Like Kohl Franklin, Aliendo came into the organization in 2018. Like Franklin, he didn't make much immediate progress, and then was hurt by the loss of the minor-league season to the pandemic in 2020. Aliendo has finally found traction since the start of 2022, gaining a reputation as a plus defensive catcher, with both above-average athleticism and the requisite commitment to the position. 

Until this year, though, that defense-first profile was really all there was to Aliendo. He had basic bat-to-ball skills, but neither an apparent plan at the plate nor the strength to generate power. This spring, that seems to be changing. Facing Double-A pitching for the first time, he's slugging .576, with 10 extra-base hits in just 17 games. He's traded quite a bit of contact for that pop, but being able to access it at all is a major development for him. If Aliendo keeps this up, he could be an impactful catcher, even if it be in a Welington Castillo kind of way--average or better power, solid defense at the most important defensive position, all slightly capped in value by a limited hit tool.