Dr B's 2014 Giants Top 50 Prospects: #17 Martin Agosta

Martin Agosta, RHP.  6'1", 180 lbs.  DOB:  4/7/1991.

Low A:  9-3, 2.06, 91.2 IP, 43 BB, 109 K.

There is certainly nothing wrong with Agosta's numbers from Augusta, except maybe a walk rate that is a bit generous.  What dropped him down compared to other pitching prospects from San Jose and Augusta was injury concern.  He only made 4 appearances after July 5, sitting out at first from a finger blister and later due to "arm fatigue."  Maybe I'm putting too much weight on 1 report, but the Augusta Chronicle beat writer commented that his velocity was down in his final 3 appearances at the end of August.  Put all that together and it's worrisome enough for me to discount the numbers a bit.  He actually pitched fairly well in 2 of his final 3 appearances allowing a total of 3 runs in 12 IP, with 12 K's but 9 BB's.

Agosta is not big for a pitcher, but looks strong and wiry.  He does not have a flashy windup and delivery, which is no muss no fuss.  He just raises his front leg to 90 degrees at the hip and falls forward without any significant drop.  He has quick arm action that produces a nice 360 degree windmill when viewed from the side.  The comp I immediately thought of when watching his video was Roy Oswalt.  When healthy, his fastball gets into the mid-90's.

I would expect Agosta to start 2014 in SJ's rotation, but health will be the key to his success and to his future.