Yankees: Looking for the Future

Stuff: McCutchen has a plus 92-94 MPH fastball that tops out at 96. He also has an average heavy-sinking 2-seamer, and an above-average split-change. McCutchen’s real strikeout pitch, though, is his heavy-sinking curveball.

Control/Performance: This year, McCutchen turned his below-average/average control into almost impeccable control. He reduced his hit rate greatly, and was one of AA Trenton’s most reliable starters. He finished 2007 with a 14-4 record in HiA Tampa and AA Trenton, pitching only 142 IP because of the carry-over from the previous year’s steroid suspension (it was only from a prescription drug, though), and allowed 116 H and 33 BB while striking out 103.

Outlook: The steroid suspension tainted McCutchen’s record, but this year he bounced back from it and pitched very well in HiA and AA. He will start next season in AAA and will be among the call-ups for consideration if/when there is an injury in the rotation. However, he projects best out of the bullpen as a middle relief pitcher/set-up man.

Ceiling: B/B+, Health: B, Comparison: Steve Trachsel at his best