In the 2018 MLB Draft, the Kansas City Royals selected five college pitchers in a row. Jonathan Bowlan, who threw a no-hitter on Monday night, is one of the five minor league prospects who is having a strong year.
In the lesser leagues, Bowlan has quietly put together a strong season. Bowlan had a 3.36 ERA and 0.93 WHIP in 69.2 innings for the Lexington Legends before being promoted to Wilmington.
For the Memphis product, a promotion was in order, and he was assigned to Wilmington to assist there.
Bowlan continued to be a strong force on the pitch after joining the Blue Rocks. Bowlan had a 2.16 ERA and 0.96 WHIP with a 3-1 record through 25 innings before his no-hitter.
In 2018, the second-round pick pitched for Memphis, posting a 3.71 ERA and 1.30 WHIP. Bowlan had a 2-9 record as a starter after 85 innings pitched due to the Tigers’ poor performance.
Bowlan has shown signs of developing his changeup, which was a big emphasis of his 2020 preparation. Bowlan projects to be a workhorse starter in the future, given his command, durability, and makeup.
His physicality and fastball-slider combination, however, would be at home in a major league bullpen. Bowlan might be a good option for the Royals if they need extra arms this season.
Jonathan Bowlan Signing Bonus
Jonathan Bowlan received $697,500 from the Royals 2018 draft signings
