Posted 30 July 2014 - 08:18 PM
I am also dating myself. The moment I started reading the article I had to check the calendar to make sure it wasn't April 1st. I was also immediately reminded of the Finch article and was waiting for a punch line that never came.
Count me amongst those not upset the Twins saved some money from their draft pool. Not only did they sign most all of their top picks, but all they missed on, really, was a few HS kids in the late 20's and 30's. And unless signed well over slot, those kids are going to college just about every time. And whether there is a question about future potential, or sign ability, they are picked that late for a reason. The only kid I was rooting for...sorry but I forget his name at the moment...was the 3B heading to Fresno State as they seem to recruit pretty well. NOBODY could have predicted an out of the blue signing like this one, but it shows what being prudent can bring you at times.
This might not just be a fun story. And not just because he can hit a 100. But the fact he seemed to come to the sport late, and missed time, helps mark him as a late bloomer. I think what gives me hope and impresses me is his athleticism and a seemingly strong work ethic. Both of those things could bode well.
Perhaps I missed something and need to read more, but does he have the makings of another pitch or two? Or is he just a FB thrower at this point? No question at 24 that the best and fastest route is as a RP. One more solid pitch, or a pitch and a half to just tease, is plenty to be an effective reliever. If he doesn't make it until 27 or even 28, not only would his arm have fewer innings that a lot of pitchers, but it's really not that old for a RP. A lot of quality relievers seem to arrive a bit later in age, whether they be college players initially, or failed starters who find their role finally. A neat story, and a neat find.
"Nice catch Hayes...don't ever f*****g do it again."
--Lou Brown
