David Thorne

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Washington Nationals #25 prospect in 2003
  Signed in January 1999 out of a tryout camp by noted scout Fred Ferreira, Montreal's former director of international operations, Thorne was set to make his pro debut the following year. Then doctors discovered bone chips in his elbow, and the grind of rehab and his homesickness for Australia caused him to quit in May 2000. His desire came back when he pitched in the Claxton Shield tournament for the Australian national championship in February 2002, and he rejoined the Expos a month later. He showed one of the better arms in the lower levels of the system. He throws a fastball, splitter and curveball from a high three-quarters arm slot. He can run his fastball to 93-95 mph, and his splitter is a strikeout pitch. He has a solid frame but needs to build his arm strength back up. Thorne also must improve his consistency and command. He should open 2003 with one of the Expos' Class A clubs.