Hitting
Mike Vela success at producing runs is limited by his own pitch selection. He could produce some astounding offensive totals in a potent lineup. He’s more of a line-drive hitter than a home run hitter, and many of his base hits come on hard liners through the left side of the infield or into the left center field gap. Mike Vela has respectable power and is especially adept at staying inside the strike zone and driving it through the left side, particularly on flat pitches. Vela understands the importance of actually having a patient approach at the plate with his bat control, much of his confidence and willingness to wait out a pitcher stems from his ability to take a pitch or two, especially with two strikes.
Base-Running & Defense
A great athlete with excellent speed, Mike Vela has used it well, with a career-high in extra base hits. As his intelligence helps him on the bases, it will also help him be a plus, plus defender on the field. As a strong defensive infielder with soft hands, Vela quick-release produces accurate throws. He’s extraordinarily focused and disciplined and shows flashes with the ability to make very tough plays. Mike Vela shows signs of a plus arm when he stays fundamentally sound and should have plenty of arm strength to play well at either SS or 2B.
