EVALUATOR: GEOFF PONTES
Age: 25 yr
Height: 6-0
Weight: 156 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2014 IFA
RuleV: Eligible
Physical Description
Slightly shorter than six feet tall and thin. A weaker overall framework may not result in a significant increase in strength. Physically little and lacking in height.
Mechanics
All of his pitches have a release point of fewer than six feet because of his high three-quarters arm action, substantial shoulder tilt, and above-average extension.
This is the full delivery, which begins with the pitcher side-stepping to an exaggerated leg lift, followed by an abrupt pull forward toward the mound.
His illusion is bolstered by this springboard delivery, yet his leadership is constrained. Some regions need to be cleaned up, but the operation works despite the inconsistent release point and the fact that he doesn’t always repeat his landing spot.
Fastball
Analyzers seek for one measure in particular when evaluating Buzardo’s fastball, but he also has other metrics that negate that good finding. Generally speaking, Buzardo’s release height is 5 feet, 7 inches.
Fastballs that play effectively in the upper quadrants require a low release point and a release point that is extremely low.
Unfortunately, his raw spin averages around 2200 with a 12:30 tilt and a vertical movement of 15.1 inches, which is well below normal
Gyro spin from his four-seamer to his arm side is generated by his propensity to supinate. He has an average four-seam velocity of 91.2 mph, which is below average for a right-handed reliever.
Unless Buzardo improves his efficiency or increases his fastball’s velocity by at least 4 mph, it will not be effective against major league batters. Grade point average: 40
Curveball
The clear best pitch in Buzardo’s arsenal. A bender curveball is in-line with his low-efficiency profile.
High average spin rates of 2800+ RPMs, and good velocity at an average of 80 mph. The pitch has a lot of early verticals followed by a late dump as it hits the plate.
He commands the pitch well and has no issues attacking right handed and left handed batters alike with the pitch. Potential plus offering.Grade point average: 60
Splitter
A variation of the preceding changeup, this one is straight with little horizontal movement or velocity separation from the fastball. This isn’t a dependable offering with an unknown forecast at this time. Grade point average:20
Control and Command
The command profile can be controlled in a traditional manner. With his fastball, he is a reliable strike-thrower who has little trouble finding the strike zone.
He’s not too crazy and can control his lone major league pitch, his curveball, which makes him a good fit for a relief pitcher role. Struggled to improve the fastball’s third pitch. Grade point average: Control: 50 | Command: 40
Overall
To become a below-average relief pitcher, a major league-ready depth arm will need to enhance his fastball velocity or his movement profile.
If he can throw a curveball well enough in 2021, he may get a chance to play in the big leagues. There wasn’t much projection left, therefore he went unprotected in the 2019 Rule Five Draft.
Threatening to be dropped from the 40-man roster once more.
