Let's begin this week's stroll around the minor leagues with Taylor Jordan, the Nationals' ninth-round selection in the 2009 draft.
Now 24, Jordan had somewhat spotty numbers, culminating with a combined 3-7, 5.13 split between Low Class-A Auburn (0-3, 8.16, six starts, and 14 1/3 innings) and then Hagerstown (3-4, 4.05) and the Sally League over 15 starts and 54 1/3 frames.
So, nothing in that performance suggested a promotion to High Class-A Potomac to begin 2013 would result in 2-1, 1.24 totals over six starts and 36 1/3 innings, but that is what Jordan did, and that earned advancement to the Class AA Eastern League and Harrisburg.
All Jordan has done there is excel even more, going 5-0, 0.66 over six starts and 41 innings, bringing his season totals to 7-1, 0.93 over 77 1/3 innings, with 57 hits and 12 walks allowed to 68 whiffs.
That means a WHIP of 0.892, including an 0.789 ratio at Class-AA in maybe the toughest jump of all for players aside from adjusting to the majors.
The Nationals have been excellent in developing their young arms, and it appears as if the magic finally worked for Jordan as well. Clearly continued success could mean time in the nation's capital before the 2013 season even ends.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/fantasy/2013/06/19/prospect-watch-taylor-jordan-aj-cole-trayce-thompson/2438587/