KC Royals excited about Double-A prospect Javier Vaz, a ‘really good outfielder’

The Kansas City Royals have several prospects developing in their minor-league system. This year, The Star will highlight the next crop of talented players.

In this series, “Before the Crown,” we focus on Royals prospects on their journey toward the big leagues.

This week, we spotlight Royals outfield prospect Javier Vaz.

A rising star

Javier Vaz didn’t waste time making a first impression this spring.

Vaz turned in a web gem against the Los Angeles Angels on February 25. In the ninth inning, Vaz chased down a foul ball off the bat of Angels outfielder Jorge Ruiz.

As the ball moved further away toward the stands, it seemed unlikely Vaz would have a chance to make a play. Then, Vaz reached another gear and tracked down the baseball.

He made a sliding catch that gave the Royals a 1-0 victory. The defensive highlight showed what Vaz can provide the Royals: speed and versatility.

“We know he is a really good outfielder and that was a great play, especially in that spot in the game,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said.

The Royals have historically placed a premium on both areas — speed and versatility. Over the years, KC has featured the likes of Willie Wilson, Amos Otis, Freddie Patek, Jarrod Dyson and Bobby Witt Jr. among many, many others. They impacted the game on the base paths and in the field.

Now, Vaz can be added to the list.

The Royals selected Vaz in the 15th round of the 2022 MLB Draft and the 5-foot-9 dynamo posted 30 steals across two minor-league levels last season.

However, Vaz is more than just an aggressive baserunner. He is one of the best contact hitters in the Royals organization. Last season, Vaz hit .279 with 124 hits, 32 extra-base hits, 51 RBIs and a .373 on-base percentage.

Vaz recorded more walks (60) than strikeouts (54) in 2023. He began the season in High-A Quad Cities before being promoted to Double-A Northwest Arkansas.

“When things were going good, it was more so I was playing with a sense of freedom,” Vaz said.

At each stop, Vaz showcased his hitting ability. He hit .304 with a 121 wRC+ (weighted runs created plus) in 33 Double-A games, per Fangraphs. Vaz’s strikeout percentage slightly increased from 8.2% to 13.8% after his promotion, but overall...

“He really had a strong first season and continued his success when he went to Double-A,” Royals director of player development Mitch Maier said.

Honing the craft

Despite his strong 2023 campaign, Vaz still had to overcome some adverse moments.

Vaz saw a dip in his production last summer. He posted season-low .594 OPS (on-base plus slugging) last June. The slump continued in July, when he posted a .244 average in 23 games.

“With the downs, I was pressing and trying too hard,” Vaz said. “More focused on myself instead of winning the baseball game.”

Vaz realized he needed to adjust his mentality. He relied on some key advice he received from the minor-league coaches.

“Just 1% better every day,” Vaz said. “That’s what I tried to achieve.”

Vaz rebounded to finish the season. He registered 43 hits, 16 RBIs and nine extra-base hits down the stretch. As a result, it helped him win the Alex Gordon Heart & Hustle Award for the 2023 campaign.

This season, Vaz aims to improve a few areas. He could develop more power and increase his arm strength to stick in the outfield.

The Royals hope to see how Vaz fares against more Double-A pitching. Vaz believes it will hone his approach at the plate and increase his ability to hit pitches within the upper quadrant of the strike zone.

“I feel like once I get that done, it’s going to be pretty hard for pitchers to get me out,” Vaz said.

Next in line

The Royals value Vaz’s diverse skills. They know he can play multiple spots and provide a consistent bat from the left side of the plate.

Now, he must prove he can perform against elevated competition. This spring, he Royals have featured him over the field. He has logged time in both the infield and outfield in several Cactus League games.

“I never really say I have a set position,” Vaz said. “I’m just a baseball player that competes at anything I do.”

With a strong 2024 campaign, Vaz could be a prospect to watch.

He will likely spend the season in Double-A, but might rise further in the Royals system. There is a chance his contact skills could have him in Kansas City sooner than expected.