Prospect of the Day: Vance Worley, RHP, Philadelphia Phillies

Vance Worley, RHP, Philadelphia Phillies
    The Phillies have promoted right-hander Vance Worley from Triple-A Lehigh Valley and will start him tonight against the New York Mets. What should fans expect?

Worley was drafted in the third round in 2008, out of Long Beach State University. After a strong pro debut, he move directly to Double-A in 2009 and struggled, but returned to the same level in 2010 and was much more effective, posting a 3.20 ERA in 19 starts with an 83/36 K/BB in 112 innings. He pitched decently in eight Triple-A starts, earning a major league trial with the Phillies. In 12 major league innings last year, he posted a 1.38 ERA with a 12/4 K/BB. 2011 has also gone well: 2.78 ERA with a 25/6 K/BB in 23 innings for Lehigh Valley.
     Worley works with an average fastball in the 88-93 MPH range, usually averaging about 91. He mixes in a slider, curveball, and changeup. While none of his pitches are spectacular, the combination is effective when his command is working, which it has been over the last year. Although he doesn't have ace-like stuff, he projects as a solid number three or four starter, an inning-eater type who can succeed with adequate offensive and defensive support.