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Rangers prospect named one of the club's biggest risers is conquering his fatal flaw

He looks much better at the plate this season.
ByJackson Kruse|
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July 21, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; A against the Texas Rangers cap and players glove sit on the dugout steps during the first inning against the Athletics at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images
July 21, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; A against the Texas Rangers cap and players glove sit on the dugout steps during the first inning against the Athletics at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images | Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

Texas Rangers shortstop prospect Yolfran Castillo was named Texas's biggest prospect riser in May by Baseball America (subscription required), largely because he has drastically improved offensively, the one aspect of his game many have questioned. Through May 31, Castillo slashed .300/.390/.421 (125 wRC+) with two home runs and 18 extra-base hits in 218 plate appearances across 48 games at the Single-A level. He's been even better at the plate this month, hitting .304/.455/.377 (141 wRC+) with a 12.5% strikeout rate.

An excellent defender with speed, Castillo's bat was the only aspect of his game that raised concerns. In 88 games between rookie ball and Single-A last season, the 19-year-old shortstop hit just .258/.315/.352 (80 wRC+) with one home run and 22 extra-base hits. Castillo's offensive surge this year is an encouraging sign for the young prospect.

Yolfran Castillo's improved OBP is an encouraging sign for the Rangers

While the power still isn't there for Castillo, the Rangers' No. 8 overall prospect per MLB Pipeline, his increase in hits and walks could be enough for the shortstop to be a force at the plate. By reaching base at a higher rate, his speed has given him opportunities to "manufacture" doubles, with 30 stolen bases already this year. And at just 19, Castillo could see an increase in power as he progresses through the minor-league ranks. At 6-foot-2, Castillo weighs just 165 pounds. He will almost certainly gain muscle within the next few years, which should lead to more home runs and doubles.

Due to his defensive ability, Castillo, a Venezuelan native, could be a valuable big leaguer even if he ends up as a below-average hitter. The Rangers awarded Castillo's strong defense by naming him the organization's Minor League Defender of the Month for May.

Castillo, whom Texas signed to a minor-league contract on January 15, 2024, is the Rangers' third-best shortstop prospect according to MLB Pipeline, with Sebastian Walcott and Josh Owens (also a pitcher) ahead of him as the club's first- and sixth-ranked prospects, respectively. Castillo is projected to reach the majors in 2029, meaning he should have plenty of time to further develop his offense. If Castillo continues to hit the ball well, he could find himself in High-A, where he played one game earlier this season, by the end of the year. If all goes well, he should be in Double-A at some point next year, Triple-A in 2028, and then the big leagues in 2029.

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