Farm time

Down on the Farm

By Matt Costello

May 26

Remember the days when Scott Cooper was the can’t miss prospect at Pawtucket? Or when 35 year old Tim Kester anchored the pitching staff? Probably not. But right now, Pawtucket is absolutely stacked. Do yourselves a favor and get down there soon to see Jon Lester, Craig Hansen, Manny Delcarmen, or Dustin Pedrioa before they get called up to the show.

Lester, the organizations top pitching prospect, struggled a bit earlier in the year, working on secondary pitches and also working within a 60-pitch limit. However, the limit has been lifted in his last few starts, and he has improved from 0-4 with an ERA in the 5s, to 3-4 with an ERA of 3.13. He has struck out 37 and walked 13 through 37 innings pitched thus far. Lester is a potential front of the rotation guy, as he consistently hits the mid 90s, flashes a good curve and cutter, and an improving change up. Oh yeah, he’s left-handed too. Ask Jesse Orosco what being left-handed can do for a major league career. Do not be surprised if Lester is similar to this year’s Papelbon.

Craig Hansen is going to be a stud. Now, the question remains will that be as a lights-out RP, or as a middle to top of the rotation SP? The Red Sox have been using Hansen for 3 to 4 innings at a time this season, to help him get a feel for his secondary stuff, mainly his new change-up. His fastball and slider are plus pitches, and the kid is simply ready now. A few more bad outings by Rudy Seanez or Matt Clement, and it will be Hansen time at Fenway Park.

Next week, we will take a look at Michael Bowden and Clay Bucholz, a pair of hard throwing right handers currently tearing up middle A ball at Greenville.