The Los Angeles Angels have been spending a lot of money on their international draft classes lately, and this year is no different. Joswa Lugo, a shortstop who signed a $2.3 million contract with the Halos for the eighth-highest salary in the 2024 draft class, is one of the most successful Angels prospects.
The investment is profitable thus far. Ian Cundall of Baseball America has identified Lugo, the sixth-ranked prospect in the Angels’ system going into 2026, as a possible breakout offensive player whose true ability may be concealed beneath comparatively mediocre stat records.
Cundall specifically brought up Lugo’s underlying data on his “power-over-hit profile,” which he claimed was the reverse of what the prospect’s baseball card showed. Lugo has a maximum EV of 113.5 mph and an exit velocity of 107.4 mph. Even though Lugo is just eighteen, the figures are remarkable for his age.
In terms of more traditional statistics, the shortstop has performed exceptionally well in each of his stops to date. After making a successful start in the Dominican Summer League, Lugo’s slash line in the Arizona Complex League was 271/.375/.372, with just two home runs in 152 plate appearances.
Of course, there are problems, but such exit velocities show that there is greater power available. Lugo has to improve his approach, swing choices, and swing angles because Cundall called his contact rate “fringy.”
When play in the Arizona Complex League started, Lugo was listed as one of seven prospects to keep an eye on. According to Jesus Cano of Baseball America, the shortstop possesses exceptional bat speed and barrel control.
It’s improbable that the Angels will push Lugo to the major leagues, despite their well-deserved reputation for doing so. Zach Neto, the Halos’ current shortstop, had a fantastic season and hit 26 home runs to provide plenty of power.
But if Lugo can improve his contact abilities, there is a need at second base. Prospect Christian Moore and recently acquired second baseman Vaughn Grissom, who had trouble with the Boston Red Sox after being acquired from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for pitcher Chris Sale, will currently compete in a positional audition.
Naturally, Lugo won’t compete in that event, but he might have a brief look during spring training to expose him to more difficult opposition. With any luck, he will continue to advance in the Angels’ system, giving the team’s middle-infield predicament some hope and eventually stability.
