Originally posted by Todd
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Tyler Kolek is a big, Texas right-handed pitcher who had a body of an innings-eater horse and arsenal of a mid-rotation starter. His complete arsenal flashed at least average, and he currently throws his fastball in plus to double-plus velocity band. Kolek has a bit of an arm stab and can cut himself off in his delivery, but he repeats relatively well despite having a high-effort delivery. Kolek would need to make the necessary adjustments to improve his command and let his full arsenal play to its full potential for him to remain a starter, but signs point to him being a reliever.
Round Drafted: 2014 1st round, 2nd overall
Why: Big Texas Prep RHP; showed ability to spin a breaking ball and ability to replicate arm speed on sinking action changeup; trust their developmental staff to tweak his delivery and improve command to keep him a starter—bullpen velocity spike, improved command could allow Kolek to become a closer.
Ceiling: Role 60; No. 3 Starting Pitcher.
40-grade changeup, 30-grade slider
Round Drafted: 2014 1st round, 2nd overall
Why: Big Texas Prep RHP; showed ability to spin a breaking ball and ability to replicate arm speed on sinking action changeup; trust their developmental staff to tweak his delivery and improve command to keep him a starter—bullpen velocity spike, improved command could allow Kolek to become a closer.
Ceiling: Role 60; No. 3 Starting Pitcher.
40-grade changeup, 30-grade slider
Repeating High-A after a near disastrous 2016 season, Kolek has had far too many starts like last night, and with that comes growing concern. There’s still the high-octane fastball that draws significant attention, but Kolek’s body remains soft, his control/command continue to lag significantly behind, and general consistency is lacking. Unfortunately, instead of measurable signs of progress in a return to the Florida State League, Kolek is beginning to invoke more references to former Royals first round pick and massive bust, Colt Griffin. —Mark Anderson
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