Quote:
Originally Posted by OGB
Can anyone explain to me what the point is of having Brackman in the organization at this point if he's pitching in high A?
|
They've already invested a decent chunk of change (and time) in him by signing him to a major league contract, so they want to get as much use out of him as they can before he becomes a free agent this off-season. As you may know, the Reds are reluctant to send their best pitching prospects to the California League because it's such a hitters paradise. In fact, other than Brackman, the only Bakersfield pitcher drafted within the first 8 rounds is Kyle McMyne (4th). That's pretty crazy when you consider that since 2009, more than half their picks in the 1st 10 rounds have been pitchers.
In other words, when it comes to Bakersfield, the Reds try to send the worst pitching prospects possible while still giving the team a chance to win. Brackman has actually had decent results as a reliever over there, but it's nothing to get excited about. It just seems like the best fit for everybody right now. And on the off chance he becomes a legitimate prospect this year, it'd be downright embarrassing if he did it for another organization.