Signing over-slot for $2.1M on the signing deadline in 2007, Parker started his professional career in 2008 Low-A South Bend and over 117 innings, struck out 117 batters while issuing only 33 walks. That performance led to a 2009 Baseball America prospect ranking of 29 and a promotion to High-A Visalia and then to Double-AA Mobile where Parker continued to flourish, posting again impressive strikeout numbers. In July, elbow tightness led to rest and eventually Tommy John surgery where Parker missed the entire 2010 season.
Scouts and fans alike got excited when Arizona officials reported Parker, still only 22 years old, throwing 94-95 MPH and touching 97 MPH during the 2010 fall instructional league. However, as Spring Training merged into April, Jarrod Parker followers were reminded that velocity is the first thing to return after Tommy John surgery followed by command. In five starts from April 11th to May 5th at Double-AA Mobile, Parker pitched 23 innings, striking out 20 but issuing 17 walks. However, since then, he’s pitched 30 innings, striking out 25 and walking only 6. The 4:1 strikeout to walk ratio is clearly encouraging and is a sign that Parker is returning to form.
While the velocity is there and the command is returning, Arizona continues to be very cautious with their prized prospect. Parker has only pitched over five innings once this year and appears to be on a pitch count of between 70 and 75 pitches. However, as Arizona finds themselves in playoff contention, you might begin to see Parker being stretched out very soon.
Fantasy owners need to continue to monitor the progress of Jarrod Parker to ensure his command stays excellent and his innings per start increase. If both of these occur, and whether or not Parker is promoted to AAA Reno, fantasy owners in deeper leagues should begin adding Parker in late June with an anticipated July call-up.
