McAllister Promoted To Tampa

Even Brian Cashman's preseason declaration that Zach McAllister [and Dellin Betances] would remain at Low-A Charleston all year couldn't hold off McAllister's promotion to Tampa.

The 20 year-old had proven all that was necessary at Charleston and having him continue to embarrass Low-A hitters would only delay his development. His XBox-like strikeout to walk ratio [53:8] and groundball to flyball ratio [2.16] are glaring supports of McAllister's promotion.

The Tampa Yankees rotation now has a very talented, young triumvirate of starters in McAllister [20], Ivan Nova [21], and Chris Garcia [22].

McAllister marks the first RiverDog to be promoted in the 2008 season.

The 6’6”, 230 lb. right-hander was enjoying a phenomenal first season in the South Atlantic League (SAL), posting a team-best 6-3 record with a 2.45 ERA. In 62.1 innings of work, the Chillicothe, Ill. native surrendered 28 runs (17 earned), while allowing just eight walks and striking out 53 batters.

From what I hear, McAllister added some velocity to his fastball and may have found a better feel for his four-seamer. Last year McAllister was primarily a sinker ball pitcher whose curve and changeup had not yet clicked. It would appear the youngster found something in Charleston and has been extremely consistent since that time.

Regardless of what minor league level Yankee fans decide to follow, chances are you will encounter some rising pitching prospects. Charleston awaits the return of Jairo Heredia and Betances [who was DLed with shoulder fatigue], while Trenton has George Kontos and Mark Melancon and, finally, Scranton boasts Alan Horne, Dan McCutchen, JB Cox and Dave Robertson.