RADIO
Casey Mize 2020 Outlook: Advanced Hurler Nearly Ready for MLB
5 years agoThe Tigers are likely in line for another ugly losing season but the pitching staff could be exciting in the second half of the year as the club starts to graduate its exciting stable of pitching prospects. Of the three top arms, Casey Mize is likely the most MLB-ready. A college-standout and former first-overall draft pick, the right-hander had an outside shot at reaching the Majors in 2019 before losing time due to injury. Mize features three pitches that should eventually grade out as plus offers once his command is polished, and he also offers plus control. He posted a K-BB of 106-23 in 109.1 innings. There are all the ingredients here for Mize to be a top-shelf starter for the Tigers, although it would be nice to see him miss a few more bats. His strikeout rate of 23.5% in Double-A was good but not elite. He’s also not likely to pick up many wins playing for a club with a very weak offense. With some arm issues in college and the shoulder injury in 2019, there are reasons to be concerned with Mize’s durability so keep that in mind when seeking out his services.
