Josh Dye: Starting Pitcher
Taken in the 23rd round of the 2018 MLB Draft, Josh Dye could turn out to be a steal for the Kansas City Royals.
Hailing from Florida Gulf Coast University, the same school that produced Chris Sale, Dye pitches from a similar arm slot and also has a devastating changeup. He has a decent slider, but the hope is that Dye will be able to add more velocity, as he was sitting in the upper 80s with his fastball.
Even with that mediocre velocity, his pitchability played up during his first taste of professional ball. Promoted to High-A Wilmington by the end of the year, he produced an overall 2-3 record with a 4.20 ERA and a 1.328 WHiP. Yet, there are reasons to be excited about Dye, specifically due to his command. Over 40.2 innings, he issued just six walks while striking out 40 batters.
If Dye is able to add that velocity, he could become an interesting piece for the Royals. For a team desperately in need of starting pitching, adding someone who has the potential to turn into even 70% of what Sale is would be a major asset. Dye may not be a potential top of the rotation starter just yet, but his command of his arsenal, difficult arm slot, and impressive changeup give plenty of hope for the future.
Josh Dye could end up being quite the steal for the Kansas City Royals. His continued development will be fascinating to watch.