"So what exactly can Nationals fans expect from their new prospect? The big factor will be whether or not Perales can successfully answer the largest question to his current prospect profile: can he make it as a starter in the big leagues? As of right now, Perales has significant reliever risk long-term due to his slight frame, but his pure stuff is absolutely incredible, and at the very worse makes it extremely likely that he could be an elite closer."
"Standing at just 6'1" and 160 pounds, Perales is not the most physically imposing pitcher on the planet, but he does have an intriguing pitch mix. The 22-year-old from Venezuela features a 70-grade fastball that has touched triple digits, a 50-grade slider, 55-grade cutter, and 55-grade splitter in his arsenal. The 4-pitch mix makes it more likely that he can make it work as a starter, but his 40-grade control is currently limiting his potential ceiling as it stands right now."
"However, if Perales can put on a bit of weight to help lessen the load on his right arm, which has already undergone Tommy John Surgery, then perhaps he will be able to become an elite starting pitcher, which is what the Nationals are hoping for after acquiring him. He has since bounced back and had a great tenure in the Arizona Fall League this year, likely giving Toboni the confidence that he will be able to continue on his journey to realize his potential."
Paul Toboni acquired right-hander Luis Perales from the Boston Red Sox in a trade that sent lefty Jake Bennett to Boston. Perales is a 22-year-old Venezuelan with a slight 6'1", 160-pound frame and a history of Tommy John surgery. He possesses a 70-grade fastball that has touched triple digits, plus a 50-grade slider, 55-grade cutter, and 55-grade splitter. The four-pitch mix suggests starter potential, but a 40-grade control and long-term reliever risk due to his frame currently limit his ceiling. Perales performed well in the Arizona Fall League, demonstrating recovery and promising upside.
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