed just 159 pounds when he signed with Boston. He’s up to 190 pounds at 6-foot-1 now and he continues to add strength as he puts himself on the map with the Phillies.
In January, Muzziotti spent a week in Philadelphia at the team’s annual prospect education seminar. He purchased some Phillies, Flyers and Sixers garb.
“I’m a sports fan and I want to root for the Philly teams,” Muzziotti said.
Perhaps one day, fans will purchase shirts with Muzziotti’s name on the back.
“That would be a prideful moment, something you can only dream of,” he said.
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