Loading ...I know, I know…we really don’t need to get so excited. I can’t help it. Sorry.
This scouting report is from ESPN’s Keith Law. Go here to read the entire thing (it’s worth your time). An excerpt:
I got my first live look at Aroldis Chapman on Monday in a game in Goodyear, Ariz., that was attended by a few hundred other people — probably not what the city of Goodyear had in mind when they paid for the stadium — and I have a two-word scouting report: That’ll work. (snip)
In terms of mechanics, Chapman takes an enormous stride toward the plate and pronates his arm reasonably early; the arm path isn’t long and there’s no violence or other major red flags in the delivery. If he stays healthy, he’s a No. 1 starter, and should be able to come north with the Reds in some role this year if they want him on the big league roster.
That’ll work.
UPDATE: I didn’t realize that the full article was subscription-required. Personally, I think the Insider subscription is worth the money, but many, many people disagree with me. Either way…what about that Aroldis Chapman?
Has any other pitcher thrown yet this year?
This is an exciting season. It’s nice to look at Yahoo’s front page and see a story about a Red, other than Pete’s gambling.
If Chapman is that close to being ready…
1) I would send him to Louisville for half year as a starter and look for stamina and consistency and watch to see if the hitters figure him out
then…if it’s still that good
2) call him to the bullpen for the rest or the year with a few spot starts NO FANFARE…
Let him work himself into the spot. The lat thing the pitcher needs is to get hammered.
This is the first time that I can remember that the Reds are being discussed nationally, everyday, in a positive light. Chapman is going to be huge for the franchise, I just hope they bring him along the best way possible.
If I were the Reds management, I would strongly consider paying Tony Fossas more money and making him a roving coach. Keeping him with Chapman no matter what level he is on. I think that would be a great idea.
I mean the first time in a LONG time…
Chad, I’ll have to take your word for it that the piece from Keith Law is worth my time because it’s not worth my money to become an ‘insider’ of the 4Letter Networks web-site.
I’m also really excited about the upcoming season – just wish everybody would turn down the volume on the Chapman hype….Bailey is the one to watch – expect a break out season from Homer.
My guess is Chapman starts in AAA. We’ll see him in Sept.