Smith, the club's director of international scouting, praised the recent performances of teenagers such as power pitcher Adys Portillo, athletic outfielder Rymer Liriano and third baseman Edinson Rincon. None are close to reaching the majors, but Portillo is quickening the pulse of observers.
Portillo, who drew offers from the Phillies, Rangers and Mariners before signing with the Padres for $2 million, recently fared well in his first professional camp.
“Portillo was sitting 94, touching 95 in his last two outings in the Dominican Instructional League,” Smith said. “He really has a chance to be special.”
Mature beyond his years, Portillo has a fastball that will be a plus pitch and two or three other offerings that have potential to be above average. First-pitch strikes will be a vital component of his success, but expect positive returns to come quick. He has front-line starter potential.
Adys Portillo has made an impression on many people since being signed by the Padres. His poise and overall makeup is just part of the allure.
Portillo has integrated well with the players around him and formed a bond with his ability to blend in smoothly.
“He is a great kid,” fellow pitcher Simon Castro said. “He is smart and has great stuff.”
After Portillo’s first pitch, left-hander Cory Luebke looked over and with a shake of his head simply said, ‘Sixteen.’
His fastball showed late movement and significant pop — as if it jumped on the hitters at the last second with an extra burst. His slider had great sweeping action across the zone and down but was harder to control.
Pitching coach Darren Balsley: “I like his delivery,” Balsley said. “He gets extension. He didn't overthrow. He was good, real good.”
The Padres spent $2 million alone on Portillo, who was considered to be the second-best pitcher in the pool of available Latin American players.
"He's everything we've talked about ... he's incredibly polished and poised for a 16-year-old," Fuson said.