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MMN Top 40 Prospects: No. 24 Jeff Walters

By Fan Shot

November 7, 2013 1 Comment

2014 Top 40 Prospects

24. Jeff Walters, RPjeff-walters

Height: 6’3

Weight: 170

DOB:  11/6/87 (Age: 26)

Bats/Throws: Right/Right

Fastball: 55/60 Slider: 60/65 Changeup: 40/50 Command: 40/50

Walters jumped onto the radar for most scouts in 2013 with a great season for the Double-A Binghamton Mets. In 56 relief innings for the Mets he compiled a 2.06 ERA and 38 saves. He struck out more than a batter per inning (9.64 k/9) while limiting his walks (2.57 bb/9) on his way to a historic season, breaking the single-season saves record for Binghamton.

The big righty has really seen his stuff tick up since being transitioned to the bullpen. His fastball is an above-average offering that comes in around 91-93 but can touch 96 with good arm-side run that he’s been able to keep down in the zone effectively. His breaking ball is probably his best pitch, a mid-80’s power slider that flashes plus with good tilt. Walters also throws a decent change that plays up a bit because he has similar movement to his fastball. Jeff’s command, despite solid walk rates, is somewhat of a hinderance as it’s inconsistent– especially with the fastball. Improved command will be key to his success at the highest level.

Outlook: Having seen Walters live at the 2013 Eastern League All-Star game I can tell you he’s impressive. My thoughts were reaffirmed when I had the chance to speak to both Keith Law (ESPN) and Al Skorupa (FanGraphs) after the game and they both liked him. Skorupa thought he was ready to get major-leaguers out then. It’ll be interesting to see if Walters’ command takes a leap forward next year, as that will likely determine if he’s just a solid bullpen arm or a late-inning dominator.

 

 

 

 

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Latest Comments
  1. B-Met Fan

    I watched Walters pitch all summer. He has great stuff. More importantly, he has that swagger that great relief pitcher’s have. He wants the ball during a sticky situation. Towards the end of the year, he was getting a little entertaining, holding the ball out and staring at it as if he was giving it directions before he too his position on the pitching rubber. I think Met fans are really doing to like this guy.

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