Top 50 MiLB Prospects 2009 | #5 | Rick Porcello | Tigers

Position | Pitcher

Bats/Throws | Right/Right

Born | December 27, 1988 (Morristown, New Jersey)

School | Setan Hall Prep High School

Height | 6'5''

Weight | 200 lbs.

2008 Ranking | 15



Breakdown
The Detroit Tigers drafted Rick Porcello in the first round of the 2007 draft. Despite having top ten talent, teams passed on him because of two driving factors: (A) He signed a letter of intent to play for the University of North Carolina; and (B) he was represented by Scott Boras. Both of those have one underlying factor, it would cost any team that drafted him a lot of money to get him. The Tigers took the risk, and after signing too late to play in 2007, he skipped both Rookie Ball and Low-A Ball and began his professional career in the Florida State League in 2008. After faring well there, the Tigers brought him into Spring Training and as a surprise to many, he made the team despite having no experience in Double-A or Triple-A. He certainly has the arm and repertoire to support a major league career (even at this age), but it was still a humdinger. He throws both of his fastballs in the mid-90's and shows acceptional control for a pitcher his age. His potential has no limits and should be at the very top of the Tigers rotation for years to come.

2008 Statistics

Level    W    L    ERA     IP     K    BB    WHIP    FIP

A+       8    6   2.66  125.0    72    33    1.19   3.83

2009 Outlook
Despite only having experience in the Florida State League, the Tigers decided to bring Porcello north to Detroit where he joined the Tigers rotation.

Pitching Repertoire

• Fastball (Two & Four Seam)
  
• Curveball
  
• Change-up

Video


Estimated Time of Arrival
2009