Chris Fussell
| IP | 135 |
|---|---|
| ERA | 6.933 |
| WHIP | 1.837 |
| BB/9 | 5.933 |
| SO/9 | 6.067 |
- Full name Christopher Wren Fussell
- Born 05/19/1976 in Oregon, OH
- Profile Ht.: 6'2" / Wt.: 210 / Bats: R / Throws: R
- School Clay
- Debut 09/15/1998
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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Background: Fussell was perhaps the Orioles top pitching prospect before midseason elbow surgery in 1996. His 8-9, 4.20 year in 1998 was deceiving, as he threw very well during the second half, made a positive impression in his major league debut and enjoyed a solid Arizona Fall League. Strengths: Fussell's strikeout pitch before his elbow surgery was a sharp curveball, and his confidence in it has slowly returned. A key to his late 1998 success was the addition of a good slider, which gave hitters another look. Fussell's fastball is solid average and he has developed increasing confidence in his changeup. Weaknesses: Although Fussell mixes four pitches very well for his age and experience, his 80 walks in 152 minor league innings show he needs to improve his command. His elbow history and breaking ball style raise a question mark about his future endurance. The Future: Based on his second-half performance, mature pitching style and the Orioles lack of starting pitching depth, Fussell should get a long look in spring training for a rotation spot.
