Drafted in the 31st round (915th overall) by the Detroit Tigers in 2018 (signed for $1,500).
Top Rankings
Draft Prospects
Although Vancena had a strong outing at East Coast Pro last summer, fellow Ohio prep arms Cameron Varga and Zach Shannon were seen as the headlining arms coming into the spring. But Vancena has improved as much as anyone in the state after an offseason working under Tigers roving pitching coordinator A.J. Sager. He has the best pitcher's body in the state, at 6-foot-4, 220 pounds and has a frame built to handle innings with room to get stronger. Vancena has a quick arm and has been 88-92 mph this spring, touching 94 with downhill plane and sink. His secondary stuff lags behind his fastball. He has two breaking balls, with his spike curveball probably the better pitch. His changeup flashes average. He has cleaned up his delivery but his arm action has a slight hook in the back and there is some rigidity to his front side. He works around the plate and his athleticism allows scouts to project enough control to remain in the rotation. Vancena is committed to Michigan.
Download our app
Read the newest magazine issue right on your phone