Berks Sports Report Paul Roberts
Gabriel Rincones Jr. is the #10 prospect in the Phillies’ organization, but he doesn’t pay much attention to rankings. “I try not to, but it’s inevitable for me to come across it. Sometimes I look my name up, but for the most part I try to keep away from that,” he said at Reading’s media day. The 23-year old outfielder was a third round draft pick in 2022. He split time between Jersey Shore and Clearwater last season. Rincones launched 15 home runs with 60 RBI over 120 games. The Florida Atlantic product doesn’t mind where he plays in the outfield. “Stick me in right, left, center, first, third, short, I don’t care,” he joked. “As long as I get in the lineup, I’m good,” replied Rincones. In 48 games with the Threshers, he hit .264 with an OPS of .832. Fightin Phils’ manager Al Pedrique mentioned that Rincones (6’3, 225) runs well for his size. He stole 24 bases for Clearwater and then swiped 15 more bags in the Arizona Fall League. Rincones hit .293 with a .889 OPS in 22 games during the fall. “It was great, a lot of good competition. To see some of those guys reach the big leagues already is special,” he remarked. The left-handed hitter will be playing alongside 6’8 Carlos De La Cruz in Reading’s outfield this year. De La Cruz blasted 24 homers at the Double-A level a season ago. He’s listed as the #13 prospect in Philadelphia’s minor league system. Rincones is excited to see what the Fightin Phils can do offensively. “These guys are dogs. I’m just happy to be around them,” he stated. Reading opens the season at Bowie on Friday night.