Josue De Paula, the top prospect for the Los Angeles Dodgers, showcased his impressive skills during the Futures Game, drawing comparisons to MLB star Yordan Alvarez. The 20-year-old left-handed hitter made a notable impact by hitting a three-run homer off Chicago White Sox pitcher Noah Schultz, sending the ball 416 feet into right-center at an impressive exit velocity of 108.5 mph. This achievement marked a milestone for De Paula, as he became the only Dodger to hit a home run in a Futures Game since Alfredo Silverio in 2011 and also earned the MVP title.
Leading up to this performance, De Paula had already tied his career high with 10 home runs in 78 games while playing for High-A Great Lakes. This offseason, he trained alongside MLB talents such as Juan Soto and Elly De La Cruz, a regimen that appears to be paying off. De Paula expressed his gratitude for the learning experience, particularly the mental aspects of the game, which is essential for a long MLB season.
This performance not only highlights De Paula’s potential as a formidable player for the Dodgers but also adds excitement for fans looking forward to his role in the future. With continued development, he may well become a significant contributor to the team’s success in the coming years.
Overall, De Paula’s achievement is a testament to hard work and dedication, amplifying hopes for a bright future in baseball for the young slugger.