Stockman signed out of Australia at age 17 as a tall but rail-thin thrower with limited experience on the mound. Arizona's player-development staff turned Stockman from a project into a prospect by helping him maintain a more consistent and smoother delivery and arm slot. Stockman now throws on a steep downhill plane, using the leverage from his 6-foot-7 frame to bump his velocity into the 89-94 mph range and as high as 96. He most often sinks his fastball at 91-92. Stockman also features a decent breaking ball and changeup. He used that repertoire to rank third in the Texas League in strikeouts last year. He also finished third in walks because he still needs to refine his command and consistency. Blisters also have plagued Stockman for the last three years. Much like Royals lefthander Jeremy Affeldt, he has tried several remedies and may have to move to the bullpen if no solution is found. Stockman will pitch out of the Triple-A rotation in 2004.
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