3. Grayson Rodriguez
Minors (A): 10-4 record, 94 innings, 2.68 ERA, 0.989 WHiP, 129 strikeouts, 36 walks
The 11th overall selection in the 2018 MLB Draft, Grayson Rodriguez has rocketed up the Baltimore Orioles prospect list.
After an impressive start to his minor league career, where he had six consecutive scoreless outings, Rodriguez exploded on the scene with his performance for the Delmarva Shorebirds. At just 19 years old, Rodriguez not only held his own in the South Atlantic League, but was also named to the Futures Game last year. The scary thing is, he may only be just starting to tap into his ability.
Rodriguez has a four pitch mix that already projects as being average to plus. His fastball can already touch 97 MPH, although it typically sits in the mid 90s. Scouts are split as to whether his slider or curve is his best secondary pitch, as both show the potential to be plus offerings with excellent break. He is also developing a changeup, which is still a work in progess, but could be an average offering once he is comfortable with it.
At 19 years old, and having just completed his first professional year in full season ball, it would be easy to think that Rodriguez is still a bit away. However, with his stuff and tremendous potential, it would not be a surprise to see him reach AA by the end of 2020. A strong showing there could mean that Rodriguez is in the majors sooner than one would expect.
Grayson Rodriguez exploded on the prospect map this year, and may be closer to the Baltimore Orioles rotation than one would think. An impressive year next season could put him on the fast track to the majors.