Top Prospects #17: Tyler Sample

#17 Tyler Sample


Age: 20
Pos: RHP
HT/WT: 6-7/245
Drafted: 3rd Round, #80 overall of 2008 Rule IV Draft
High School: Mullen High School (CO)
ETA: 2014

Tyler Sample was signed for a bonus of $500,000 in the third round of the 2008 first year player draft. He displays a 92-94 mph fastball that at times he dials up into the mid to upper 90s with a 12-6 knuckle curve and change up. Like most taller pitchers Sample has problems repeating his delivery which results in poor location of his pitches and a decrease in the velocity of his fastball. According to John Sickels his curve is nasty but his change is below average. If his change can improve he has front-line starter potential. If it doesn't I could see him being a filthy right handed set up man.

Sample put together a good 2009 season, in large part because he was able to drop his walks per 9 innings rate from 9.7 in 2008 to 3.6. This could be an indication that his delivery is gaining consistency. A 3.6 walk rate isn't amazing, but if he can keep this number as he climbs the organizational ladder I would be fine with it, especially if he can continue to hold opposing hitters to a sub .200 batting average like he did in the Appy League last season.

I expect Sample to get a promotion to full season ball to begin 2010 and he should get a spot in an extremely talented Burlington rotation.