Carlos Garcia

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Los Angeles Dodgers #25 prospect in 2002
  The Dodgers didn't bring Garcia to the United States to play until 2000, after he spent two seasons pitching for Mexico City. He looked good in his debut and led the high Class A California League in victories and ERA in 2000, when he was named pitcher of the year by both the league and the organization. He opened 2001 in extended spring training because of shoulder tendinitis and was expected to head to Double-A in May. However, the pain didn't decrease until the end of the year and he never pitched an inning. When healthy, Garcia dominates with a sinking 92-93 mph fastball and an unmatched desire to take the mound. He also throws a plus changeup, possesses excellent command and does a good job of mixing his pitches to keep hitters off balance. The Dodgers' lone concern about Garcia prior to his tendinitis was his reluctance to pitch inside. His work ethic is unquestioned, and Los Angeles officials know he would have pitched through the pain last season if capable. They hope an offseason of additional rest will allow Garcia to report to Double-A in 2002.
• 
  Ranked Los Angeles Dodgers #12 prospect in 2001
  Garcia made a strong impression in his first season pitching in the United States. He was named the Dodgers' top minor league pitcher as well as the California League's pitcher of the year after leading the league in wins and ERA. He got stronger as the season progressed, capping the year by going 3-0, 1.82 in the playoffs. Garcia is a workhorse who worked at least six innings in 25 of his 27 starts in 2000. He has an above-average fastball in the 92-93 mph range that has good sinking action. He also mixes a plus changeup well to keep hitters off balance. In addition to his excellent command, the Dodgers love Garcia's makeup, work ethic and desire to be his best. A plate painter, Garcia tends to be too fine with his pitches on occasion, and the Dodgers would like to see him go after hitters more often by pitching inside. A veteran of two seasons with the Mexico City Reds, the experienced Garcia will continue his development this season at Jacksonville.