SF Giants prospects position preview chat: Starting pitching

SF Giants prospects position preview chat: Starters (Part 5)

M: It does feel like we’ve short-changed the recent draft picks a bit, you mentioned Kilian and Swiney, but what about Trevor McDonald?

W: I think so as well. Probably because we have talked about them a good bit on our own platforms before? Haha. I would still be siding into the “McDonald is a starter” camp. Sure, the arm action is funky and is long on the back, but his arm slot gives hitters fits and I liked his changeup and slider. I think there’s relief risk with McDonald, but I still like his chances in the rotation.

Aside from McDonald, there’s also Ryan Murphy, the below-slot signing in the fifth round in the 2020 draft. He’s actually someone that we haven’t really talked a lot. I am constantly following him on his Instagram where he’s posting a lot of his pitching videos. I must say that I am pleased with what I am seeing. With feel for his stuff and a crossfire delivery, he is definitely an eye-catcher.

M: Good call. To wrap this up, I’ll mention Carson Ragsdale, who was the Phillies fourth-round pick last year before they traded him for Sam Coonrod. He’s a potential elite reliever, but has an above-average fastball and breaking ball and put up huge K numbers his last yaer in college. If he can refine his command and either find a third pitch or take his others to another level, he could have a lottery ticket chance of exploding as a prospect.

W: Ragsdale is really interesting. I think he’s a reliever all the way but hey, if there’s an organization that I am banking on in terms of developing their pitchers, this is definitely one of them.

M: Alright Wrenzie, really glad to have worked with you on this series. More importantly, I can’t wait to finally watch some minor-league baseball. Maybe we can do some chats with fans once games get underway?

W: Thanks, Marc! I had a lot of fun chatting about SF Giants prospects. It’s certainly fun to have someone as knowledgeable as you talking about the future of the Orange and Black. I can’t wait to watch the games as well and write about the games! One day, I’ll get into one of these games in person. One day!

I have no problem chatting with fans! I’m open to the idea and most especially, I really can’t wait for these players to just show how much work they put in over the past year and a half.

M: Sounds good. Great talking to you as always.

W: You too! I’m glad that your Niners drafted Lance instead of Mac Jones, though. (Just have to sneak this!)

M: Haha thankfully. By the way, if anyone is interested, I graded the 49ers draft class over at my other gig for Niners Wire.

As the minor-league season gets underway, stay tuned to Around the Foghorn for plenty more SF Giants prospects coverage.