Former Chicago Cubs prospect Yonathan Perlaza has signed a minor league deal with the San Diego Padres, including an invite to MLB spring training, following a strong year in South Korea’s KBO League. After earning $1 million with the Hanwha Eagles in 2024, the 26-year-old switch hitter returns stateside with promising offensive metrics.
Perlaza’s journey began in Venezuela, signing for $1.3 million in 2015. Transitioning from infielder to outfielder in 2021, his power surged, culminating in back-to-back 23-home-run seasons at Double-A and Triple-A. In the KBO, Perlaza posted a .275/.364/.486 slash line with 24 homers, displaying consistent power highlighted by a 90th percentile exit velocity of 105 MPH.
Though adept at handling fastballs and boasting a solid approach, concerns remain about his ability to adjust to elite breaking pitches, reflected in his .660 OPS against spin. As the Padres seek outfield depth, Perlaza’s power and versatility could make him a valuable asset in their 2025 campaign.
