Sunday, June 22, 2008

Down On The Farm: Future Met, or Future Trade?




St. Lucie Mets , High Class A in the Florida State League, pitcher Mike Antonini, has been progressing well through the Mets farm system.

Antonini has moved four classes of minor league ball in less than one year. Antonini locates his pitches well, with a below average fastball clocked between 87 and 91 MPH, throws a slider that is "diving", and is working with the change-up. He doesn't over power hitters, he pitches.

Antonini was originally selected by his hometown Phillies in the 41st round of the 2006 First Year Player Draft. Because of money issues, he decided to return to college, Georgia College and State University.

In 2007. he jumped 23 rounds, and was chosen and signed by the Mets.

From what I've read, it seems like Antonini is a Brian Bannister type of pitcher; won't blow people away, but pitches and outsmarts hitters. He doesn't strike out many (61 K's in 71 IP 2.27 ERA when the Mets drafted him), but studies hitters and situations well.

For more on Antonini, please read the Delco Times.

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