So i was reading this week BA prospect hot sheet. "Mazzaro doesn't have any outstanding pitches, but he throws strikes and keeps the ball on the ground, which is why he has a 2.38 ERA in 56 2/3 innings this year." There has been skepticism over his 08 texas league pitcher of the yr production since he struggled in 06/07. Has his 09 so far answered those critics and put him into top 100 prospect territory? So will the real vin mazzaro please stand up...is he closer to the 06/07 or the 08/09 version? I've read varying reports on bowden, who's gotten alot of prospect expert media attention, red sox has even made him untouchable in trade discussions. so how does mazzaro compare? Do both profile more than mid rotation types at best?

Also from the BA chat:

john (boston): michael bowden or vin mazzaro?

Ben Badler: Mazzaro

BP preseason top 11 writeup:

8. Vin Mazzaro, RHP
DOB: 9/27/86
2008 Stats: 1.90 ERA at Double-A (137.1-115-36-104), 3.49 DERA; 6.15 ERA at Triple-A(33.2-49-9-27), 7.52 DERA
Last Year's Ranking: Not Ranked

The Good: Some scouts rank Mazzaro's sinker as a tick above even those of Cahill and Anderson. It's a bowling ball of a pitch that sits at 92-94 mph, with one scout commenting, "I can't help but be reminded of Kevin Brown when he pitches." He has good mechanics and has made great progress in his command and control, while also showing a mature knack for getting hitters out even when he doesn't have his best stuff.
The Bad: Mazzaro lives off of that sinker, because his secondary pitches lag well behind. His slider flashes average at times but can also flatten out, while his changeup could use more separation in velocity from his other pitches.

Perfect World Projection: He's a mid-rotation starter.
Glass Half Empty: He'll work in the back end of the rotation.