Chad Cordero Stats & Scouting Report

Full name Chad Patrick Cordero
Born 03/18/1982 in Upland, CA
Profile Ht.: 6'0" / Wt.: 220 / Bats: R / Throws: R
School Cal State Fullerton
Debut 08/30/2003
Drafted in the 1st round (20th overall) by the Washington Nationals in 2003 (signed for $1,350,000).

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The 6-foot, 195-pound Cordero has been a high-profile closer at Fullerton since he was a freshman. He led the Big West Conference in saves his first two years, racking up a total of 26, while averaging 2.1 walks and 11.0 strikeouts per nine innings. Despite his slight frame, he has a durable, resilient arm and projects as a closer in pro ball. His save opportunities have been more limited this year because of his team's dominance, and scouts have had a difficult time getting a read on him because of his role. But he has quality stuff. He has command of three pitches that he can throw from different arm angles, including a fastball that ranges from 91-94 mph.

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Cordero became the second member of the 2003 draft class to make his major league debut last summer, following in the footsteps of the Reds' Ryan Wagner. Cordero was a surprise pick at No. 20 overall, but he was a good fit for the Expos because he signed for $1.35 million, below market value, and didn't need much seasoning. Cordero projects as a closer in the majors, possibly as early as 2004. He's aggressive with his heavy 90-94 mph fastball and sharp slider. He's not big, but he generates power with good lower-half drive and extension in his delivery. Cordero has a mature body with strong legs and rounded shoulders, so his stuff won't get much better. He's thick through his hips and will need to watch his weight. He occasionally leaves his circle changeup high in the strike zone and needs to scrap a slower version of his slider. Based on his September showing in Montreal, Cordero should make the Opening Day roster with a good spring. Rocky Biddle isn't the most reliable closer, so Cordero could take his job quickly.