Texas Rangers Prospect Radar: Yohander Mendez

Yohander Mendez has gotten the call up by the Texas Rangers a few times but he still is considered a top prospect within the organization.

Throughout this series we’re taking a look at the Rangers top prospects according to MLB.com Prospect Watch. We’re working our way from the top to the bottom of the list. Yohander Mendez was one of the Rangers biggest international investments in recent memory and has cracked the big league roster a couple of times. As one of Texas’ top pitching prospects, Mendez could have a part to play in the Rangers future.

Background

The Texas Rangers signed Mendez as an international player in July of 2011. Yohander, a lefty, is currently listed as the Rangers number 7 prospect according to MLB.com Prospect Watch. One of Mendez’s most intriguing aspects is his 6’5″ frame which is a big asset for pitchers.

Scouting Report

At 23-years old, Mendez is still a few years away from his prime as a pitcher. While his grades aren’t the best, Yohander shows potential. Mendez has a fastball that is considered above average among scouts. His changeup is considered his best pitch. However, his slider and curveball are both thought to be below average. The need to develop another off speed pitch is a glaring one that can drastically shift the potential of Mendez in the future.

Minor League Service

Mendez has spent most of 2018 in Triple-A Round Rock where he has made 7 starts. This season, Yohander has had a rough go of it posting a 5.73 ERA and an 0-4 record. Despite this, in his minor league career, Mendez’s numbers are impressive. In 463.1 innings pitched, Mendez has an ERA of just 3.09 with 432 strikeouts. The hope is, that Mendez can begin to translate that success to the big league club.

Expectations

While Mendez is no future ace, he does have the potential to be an important player. If he can develop his offspeed pitches more, he has the potential to be a middle of the rotation starter. However where he currently stands, he’s likely a back end of the rotation starter or perhaps a relief pitcher. At just 23, Mendez still has room for improvement as a pitcher and is no doubt someone Texas will push to develop to top potential.