Some additional excerpts from the 2011 Baseball Prospect Book.
The book comments have statistics included.
Chance Ruffin, RHP, Detroit Tigers
Bats: R Throws: R HT: 6-0 WT: 185 DOB: September 8, 1988
A mainstay of the Texas Longhorns pitching staff for three years, Chance Ruffin was drafted in the supplemental first round last year, 48th overall. He didn't make his pro debut until the Arizona Fall League, where he picked up four saves in 10 games, with a 8/5 K/BB in 9.1 innings and just three hits allowed. He threw in the 80s when used as a starter for Texas, but in the bullpen his velocity kicked up a notch into the low 90s. He has a good slider and a curveball, shows a terrific feel for pitching, and has ice in veins. His dad Bruce pitched in the majors, so Chance is familiar with the big league environment. I don't think he'll need a lot of minor league time, and while he doesn't throw as hard as the classic closer stereotype, he could still fill that role in the majors if he maintains his command. Grade B-.
Cameron Rupp, C, Philadelphia Phillies
Bats: R Throws: R HT: 6-1 WT: 240 DOB: September 28, 1988
Rupp was a third round pick in 2010 from the University of Texas. Positives: physical strength, raw power, a strong throwing arm (nailed 40% of runners for Texas), a good work ethic. Negatives: bad swing mechanics which hampered his hitting in pro ball, lack of athleticism, and throwing out just 15% of runners in the New York-Penn League. Rupp was projected as a power-hitting catcher who could be a useful in the majors as a platoon bat with a good throwing arm. 55 games at Williamsport doesn't negate that, but he can't afford a slow start in 2011. Grade C.
Chris Rusin, LHP, Chicago Cubs
Bats: L Throws: L HT: 6-2 WT: 185 DOB: October 22, 1986
2010: Grade C.
Rusin was a fourth round pick in '09 from the University of Kentucky. He doesn't impress radar guns, working at just 86-89 MPH, but his fastball has excellent sink, his breaking ball has some bite, and hitters just chop them into the ground. He posted a 2.41 GO/AO last year, along with excellent component ratios across the board. Since he was a college senior, he is a bit old for a guy just reaching Double-A at age 24, but his sense for pitching is very advanced. His lack of plus velocity keeps him off most prospect lists, but I think he needs to be watched closely, and could contribute in the majors sooner than people think. Grade C.
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