Uh ... 23 is still fairly young for a pitcher. Also, dont forget, he lost a whole year due COVID
Sure, but it's not young for the level he's at. Most early-round pitching prospects who are 23 and going to make it (at least as starters) are looking at least at AA to start the season with likely midseason promotions to AAA.
That's still possible for Rutledge - and yes, COVID matters here (consider the season Cavalli just had, which not coincidentally ended with him at age 23 in AAA) - but it's a bit uphill.
Compare the other pitchers chosen in the first 20 picks alongside him: Nick Lodolo dominated AA and ended the season in AAA. Alek Manoah's already in the majors. Quinn Priester (a high school draftee) did well in high-A at age 21 this year. Zack Thompson struggled in AAA but did well in the AFL. George Kirby succeeded in high-A and AA.
Rutledge is behind all those guys.
