César Prieto is has been a very sought after talent since his day with Cienfuegos in the Serie Nacional. As a rookie in 2017 he set the circuit’s record for most hits by a first year player, thus by taking the league’s rookie of year trophy.
The infielder defected from the Cuban National Team before the 2021 Olympic Qualifying Tournament, shortly after the team arrived at Miami International Airport. The talented hitter quickly signed with the Baltimore Orioles in 2022 for 650K and has made a quick ascent through the minor leagues.
In two seasons on the farms with Baltimore and St. Louis he has hit .299 with 21 longballs, 53 doubles and has knocked in 126 runs. With his trade last season to the redbirds expect Prieto not to spend much more time in the minors.
Kenyan Middleton vs. César Prieto:
Line drive. pic.twitter.com/AH1DlvddT3
— Francys Romero (@francysromeroFR) February 24, 2024
How did you work on this offeason, what did you focus on for this season?
I focused mainly on my hitting zone and I think it was something I was able to improve in this offseason.
Since your arrival in the minor leagues, you’ve had position change, how have you assumed this change in role?
Very good, I feel very comfortable, I like the change to third base. I like playing that position and I think that being a versatile player helps me a lot within the organization. Playing many positions gives me great pleasure.
You played with the Águilas Cibaeñas, in the last offseason as well. How do you characterize the quality of Dominican baseball, good, very good or very similar to that of the major leagues?
The level of talent is very similar to the major leagues, really, great pitching. The LIDOM is chock-full of players with a lot of time in MLB , many prospects. I think the Dominican is a very talented circuit.
César, what is the main objective this year when you go up?
My main objective is to make the big leagues, make the necessary adjustments quickly and stay.
Do you have a message for all the people who always follow you and supported you from day one.
Tell them that César Prieto is still here, fighting, and will continue to do so.