Seth Blair To Begin Pro Career As Starter

I read some predraft scouting reports on Cardinals supplemental first-round righthander Seth Blair that indicated there was a debate as to whether he was better suited to be a starter or reliever. What ceiling would he have in either role? When do teams usually make this decision?

T.J. Crawford
Boston

Teams rarely develop early-round picks or quality prospects as relievers, unless they enter pro ball in that role. They'll almost always try to turn a talented arm into a starter, moving him to the bullpen only when it appears he won't be able to cut it in a big league rotation or when a need arises there. Even if the pitcher winds up becoming a reliever, getting work as a starter in the minors gives him extra innings to develop.

The Cardinals will try to groom Blair for their rotation after drafting him 46th overall and signing him for $751,500. He has the stuff to make it as a starter, working mostly with a 92-94 mph fastball and a potential plus curveball and mixing in a changeup and cutter. If he can refine his command, he could be a good No. 3 starter.

If not, Blair could focus on his two best pitches as a reliever. He has touched 98 mph as a starter and theoretically would pitch in the mid-90s coming out of the bullpen. If he goes that route, he could become a set-up man or possibly a closer.

Baseball America