17. Robert Whalen
Height: 6’2
Weight: 200
DOB: 1/31/1994 (Age: 19)
Bats/Throws: Right/Right
Fastball: 50/60 Curveball: 45/60 Slider: 40/50 Changeup: 40/50 Command: 50/60
Whalen took the mound in 2013 looking to prove himself after falling in the 2012 draft due to a bout with dead-arm that ended in him being shutdown after just one inning of pro ball. Working with his 91-94 MPH fastball, heavy sinker, and upper-70’s curveball that Baseball America ranked as the best in the organization, he did more than just prove himself– he burst onto the prospect scene.
Pitching his entire season for the Kingsport Mets of the Appalachian League, the lifelong Mets fan would post some eye-popping stats. In 72.1 innings of work stretched across 12 starts, Robert pitched to a 1.87 ERA,which was good for second in the league. He also struck out an impressive 9.46 batters per nine innings while displaying advanced command of his pitches (2.12 BB/9). His efforts would earn him a 2013 Sterling Award, which is awarded to one Mets player from each minor league team within the organization.
Outlook: After failing to be named amongst the Mets Top 30 Prospects by Baseball America prior to the 2013 season, it’s safe to say he’s earned the nod in 2014. Certainly, judging from our ranking you can tell what we think of him here at MMN. He’s answered all the questions that plagued him pre-draft. He’s cleaned up his mechanics, built up his arm, and continued to develop his arsenal as well as his feel for pitching. I fully expect him to continue to build on the great start he’s had to his career and potentially breakout even further in 2014.
It’s likely that Whalen will head to Low-A Savannah this year, where I hope to get a look at him in Lakewood, NJ.
Follow him on Twitter @robwhalen38
(Photo Credit: MILB.com)
MMN Top 40 Prospects
