PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – His name is starting to spread to where Pirates fans are becoming award of another star in the minor league system and potential key part of the pitching rotation. Seth Hernandez pitches in the minors again Thursday night.
The 6’4” right-hander was the Pirates first-round pick last year and sixth overall. Months out of high school, Hernandez made his professional debut for Class A Bradenton on April 3 going three innings. He gave up a run on three hits and eight of the nine outs were by strikeout.
Over his next three starts with Bradenton, the 19-year-old pitched 14 innings giving up one hit, walked five and struck out 24. While Hernandez said he understands the plan is to be patient, Pirates management waited only two more starts, each striking out nine, before moving him up to High A Greensboro.
His fastball is elite, touching 100 mph and the development of his other pitches is coming.
“I think we expected him to show up and throw hard,” said Pirates GM Ben Cherington on May 14. “Have really great stuff, be exciting in that way. You don’t know with a high school pitcher how well they’re going to execute and do all those things. That’s been very encouraging, just how much he’s been in the zone with all of his pitches. His mix, he’s getting outs with all of his pitches. He’s also been recovering really well. His between starts routine has been really strong. We’re excited about where he’s at.”
Last week Hernandez made his Greensboro debut and didn’t give up a hit over five innings. He walked four and struck out seven. Thursday night will be his first start at home in High A. For as great as that ballpark is for hitters, it’s a challenge for pitchers given the dimensions and how the ball travels.
Nothing has slowed Hernandez down at this point.
After some earlier struggles in the first round, Hernandez could be a third straight game changer.
Righty goes for High A Greensboro Thursday night
Righty goes for High A Greensboro Thursday night
