That's why we focus on pitching prospects' entire arsenals. While there is a heavy bias toward stuff in these choices, there's a reason. The ability to command three above-average or better pitches gives a pitcher a far greater chance at major league success, as opposed to having just two pitches-Spencer Strider notwithstanding.
BOBBY MILLER, RHP, DODGERS
Strikeout rate: 30.9%. Top three pitches: four-seam fastball, slider, changeup.
No other Top 100 Prospect brings the sheer power of Miller. His pitch mix boasts premium velocity almost across the board. His four-seam fastball is the hardest inside the Top 100, sitting on average at 98 mph with a peak velocity of just under 102.
While Miller’s fastball stands out for its velocity, his primary secondaries do a majority of the heavy lifting when it comes to missing bats. His slider features premium velocity combined with heavy sweep, making it rare. It generates a high rate of whiffs and chases while limiting damage upon contact.
Still, Miller’s most effective pitch might be his changeup. It has the highest whiff rate in his arsenal and a weighted on-base average (wOBA) under .200 from opposing batters. But his command of the pitch is inconsistent.
With a curveball, cutter and two-seamer that all have above-average grades, Miller’s pitch mix stands alone as arguably the best in the minor leagues.
EURY PEREZ, RHP, MARLINS
Strikeout rate: 34.1%. Top three pitches: four-seam fastball, cutter, changeup.
This story is from the March 2023 edition of Baseball America.
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This story is from the March 2023 edition of Baseball America.
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