MINNEAPOLIS -- Pedro Leon, the Astros’ No. 8-ranked prospect by MLB Pipeline, is off to a quick start at Triple-A Sugar Land, batting .370 (10-for-27) through seven games played with nine singles and one double. He’s walked twice and struck out 10 times, which is something he’ll have to improve to find his way to Houston. He’s started four games in center and three in right field and has four multihit games.
Leon, who had surgery after he sustained a hernia in winter ball in Puerto Rico, was in Minor League camp this season coming off a year during which he slashed .228/.365/.431 with 17 homers and 38 steals at Triple-A. He made 52 starts last year in center, where he flashes a terrific arm, 33 games in right and 23 games in the middle of the infield.
Considering the Astros’ ongoing search for consistent production in center field, Leon might earn himself a look at the big league level later this year if he can cut down his strikeouts.
“I think the biggest thing I’ve improved is just having a little bit more experience now, and I can go up there and have a plan when I’m going up to hit,” said Leon, who signed in January 2021 for $4 million.
Double-A Corpus Christi
The Hooks began their season by getting swept in three games at home against Arkansas, including a doubleheader sweep on Saturday. The Hooks are off Sunday and Monday before trying to break into the win column Tuesday night in Amarillo.
High-A Asheville
Opening weekend for the Tourists was quite the adventure. A power outage delayed the first pitch on Opening Day Thursday, a game that Asheville lost to Bowling Green, 10-0. Rain washed out Friday’s game and Saturday’s doubleheader. The games will be made up at a later date in Bowling Green.
Single-A Fayetteville
Weather also wreaked havoc in Fayetteville. Friday night’s season opener at Segra Stadium got off the ground and lasted five innings until rain ultimately suspended the game between the Woodpeckers and Carolina, tied at 1 in the fifth inning. Saturday was another washout, so the teams were scheduled to complete Friday’s game on Sunday, followed by a second game.