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Jorge Alfaro Named Third-Best Catching Prospect by MLB.com

By George Stockburger |
Sep 13, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Jorge Alfaro (38) in action against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citizens Bank Park. The Pittsburgh Pirates won 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 13, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Jorge Alfaro (38) in action against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citizens Bank Park. The Pittsburgh Pirates won 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Alfaro was arguably the asset in the Cole Hamels trade two years ago

Phillies fans finally got the opportunity to see a bright piece of their future last season when catcher Jorge Alfaro made his major league debut in September. While his at-bats and starts were limited, fans were excited to see a player who could help lead a future championship team.

While due to start the season in Triple-A Lehigh Valley, Alfaro could soon be a permanent fixture in Philadelphia baseball.

Jim Callis of MLB.com spoke on MLB Network after the rankings were released, and noted Alfaro might be the closest of the top-10 catchers to being an everyday starter in the big leagues.

“He’s got probably some of the most exciting tools on (the top-10 catchers) list. He has a big cannon arm, he’s got probably as much raw power as anyone on this list. He’s actually a really good athlete, might run as well as just about anyone on this list. The receiving and hitting have not been as polished, but he made strides with those things last year”More from That Balls Outta HerePhillies-Mets owners’ rivalry grows after shocking Carlos Correa dealCould Rich Hill become ‘Jamie Moyer 2.0’ in Phillies rotation?Does Bailey Falter have a future in Phillies’ rotation?Prospect Andrew Baker could help Phillies bullpen in 2023Bryce Harper’s absence should lead to Phillies lineup tinkering

Alfaro has yet to record an at-bat in Triple-A but has shown he’s ready to make the jump. In 97 games for Reading Alfaro hit .285 with 15 home runs. The 105/22 K/BB ratio will need to be addressed, but the tools are there for Alfaro to be an impact bat in the major leagues.

One could argue with Callis’ pick of Alfaro to be the next catching prospect to secure an everyday big league job. Cameron Rupp will start the season for the Phillies, and Andrew Knapp is expected to be the primary backup. With a logjam at catcher, the Phillies may be forced to wait on bringing Alfaro back to Major League Baseball.

A player of his caliber can not sit on the bench; whether it’s in Lehigh Valley or Philadelphia, Alfaro needs to be both at and behind the plate every day.

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