Track Record: The Nationals signed Ferrer out of the Dominican Republic in 2017 for $100,000. The lefty didn't break into full-season ball until 2022--but it was an impressive debut and something of a breakout season. He progressed from Low-A Fredericksburg to Double-A Harrisburg and across three levels posted a 2.48 ERA over 65.1 innings with a 30.5% strikeout rate and just a 4.3% walk rate. He earned an appearance in the Futures Game.
Scouting Report: Ferrer was known for his curveball when he signed, but in 2022 he developed his fastball and shaped his breaking ball into a slider. The fastball now sits at around 95 mph and has touched 99, with modest carry and spin. His slider sits in the upper 80s and flashes potential, but he needs to throw it for strikes more often. His third pitch is an upper-80s changeup that he lands at a high rate and used to generate whiffs at nearly a 50% clip. Command is still a work in progress for Ferrer, though his overall walk rates have been strong throughout his stateside career.
The Future: Ferrer was added to the Nationals' 40-man roster in November to protect him from the Rule 5 draft, and he's seen as a lefty option in the bullpen. He will likely start the 2023 season at Double-A, but with another big year could see an MLB debut quickly.
Scouting Grades: Fastball: 65. Slider: 50. Changeup: 50. Control: 50
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7o63SnpmapJyWuqa%2ByJyYZ5ufonyxuMCynKurX2yGd32Mo6asnV2bsrO%2BxKtm