I may be in the minority but FW performing in the AZL doesn't do much for me. Yea its nice he's putting up some good performances (after a long run of mediocrity) but he needs to be doing this (consistently) in AA, AAA and eventually the majors for it to mean much.
The talent is certainly there. But the overall vibe of the league is nothing like a full season AA or AAA ball. He's pitching short outings against people who played full seasons and/or are working up from shortened seasons. It's innings, but I don't consider it a good surrogate for 150 AA or AAA IP.
He's there to get pitches in and get back some consistency with this mechanics. That's all that's important, but him having success there is certainly a very good thing. I guarantee you that *he* cares that he's pitching well, and that's important too from a confidence standpoint. This is the first time he's struggled at baseball in his life.
Lol, like i said i was in the minority. He has all-world stuff. He's succeeded in the AZL before. If this helps his mental state going into the off-season, I suppose that's good. But really doubt Luhnow and Co would think this moves the needle one way or another. He still needs to go to AA or AAA next season and put up a good showing. Fall league definitely ain't slotting him into next season's rotation no matter how well he pitches.
AFL just isn't many innings. Even a month in AAA doesn't mean much. I'd treat innings like those in AA.
Matijevic and Pena are over 50 pa in the afl so stats take on a little meaning (but still not much). All of the Astros guys have shown well except Deason. Matijevic has had elite exit velocities. Pena has run into a strikeout problem. Shaver hasn’t played nearly as much but is hitting for power. All 3 guys will have big breakout opportunities in Corpus to start next season. Obviously pleased with Whitley’s production but Torres’ k rate has also been impressive.
I think this FO considers everything. I’d be shocked if they did it but if the bullpen game ***** the bed this time around maybe like a 5% chance?