Top 30 MLB breakout stars in 2017

Atlanta Braves

2017 MLB Breakout Pick: RP Mauricio Cabrera

Speaking of hard-throwing breakout candidates, Mauricio Cabrera regularly tops 100 miles per hour with his fastball. In fact, he averaged 100 on the radar gun when throwing his fastball in 2016 according to PITCHf/x data, and topped out at 103.5. That’s Aroldis Chapman territory.

With his velocity alone, Cabrera has the look of a future closer. He was also effective for the Braves last season. In 41 appearances as a 22-year old, Cabrera posted a 5-1 record with a 2.82 ERA and 32 strikeouts across 38.1 innings. The right-hander also saved six games.

Cabrera limited opposing hitters to a .225 batting average and .268 slugging percentage, and didn’t surrender a home run all season, all of which are all good signs for 2017 and beyond. One would expect Cabrera to strike out more than 19.8 percent of the hitters he faces, and he often did in the minor leagues, which is also a reason to be optimistic about the future.

The biggest knock on Cabrera to date is wildness. He walked 11.7 percent of the hitters he faced as a rookie – which is far, far too many for a pitcher expected to handle high-pressure situations. And unfortunately, Cabrera has struggled with his command this spring.

According to Mark Boman of MLB.com, Braves manager Brian Snitker said the flame thrower has been showing mechanical issues in games that could hurt his standing in Atlanta’s Opening Day bullpen.

Jim Johnson is expected to begin the season as the Braves closer, and Arodys Vizcaino has a leg up on the setup role and would slide into the ninth inning job should something happen to Johnson. But, given his unique fastball velocity, if Cabrera can improve his command, he’ll play a big role for the rebuilding Braves.

Another Name to Know: SS Dansby Swanson

One More for the Future: 2B Ozzie Albies