Christian McGowan is slated to start tonight’s game for the IronPigs.
RHP Christian McGowan - 23 years old - drafted in 7th round of the 2021 draft - Eastern Oklahoma State JC - spent the majority of the year at the complex with the rehab team returning from TJ surgery. Competes with passion, plays hard, will get after it - fun to watch. The arsenal - four seam and sinking fastball ( sits in a range of 92 to 96 mph - flashes higher), slider and change-up. Returned to game action on 7/22/23 with two innings of work in the Florida Complex League and to High A Jersey Shore on August 12th where he made six starts (including one in the playoffs) accumulating twenty-one innings pitched and posting a 2.57 ERA with twenty-one strikeouts and nine walks. A potential big arm starter who has a development focus on commanding the zone, continuing to refine pitches and build experience. His sinker is a pitch of intrigue and a ticket to the highest level, coupled with the four seamer and hard slider it provides three out pitches with the changeup being another potential put away pitch, particularly to left handers. No one will outwork this young man, he’s a down to earth, no frills, straight at ya, get it done persona who’s easy to root for.
RHP Hans Crouse - 25 years old - acquired in trade with Rangers 7/30/21 - was Rangers 2017 2nd round draft selection - Dana Hills HS, Dana Point, CA - has been injured the past two seasons making only five appearances in 2022 and eighteen this year including three one inning rehab stints with Clearwater and Reading this month. He went on the IL on May 26th this summer and didn’t return to action till 9/7 with Clearwater. I watched three of his bullpen sessions at the complex before his rehab game appearances started, it’s the best I’ve seen him throw since he’s been with the Phillies, was quick and had good movement. When he’s healthy the slider is his dominant pitch - has cutter like movement and big league level spin. Fastball has been 93-95 mph in his three rehab innings to date and slider is sitting 85 to 87 mph with spin rates up to 2300 rpm’s.
Happy Day, Happy Baseball ⚾️
Note : I've partnered with Fanatics on Phillies Merchandise - if you would like to help support my website and articles here's a link to order merchandise - I get a small commission on any sales - thanks for the support.