Speed Is Trent Deveaux’s Weapon Of Choice

The Angels made their first big splash in the international market in two years with their July 2 signing of 17-year-old outfielder Trent Deveaux from the Bahamas. The franchise had faced signing restrictions on international prospects after their 2014 pursuit of busted shortstop prospect Roberto Baldoquin cost them not only $8 million but also put them in the penalty box for the 2015 and 2016 signing classes.

The 6-foot-3, 185-pound Deveaux, who signed for $1.2 million, is an elite athlete who is at least a plus-plus runner who has been clocked at 6.2 seconds in the 60-yard dash. Though his power is limited, he has a strong, lean, projectable frame, and there is quick burst in everything he does.

Ranked No. 19 in last year’s international class, Deveaux, who moved from shortstop to the outfield last year, shows the makings of a premium defender in center field, with a solid arm and plus range and instincts. He has a line-drive swing and a good understanding of the strike zone.

“He reminds me of a young Dexter Fowler, maybe even Dave Winfield, because he’s a big boy who is still growing into his body,” said player development director Mike Gallego, who tutored Deveaux in instructional league. “He has above-average speed, a very accurate arm, and he strolls the outfield well.

“With his speed and arm and the potential of his bat, I’m looking forward to watching him develop. His swing can be a little long right now, but he could make a big impact on the bases with his speed. It will be his weapon of choice.”

Deveaux showed an ability to make adjustments in 2017 by closing off his upright, open stance to improve his balance, which helped him stay through the ball and use the middle of the field. He also showed maturity for his age and an ability to adapt to a pro environment.

“He’s a very interesting player, a very intelligent young man,” Gallego said. “He speaks four or five languages, and he shows absolutely no fear. He believes in his abilities and blends in well with all the players. He’s a jokester, a fun-loving guy, but at same time, he has above-average tools and is very athletic.”

ANGEL FOOD

• The Angels re-signed journeyman lefthander John Lamb to a minor league deal. While pitching at Triple-A Salt Lake last May he was suspended for 50 games following a second positive test for a drug of abuse.

• Righthander A.J. Achter, who had a 3.11 ERA in 27 relief appearances for the 2016 Angels and spent last season in the Tigers’ system, was named an assistant coach at Eastern Michigan. He was drafted out of Michigan State.