Baker Has Strong Showing For Philadelphia Phillies In Opener
Andrew Baker was the No. 28-ranked Philadelphia Phillies prospect last year by MLB Pipeline.
That number may rise if the 22-year-old right-hander continues to perform at a high level for the Phillies at spring training.
Baker struck out two batters in the seventh inning of Saturday’s 7-4 victory over the New York Yankees. His fastball nearly reached 99 miles-per-hour.
In the Minors last season, Baker hit 102 on the radar gun.
“As long as it’s a strike,” Baker quipped.
The Phillies selected Baker in the 11th round of the 2021 draft, but he initially struggled with his command.
Baker struck out 20 and walked 15 in his first 18 innings last season with Single-A Jersey Shore. He then struck out 52 and walked 14 in his final 36 1/3 innings with Jersey Shore and Double-A Reading.
What was the difference?
Baker said that he solely pitched out of the stretch last year and that allowed him to consistently throw in the strike zone.
Command and velocity could wind up with Baker contributing in Citizens Bank Park this season. There are plenty of Grapefruit League games remaining for players like Baker to prove their mettle.
More From SI's Inside The Phillies:
- Phillies Star Bryce Harper Doesn't Hold Back on Thoughts About Joe Girardi
- How Mike Trout Will Join the Phillies
- Could Bryce Harper's Favorite MLB Player Join the Philadelphia Phillies in 2023?
- Could The Phillies Soon Be Playing in Wawa Park?
- Bryce Harper-Obsessed Japanese Baseball Star Wants to Play for Phillies
- Six Philadelphia Phillies Declare Free Agency
- Rumored Phillies Free Agent Target Just Opted Out of Contract
- Jimmy Rollins Describes Disrespectful Treatment by Ryne Sandberg
- Phillies Release 2023 Regular Season Schedule
- Picking the Phillies' All-Time Single Season Lineup
Make sure to follow Inside the Phillies on Substack and Twitter!
