Under the Radar Prospects: Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers are the subject of this week’s installment of Under the Radar Prospects.

The Dodgers organization has an abundance of riches when it comes to talented players thanks to exceptional scouting and player evaluation. Below are five players who, while not yet at the top of prospect lists, could see a quick rise to their prospect status this upcoming season as they are all coming off strong 2023 campaigns.

Sauryn Lao, RHP - Dodgers

The Dodgers signed Sauryn Lao nearly a decade ago during the international signing period in 2015. At the time, Lau was barely 16-years-old, but the Dodgers believed he could develop into a solid prospect. Lao would put on an offensive showcase for the next few years, but after moving stateside suddenly found himself unable to excel. So, after six minor league seasons playing as an infielder, the Dodgers decided to convert a now 23-year old Lao into a pitcher.

The Dodgers stationed Lao in Single-A to kickoff his career as a hurler and Lao carved through opposing hitters in 2023, forcing a promotion to High-A. By season’s end, Lao would be in Double-A and had cemented himself as one of the best strikeout relievers in the Dodgers system. Lao possesses a slider that could become a plus-plus pitch over time. Although his control isn’t the best, he still managed one of the best strikeout to walk ratios in the Dodgers organization. Lao also maintained the highest whiff rate of any Dodgers minor leaguer with at least 50 innings pitched. The Dodgers always have plenty of pitching depth, but Lao could work himself into that mix late in 2024.

Payton Martin, RHP - Dodgers

19-year-old Payton Martin didn’t fully start pitching until his high school career had already been completed. He received scholarship offers to college based on his play as a shortstop. However, the Dodgers liked what they saw from Martin’s throwing motion and decided to offer him a large enough bonus in the 17th round of the 2022 draft to convince him to turn pro.