Jedixson Paez shows encouraging signs during 2024 campaign
During the 2024 campaign, various Red Sox pitching prospects took encouraging steps forward. That list includes Hunter Dobbins, Zach Penrod, Richard Fitts, and Connelly Early. One player who flew under the radar was Jedixson Paez, who saw his stock rise during his fourth season in the minors.
While splitting time between Low-A and High-A, Paez posted a 3.17 ERA in 22 games. The talented 20-year-old also struck out a career-high 113 batters while only walking 12. Regardless of the level, he showed excellent control and limited hard contact. Due to his play, Paez earned a spot on the Red Sox’s top 30 prospect list.
What made his season so impressive was how Paez did not seem phased by more advanced competition. After posting a 2.53 ERA in seven games for Salem, he was promoted to Greenville. In 15 games with the Drive, he continued to impress, posting a 3.48 ERA while holding opponents to a .245 batting average. He was able to excel in part because of his control.
As Paez made headlines, he kept hitters off balance with his three-pitch mix. His arsenal includes a fastball that reaches 92 miles per hour and a changeup that dives out of the zone. He also has a curveball that tops out in the upper 70s with good depth. His arsenal should continue to improve with more experience.
Following one of his best season in the minors, Paez projects to be a back of the rotation starter. He doesn't always overpower hitters, but he also doesn't make many mistakes. Those are encouraging traits for a pitcher who should make it to Double-A at some point during the 2025 campaign.
Although Paez isn't one of the organization's top prospects, he showed over the last fews months that he has the potential to be a solid arm. As he continues to move through the system, he is one player fans should keep an eye on.