From MLB.com Scouting:
Scouting grades: Hit: 45 | Power: 55 | Run: 50 | Arm: 50 | Field: 50 | Overall: 40
Ranked as MLB Pipeline’s No. 42 international prospect in the 2024 class, Lantigua joined the Mets for $950,000 out of the Dominican Republic. Only Yovanny Rodriguez ($2.85 million) signed for more in the organization last year. Making his pro debut in his home nation, Lantigua was arguably New York’s top performer in the Dominican Summer League as he slashed .263/.397/.395 over 45 games, giving him a 122 wRC+. The outfielder was named a DSL midseason All-Star and went 1-for-3 with a steal in the circuit’s version of the midsummer classic.
As good as Lantigua’s first taste of the pros was, he still stands out more for his future projection than current skills. At 6-foot-1 and having turned 18 in November, he still has room to mature physically -- a great sign for a right-handed slugger who already produces strong top-end exit velocities. He took his fair share of walks against the typically wild DSL arms (and was even one of the most plunked players in the league with 14 HBPs) and kept strikeouts in check for his age and experience, but he’ll likely need to tighten his swing to keep that contact rate coming against more experienced arms.
A solid runner now, Lantigua spent the bulk of his DSL time in center field. There’s always a chance he slows as he ages, and the Mets did give him looks in the corners already, specifically more right than left. The power could certainly play there if it continues to develop as hoped. Lantigua’s move stateside will be closely followed at Single-A St. Lucie and beyond.
