Houston Astros Top Prospects Part 3: (#10 – #6)

10th Best Astro Prospect

Jun 18, 2013; Dayton, OH, USA; West pitcher

throws against the East All-Stars in the first inning during the Midwest League-All Star Game at Fifth Third Field. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports

#10 Lance McCullers RHP – (Stock decreased, #5 in 2014)

McCullers is the son of former major league reliever with the same name. McCullers was drafted as a supplemental first round pick in the 2012 draft. The Astros were able to offer McCullers an over-the-slot signing bonus, by getting Carlos Correa to sign for a smaller one.

McCullers was seen as a high-risk signee prior to the draft, because of his desires to attend college. He throws in the mid 90’s and can top off at 97 miles per hour. He has had control issues, throws hard, and his delivery might lead him to the bullpen. However, the Astros appear to think he can be in the rotation in the future.

In my opinion, I believe that either Michael Feliz or McCullers will compete for the rotation or the closer-type of reliever, depending on what the team needs.

2014 Stats: 3-6/ 5.47 ERA/ 115 strikeouts in 97 innings

Affiliate Starting in 2015: Double-A Corpus Christi in the rotation.

MLB Pipeline ETA: 2016

Ceiling: Shelby Miller

Floor: Wade Miller

Position blocker: Josh Hader

Next: 9th Best Astro Prospect