amag
02-17-2002, 05:06 PM
2001 Season
Rick Ankiel's comeback from the inexplicable wildness that emerged at the end of 2000 lasted six tortured starts in St. Louis. He worked a total of 24 innings in those outings, during which time he was hit hard and battled his lack of control . The Cardinals shut Ankiel down for a bit before dispatching him to a Rookie-level league, where they hoped he could enjoy some success and regain his previous form. That he did, striking out more than 16 batters per nine innings in the Appalachian League.
Pitching, Defense & Hitting
Ankiels problem has never been physical. His stuff is awesome, and includes a high-90's fastball that can explode up in the zone or sink. He also has a big-time curveball and effective changeup. Still, it all comes down to Ankiel's not unraveling. With maturity, he should be a good fielder. He already may be the best hitting pitcher in all of baseball, nailing 10 homers in the minors last season.
2002 Outlook
By adding to the depth of their starting rotation, the Cardinals can be patient with Ankiel. Remember, he's still just 22, roughly two years younger than Roy Oswalt. If Ankiel can overcome Steve Blass Disease, St. Louis will have one of the game's best pitchers.
Rick Ankiel's comeback from the inexplicable wildness that emerged at the end of 2000 lasted six tortured starts in St. Louis. He worked a total of 24 innings in those outings, during which time he was hit hard and battled his lack of control . The Cardinals shut Ankiel down for a bit before dispatching him to a Rookie-level league, where they hoped he could enjoy some success and regain his previous form. That he did, striking out more than 16 batters per nine innings in the Appalachian League.
Pitching, Defense & Hitting
Ankiels problem has never been physical. His stuff is awesome, and includes a high-90's fastball that can explode up in the zone or sink. He also has a big-time curveball and effective changeup. Still, it all comes down to Ankiel's not unraveling. With maturity, he should be a good fielder. He already may be the best hitting pitcher in all of baseball, nailing 10 homers in the minors last season.
2002 Outlook
By adding to the depth of their starting rotation, the Cardinals can be patient with Ankiel. Remember, he's still just 22, roughly two years younger than Roy Oswalt. If Ankiel can overcome Steve Blass Disease, St. Louis will have one of the game's best pitchers.