Prospect Spotlight: Grayson Rodriquez

Mowing down hitters is what Grayson Rodriguez does best. A look back at his 2019 season leaves no doubt that the 6’5 right hander has the skills to show the Baltimore Orioles that he is ready for the fast track to the Major Leagues. The Orioles saw enough from his high school career to make him their 1st pick in the 2018 draft, 11th overall, and he’s been proving it ever since.

The baseball world took notice of this guy when he was a high school junior at Central Heights High School in Nacogdoches, Texas. Rodriguez helped the team to a 2017, 3A State Championship, going 14-1 with a 0.38 ERA, setting himself up for a high draft position. After his senior year in high school, he committed to Texas A&M University, but chose to sign with the Orioles, and they are surely happy he did.

The Orioles #2 prospect, #1 pitcher, and MLB’s #31, began his pro career in the Rookie Gulf Coast League. In 9 games, 19.1 innings. Rodriguez was 0-2, but a stingy 1.40 ERA, with 7 walks and 20 strikeouts - a good professional debut.

In 2019, he went all out at Delmarva (South Atlantic League, full season A) - 20 games, 20 starts, 94 innings, 2.68 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 36 walks and a spectacular 129 K’s. It was quite a breakout year for the young Texan, and it led to a stint with the Orioles alternate training site in late July.

The way this guy pitches you just know he has more to show, and it won’t be long before he’s standing on the mound at Camden Yards in Baltimore. With Rodriguez’ talents, he’s going to continue to send hitters back to the dugout shaking their heads. 

Now just 21, Rodriguez could start the year at High-A Aberdeen or Double-A Bowie. Wherever he is, he will hear the sound of opponent’s bats swinging and missing.

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Larry writes books. You can buy these books!