A's No. 4 prospect Morales trusts 'process' in no-hit debut at Triple-A

Luis Morales didn’t just ease into Triple-A -- he stormed in and took command.

The 22-year-old Cuban right-hander spun six no-hit innings in his Triple-A Las Vegas debut, helping lead the way in a 6-1 win over Sugar Land (Astros) at Constellation Field.

Morales ranks as the A's No. 4 prospect, having been promoted from Double-A Midland on Tuesday. His first Triple-A start showcased his electric arsenal and composure on the mound, affirming his status as one of the club's top pitching prospects.

Coming into his Aviators debut, Morales kept his routine simple:

“I didn't try to do more than necessary," he said in Spanish. "I just did what I had been doing and tried to locate my pitches."

Morales struck out seven batters and issued only one walk over six innings. He efficiently managed his pitch count, throwing 88 pitches, 62 of which were strikes.

This performance builds upon Morales’ impressive stint at Double-A Midland, where he posted a 2.98 ERA with 53 strikeouts in 42 1/3 innings.

Morales’ seamless transition to Triple-A not only highlights his individual talent, but also adds depth to the Aviators’ pitching rotation, which already includes top prospects like Mason Barnett (ATH No. 3) and Jack Perkins (ATH No. 9).

“They have helped me a lot in the sense of reports, such as pitching, how I pitch, how I can pitch and to know how to use it as my weapon,” Morales said. “And to know how to pitch with concentration.”

Morales joined the system in January 2023 as a highly regarded international signee from Cuba. Ranked as the No. 5 overall prospect in his class (and the top pitcher), there have often been lofty expectations for his ability to one day impact the big league club.

For the 22-year-old, each step up the Minor League ladder carries more weight than just a promotion -- it’s a continuation of a journey that began far from the lights of the Triple-A Pacific Coast League.

“It was a process," Morales said, "and I feel good every day that I am closer to what I want to be and I feel more prepared every time I’m pitching."