Prospect Marco Luciano of the San Francisco Giants is ranked second in his organization and 22nd overall. The shortstop signed with the Giants for $2.6 Million during the 2018-19 signing. Out of the Dominican Republic, Luciano was ranked second in his class at the age of 16 as an international prospect.
Luciano’s professional baseball career started at the age of 17 playing low-level baseball and high-level baseball. With the exception of a back injury from last year, he hit 19 home runs matching his age. Having missed spring training this year, Luciano is returning from a back injury and Giants fans have much to look forward to.
As a result of his trade in the Dominican Winter League and his return to the minor league, Luciano sat down with us for an in-depth interview on Wednesday through Zoom while recovering from a back injury.
Miriam Luz: Do you receive pressure from your fans or organization to perform well?
Marco Luciano: I don’t feel any pressure, I only focus on the things I can control and make sure I’m doing my job. That has given me the best outcomes.
When can we expect Marco Luciano to make his major league debut?
Luciano: I’m coming back soon, every day I’m getting better. Now I have started batting practice. When I’m ready the time will come.
What can Giants fans and the organization expect from you?
Luciano: They can expect a lot of good things. I have been working on hit and runs. But overall they can expect an exciting player and someone to give 100% on the field.
Do you feel comfortable playing shortstop or do you see yourself playing another position in the big leagues?
Luciano: I always have been comfortable playing shortstop. But If the Giants make the decision that I can help them in another position, I wouldn’t have a problem with that.
On November 15, 2022, you received the news that you had been selected for the 40-roster. What is the meaning of being on the roster of 40? And how did you feel the moment you received the news?
Luciano: I received the news of being selected to the 40-man roster late. But this means that I’m closer to my goal. Any baseball player wishes to be a part of the 40-man roster. I am very proud of myself.
In 2021 you were the first pick in the Dominican Winter Baseball League Draft. How did you feel when you were the first pick and selected by Las Estrellas Orientales?
Luciano: I only can control my job. I’m very proud of myself. It doesn’t matter to me when I get picked. All I can do is control my job and that is to play baseball.
Did you expect to be traded to Los Leones del Escogido? How did you receive the news that you were traded?
Luciano: I didn’t expect to be traded, I was surprised. But I am very thankful to Los Leones for allowing me to be a part of their club. Now that I live in the Capital of the Dominican Republic I’m more comfortable that the stadium is closer.
I was told the same day that they traded me but I was told by my agents and once I saw the news on social media I knew the trade was official.
What can the fans of the Leones del Escogido expect from you? Will you play in the Dominican Winter League this year?
Luciano: I would love to play for the Leones del Escogido this winter but the decision isn’t up to me. My organization will have to permit me to play.
After your back injury this winter, How are you recovering from the injury and when can we see you start playing in the minor leagues?
Luciano: My injury started last season on and off. But this winter was when I needed to give my back a break from playing. I was told that my back injury will heal on its own. That is why I need to take a break for two months this winter. But now I have started batting and taking ground balls.
When are you expected to start playing in the minor leagues?
Luciano: I can’t give you a date when I’m coming back. My injury is a process. But If I’m taking a guess I’ll be back the first weeks in the minor leagues.