In a surprising move, the Los Angeles Dodgers have designated catcher Diego Cartaya for assignment. Once regarded as a top 100 prospect in Major League Baseball, Cartaya’s departure from the team has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Cartaya, who was named the 25th-best prospect by MLB Pipeline in 2022, has seen his stock decline amid recent struggles, finishing the 2024 season with a .236 batting average, 7 home runs, and 32 RBIs in Double-A. Dodgers General Manager, Andrew Friedman, acknowledged the challenge in the decision, stating, ‘Diego has immense talent, but the timing of his development has not aligned with our current roster needs.’ The Dodgers drafted Cartaya in the 1st round of the 2018 MLB Draft, and since then, expectations have been high. His potential impact was significant, projected as a key player for the Dodgers’ future lineup. However, injuries and inconsistent performance, particularly in 2024 where he made 22 appearances in Triple-A, played a crucial role in the team’s decision. Analytics and performance metrics indicated a lack of progress at the plate, compelling the front office to take this step. The move opens up space on the 40-man roster, signalling the Dodgers’ intent to pursue other options as they prepare for the upcoming season. As the news broke, reactions from the fanbase have been mixed, with some expressing disappointment at seeing a player with such potential leave the organization while others understand the necessity of the decision given the team’s current strategy.
Los Angeles Dodgers Designate Former Top Prospect Diego Cartaya for Assignment
