We all love to hear about the young guys that are rumored to be the new faces of the MLB. Most of the time they come through with the high expectations they were given (i.e.: Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, Jose Fernandez) so I wanted to introduce you to the newest, fresh face of the MLB, Yordano Ventura.
USA TODAY Sports/Brad Penner
He’s famous in the prospect world, and of course among the Kansas City Royals fan base, but not too well-known among the rest of the baseball world. So what’s this guys’ story?
The 22 year-old righty is a Kansas City’s number three starter in the pitching rotation, and according to pennlive.com’s Dustin Hockensmith, a sleeper for your fantasy team:
“His strikeout potential is off the charts, even if the rest of the game remains a work in progress. … only three pitchers in baseball matched Ventura’s career K rate in the minors (9.9) last season. … velocity makes life easier as he can reach back and hit triple-digits at will. … his career WHIP in the minors left much to be desired, but there’s reason to believe he can improve with a solid walk rate and swing-and-miss potential.”
Adding to that, his numbers are sick. This spring he has thrown a 1.76 ERA in four games. walked ONE, 15 strike-outs, and a .717 WHIP.
In addition to his lethal curveball-fastball combination, Ventura has made some strides in his career. Bernie Pleskoff, a former Pro Scout for the Astros and Mariners tweeted recently:
“Outstanding big league outing todays for #Royals Ventura. Topped 100 mph several times and was in charge w/ command and control. Nasty.”
And not Janet Jackson “Nasty.” (I think only the 80’s babies will understand that one.)
In 2013 he had a 3.52 ERA in 15 games in Triple-A, and was No. 85 in his preseason rankings with Baseball America, then was moved up to No.26 by the time mid-season rolled around, according to Zachary D. Rymer, MLB Lead Writer at Bleacher Report.
Keep your eyes out for Ventura. And if you’re going to face him in the batter’s box, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Photo: John Rieger/USA TODAY