– Age 24 – Level AAA
2008 Numbers: 24 Starts, 135.2 IP, 135 Ks, 27 BBs, 2.39 ERA
The ' starting rotation has been in turmoil since trading to the . Their top pitcher, , has been Cy Young worthy all season but the rest of the rotation seems to change every week.
David Huff could soon see himself wearing an Indians uniform as the Indians don't appear to be heading to the playoffs. Huff could gain some valuable playing time in the majors before the start of next season.
Huff's minor league numbers have been impressive so far this season. He started the year in AA where he posted a 1.52 ERA over 10 starts and transitioned well to AAA where he has posted a 2.83 ERA over 14 starts.
The thing that impresses most is Huff's stellar strikeout-to-walk ratio. His 135 Ks to 27 walks this season show he is getting the ball over the plate and letting his defense do the work. His home run numbers, 11 given up in 135.2 innings, are quite good but he must locate his pitches in order to keep the home run totals low in the majors.
Look for Huff to get called up at the end of the season but, more importantly, pay attention to his spring training in 2009. He could be a late round steal for smart fantasy managers.
Each week "Almost Ripe" features a maturing minor leaguer who could see major league time in the near future.
