Angel Liranzo

Role: #4 Starter
Risk: Extreme – Liranzo is likely to add more velocity as he matures, but he is currently throwing in the high 80s. There is a very long developmental road ahead of him.
Summary: Liranzo was one of the youngest signees in the 2023 international class, and spent most of the season at 16 before turning 17 in early August. He has an advanced feel and arsenal for his age, but his actual velocity and stuff was lagging behind his teammates. He has a 4 pitch mix with a slider, curveball, and changeup complimenting the fastball. His fastball sat 87 to 89, with the occasional 90. His breaking balls both were in the 70s, and while there appears to be feel for shape and command, both looked like they need some more power behind them as they were a bit loopy. He sells his changeup well, and it is likely to be the pitch that carries him for a while. Statistically, he was one of the best starters in the league, as hitters had little answer to the pitch mix and good command. The command comes from a fairly simple delivery that he repeats well, and he should have good command and control going forward. The Phillies coaches have gone on the record with Ranger Suarez comps, and given the height and arsenal there are definitely similarities to Suarez, especially when he was a prospect. Much like Liranzo, Suarez’s fastball was well below average velocity for many of his early years, and it was slow development to start before he grew into more velocity and his stock took off. It is likely we see somewhat of a similar path with Liranzo where he moves a bit slowly, especially given his age, and then moves quickly once his stuff is more prospect caliber.
2024 Outlook: Given his lack of current stuff, and that he will pitch most of the season at age 17, it is likely that Liranzo repeats the DSL