Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Prospect Countdown: #33 Andy Ferguson

33. Andy Ferguson Right Handed Pitcher



Paden Bennett (NR):  Ferguson had a solid season last year between 3 levels of ball.  The numbers don't lie.  In 96 innings pitched he had a 2.42 era and 87 strikeouts to only 20 walks.  Those numbers suggest that he could definitely make his mark in NWA next season.  From a few scouting reports I've read, Ferguson doesn't have great life on his fastball or movement.  His best pitch is his splitter, if he can find a way to get ahead in the count with his fastball and slider; his splitter could be a good out pitch.

Joe Cox (NR):  Scouting reports for Ferguson and the fact that the 24 year old right hander has yet to make it to the AA level suggest that Ferguson my not be a good enough pitcher to make it.  His numbers from last season, however, makes 2013 an interesting season for Ferguson.  Ferguson was able to strike out a respectable 87 batters compared to just 20 walks across three levels and 96 innings.  Any pitcher who is able to command the plate has hope, but the writing does not seem to on the wall for Ferguson to make it.  Scouting reports give his splitter as his only pitch that could be considered average-above average pitch. 

Damion Mandalas (27):  I decided to take a chance on including Alex Ferguson in my personal top 30. This season in Wilmington he was an absolute force and over 133 professional innings he has recorded over 8 strikeouts to every one walk. His stuff hasn't caught anyone's attention at this point in time, but I'm sticking him in my top 30 purely off his dominant Minor League results. Perhaps it is a strong approach to pitching, quality command, or maybe there is something to his stuff or deception that scouts haven't picked up on. Whatever it is, there is something that has enabled Ferguson to find some huge success in his professional career. He is worth keeping in an eye, but until we get some firm reviews on his stuff, I wouldn't pencil him into future rotations.

Dan Ware (NR):  In just 2 seasons of professional baseball, Ferguson has already thrown at four different levels in the minors.  While in Burlington, Andy didn't fair well, giving up a HR on average and allowing close to 4 walks a game.  Obviously it was his first year on the mound in a whole new environment, while pitching out of the pen..something he wasn't familiar with.  2012 was a giant step forward for the 23 year old.  Ferguson started 16 total games at 3 different levels, combining for 96.2 IP, a 6-3 record, 2.42 ERA, striking out 87 and walking just 20 batters.  Although I think he's earned a spot in the rotation for Northwest Arkansas, it's going to be a competitive season, to say the least.  With the likes of Justin Marks, Greg Billo, Noel Arguelles, and more than likely Sugar Ray Marimon all vying for innings, Ferguson will have to put in the time and effort to make sure he doesn't go unnoticed this coming season.

Total Points: 4

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