Angels prospect accomplishes wild feat not seen since 2005

Los Angeles Angels prospect Juan Cespedes put on a dazzling display of speed Saturday, stealing eight bases in the Dominican Summer League Angels’ 9-1 win at the Angels DR Complex.

The 17-year-old became the first Minor League player known to steal eight bases in a game since at least 2005. His total surpassed the previous Dominican Summer League mark of seven stolen bases, set by Johan De Los Santos of DSL Pirates Black on Aug. 12, 2025. No affiliated Minor League player is known to have stolen more than eight bases in a single game, according to available records.

Cespedes reached base only twice officially, finishing with a single and a walk in four plate appearances, but he turned those opportunities into a historic day on the bases. After drawing a leadoff walk in the first inning, he immediately stole second and third before scoring on a delayed double steal by swiping home.

In the second inning, he reached on a throwing error by the shortstop and quickly stole second base. After grounding into a fielder’s choice in the fourth, he again took over on the basepaths, stealing both second and third. His final two stolen bases came in the sixth inning after a one-out single to left field. He stole second on the next pitch and then third two pitches later before eventually scoring on an RBI single.

Cespedes was removed from the game after six innings and replaced in center field by Yelinson Betances. Angels player development officials indicated the move was made to provide defensive opportunities for other players.

Signed out of the Dominican Republic during the 2026 international signing period, Cespedes received a bonus reported between $250,000 and $300,000. Although he was not ranked among MLB’s Top 50 international prospects, his speed has quickly become a standout tool. The 5-foot-10, 170-pound switch from shortstop to multiple defensive positions has been driven by elite athleticism and aggressive baserunning.

Through his first 56 plate appearances, Cespedes had reached base 30 times while successfully stealing 25 bases in 27 attempts, showcasing the game-changing speed that produced a record-setting afternoon in the Dominican Summer League.

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