Erick Matos 4/30/26

Catching up on some aged notes…Athletics RHP Erick Matos threw last week in an extended game. The A’s signed him for $700k as a 2024 IFA out of Cuba. Matos is an immensely strong/physical teenager. He’s listed at 6’4” 195, and I suspect he could be 6’5” 225 now.

Strength-based power game. Drifts down mound and lands tall/open. Relies on brute strength and has PLENTY of it. Suspect the data will say below average extension, which is surprising given his height. Hitters get a very good look at the baseball out of hand. Mechanics inefficiency might represent a player dev opportunity. Hips are fully open at foot plant. Can he keep his back hip closed and benefit from better rotation? The slow start to his deliv may allow for more strikes but also saps power and leaves velo on the table.

FB/SL/CHG mix. Works mostly FB/SL but also flashed a 55 change. Believe I saw 2sm/4s fastball variants. Slider flashes big tight/late break and shows some feel to land for a strike and pitch backwards.

Near ideal pitcher body/frame. Should be able to log SP innings no problem. Strike throwing ability is biggest hurdle. High variance player depending on possible mechanics adjustments. See a lot of untapped potential. Really intriguing developmental arm.