2014 Mets Top Prospects: No. 12 Jacob deGrom, RHP

12. Jacob deGrom

Height: 6’4”
Weight: 185 lbs.
Age: 25
Bats/Throws: Right/Right

Jacob deGrom, drafted in the 9th round of the 2010 draft out of Stetson University, is already 25 years old. That does not mean he cannot be considered a true prospect, however. He played shortstop in college so it probably took him longer than most to develop his tools as a pitcher. deGrom started only 6 games in rookie ball the year he was drafted and underwent Tommy John surgery the following season, which sort of explains why he’s a little behind.

He has an ideal build for a pitcher with a 6’4”, 185 lb. frame. Using his height to his advantage, he throws a two seam and four seam fastball in the low 90’s consistently with the ability to reach the mid 90’s at times. As his strength increases, he should be able to add a few more ticks to his velocity. His changeup, already average, has the potential to be an above average major league pitch. His slider needs some work but has a chance to be an above average pitch as well. Although his control needs much improvement, his three pitch mix should allow him to stick as a starter. Across three levels last season (A+, AA, and AAA), deGrom registered a 4.51 ERA, 1.45 WHIP, and 120:46 K:BB ratio in 147.2 IP.

Outlook: deGrom’s inconsistent control last season is somewhat of a head-scratcher because the season before it was 0.997 in 111.1 IP. It could have possibly been injury related, due to fatigue, or just pure regression. Who knows? Nevertheless, as he builds up strength to control his lanky body, his command should improve anyway. deGrom, like Syndergaard and Montero, will likely start the season in AAA with the chance to be called up midseason or earlier in the case of an injury. If he’s called up around the same time as Montero and Syndergaard, he’ll most likely have to prove himself in the bullpen but if he refines his control and secondary pitches in AAA, he definitely has the ability to start and should be given that chance one way or another.