What To Expect: Reynaldo Lopez
The Nationals have the best ERA in baseball at 3.23 and they are in the top three in WHIP and opponents average. The staff includes All-Star Stephen Strasburg, Max Scherzer and underrated Tanner Roark, all in the top 20 in baseball in ERA.
It’s clear, however, with the injury to Joe Ross and the inconsistency of Gio Gonzalez, that the Nats are searching for help at the back end of the rotation. They’ve tried preseason No. 1 prospect Lucas Giolito, who made two abbreviated big league starts, and now they’re turning to Reynaldo Lopez, who wowed at the Futures Game a week ago when he hit 100 mph in his one inning of work.
Lopez ranked No. 48 on our Midseason Top 100 Prospects list.
SCOUTING REPORT
Lopez was an unheralded 18-year-old with a high-80s fastball when the Nationals signed him for $17,000 in 2012. His velocity quickly began to increase, but his progress was slowed when a sore arm that was diagnosed as bone weakness kept him out nearly all of 2013. He’s gotten stronger and made significant improvements since then.
He broke out in 2014, took a step back in 2015 and this season has been his most consistent to date. The biggest factor for Lopez’ steadiness in 2016 has been his delivery and mechanics. Both have been consistent, and he also’s showed mental maturity by handling adversity and failure better than he has in the past.
As far as his stuff, the fastball velocity is consistently plus, and he pitches off that with two secondary pitches that are above average. The changeup has improved to an above-average offering and he manipulates the curveball and throws it for strikes.
WHAT TO EXPECT
With Ross expected to return soon, it’s likely Lopez might be around for just one start. If he impresses, it’s possible the Nats find room in the bullpen for him, but it’s more likely Lopez returns for September to give Strasburg and Scherzer more rest down the stretch.
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