prospecthype

Blake Beavan-RHP-Texas-6’7” 210 pounds- D.O.B. 1/17/89

Placement Overview: In 2008, Blake Beavan pitched for the Clinton LumberKings of Single-A. Beavan posted strong numbers in his first professional campaign, going 10-6 with a 2.37 ERA and 73 strikeouts with 20 walks in121.2 innings. Look for him to start the 2009 season in A+ with a call-up to AA likely.

Scout: Beavan has a tremendous fastball, clocking in as high as 96 MPH. He has excellent command of this pitch, which is uncommon for someone as young and big as Beavan. He also throws a slider in the 80-84 MPH range, but does not have as good of command of this pitch as his fastball. He has a changeup which is usually in the low 80s as well, but he sometimes has a problem controlling this pitch. His delivery is very smooth, as he stays tall and compact with a high leg kick. He does a nice job of using his height to his advantage to get that extra velocity. Beavan is very athletic, especially for someone of his size. He is also good in pressure situations.

Projection: Beavan has the fastball to be a front-of-the-rotation starter if he is able to develop his secondary pitches into better offerings. He will only be 20 years old for the 2009 season, and he still probably has two years to go before he hits the big leagues. Overall, the kid has a great upside.

Grade: B

Bottom Line: Beavan has a plus fastball, that could develop into a plus plus pitch. His secondary pitches still need some work as they are below average to average right now, but one thing to consider this: secondary pitches can be taught, velocity cannot. He definitely has the velocity. Beavan has a huge upside once he figures out how to make his other pitches more effective, and he is in an organization that has needed help with their starting pitching for a long time. This kid could be the future ace of the Rangers’ staff.

Card Investing Analysis: Beavan had a number of autographs in 2007 sets, including Bowman Chrome Draft, Bowman Sterling, and Donruss Elite Extra Edition. He now also has an AFLAC auto from 2008 Bowman Draft. The Chrome auto can be had for under $10, and often under $5, and the Sterling and Elite autos are worth slightly less. The 08 AFLACs have been selling for about $20, which is fairly cheap for a case hit card. Not a bad time to buy if you are confident in the kid’s fastball and his potential upside.

UPDATE: It has been brought to my attention that Beavan has recently made a change to his delivery which has for one reason or another caused him to lose some velocity. He still has excellent control, but right now it is unknown whther or not he will get the velocity back.

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