Blake Rivera, RHP. DOB: 1/9/1998. 6'4", 205 lbs. Drafted 2018, Round 4.
2018 JC: 10-0, 1.75 ERA, 67 IP, 13.16 K/9, 3.76 BB/9.
2018 Short Season: 0-0, 6.16 ERA, 19 IP, 6.63 K/9, 5.21 BB/9.
I think the biggest reason why I place Blake Rivera in the Top 50 is his draft position. It definitely was not due to a great pro debut. In his defense, Salem-Keizer is an aggressive placement for a JC draftee and it's very hitter-friendly league to boot. BTW, without looking it up, can you guess where Wallace St Community College is? Hint: I'm pretty sure it's named after a former governor and presidential candidate who held some divisive political views.
Anyway, Blake Rivera pitched worked as a swingman for Wallace St CC for 2 seasons making just 5 starts in 25 total appearances but still averaged close to 5 innings per appearance. He has close to an ideal pitcher's frame. He works with a low 90's FB and a breaking ball with late downward movement. He profiles as a future back-end, innings eating SP or long reliever/swingman. Augusta seems like an appropriate placement for him to start 2019.
BTW, the Giants also drafted Rivera in 2017 Round 32. I found several references stating he was drafted out of HS but the 2017 draft actually came at the end of his first JC season.
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