With the scheduled start of 2021 Spring Training now less than two weeks away, the Los Angeles Dodgers have begun compiling a list of players to invite to Camelback Ranch. Though an official announcement hasn’t been made yet, one prospect that will be joining big league camp is Jacob Amaya.
The 22-year-old received an non-roster invitation to Spring Training last year as well, which marked a first for the versatile infielder. After the 2020 Minor League season was cancelled, he was a late addition to the Dodgers’ 60-man player pool.
Selected in the 11th round of the 2017 MLB Draft, Amaya’s last full season of work came in 2019 with Low-A Great Lakes and High-A Rancho Cucamonga. He batted a solid .262/.381/.394 with 25 doubles, four triples, six home runs and 58 RBI over 103 games with the Loons.
His production dropped some upon earning a promotion to the Quakes, but Amaya still hit a respectable .250/.307/.375 with three doubles, one home run and 13 RBI in 21 games. He memorably hit a walk-off home run in the California League playoffs, though the Quakes still went on to lose the series.
We are excited for our clients @HeliotRamos @MoneyyyMikeee @JacobAmaya3 & @RoldaniBaldwin for receiving invitations to Big League Camp for the 2021 season. #MESMFAMILY @NB_Baseball @OldHickoryBats @VictusSports @RawlingsSports @wilsonballglove @SFGiants @Braves @RedSox @Dodgers pic.twitter.com/DPpGmvZuO4
— Munger English SM (@MungerEnglishSM) February 2, 2021
Throughout his young Minor League career, Amaya has played second base, third base and shortstop. The bulk of his reps have come at shortstop.
Amaya’s ability to play all over the infield could give him an edge to earn a spot on the 26-man roster, especially with Kiké Hernandez departing in free agency.
However, Amaya is not currently on the 40-man roster and would need to be added in order for that possibility to become a reality.
Minor League Spring Training could be delayed
With the Players Associating rejecting MLB’s proposal to delay the 2021 season, all indications point to Spring Training beginning on time this month. Though, both sides still need to reach an agreement on health and safety protocols.
One concern that needs to be addressed is how many players can report to camp at once given the high coronavirus (COVID-19) infection rates in Arizona and Florida.
Previously, MLB was said to be considering restricting how many Minor League players a team can invite to camp. In this scenario, every player that hasn’t reached Triple-A and isn’t a non-roster invitee would have to wait to report until vaccines become more accessible.
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