Geraldo Perdomo shows poise in MLB debut

Arizona’s highly touted shortstop prospect spent some time in the big leagues

Geraldo Perdomo’s MLB debut arrived earlier than expected.

The 21-year-old shortstop was recalled to the Arizona Diamondbacks from the alternate training site April 3 in place for Gold Glove shortstop Nick Ahmed, who was then placed on the 10-day Injured List. Perdomo made his big league debut later that night and went 1-for-10 at the plate before he was optioned back to the alternate training site April 10.

For a prospect who never played above High-A Visalia in the minors, Perdomo showed poise and confidence. The statistics may seem disappointing on the surface, but plenty of optimism remains.

A switch hitter, Perdomo struggled to make consistent contact against righties. His first career hit came off a blooper single off a hanging slider that just squeaked over the head of Rockies shortstop Trevor Story.

Perdomo didn’t make much impact with the bat, but his patient approach was on full display. He posted a .300 on-base percentage and drew more walks (3) than strikeouts (2). It’s also worth noting that Perdomo has more career walks (169) than strikeouts (148) over three minor league levels.

Perdomo filled the count and rarely swung first pitch. He didn’t seem rattled when behind the count and worked it back in his favor on several occasions. It will take time for him to adjust to big league pitching, but he made sure to see as many pitches as possible with each plate appearance.

The power and hit tool are still developing, but the defense speaks for itself. Perdomo is widely considered a plus defender with his quickness and instincts on the dirt. Perdomo flashed the glove with a diving grab and powerful throw against the San Diego Padres.

Perdomo’s defensive abilities speak volumes for his big league future. He filled the role of an everyday shortstop with his crisp glove-to-hand transfers and smooth movements. He fit the position like a glove and showed the potential to stick long term.

Overall, Perdomo’s big league debut was earlier than expected to say the least. Calling up a 21-year-old who hasn’t reached Double-A has its own obstacles and growing pains. Perdomo struggled making solid contact in limited plate appearances. He showed flashes of exceptional play defensively and looked comfortable locking down shortstop in Ahmed’s absence.

Arizona may have another Gold Glove shortstop on its hands, but Perdomo will most likely spend most of 2021 in Triple-A Reno barring any unforeseen injury. His call-up shows the confidence the organization has in him, and it may not be much longer until Perdomo is an everyday big leaguer.

There’s a lot to like about Perdomo’s ability, he’s shown the maturity and patience of a veteran. He needs to consistently hit and tap into more raw power for him to fulfill his potential. That wasn’t likely going to unfold in the majors, but more seasoning in the minors can show what he’s truly capable of.