Goldstein bolsters Tigers' confidence in Ethan Martin
Posted: Fri Dec 05, 2008 8:51 pm
http://www.baseballprospectus.com/artic ... cleid=8340
Year in Review: While he entered the year as a third baseman who could also pitch a little, by the time the draft came, this first-round talent was generally seen as the best high school pitcher in the country. He was unable to make his debut due to a minor knee injury suffered during a fielding drill.
The Good: Martin has everything one looks for in a young pitching prospect. He has smooth mechanics, and effortlessly pitches at 92-94 mph while touching 96, and many believe there is projection for much more. Unlike most teenagers, he already has solid secondary offerings, with a hard-breaking power curve and a surprisingly deceptive change. He's a fantastic athlete with a strong durable build, and scouts rave about his makeup.
The Bad: Martin is still developing as a pitcher. He is still learning how to mix his pitches more effectively, as well as the difference between throwing strikes and throwing good strikes. Despite the advanced arsenal for his age, Martin has a tendency to overthrow all of his pitches, costing him command and movement.
Perfect World Projection: He'll be a star-level and possibly high-impact big-league starter.