Daniel Schlereth – Arizona Diamondbacks LHP

H/W: 6-1 210 lb. B/T: L/L DOB: 5/9/86

Schlereth pitched briefly at two stops as a reliever after signing with the D'backs. The early returns had to please Arizona as Daniel surrendered just 2 runs on 6 hits in 12 innings while striking out 20. Schlereth has a lively 93-95 MPH fastball and a heavy curveball that has good 12 to 6 tilt to it. Additionally, Schlereth features a changeup that is another potential above average pitch. Schlereth pitches with a bulldog mentality that would suit him well in a closing role. Many prognosticators believe, however, that Schlereth's eventual role will be as a situational lefty due to his occasional lack of command.

2009 Projection: Schlereth is thought to be close to MLB ready, so it would be no surprise to see him skip over Low-A ball and head right to High-A Modesto. Watch to see how the Diamondbacks organization decides to develop Schlereth. If he gets opportunities to close games, watch to see how effective he is in that role. Though relievers do not tend to elicit the same demand that starting pitchers and position players do, Schlereth's best hobby value will be realized as a closer rather than a set up or middle relief pitcher.

Key Daniel Schlereth Baseball Cards: