Neiker Palacios 6/18/26

Impressive outing from an unknown teenage righty. Not overpowering fastball velo-wise (92-93) but has all the hallmarks of a velo spike candidate and natural cut/carry life might help the fastball play up. Athletic mover with free and easy arm action and clean mechanics. Projectable high-waisted build. Cat-like quickness off the mound. Low effort delivery. Closed stride with easy deceleration and follow through towards first base. Elbow flexion inside 90 might create some deception. Gets around the baseball and high slot creates natural cut/carry life on fastball. North/south approach with three secondary pitches that all flash plus. Great feel for spin. Most confidence in curve (76-80) which is best present secondary – tight snap with 12/6 or 11/5 shape, really drops off the table late. Mostly vertical slider (81-85) gives hitters another velo band to contend with. Showed ability to land both breakers in zone for strikes. Rarely thrown splitter might be best swing and miss pitch when all is said and done – a couple disappearing ivsi-balls – now you see me now you don’t. Has pitch mix to start. No real track record of logging innings, but believe he should be developed as a starter. Amount of strength he can gain and how that translates to increased velo is a big variable. Believe he has intent-based projection as well. Looking like a steal for a kid who was a $25k sign out of Venezuela.