Scott Sobkowiak
| IP | 1 |
|---|---|
| ERA | 9 |
| WHIP | 2 |
| BB/9 | 0 |
| SO/9 | 0 |
- Full name Scott Sobkowiak
- Born 10/26/1977 in Woodstock, IL
- Profile Ht.: 6'5" / Wt.: 230 / Bats: R / Throws: R
- School Northern Iowa
- Debut 10/07/2001
- Drafted in the 7th round (221st overall) by the Atlanta Braves in 1998.
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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After ranking as the Braves' No. 4 prospect last year, Sobkowiak made four Double-A starts before going on the disabled list on April 26. He had reconstructive surgery on his right elbow shortly thereafter, costing him the rest of the season. Based on Sobkowiak's rehabilitation efforts in Florida, the Braves believe he'll have better stuff than before his injury. He's a power pitcher with good size and the ability to be a workhorse. He challenges hitters with virtually every pitch. Both his fastball, which tops out at 95 mph, and his curveball are plus pitches. He showed an improved changeup prior to getting hurt. The Braves were concerned Sobkowiak's large frame and labored delivery could lead to injury. He needs to fine-tune his mechanics when he's healthy again. Continued improvement with his changeup can do nothing but help. Several scouts thought Sobkowiak would have pitched in the major leagues last year had he not been injured. He's expected to be at full strength in spring training and should open the season at Greenville. -
Background: In his first full pro season, Sobkowiak overpowered the Carolina League. He ranked second in the league in strikeouts and third in ERA. A bad-luck pitcher during the first half, he finished strong by winning his final seven decisions. Strengths: Sobkowiak is a classic Braves righthander who reminds many in the organization of John Smoltz and Kevin Millwood. He is a power pitcher with a plus fastball and a plus curveball. He showed steady improvement on his changeup, which gave hitters another pitch to think about. His laboring delivery allows him to hide the ball well. Weaknesses: With his delivery and large frame, Sobkowiak creates concerns about future injuries. More consistency with his changeup will only make his fastball and curveball better. Sobkowiak also needs to keep his weight under control. The Future: Sobkowiak, the organization's top pitching prospect, will start the 2000 season in Greenville's rotation. He could move quickly, as Millwood did in 1997.
