Over the weekend I shipped out all pre-orders of the 2014 Prospect Guide (which you can order here if you haven’t already). Thanks to everyone that has already ordered it. Today, I wanted to offer up another two free scouting reports from the book to give those of you who haven’t ordered the book before an idea of what is in there.
Werleen Taveras
Werleen Taveras came into the 2013 season as a relative unknown pitcher with just a few innings thrown in the US for the Reds. The right hander broke out some during the year as he split his time between Billings and Low-A Dayton where he threw 28 innings with 12 walks and 27 strikeouts. Taveras throws a fastball in the 90-92 MPH range some downward movement. He will use both a change up and a curveball as his secondary pitches. His change up is the better of the two pitches with good tumbling action and has a chance to be an above-average pitch. The curveball is a clear third pitch and is an inconsistent one. When at its best it is an average offering in the mid 70’s. Control could be an issue for Taveras moving forward as he battles to find a consistent release point.
Wandy Peralta
Despite a 6.55 ERA in rookie ball, Wandy Peralta was sent to Low-A Dayton where he spent most of his time in the bullpen, though he did make four starts on the season. The left hander performed well as he posted a 3.80 ERA in 85.1 innings with 41 walks and 79 strikeouts. His fastball showed above-average velocity in the 90-94 MPH range. He worked in a change up in the low 80’s with good tumbling action. Peralta also showed a 78-82 MPH curveball that is inconsistent, but shows potential to be an above-average pitch. Control has been an issue for him in his career as he as walked over 10% of the batters he has faced in the last two seasons. Improvement in his control will be needed as he moves forward to have continued success.3