Sean Hjelle, RHP. DOB: 5/7/1997. 6'11", 225 lbs. Drafted 2018 Round 2 #45 overall.
2018 College: 7-5, 3.44, 99 IP, 8.24 K/9, 1.99 BB/9.
2018 Short Season: 0-0, 5.06, 21.1 IP, 9.28 K/9, 1.69 BB/9, 1.20 GB/FB, 4.63 FIP, 3.39 xFIP.
In case you are still wondering, Sean Hjelle pronounces his last name "Jelly". He's a truly unique pitcher in that if he makes it to the major leagues, he will be the tallest MLB player in history. On top of all that, he's shown unusually strong command at an early age for any pitcher, when tall pitchers often struggle with command. It was not secret the Giants targeted him for their second pick in the 2018 draft out of Kentucky where he had a solid if unspectacular junior season. His pro debut was marred by a high ERA in the hitter-friendly NWL with a high HR/FB being the chief culprit. FIP and xFIP liked him a lot more than ERA.
His scouting report has a FB that sits in the low 90's with a sharp downward breaking knuckle curve and an average changeup which should get better with more use. His delivery is high 3/4, almost over-the-top with a tight arm circle. It's not an "iron mike" delivery but still. has strong downward plane due to his height. He still has an enormous amount of room to fill out which would seem to make him a candidate for more velocity down the road.
A+ San Jose seems like an appropriate assignment for 2019 and I can't wait to see this guy pitch in person so I'm planning to be out there if on a day he's starting in one of the SoCal ballparks. With a solid Cal League season, he could be ranked a lot higher on next year's list.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment