Marcelo Perez

Draft Prospects

• Ranked #404 prospect in 2021 draft
  There used to be a pretty strong aversion to drafting short (sub 6-foot) righthanders. The idea was that a shorter pitcher’s fastball would be too easy to hit out because it lacks plane (and shorter pitchers may wear down easier as well). But some teams have become more willing to take a look at short righties. That’s good news for Perez, a 5-foot-10 righthander who has been a reliable reliever for Texas Christian for three seasons. If Perez can improve his below-average control, he has the makings of being an effective reliever. Perez has a fast arm, a compact delivery and the ability to touch 95-97 mph, although he sits more 92-94. Perez shifted to longer relief stints this year, working two or more innings in eight of 13 appearances. Perez’s slider is at least above-average and flashes plus, with two-plane tilt at its best as it darts toward the dirt when he locates it down to his glove side. But the entire package has been hindered by his control. He misses the strike zone on 0-0 too often, and when he does, hitters tee off on his fastball.