Why Mike Leake Will Be Better Than Stephen Strasburg

Everyone has heard of Stephen Strasburg, the highly-touted first round draft pick of the Washington Nationals, but not as many people have heard about Mike Leake, the first round pick of the Cincinnati Reds who skipped the minor leagues and earned the fifth spot in the Reds’ rotation coming out of spring training.

Both players made their professional debuts last weekend, with similar results. Mike Leake limited the Cubs to one run and four hits over 6 2/3 innings. The only dark spot on Leake’s debut were his seven walks. However, Leake averaged less than two walks per nine innings at Arizona State so it can be assumed that these walks were a result of first-game jitters. Strasburg was credited with a win, allowing four runs, only one earned.

Leake has the opportunity to be a better pro, but did not receive the hype because he lacks the stature and the velocity the Strasburg possesses. Strasburg is 6'4", 220 and is consistently clocked around 100 mph, while Leake is only 6'0", 180 and throws around 90 mph.

However, the Arizona State alumnus has movement, location, ability to change speeds, four pitches, and the poise of a successful pitcher.

While everyone spent last year talking about Stephen Strasburg, Mike Leake put up equivalent numbers against better competition.

Leake finished pitched in the Pac-10 last year and finished with a 16-1 record and an ERA of 1.71

Strasburg was 13-1 with a 1.32 ERA in the Mountain West Conference.

Strasburg’s numbers are slightly better, but he was facing much weaker competition. Mike Leake also has big game experience and pitched in the College World Series.

In spring training Strasburg had an ERA of 2.00 while Leake had an ERA of 1.37.

Mike Leake has not received the hype that Strasburg has, but he will be a better pro. Wait and see.

Leake will make his second start Friday night.