Since I first watched him in drills during January’s High Performance Camp I’ve been impressed with twenty one year old catcher Luis Caicuto who came to the Phillies via the minor league portion of the Rule 5 draft in December from the Arizona Diamondbacks organization.
Luis continually displayed an enthusiasm for the game and also had impressive BP’s (bat to ball and power) and throwing sessions in the spring camps. He’s now showing that in games with the Clearwater Threshers. It became evident early that he has leadership qualities, something that would serve any team he’s on well. He was signed by the Diamondbacks on 7/2/19 as an international free agent from Lecheria, Venezuela and played three seasons stateside in the Arizona Complex League albeit sparingly last season due to injury. In 2022 he posted a .352/.433/.451 slash line with an OPS of .884 in 30 games (106 PA’s) with four doubles, a triple and home run. Defensively he threw out 8 of 28 (29 %) base stealers that season.
When watching his BP sessions in this spring’s camps I got a kick out of his reactions to hard hit baseballs, both his own and those by teammates - especially the ones that went out of the yard - I even remember a coach kiddingly chiding him after he hit one out and didn’t remark 🤓. It was evident both then and now he is well received, he’s also cordial with the fan base. I remember him having a long chat one day with a gentleman who visited often to the complex this spring wearing a team Venezuela jersey - the pride of both country and the spirit of baseball was displayed in their interaction.
I asked Luis a few questions about his time here with the Phillies. Here’s our correspondence.
What injury did you have when with the Diamondbacks ?
“I had surgery in 2022 on my knee (ACL) and was away for almost a year.”
How are you enjoying your time with the Phillies organization so far and what has stood out ?
“I feel very happy to be here with the Phillies. Being a family, since I got here I’ve felt at home.”
What is your favorite thing about catching ?
“I think it’s calling a good game in order to help the team win.”
In BP I’ve seen you get very excited about good hits - have you always been an enthusiastic person about baseball ?
“Yes, I always go out to enjoy and try to create a bond of brotherhood between all the players.”
How good do you think this year’s Threshers team can be ?
“I think that if we stay together and enjoy the game we can achieve great things.”
Luis is off to a great start since being named to the opening roster for the Clearwater Threshers, his first full season assignment. Thru his initial four games played he’s went 5 for 12 (.417) with four doubles, two walks, four RBIsand has posted a 1.283 OPS. Defensively he’s already thrown out 3 of 12 (25%) base stealers displaying a quick release and a strong accurate arm. He’s shown coaches a great work ethic and always brings energy to the field. I’d say it was good scouting by the Phillies pro personnel group and a smart draft choice in December. Best wishes to Luis and hopes for continued success as the season progresses - great attitude, strong skills, ability to communicate, leadership qualities and an inclusive personality - that’s good stuff!
Happy Day, Happy Baseball ⚾️
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