While lamenting the loss of prized rookie Jordan Zimmermann (torn elbow ligament), Nationals acting general manager Mike Rizzo made a fair point Monday:
“This is why you work so hard to build pitching depth throughout your entire system. You never want to rely on just one prospect.”
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That task is still a work-in-progress. But here is a look at some pitchers on the radar.
Drew Storen » Aaron Crow‘s replacement was promoted to Double-A Harrisburg Tuesday. The Nats may have reached for a reliever at No. 10 but in 24 2/3 pro innings he has two walks and a 2.92 ERA. That kind of production would be a huge boost to the 2010 bullpen.
ETA » On fast track. Starts 2010 in Washington.
Aaron Thompson » Prize of Nick Johnson trade. Doesn’t project as a top-of-the-rotation starter — has an unspectacular 4.16 ERA over 119 Double-A innings. But scouts believe he gives the Nats another legitimate major-league arm.
ETA » MLB debut next summer.
Brad Meyers » Unknown last year after a 4.79 ERA in low-A. Yet in a combined 18 Single-A and Double-A starts in 2009, Myers, a 6-foot-6 righty, has a 1.62 ERA with just 28 batters walked. Excellent control. Good strikeout totals. But at 23, has to show this season is no fluke — and prove it at higher levels.
ETA » 2011.
