2012 MLB Draft Prospects: Michael Wacha, RHP, Texas A&M

Position: RHP

Height/Weight: 6’6”, 215 lbs.

DOB: 7/1/1991

Bats/Throws: R/R

College: Texas A&M

2012 Stats: 4-0, 7 GS, 46.3 IP, 2.72 ERA, 3.23 FIP, 1.01 WHIP, 10.10 K/9, 1.75 BB/9, 0.39 HR/9

Draft Projection: Mid-to-late first round

Wacha is a big right-hander with great mechanics and an easy-higher three-fourths arm slot. His delivery is clean and repeatable, and he is on top of every pitch that generates a lot of grounders, especially for a fastball/changeup guy. 

His fastball—which can reach the mid-90s, but typically sits a few mph less—is a little on the flat side for a true 60 grading, but the downward action he develops from his delivery allows him to overcome this shortcoming to an extent. 

His changeup is undoubtedly a 60 with great fade and a chance to tick up. His breaking ball (a slider) is less of a finished product and will require some time, but he is athletic and repeats his delivery well enough that it could develop into a solid third pitch. Furthermore, his slot will likely allow him to generate enough depth to get it on both sides of the plate once he gets a proper feel.

He's thrown the ball extremely well for the Aggies this season, and with a strong finish, Wacha has the potential to climb the draft boards by June.