Tseng, I think has a chance to be a really interesting depth starting pitcher for us where I don't anticipate him starting the year as one of our top five, but certainly could be one of our top eight and move his way into a role where he's pitching in a big league rotation for us. (Theo Epstein)So Tseng could play a factor into the Cubs plan as early as 2018, but here's the name you really want to keep your eye on. Adbert Alzolay. No, that's not Albert Almora Jr.'s alias, Adbert Alzolay is poised to be the next big star in the Cubs starting rotation down the road. Who thinks that's possible? Theo Epstein.
Adbert Alzolay, I think is a really interesting high ceiling starting pitcher, who if he reaches his potential will someday be one of the five and closer to the 1 than the 5. He's pitching in the Fall League right now and he's an exciting young kid with high character and electric stuff who's got a great starter kit and will pitch at the upper levels of the farm system next year. He finished the year at Double-A. He's gonna probably start there, but see some time in Triple-A. Before it's all said and done who knows you know, but I think factoring him into the sort of broad picture of our major-league depth makes sense for us. (Theo Epstein)Alzolay, 22, made 22 starts in 2017 between Single-A and Double-A, ending the season with a 2.99 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 108 strikeouts in 114.1 innings. Here's a brief scouting report on Alzolay from MLB.com.
Alzolay has gotten stronger and is doing a better job of using his lower half in his delivery, which has resulted in improved velocity. He's now operating with a 92-95 mph fastball as a starter, topping out at 97. He also gets some running action on his heater, which makes it difficult for hitters to barrel. Alzolay's hard curveball has depth and shows signs of becoming at least a solid second offering. He's making strides with his changeup, though it still requires further refinement. He has thrown strikes throughout his pro career and could develop into a No. 3 starter.Learn the name now. Adbert Alzolay. The Cubs see great things from him and based off their track record with prospects, this has to get you at least a little excited at what could be in the starting rotation in a year or two.
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