Grades

Rated on 20-80 Scouting Scale -- All Scores are Projected Ratings

Fastball: 70

The radar gun wasn't exactly working consistently at Cooper Stadium, but his fastball had good "bite" and seemed to have really good, late life. He seemed to be sitting 90-94 most of the day.

Curveball: 75

Balester didn't seem to have a great "feel" for his curveball, but was a solid "out pitch" when he needed it.

Change-Up: 60

Didn't use a great deal, but was effective against lefties. Could develop into a "plus" pitch if trusted.

Endurance: 60

Only lasted 4 innings, but also only allowed 3 hits, 0 runs, and struck out 5 batters.

Command: 55

Seemed to struggle with his command, but was getting ahead of hitters and working his fastball well. Hit 2 batters and walked one.

Overall: 64

Collin Balester: Scouting Report

Adjusting to the Big Leagues

Collin Balester At just 22, and already pitching in the big leagues, Collin Balester, could someday find himself the #1 guy on the Washington Nationals pitching staff.

Standing 6'5" and 194lbs., Balester possesses a nearly "ideal" frame for a starting pitcher.

Originally we "road tripped" up to Columbus to see Evan Longoria, as rumors were starting to swirl about his promotion to Tampa -- but it was an added bonus that Balester was pitching that day, as I had hoped to see him pitch sometime this season with the Clippers.

For the game, Balester went 4.0 innings, allowed just 3 hits, walked 3 batters (2 HBP), 0 ER, 0 R, and struck out 5 batters. He also committed 1 throwing error on an attempted pick-off at first base.

Overall, I thought Collin showed flashes of what many people believe to be "#1" type stuff. He struggled a bit with command, and was visibly rattled a few times by "non strike calls" by the umpire. He had good late life on his fastball, but had inconsistant command of his secondary pitches most of the day. I believe he could project as a #1 down the road, and would guess could have seasons of: 12-15 Wins, 3.00-3.50 ERA, 125-160 K's.