Message #945342

[Rasta]

If McCullers is there, you have to take him. The upside is ridiculous. So what if he's just a closer?

I dont buy that talk either though. His delivery isn't that violent. He's 17. You can tweak some of his mechanics to feel safer with his delivery.  I think the bullpen questions are more because of his size, command, and stuff questions. Size isn't a big deal, just mean that he's not the 6'5 220lb guy most project at the top, especially with HSers. Command of his pitches has been an issue for as long as he's been a prospect. And they say his fastball can get straight, and his velocity drops after a few innings. The upside is there as a front line starter .... He's got the feel for a plus curve and change, along with his natural arm strength. If you can smooth out the delivery, and he focuses on being a pitcher, his stuff is going to get better, and his stamina will improve as well. The downside - You have a power arm at the back end of the bullpen. That's not such a bad deal, is it? And even further on the downslide slope - If he does get injured, he's got the athleticism and tools to play the infield or even left field.

Too much upside to pass on at 16, especially with the different options he provides if he doesn't cut it as a starter.

Stroman is interesting. As a reliever, he should be a quick riser. His addition to the organization could make Storen expendable, especially if he can get us our leadoff man this time around. An earlier signing deadline should get him a month and a half of minor league experience, with a potential September call up. That could have him ready for a role in 2013 at the big league level. Not saying this is how it would shape up, just saying it gives us a little flexibility to make a move we may have been reluctant upon in the past.

Good points.  Doubtful he'll be there though.