Houston Astros Prospects: Player Comparison
By Jimmy Price
3. Mark Appel, RHP
Jun 19, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros first overall draft pick Mark Appel waves to fans during the fifth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports
Mark Appel is a polished pitcher drafted by the Astros with the #1 pick in the 2013 MLB draft out of Stanford University. Appel features a mid to high 90s fastball with a slider and changeup as his secondary pitches. Appel should be able to move through the Astros system fast given his college experience.
2013 Stats, A/A-: 3-1, 3.79 ERA, 38.0 IP, 36 H, 16 ER, 9 BB, 33 SO, 2.1 BB/9, 7.8 SO/9
Best Case Scenario Player Comparison: Matt Harvey, RHP (Mets)
This is a tough one to call due to Harvey not having too much experience at the big league level. With that said, Appel has the chance to be like Harvey. A hard throwing, big right hander with a wicked slider as a strikeout pitch. Harvey has been dominant since coming into the league but unfortunately got hit by the injury bug late last season. In his only full season Harvey had an ERA of 2.27 and a WAR over 5. Appel should be in the majors soon and making his impact as well.