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Ryne Nelson 2023 MLB Outlook: Flashed Potential In Small 2022 Sample
2 years agoRyne Nelson made his MLB debut for the Diamondbacks in 2022 and in just three starts, looked like he belonged and now has a chance to get the fifth starter job in Spring. Nelson's Triple-A numbers last year weren't that impressive, with a 10-5 W-L record, 5.43 ERA, 1.39 WHIP and 128 KS in 136.0 IP (26 starts). In Arizona, Nelson had a 1-1 W-L record, 1.47 ERA, 0.82 WHIP and 16 Ks (18.1 IP). Nelson has four pitches he can call upon with a fastball that averaged 93 MPH last year and a curveball that acts as a strikeout pitch. Nelson's slider has improved over the last two years and could easily give Nelson a third above-average pitch. Last year can be considered a step backward for Nelson after having a 3.17 ERA over 116.1 IP across High-A and Double-A in 2021 but scouts still believe he can be a solid Major League starter. If Nelson can claim the fifth starter spot to begin the season, he could offer fantasy value in deeper leagues, although as with all prospects, growing pains are to be expected. He's currently projected to make ~20 starts regardless of how Spring goes so taking Nelson with your last pick of the draft certainly isn't a bad idea.
