It was a rough season for the Toronto Blue Jays’ biggest international free agent signing in 2023.
This is Blue Jays Nation’s annual Mid-Season top prospect list, where we’ll look at the 35 best prospects in the Blue Jays system. We’ll look at the player’s stats, my observations, and other publication’s scouting reports if available.
Let’s take a look at our 16th-best prospect, Enmanuel Bonilla!
Getting to know Enmanuel Bonilla…
Position: Outfielder
Bats: Right
Born: January 22, 2006
Acquired: 2023 International Free Agency
Previous ranking: 14
At the start of the 2023 international free agency period, the Blue Jays agreed to a $4.1 million signing bonus with Enmnauel Bonilla, one of the largest bonuses for the Jays in the IFA. The outfielder rewarded them with a great 2023 season, slashing .307/.407/.429 with three home runs in 226 plate appearances, along with an 11.9 BB% and a 24.3 K%.
This season also featured a pretty incredible stat for Bonilla, as he played in 50 games for the Dominican Summer League Blue Jays, failing to reach base in just two of those games.
Open Side Enmanuel Bonilla swings from yesterday's Low-A game in Clearwater. #BlueJays pic.twitter.com/F7GpUkX6YW
— Geoff Pontes (@GeoffPontesBA) March 24, 2024
However, the 2024 season wasn’t as kind to the 18-year-old in his first season stateside, as he slashed .186/.257/.299 with four home runs in 214 plate appearances, along with a 6.1 BB% and a 35.5 K%. While it’s not the end of the world, some players need an adjustment period, it is a bit concerning, especially the strikeout rate.
Bonilla ranked as MLB Pipeline’s 14th-best prospect in the mid-season update. The outfielder stands at 6’1”, 180 lbs, his defining tool is his power as there is some serious raw power in his bat. Moreover, despite the rough 2024 season, his exit velocities improved from the season prior. The hit tool is a little bit more concerning though, as a 35.5 K% is very high. He’ll likely end up in a corner outfield, but he’s athletic and will be able to stick at the spot.
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