Sunday, January 8, 2012
Tribe Prospect Countdown: #16 LHP Giovanni Soto
2011 Stats (Rookie League/ A+ Kinston): 4-4, 3.13, 1.19 WHIP, .232 OBA, 2.9 BB/9, 9.3 K/9
The fruit of 2010's Jhonny Peralta trade, Soto has produced phenomenal numbers throughout his minor league career (17-12, 2.64), including a pair of A ball shutouts, which is quite uncommon. While he does not have an overwhelming fastball (86-90 mph depending on 2-seam vs 4-seam), he supplements the offering with an outstanding cutter that absolutely destroys left-handed hitters. One would also expect a increase velocity as he builds mass and arm strength. Giovanni adds a "slurvy" curveball and a change that he commands well, but with which he needs to develop consistency. He induces the high-rate of ground balls (1.77 GO/AO) that is so enticing to the Indians and only magnified by the fact that he is left handed. Anyone care to hazard a guess on the only monkey wrench in the works? Soto missed about 2 months last summer with left elbow neuritis. The organization has been extremely cautious during his return, using him in relief at the tail end of 2011 as well as in the winter league. While Gio still projects as a starter, there have been internal discussion about converting him to the bullpen. Such a move would significantly diminish his value especially considering his vast array of pitches and the fact that he has already built his IP/GS to 5.1. The brain trust loves his intangibles (aggressiveness, savvy, confidence, etc) with VP of Player Deveelopment Ross Atkins definitively stating "he is a Major League pitcher." Soto should begin 2012 at AA Akron, I would hope, in the rotation.
Up Next: #15 1B Beau Mills
Pretty Girl 01.08.12 - Marcella Valladolid
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