Right-handed pitcher Brody Colvin had a rather difficult time with Class A Advanced Clearwater in 2011 after making things looks easy with Class A Lakewood the previous year. After cruising through the South Atlantic League to the tune of a 6-8 record with a 3.39 ERA in 27 starts, Colvin's output took a dive with a 3-8 record and a 4.71 ERA in 22 games (21 starts) against Florida State League competition in 2010.While Colvin's overall stats with Lakewood don't scream for attention, he allowed 0 or 1 runs in 11 different starts in which he did not earn a win during the 2010 season, so it's clear that Colvin's lack of offensive support certainly impacted his win-loss record that year.
As a member of the Clearwater Threshers' staff, Colvin was sidelined in the early going and spent time on the disabled list with a back injury. With some lasting effects of his ailment throughout the season, the St. Thomas More High School (LA) product had a difficult time feeling comfortable on the mound at times and served up a .289 batting average against and posted a 6.02 K/9 average, which were both considerable drop-offs from his previous season's stats (.258 BAA, 7.82 K/9).
Not to be discouraged, Colvin is focused on getting back to 100% with his health so he can once again display exactly why he was such a fast rising prospect a short time ago.
Selected in the 7th round of the 2009 amateur draft, Colvin was originally committed to pitching for Louisiana State University, but signed with the Phillies at the deadline. Colvin made his pro debut that season, appearing in one regular season game for the Gulf Coast League Phillies.
Colvin, who grew up idolizing power pitcher John Smoltz, has a pitch repertoire which features a fastball that has steadily reached 96 MPH, when healthy, as well as an improving circle change up and a curveball with good 12-to-6 movement. Overall, Colvin has shown an improved efficiency with his arsenal, as he has worked hard to develop his pitches and his delivery, often being praised for his pure or electric stuff.
The 6-foot-4-inch 200-pounder has an ideal frame for a pitcher. With so many tools and the physical stature in place, Colvin's biggest improvements could be made between his ears. Small mental lapses on the field and away from it have been a recurring theme for Colvin during his short time as a pro. Prior to the 2010 season Colvin was charged with resisting arrest after a conflict outside a Louisiana night spot. In addition, he was pulled from a game in late 2010 after failing to back up third base when an opposing batter slapped a triple. The mental mistake got Colvin removed from the game immediately and cost him his assignment as the team's number 1 starter going into the postseason that year.
Heading forward in 2012, Colvin is expected to climb the developmental ladder up a level with his "Baby Aces" staff mates and help cement the starting staff for the Double-A Reading Phillies. If hiccups similar to those of last year arise, Colvin could revisit Clearwater, but that should not be considered a likely option.
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