St. Claire visits AFL prospects

Earlier this week I gave my assessment of each of the Nationals prospects participating in the prestigious Arizona Fall League (Pitchers /Position Players). MLB.com just published an article with Nationals pitching coach Randy St. Claire discussing his observation of each of the Nationals pitching prospects. It’s a very interesting read that I highly recommend you check it out (St. Claire visits AFL prospects).

Overall it is pretty encouraging as most of the players are pitching well in the AFL and are making the necessary adjustments in their mechanics/delivery.

I had pointed out in my review of VanAllen that there was something holding him back wether or not it was his mechanics or delivery maybe even both. St. Claire seems to think that VanAllen has issues when “his arm drags and he elevates the ball”.

Below is a brief recap of the article summing up St. Claire’s view on each player. Please read the entire article here:St. Claire visits AFL prospects

St. Claire on Adam Carr:
"He made a lot of progress," St. Claire said. "He has settled down and his delivery is a lot more controllable. His control is a lot better. He has made progress for a kid who hasn't pitched much."

St. Claire on Ross Detwiler:
"He has been working very hard on keeping his lines to where he can [throw the ball on] both sides of the plate," said St. Claire. "Ross commanded the ball pretty decently. It was really nice to see him make that adjustment. I know he is working hard at it. That is something it takes a little while to correct. He was a little inconsistent with the curveball. He did throw some good ones, however."

St. Claire on VanAllen:
He is pretty quick to the plate and, at times, I think he wants to be too quick. His arm drags and he elevates the ball," St Claire said about Van Allen's delivery.

St. Claire on Zech Zinicola:
"I saw him pitch twice and he threw [exceptionally well], especially the second time after we worked on a couple of little things," said St Claire. "I don't know if they are inviting him to Spring Training, but I told Jim I would love to see him in Spring Training. He really impressed me."