Atlanta Braves: Will Sean Newcomb make his debut this year?
The Atlanta Braves are in their last season at Turner Field and it has been one to forget. They currently have the worst record in baseball and some of their bright spots are currently injured. With the Atlanta Braves moving to SunTrust Park next year, it’s time to look at who might be there when opening day rolls around.
The Atlanta Braves have a slew of great pitching prospects in their farm system. Every night, there is one of them that is pitching for one of the minor league affiliates. Many of them are showing why they were all top prospects. It is only a matter of time before they all make their mark on the big league level.
The top pitching prospect in the Atlanta Braves organization is Sean Newcomb. Newcomb was acquired in the Andrelton Simmons trade with the Angels. In the minors, Newcomb has been impressive and might have a chance to pitch at Turner Field this season. The big question is, “Will he get the chance to?”
Array of Pitches
I see what the fuss is about with #Braves Sean Newcomb. 92-95 MPH FB, solid change. Good CB. Fits of control issues. CMD spotty at best.
— Chris Blessing (@C_Blessing) July 25, 2016
Newcomb has many pitches in his arsenal and he has the ability to throw them with confidence. Being a lefty and having a good fastball and curveball, Newcomb can dominate hitters and make them look just plain silly. One thing that Newcomb does need to work on is his command.
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Command Issues
There is no doubt that Newcomb has the, “stuff,” to get hitters out, but his control is often shaky. He is often walking as many batters as he is striking out. Newcomb currently has given up 57 walks on the season for Double-A Mississippi. He may be able to get away with it in the minors, but major league hitters will make him pay.
If he is able to make it to Atlanta this season, Newcomb will have to work on his control with the catchers and pitching coaches if he wants to improve. If Newcomb can fix the control issues and have command of his fastball along with his other pitches, he can be a dominating pitcher.
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Moving Forward
With the Atlanta Braves rotating starters and a potential injury to Julio Teheran, Newcomb might be called up from Mississippi for a couple of starts to end the season. Newcomb currently has a 4.57 ERA and 101 strikeouts. If he can cut down on the walks, Newcomb will show the Braves he is ready.
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If Tyrell Jenkins moves back to the bullpen, Newcomb might be called up and have a start or two. I could also see the Atlanta Braves keeping him in Mississippi and let him finish the season there. Either way, Newcomb will ultimately decide for himself if he is ready for, “The Show.”