15 Key Pirates Pitchers for 2015: #15 Stolmy Pimentel

2014 Statistics 

32.2 IP/5.23 ERA/4.45 FIP/10.5 SO9/4.4 BB9

2015 ZiPS Projections

4.29 ERA/4.32 FIP/6.6 SO9/3.6 BB9

Why the Ranking?

It was difficult to figure out exactly where to put Pimentel on this list (or whether to put him on) but I decided that 15th was a safe spot given the possible outcomes I could imagine.  Looking back to 2014 it is obvious that the Pirates see Stolmy in a positive light despite his many struggles.  This first became apparent when he was added to the Opening Day roster.  Since he was out of options, he would have been designated for assignment if he had not made the roster after spring training.  The seemingly well-timed DL stints throughout the season was another sign of the value the front office put on his future potential.  Looking at Pimentel's repertoire this  was with good reason.  Out of the bullpen, his fastball has touched the upper 90s and sits in the mid 90s.  His secondary pitches include a solid change and slider that he continues to work on.  The main issue with Pimentel is command.  He has had trouble with his control throughout his minor league career and what finds him destined for middle relief.  However, if the Pirates pitching coaches can work some of their magic, Pimentel has strong late innings relief potential.  Additionally at the age of 25, there is still the possibility he could go back to starting if he can figure out the control issues.  The lack of options would most likely create another hurdle on the path to any future rotation spot.  Still Stolmy Pimentel has just enough upside to make the top 15 list.

Just Missed:

• Casey Sadler- The 14,15 and 16 spots on my list feel pretty interchangeable in my opinion.  I decide on leaving Saddler off the list due to the combination of lacking expericence and having options.  I guess we could also add in the fact that I value middle relief lower than most.
• Given that fact hear are a few other names that missed the list: Arquimedes Caminero, Bobby LaFromboise and Adam Wilk. (This list could go on for ever with similar pitchers).