Angels trade Martin Maldonado to Astros for prospect Patrick Sandoval

Today the Los Angeles Angels traded catcher Martin Maldonado to the Houston Astros for left-handed pitching prospect Patrick Sandoval. Here’s a quick look at the newest member of the improving Angels farm system.

Patrick Sandoval, LHP: The Astros drafted Sandoval in the 11th round in 2015 from high school in Mission Viejo, California. He’s quietly built an interesting resume in the Houston organization. He posted a 4.09 ERA in 62 innings last season in A-ball but with a nice 78/23 K/BB. This season he has a 2.56 ERA in 88 innings between Low-A and High-A with an even better 97/15 K/BB ratio.

Sandoval is listed at 6-3. 190, age 21. Crawfish Boxes had a good profile and interview with Sandoval back in May, Sandoval himself describing his arsenal like this:

I throw a 4-Seam Fastball (89-93) Change-up (low 80s) Curveball (low 70s) Slider (81-84). As of right now I think may best pitch to LHH would be my slider, although, it still needs some work. I would love to get the veto up on it just a tick. As for RHH, I think my most effective pitch would be my curveball. I am still working on being able to land it in the zone consistently.”

2080Baseball has some good video of Sandoval taken in April. Note how well he repeats his delivery, which helps explain why his command is so good.

Sandoval is having a breakout season. I think it’s real and this is a fine pickup for the Angels.