Hunter Carnevale from California was picked in the 33rd round of the 2010 draft, 992nd overall. He is still in the Mets organization today.
After pitching four years for the Pacfic Tigers in the Big West Conference, Carnevale played at two levels of pro ball in 2010 with the Kingsport Mets of the Appalachian League (Rookie) and with the Brooklyn Cyclones of the New York Penn League (A-).
With Kingsport, he appeared in 12 games with a record of 3-1, an ERA of 3.86, threw 23 1/3 innings and struck out 27 against seven walks and 26 hits. He also recorded one save. After Kingsport, he reported to the Cyclones and appeared in 5 games with a 0-0 record and an ERA of 18.00, pitching five innings, striking out eight, allowing 11 hits and walking five.
In 2011, Carnevale appeared in 12 games for the Brooklyn Cyclones before having his season cut short by Tommy John surgery. He had a record of 1-1 with an ERA of 1.08 in 16 2/3 innings, striking out 19, allowing 12 hits, five walks and did not allow a home run while saving two games. His WHIP for 2011 was 1.02.
He returned to the mound in 2012 to appear in six games for the Kingsport Mets. In six relief appearances, Hunter pitched six innings with a 0-0 record, 1.50 ERA and saved two games. He allowed six hits, four walks, and struck out seven.
2013 saw him promoted to the Savannah Sand Gnats in the South Atlantic League (A) and helped take home a championship under the tutelage of former Cy Young award winner Frank Viola. Carnevale posted an 0-3 record with an ERA of 3.57 and two saves. He appeared in 44 games, pitching 58 innings allowing 49 hits, walking 18 and striking out 66. Hunter’s WHIP for 2013 was 1.16.
Over 3 minor league seasons, he has a combined career record of 4-5 with an ERA of 3.80 and seven saves. He has pitched in 79 games with 109 innings, allowing 104 hits, walking 39, striking out 127 with a career WHIP of 1.31.
Hunter, we wish you continued success in 2014 and beyond. Hope to see you with the big club soon!
(Photo: Savannahnow.com)