James comes highly recommended as a pitcher who might have Major League potential. He has a fastball that tops in the low 90s and an excellent split-finger. We will look to utilize James in late inning situations or in the starting rotation.
James had much more success out of the bullpen last season - throwing 28 innings with 4 saves, 5.79 ERA, 9 walks, and 25 strikeouts. Later in the year he was inserted into the starting rotation and struggled with his control. He finished the season with 49.2 innings pitched, 25 walks, 47 strikeouts, and held opponents to a .279 average.
The American Association is generally considered a double-A caliber league, and James did pretty well considering the 2007 season was his rookie year. With a year of experience under his belt, I think he could be very tough on Frontier League hitters, especially in Wuerfel Park.
2 comments:
Seems like a interesting prospect for starting. Arm strength will be a issue, oviously you know that. I do think that he could give you 5 solid innings a start by mid june. Or be the flame throwing closer. Tough decision. However a very very good tough decision.
Rory needs to prove that he can be effective as a starter in spring training - he knows this - his numbers in relief vs. starting are clear. However, even if he doesn't make our starting rotation, you have to think he can be extremely effective in the back end of the bullpen, possibly as our closer, since he had success in a very tough league last year, especially as a rookie. Add in the park effect of Wuerfel Park, the new turf, and our defense, and I think he could doing very, very well in 2008. We are excited to see how it works out in May.
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