Every year I try to predict a breakout prospect. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. But one thing we have seen is almost every year the Astros have a guy that comes out of nowhere to establish himself in the system as a legitimate top prospect. I will select a few who could breakout, and I’m looking at guys mostly ranked out of the consensus top 30 or not very well known. Let’s get to the list.
Sandro Gaston, C
Gaston was signed by the Astros in September of 2021 and made his organizational debut last year playing in the DSL. The Cuban born catcher was lauded for his defensive command of the position at the time of the signing. His bat really stood out last year though as he slashed .319/.420/.688 with 14 2B, 12 HR, 37 RBI in 47 games. Gaston, listed at 6’3″ and 210 lbs, has a ton of raw power and could make his full-season debut in 2023. While the Astros have some really good catching prospect, Gaston could be another one in line.
Nolan DeVos, RHP
DeVos was the Astros 5th round pick in the 2022 draft after a standout career at Davidson that saw him strikeout 106 in 78.2 innings with a 2.40 ERA as a junior. He came into the season and posted a 1.88 ERA with 22 K in 14.1 innings. While DeVos isn’t a big pitcher, listed at 6’0″ 185 lbs, he can bring the heat with reports of him being up to 97 in college, though low to mid 90s is where he sits. DeVos also has a slider and developing change. He be 22-years-old this season and could be a breakout pitcher.
Yamal Encarnacion, INF
Encarnacion was signed by the Astros in January of 2021. He is smaller, listed at just 5’8″ and 150 lbs, but he put together some good numbers in the FCL in 2022 at just 18 years old. In 54 games he hit .273 with a .363 OBP and 9 SB. Given his versatility and the lack of infield depth at the lower levels, Yamal should have a good chance to see some extended playing time in Fayetteville this year as a teenager.
Jose Nodal, LHP
Nodal is a high groundball producing left handed pitcher, like Framber Valdez, who had a solid season in the FCL in 2022. The left-hander struck out 53 in 51 innings with a 3.18 ERA. Nodal thrives with his off-speed pitches, including an evolving changeup and big 12-6 curveball. The Cuban born pitcher should get a chance to show what he can do in full-season during the 2023 season.
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