Prospect Nation 2015: #23 RHP Victor Arano

Acquired in the August trade that sent Roberto Hernandez to the Dodgers, right-hander Victor Arano is a talented pitcher that has made some considerable impressions in his young career. As a 19-year-old, the Mexico native looked sharp at Class A full season Great Lakes last year and now appears to be primed to be a buzz name in the Phillies’ developmental ranks next season.

Signed as an amateur free agent in 2013 by Los Angeles, the six-foot-two 200-pounder made his professional debut with the rookie level Arizona League Dodgers that same year. In 13 appearances (eight starts), he tallied a 3-2 record with a 4.20 ERA while striking out 49 batters and walking 13 in 49 1/3 innings.

He progressed well last year, in the Class A full season Midwest League. With the Loons, Arano sported a 4-7 record along with three saves and a 4.08 ERA in 22 games (15 starts). Additionally, the youngster displayed considerable control and command of the strike zone. He posted an 8.68 K/9 mark and just 2.09 BB/9.

This off-season in the Mexican Winter League, Arano recorded no decisions, but had a 4.76 ERA in 14 regular season relief outings for Obregon. In 17 innings there, he struck out 17 and walked four while allowing 10 hits.

Arano is equipped with a three-pitch menu, including a low-90’s fastball, an improving change up and what seems to be a quality slurve with nice movement. There’s no doubt that he’s got potential to add ticks to his velocity as he progresses. Thanks to their strength and conditioning programs, the Phillies have seen some of their hurlers add velocity as late as age 25. See: Buchanan, David and Hollands, Mario.

Keeping the ball on the ground is a plus for Arano as well. His ground ball rate of 41.6% for his career is definitely better than most.

Advanced for his age, look for Arano, who turns 20 years old in February, prior to spring training, to possibly lock down a spot in the Class A Advanced Clearwater rotation this upcoming season. Otherwise, local fans will be able to see him on the mound for Class A Lakewood.

Ultimately, the ceiling for Arano could be someplace between Tyler Cloyd and Kyle Kendrick. Add some “velo” along with a mastery of his off-speed pitches and that roof could be raised quite a bit.

To follow along with this year’s full countdown, click HERE.

Comments

What the hell else was I going to write about...?

It will be too late for many people's liking, but it's really about time to NEVER USE BRAD LIDGE IN A SAVE SITUATION ON THE ROAD AGAIN. Lidge in 2009 road games- 0-6, 8.10 ERA, 15 saves, 10 blown saves. One of my favorite statistics that I regularly update here on PhoulBallz is the percentage of games that Brad Lidge has allowed earned runs in this season, compared to the 18% he allowed in 2008. This year, Lidge has allowed earned runs in 43% of his outings. And, as a reminder, in 2007 Brett Myers allowed earned runs in just 21% of his relief appearances. Considering Lidge's season-long struggles, what is the solution when Brett Myers is ailing with a back muscle/shoulder injury, when Chan Ho Park has an injured hamstring, when Ryan Madson looks just as inept in the 9th inning as Brad Lidge seems and when JC Romero is still unavailable to pitch due to a forearm injury? Well, on Wednesday night, with Hanley Ramirez batting with two outs and the tying run on 3rd base, your an...

Watch Out For the Bat Boy

Stop ice grillin' the Phillies players, bat boy. I am watching YOU. I don't know what is on your mind, bat boy, but don't even think about doing something slick. You might wear the Phillies' uniform, but it is clear that you are a Yankees fan. It's all over your pale little "I wanna grow up to be like the Robert De Niro character in The Fan " face. The World Champs should be cautious around this kid. He could be dangerous. ------------------------------------------- Follow PhoulBallz.com on Twitter HERE !

Greatest Comeback I've Ever Witnessed

I was lucky enough to be in the building for the Phillies' game 4 NLCS walk off victory. I would like to write about it as though I'm reporting on it. I'd love to be able to jot down a story and go off to bed, like I did after game 3, but I don't think that is possible. I feel like I did last year following game 5.2 of the World Series. I was up all night, unable to come down off of that Phillies high. I have the same feeling right now. You all know what happened. I don't need to tell you all a story about the game. It's very likely you've got the image of Jimmy Rollins lacing that double off Jonathan Broxton burned in you brain, frame by frame already. I know I do. With two outs in the bottom of the 9th inning, my lady began to collect her things, strapping her purse on across herself. I shot her a quick look as though to convey, "What are you doing?" She shot back, "I'm getting ready to go." I replied, "I'm getting ready to...

PhoulBallz.com

Search This Blog