By: Shane Miller
Wheeler was drafted sixth overall by the San Francisco Giants in 2009. Split through Double-A and Triple-A last season Wheeler managed to put up a 12-8 record, 3.26 ERA, 148 strike outs and 59 walks.
The young pitcher has a great frame and the tools to make most scouts go crazy. He throws his fastball consistently between 93-96 MPH and occasionally touches 97 to 98 MPH. Since being traded from the Giants to the Mets, it seems Wheeler has been able to command his fastball with ease, moving it up and down the strike zone. His plus curveball is defiantly the pitch of choice when the youngster goes to strike a batter out, the curve sits between 72-78 MPH.
Normally in this section I would talk about some of the prospect's flaws, but with Wheeler the only flaw he had was his walk totals, but since arriving from San Francisco he has only walked a combined 64 batters. Wheeler has the ability to eventually be leading the MLB in strikeouts as he has struck-out 347 batters through three seasons.
Wheeler has all the makings of a number one pitcher in the big leagues, and can easily one day be a 20 game winner. I liken Wheeler to Kansas City Royals starting pitcher James Shields. The chances of Wheeler beginning in the Majors this year are about 75/25 and I would support the decision of them starting him in the Majors 100%. I predict Wheeler to win 15 games, maintain a 3.50 ERA, and accumulate 175 strike outs.
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It's a bit easier to pitch in the NL so as a Mets fan I'm excited about what Wheeler can bring. You hit all the key points Shane. If he can have a 20 mph difference between his fast ball and breaking stuff then he'll be a beast.
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