Prospects in the Carlos Beltran Trade

by John Sickels on Jul 28, 2011 11:00 AM EDT

Prospects in the Carlos Beltran Trade

The New York Mets traded outfielder Carlos Beltran to the San Francisco Giants, receiving top pitching prospect Zack Wheeler in return. Here's a look at him.

Zack Wheeler, RHP: The Giants drafted Wheeler in the first round in 2009, from high school in Dallas, Georgia. He was the sixth-overall pick in the draft. The 21-year-old right-hander posted a 3.99 ERA with a 70/38 K/BB in 59 innings last year for Augusta in the Southern League. The Giants have stretched his pitch counts out more this year, but the per-inning results are very similar: a 3.99 ERA in 88 innings for High-A San Jose in the California League, with a 98/47 K/BB, 1.35 GO/AO, and 74 hits allowed. Wheeler has a low-to-mid-90s fastball. His changeup has improved but is still spotty, and reports vary on the quality of his breaking ball. His command needs work as well, but his K/IP ratios point to strong potential going forward. I had him rated as a strong Grade B prospect pre-season and will stick with that for now. He has the potential to be excellent, but still needs refinement.

For a detailed scouting report with particular concentration on Wheeler's breaking ball, check out this post from Alex Nelson at Amazin' Avenue.

Tweet Comment 7 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

trades involving minor leaguers

glad you are covering these trades involving minor leaguers. It’s frustrating trying to keep up with player movement when the media says so and so was traded for “prospects”. John, I’m glad you cover this stuff in one place – makes it easier to follow – even on the most minor of deals. Thanks!

by KSM on Jul 28, 2011 12:06 PM EDT reply actions

Agreed

Love these post. Keep up the good work John.

by philiafan14364 on Jul 28, 2011 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions

This was the best case scenario for the Mets. Not too shabby.

follow @casetines

by Kenneth Arthur on Jul 28, 2011 1:03 PM EDT reply actions

I was at his start last Friday

pitching at 94-95, touched 97,98

Follow me on Twitter

by SoCalSoxFan on Jul 28, 2011 3:34 PM EDT reply actions

He sounds like a nice prospect.

But I guess i’m confused why he’s ranked 30-40 overall by all the prospect gurus. Flame thrower with command/control issues at single A who is still learning breaking balls sounds like the type that every org has a couple of.

I guess his fastball has exceptional movement that scouts must love?

by FrancoTAU on Jul 28, 2011 11:49 PM EDT reply actions

why he’s ranked 30-40 overall

Ideal pitcher’s build, has made great strides with his delivery since being drafted (especially rhythm), two potential plus pitches. Check out Steve’s (SoCalSoxFan above) video at Bullpen Banter.

by blackoutyears on Jul 29, 2011 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions