On the Rise?

by Roberto on May 26, 2011 1:25 PM EDT

Brandon Cumpton gave up seven (count 'em, seven) earned runs in each of his first three starts (never getting into the fifth inning). He also had six strikeouts, six walks, and gave up four home runs. Oddly, he did not start the next game.

Over his next five starts Cumpton gave up a total of four earned runs, struck out 26, and walked 5 over 31 innings. Quite a turn-around, suggesting a promotion from West Virginia might be in order. Of course it probably should be. Cumpton was drafted out of Georgia Tech in 2010. Though he pitched in the weekend rotation, he didn't fool too many people. Baseball America commented that he

had trouble throwing his average 89-93 mph fastball and inconsistent curveball for strikes for much of the season but still was 8-2, 4.86 and pitched in the weekend rotation all season.

So, what's the story here? Who can tell us why Cumpton has gotten better? Does he look like a real prospect or just a ninth-round college guy playing in A-ball?

This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of the managing editor (Charlie) or SB Nation. FanPosts are written by Bucs Dugout readers.

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I'm sure it

has to do with delivery/repertoire changes that they had him incorporate that took some time to get use to. I don’t read too much into horribly bad starts by pitchers unless they continue over a long period of time like, say, Alderson, and even he’s looking pretty good.

I’m sure he’s a prospect, but probably not a great one. He probably deserves a promotion soon based on what he’s done over the past month, though.

charity standing orders

by BadMaafala on May 26, 2011 2:13 PM EDT reply actions