Five Tools, One Name: Leo De Vries, The Best Shortstop Prospect In Baseball

[Alex Carl]

In January 2024, the Padres handed $4.2 million to a dynamic 17-year-old switch-hitting shortstop out of the Dominican Republic named Leo De Vries. A year and a half later, that investment looks like a bargain.

De Vries, now 18, has become one of the brightest young stars in the minor leagues. He’s the Padres’ No. 1 prospect. In MLB Pipeline’s latest Top 100 update, he rocketed up to No. 3 overall, ahead of a long list of former top picks, college stars, and highly-touted Latin American signees.

The buzz has officially gone national. But in San Diego’s farm system, De Vries has been the talk of the town for months.

While most players his age are just breaking into full-season ball, De Vries is already raking at High-A Fort Wayne, where he’s the youngest player at the High-A level. And he’s not just surviving, he’s thriving.

Through his first stretch of 2025, De Vries has slashed .253/.347/.425 with a .772 OPS. His numbers have taken a hit due to a recent slump, but even so, that’s not just good for his age; it’s elite, even among some older prospects. His strikeout rate has dropped from 23.3% in Low-A last year to just 19.8%, while maintaining an above-average walk rate at 12.4% and consistent power. 

And just in case scouts needed a reminder of his dynamic skill set, he hit for the cycle on April 22 against Lansing. Not bad for an 18-year-old.

De Vries checks just about every box you could want from a modern shortstop. He’s a true switch-hitter, with consistent power from both sides of the plate. Seven of his 11 home runs last year came as a righty, despite far fewer plate appearances. However, this year, his left-handed swing has developed as he faces a lot more right-handed pitchers, with four of his five home runs so far this year coming from the left side. 

Scouts describe De Vries as a true five-tool player, the rare kind who can impact the game in every facet. Whether it’s squaring up fastballs, flashing leather up the middle, or taking the extra base on a single to right, De Vries shows the instincts and athleticism that often separate stars from everyday players. While his stolen base totals aren’t eye-popping yet, his efficient reads and quick first step suggest he could swipe 15–20 bags per season, furthering his all-around game.

At 6’1”, 183 pounds, he’s still maturing physically, but already showcases a smooth swing, quick hands, and an excellent feel for the strike zone. His 60-grade hit tool is paired with 55 power, and both have already translated in games. His bat-to-ball ability and pitch recognition are especially advanced for his age, as he consistently lives in the zone while waiting for his pitch to do damage. 

Defensively, De Vries is equally impressive. He grades out at 55 across the board in fielding, arm, and run. He’s a fluid, athletic shortstop with above-average range and enough arm strength to stay on the left side long-term. The errors have spiked this year, with 13 already reported, but are improving with more experience in every game.

Last season, De Vries got his first taste of full-season ball at just 17 years old. He hit .237/.361/.441 with 11 home runs. Those are solid numbers, but even more impressive given the age and level of the players. He took off in the second half of last season, where he hit all of his 11 home runs and posted a .921 OPS after a sluggish start. 

Despite the accelerated assignments, the Padres have taken a generally patient approach with De Vries. Their history with international stars like Fernando Tatis Jr. and, more recently, Ethan Salas shows a balance between challenging top prospects and not rushing their development. However, if De Vries continues this pace, the front office may not be able to hold him back much longer.

His estimated ETA is early 2027, but a 2026 debut doesn’t feel completely out of the question.

De Vries joins elite company as a switch-hitting shortstop with power, speed, and polish. Names like Marcelo Mayer and Sebastian Walcott are often mentioned in prospect comparison discussions, but neither is ranked higher.

He’s not just a top Padres prospect. He’s a national name now. He’s drawing comparisons to stars like Jose Ramirez and Ozzie Albies. And while that’s lofty company, his production, poise, and tools make the dream seem very possible.

Leo De Vries is the type of player who inspires fans' dreams and convinces front offices to believe. He’s young, he’s electric, and he’s already showing flashes of superstar upside at one of the game’s toughest positions.

If you're not already on the bandwagon, now's the time to hop on because everything about Leo De Vries is pointing up.

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