Rookie Report

Having hit the mid-point of the 2011 season it’s time to take a look at a few of the youngsters who are making big impressions throughout the league.

Michael Pineda, Starter, Seattle Mariners

The much maligned Seattle Mariners are sitting just 3.5 games out of 1^st place in the AL West and have given up the fewest runs in the AL. A lot of this has to do with the young flame thrower. He’s got great control of his high 90’s fast ball and can really pound the strike zone with it. His breaking pitches still need a little polish but his use of the changeup and a hard slider have kept the major league bats off balance all season.

Dustin Ackley, 2^nd base, Seattle Mariners

He’s only been in the majors since June 17^th but is making his mark already. Ackley has a great eye for the strike zone and has hit successfully in all but 3 of his games for Seattle, adding to their woeful offense. On the defensive side Ackley is new to 2^nd base but has developed well. He possesses great athleticism and foot speed which helps make up for any problems with the glove and his footwork.

Eric Hosmer, 1^st base, Kansas City Royals

At the start of the season the talk was of when, not if, Eric Hosmer would be called up. Well the call came at the start of May and he’s not looked back since. Like Ackley he’s got a great eye and makes consistent contact as well, fouling off pitches that would get other guys out. His power numbers are a little low for a first baseman but that should come as he continues to develop and add some bulk to his young frame.

Jermey Hellickson, Starter, Tampa Bay Rays

Hellickson has hit a rough patch recently but pitching in the AL East is never an easy task and in his 2 starts against the Red Sox he’s been able to hold his own. He’s got great command of all his pitches and good movement on his fastball. He looks like adding his name to the long list of recent Tampa Bay drafting success.

Craig Kimbrel, Closer, Atlanta Braves

Having broken into the Braves team late last season he’d already shown he has the nerve for the big stage and that confidence has carried him well this season. Kimbrel recently took the record for rookie saves before the All-Star break and doesn’t look like slowing down. His fastball really explodes through the strike zone and he’s got no fear in going after hitters. All his pitches have great movement while his slider is devastating against right handed hitters.