Evan Rust

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked St. Louis Cardinals #24 prospect in 2004
  Rust was the key player the Cardinals acquired in the Tino Martinez deal, though the main thrust of the trade was simply to unload Martinez. Rust signed as a non-drafted free agent in 2000 after going 1-11 at St. Mary's (Calif.). Managers rated him the best reliever in the high Class A California League in 2002, and he encored with a solid performance last season. Rust's fastball sits in the low 90s and he complements it with a curveball. He does a good job of keeping his pitches down in the strike zone, allowing only one homer in 2003 and just eight as a pro. He's not overpowering but has proven himself at every step so far. With the St. Louis bullpen in flux, Rust figures to get a long look in the spring. If he doesn't make the big league club, he'll start the year in Triple-A.
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  Ranked Tampa Bay Rays #28 prospect in 2003
  Rust wasn't drafted after going 1-11 at St. Mary's in 2000, but since has emerged as one of Tampa Bay's top relief prospects. He succeeded in 23 of 25 save opportunities in high Class A in 2002 before earning eight more saves in Double-A to finish fourth in the minors with 31 overall. Managers rated him the top reliever in the Class A California League. Rust has the necessary makeup to close in the professional ranks. After trying to overpower hitters with his low-90s fastball in the past, Rust succeeded by keeping his pitches down in the strike zone and worrying about command more than velocity. A late bloomer, Rust could become the first homegrown closer in Rays' history if he continues to make progress like he has in his first three pro seasons. He'll start 2003 back at Orlando.