Source: Kumar Rocker Not Expected To Pitch in 2021

Sources tell MetsMerized’s Jack Ramsey that 10th overall selection Kumar Rocker is not expected to pitch in affiliated ball for the Mets in 2021.

The industry-wide consensus is that most, if not all, college arms are expected to be eased into their developmental tracks and programs this fall, and for most of them that will include not pitching professionally this season.

Rocker, the College World Series Game 3 starter, pitched as deep into the season for Vanderbilt as possible. The 21 year-old righty threw 122 innings for the Commodores after only throwing 15 in the Covid-shortened 2020 season.

After throwing 99.2 innings in his freshman season in 2019, Rocker saw a massive reduction in innings and then a career high this year, which most likely attributed to some lack of command and a slip in velocity towards the end of his season.

Rocker has not officially signed yet, but Joel Sherman New York Post reported that the Mets and the Scott Boras client have a “financial understanding” in place for a $6,000,000 signing bonus.

Rocker is expected to begin the 2022 season in camp with the Mets baring injuries or any unforeseen circumstances. If all goes according to plan, he would debut when the minor league season opens up next year.