Fansided

One prospect each MLB team should call up

By Joshua Sadlock

Mar 10, 2017; Peoria, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Ian Happ (86) hits a single against the Seattle Mariners during the second inning at Peoria Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 10, 2017; Peoria, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Ian Happ (86) hits a single against the Seattle Mariners during the second inning at Peoria Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 28, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Jose De Leon (87) pitches during the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 28, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Jose De Leon (87) pitches during the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

Tampa Bay Rays: Jose De Leon

Trading away dependable veteran second baseman Logan Forsythe on the eve of the season did not sit well with several Rays players, but the return from the trade, Jose De Leon, has high upside. The right-hander made his debut for the Dodgers last season, with mixed results.

De Leon struggled with fastball location in the big leagues last season, and he allowed five home runs and a 6.35 ERA in his 17 innings in LA. Those numbers pale in comparison to his 2.92 ERA and 11.6 strikeouts per nine in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League.

There is not much more for De Leon to accomplish at Triple-A. He throws a fastball that tops out at 96 mph with good life. De Leon also throws a changeup that is his best pitch and a slider that is effective to right-handed hitters, especially when he starts it in the zone.

The Rays have started the season off fairly well, but to have any chance at contending, they need solid contributions from De Leon this season. Current number-five starter Matt Andriese is a nice placeholder for now. Tampa Bay can only keep De Leon in the minors for so long.

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