Drafted: Fifth round of the 2011 amateur draft by the New York Mets out of UMASS-Lowell.
Scouting Report:
Leathersich has taken the minors by storm having progressed all the way to the AAA level in just two seasons. He throws only two pitches and features an awkward delivery that has destined him for the bullpen at the professional level. His bread and butter is a mid-90s fastball, which he pairs with a fairly unpolished curveball. Not necessarily an ideal arsenal, but his absurd strikeout rate through his first two seasons hasn't suffered as a result.
2013 Stats (to date):
Binghamton (AA): 2-0, 1.53 ERA, 29.1 IP, 19 H, 5 ER, 1 HR, 16 BB, 55 SO
Las Vegas (AAA): 2-0, 7.76 ERA, 29.0 IP, 32 H, 25 ER, 2 HR, 29 BB, 47 SO
Potential:
Leathersich has drawn comparisons to former Met, Billy Wagner, due to his high velocity and small stature. The strikeout rate is no fluke, as he has maintained it at every level throughout the minors. He seems to have all the makings of a MLB closer, but will have to refine his curveball and limit his walks to make that dream a reality. At the very least, Jack projects as a quality member of the bullpen.
What's Next:
This is tough. Leathersich has really struggled since being moved to AAA Las Vegas. Although the PCL is notoriously a hitter-friendly league, expect Leathersich to require more seasoning early next season, preventing him from joining the Mets out of spring training. With a WHIP north of 2.00, Jack may not be quite ready for big league hitters just yet, but his time is coming fast and fans can expect to see him by mid 2014.
Twitter: @LeatherRocket
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