Alberto
Rios

The Pac-12 POY broke out in a huge way this season (.403/.510/.756, 17 home runs) after logging just one plate appearance as a freshman in 2021 and seven last year. After transitioning from catcher to the outfield this season in order to get his bat in the lineup, Rios entered the season largely unknown, even to area scouts. A strong-bodied 6-foot, 200-pound right handed hitter with a quiet approach and a compact line-drive stroke, Rios has a very hitterish look in the batter’s box. He’s also a plus runner with above average arm strength from the outfield. Overall, he’s a top five round talent who may go higher if scouts are sold on his ability to catch which will be tough to see during the remainder of the Cardinal season, but expect Rios to be active on the individual workout scene with pro clubs or for a glimpse in a summer league once his college season has ended.

Stanford commit. Rios has improved his physical conditioning considerably since the spring season. He looks stronger, thicker, and leaner all at the same time. The work is paying off at the plate where showed off a significant amount of power during batting practice. His consistency with his barrel has improved - meaning it’s on plane more regularly now - allowing him square balls up more frequently. Defensively he had one of the stronger arms on the day. The footwork is above average and the glovework continues to be consistent. Stanford commit. 

Stanford commit. Rios continues to show high level defensive tools that will provide him a shot at staying at the position once he gets to school. His instincts, first step, arm strength, and leadership all play at the position. He shows a very good/quick first step and plenty of range to both sides. The arm is sufficient presently. At the plate Rios shows a knack for getting the bat to and on the ball. He’s more of a spray hitter now, with some projection remaining although he’ll never likely be a big power hitter, he does show the ability to drive the ball into the gaps. For the collegiate level he profiles as a high level second baseman given his defensive abilities along with his present hit tool.