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George Kirby 2022 Outlook: Nearly MLB Ready With Ace Potential
Kirby still isn't a well-known name in fantasy circles despite being one of the top arms in the minors. He's a former first-round selection out of college but, at the time, he was considered by many to be a high-floor, modest-ceiling arm that looked like a future No. 4 starter. We had him ranked as the 11th-best prospect in the draft for his plus control, four-pitch mix, and potential for further development. Once he reached pro ball, Kirby's average fastball velocity took a huge jump and now sits in the 96-97 mph range with a power slider. In nine starts in A-ball, he produced a 32% strikeout rate. He also missed bats in six Double-A games but he wasn't quite as sharp and missed a month of season due to a shoulder injury. He threw just 67 2/3 innings in 2021 so durability is a bit of a concern heading into 2022. However, if/when he gets the call, he deserves your attention. There aren't many pitchers that can throw as hard as Kirby can with plus control and four average-or-better offerings. He won't break camp with the Mariners but he could be a real weapon in the second half of the year - although he could begin his career in the bullpen to limit innings.
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