Fansided

Top 30 MLB breakout stars in 2017

By Nicholas Ian Allen

Aug 12, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins designated hitter Miguel Sano (22) celebrates his home run with outfielder Eddie Rosario (20) in the second inning against the Kansas City Royals at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 12, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins designated hitter Miguel Sano (22) celebrates his home run with outfielder Eddie Rosario (20) in the second inning against the Kansas City Royals at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 1, 2017; Sarasota, FL, USA; Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Dylan Bundy (37) throws a pitch during the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Ed Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 1, 2017; Sarasota, FL, USA; Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Dylan Bundy (37) throws a pitch during the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Ed Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Baltimore Orioles

2017 MLB Breakout Pick: SP Dylan Bundy

It’s hard to believe given the fact he made his major league debut in 2012, but Orioles right-hander Dylan Bundy is just 24 years old. Because he was out of options dating back to that 2012 call up, Baltimore was forced to keep Bundy on the big league roster last year, and stashed him in the bullpen coming out of spring training.

Bundy didn’t last that long in the pen though. Through July 6, he posted a 3.08 ERA in 38 innings spread across 22 games. He allowed 46 hits, and a .305 batting average, but also struck out 32 hitters and pitched well enough to join the rotation when the O’s needed an extra starter.

In 14 starts through the end of the season, Bundy posted a less than thrilling 4.52 ERA (which pushed his season total to 4.02). However, he struck out 72 hitters in 71.2 innings – a better rate than in the bullpen – and also limited opposing hitters to a far better .231 batting average.

Bundy missed all of 2013 due to Tommy John surgery, and pitched just 31.1 innings spread between Low-A and High-A in 2014. He pitched only 22 innings in Double-A in 2015. Given his history of injuries, the 190.2 innings Bundy managed for Baltimore last year was a terrific sign.

Bundy will begin 2017 in the starting rotation, and as a former top prospect, he has the talent to stay there. With Chris Tillman expected to miss Opening Day due to injury, and inconsistent Wade Miley and Ubaldo Jimenez expected to round out the rotation, Bundy should have every opportunity to shine in 2017 if he can stay healthy.

Another Name to Know: C Caleb Joseph

One More for the Future: 1B/DH Trey Mancini

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