William Sylvester

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Atlanta Braves #16 prospect in 2002
  Sylvester split the 2001 season between Greenville and Richmond, yet never found the consistency needed to succeed at the Triple-A level. He spent most of his time trying to improve his mechanics, which led to a lack of control. The Braves believe Sylvester can overcome his most recent hurdle and continue his development as one of the organization's top relief prospects. He owns a 93-95 mph fastball, along with a sharp-breaking curveball and a decent splitter. Sylvester has battled his confidence throughout his pro career and is faced with a similar challenge heading into 2002. Atlanta hopes he conquers this latest bout in Richmond to set the stage for a promotion to the majors when the need arises.
• 
  Ranked Atlanta Braves #6 prospect in 2001
  Signed as a nondrafted free agent out of junior college in 1997, Sylvester blossomed in his fourth professional season. After ending the 1999 campaign with minor arm problems, he didn't allow an earned run until June and was the top relief prospect in the Carolina League. Sylvester is a strong-armed pitcher who came into his own last season thanks to increased confidence. A former starter, he thrived in the closer's role by using his mid-90s fastball and a nasty, sharp-breaking curveball. He also has an average split-finger fastball. Confidence continues to be the key for Sylvester. He must realize that his stuff is good enough to succeed. He also needs to continue throwing strikes consistently by challenging hitters. Improving his splitter and throwing it more often should make his jump to higher levels smoother. The Braves knew they were pushing Sylvester in the Arizona Fall League, where he got rocked after missing the last two months of the season with a minor ribcage injury. He did show the ability to make adjustments against better hitters, and will have to do that in Double-A in 2001.