Astros Season Superlatives: Corpus Christi Hooks Edition

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Pitcher of the Year – David Paulino

This award goes to the best pitcher. The 2016 winner: David Paulino.

Acquired in a deadline deal in 2013 that sent Jose Veras to the Tigers in exchange for Paulino and outfielder Danry Vasquez. Vasquez was released mid-season after allegedly being involved in a domestic violence incident, while Paulino made his major league debut in a spot start against the Cleveland Indians on September 8th.

Paulino absolutely dominated minor league hitting and was well deserving of the call to the big leagues. His 1.83 ERA, .910 WHIP, and .204 batting average against him were among the best marks on a pitching rotation that included top pitchers and prospects Joseph Musgrove, Evan Grills, Francis Martes, Keegan Yuhl, and Edison Frias.

Paulino’s control made him deadly at all levels this season. He spent time in Corpus Christi, Fresno, and made a few rehab starts with the Gulf Coast League Astros. While in Corpus Paulino posted a walk rate of just 1.55 batters per nine innings while striking out 10.13 hitters per nine innings. As good as the Hooks staff was this year, they collectively held a 3.49 ERA. Paulino was the best arm in Corpus Christi, hands down.