Dodgers Acquire Former Top Pitching Prospect From Rangers

The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Texas Rangers recently completed a trade, with the Dodgers acquiring right-handed pitcher Ricky Vanasco in exchange for left-handed pitcher Luis Valdez.

Vanasco, a 24-year-old prospect, joins the Dodgers after being designated for assignment by the Rangers. Although he has yet to make his major league debut, Vanasco was once highly regarded as a pitching talent.

The #Dodgers announced that they’ve acquired RHP Ricky Vanasco from the Rangers. Vanasco brings a high-velo fastball/good breaking ball but has command issues. Due to a knee injury, he’s only thrown 2.1 IP this season, both of which came in Double-A over the last two weeks pic.twitter.com/npEPQfHd60

— Bruce Kuntz (@Bnicklaus7) June 2, 2023

He recently made two starts at the Double-A level after recovering from a torn meniscus in his left knee. Despite giving up six earned runs in just 2.1 innings pitched, the Dodgers see Vanasco as an intriguing project with the potential for a successful comeback.

On the other side of the trade, the Rangers received Valdez, a promising 19-year-old left-handed pitcher. Valdez has been impressing in the Dodgers' Single-A affiliate, the Rancho Cucamonga team.

With a 3.12 ERA, 1.64 WHIP, and 24 strikeouts in 17.1 innings, he has shown glimpses of his talent, however, he still needs to work on his control and limiting walks.

The Dodgers have traded for RHP Ricky Vanasco from the Texas Rangers.

They sent minor league LHP Luis Valdez to Texas.

RHP Zack Burdi was DFA'd to make room on the 40-man roster.

— Noah Camras (@noahcamras) June 1, 2023

While he has the ability to accumulate strikeouts, there is room for improvement before he can make it to the major leagues.

Overall, the trade presents an opportunity for both teams to develop their respective pitchers. The Dodgers, known for their success in player development, hope to unlock Vanasco's potential and guide him towards a successful comeback.

Meanwhile, the Rangers view Valdez as a valuable long-term asset, a young player with promise but still requiring further development before reaching the highest level of the game. Photo Credit:  Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports