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James Karinchak

Born: 09/22/1995 (Age: 23)
Bats: Right Throws: Right
Height: 6' 3" Weight: 215
Mechanics
Deceptive and odd. Looks like he's coming at you from 3/4 but then releases high overhand, which aides both his curveball and fastball plane. Easy to understand how repeatability and effort led to a relief outcome. Somewhat similar to former MLBer Josh Collmenter.
Evaluator Jarrett Seidler
Report Date 04/25/2019
Affiliate Akron RubberDucks (AA, Indians)
Dates Seen 4/16/2019
OFP 60
MLB ETA 2019
Video No
Pitch Type Future Grade Sitting Velocity Peak Velocity Report
Fastball 80 96-99 99 Elite fastball velocity combined with more than enough run to keep batters off balance. Command had been a significant problem in past, manifesting in too many walks, but he put it where he wanted well enough in my look, and walk trend is positive as well. Velocity has been ticking up over last two years; was sitting 91-93 as a starter in 2017 and 95-97 as a reliever in 2018. Might have another tick or two left. Way, way too much for Double-A hitters and will continue to be for all hitters so long as he maintains velocity and command upticks.
Curveball 70 83-85 86 True 12-to-6 curveball action at slider velocity. Has been his out pitch and a plus offering dating back to starting days in college. Has added substantial velocity without sacrificing movement or getting too slurvy. Swing-and-miss offering.
Overall

With improvements in command and another significant jump in his stuff, Karinchak is now one of the top relief prospects in the game. He has been video game dominant so far in Double-A, striking out 18 of the 25 batters he's faced early in 2019, without allowing a hit. Potential of first-division closer or elite setup man, and he could get there very fast. Retains a high risk factor for grade due to volatility of relievers and past control issues.

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