Houston Astros Prospects: Player Comparison
By Jimmy Price
6. Lance McCullers Jr, RHP
Jun 18, 2013; Dayton, OH, USA; West pitcher Lance McCullers throws against the East All Stars in the first inning during the Midwest League-All Star Game at Fifth Third Field. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
Lance McCullers Jr. was drafted in the 1st round of the 2012 draft out of Jesuit HS, FL by the Houston Astros. Lance McCullers actually fell to the Astros with the 41st pick due to sign ability issues but fortunately, the Astros were able to sign him. Lance features a mid to high 90s fastball and a wipeout curveball.
2013 Stats, Class A: 6-5, 3.18 ERA, 104.2 IP, 92 H, 37 ER, 49 BB, 117 SO, 4.2 BB/9, 10.1 SO/9
Best Case Scenario Comparison: A.J. Burnett, RHP (Marlins, Blue Jays, Yankees, Pirates, Phillies)
A.J. Burnett is a big. fastball throwing machine. Like McCullers, Burnett was also drafted out of high school and features a curveball strikeout pitch. Burnett was a top prospect who had great strikeout numbers in the minors. In his career, Burnett compiled 147 wins, a 3.99 ERA and a WAR over 26.