Clayton Andrews

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Cincinnati Reds #20 prospect in 2001
  Andrews was regarded as one of the Blue Jays' top prospects after he led the Class A South Atlantic League in ERA in 1998. He wasn't burdened by similar expectations when he came to the Reds in November, but he did bring an excess of comparisons along with him. Various scouting reports likened him to Tom Glavine, Rick Honeycutt, Jimmy Key and Jamie Moyer--lefties who aren't overpowering but pitch intelligently. The comparisons are apt. Andrews' repertoire includes a fastball with a slight tail and a changeup with a nice sink that's thrown with good arm speed. His fastball has aroused some concern. Jays scouts say that it used to hit 93 mph but rarely exceeds the 88-90 range now. They also think the pitch now cuts more than it runs, which could be indicative of a mechanical problem. Still, Andrews can move the ball around both sides of the plate, essential for a finesse pitcher. The Reds believe Andrews will help anchor the back of a rotation someday.
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  Ranked Toronto Blue Jays #6 prospect in 1999
  Background: Andrews bounced between starting and relieving in his first two pro seasons, but moved into the rotation in his second full season at Class A Hagerstown in 1998. He led the South Atlantic League in ERA, ranked third in strikeouts and was voted the league's most valuable pitcher. Strengths: Andrews' fastball hovers in the 89-93 mph range despite his size (closer to 5-foot-10 than the listed 6-foot). He has a power curveball and excellent command. He has walked just 103 batters while striking out 319 in 303 professional innings. Weaknesses: Andrews worked more innings this year (162) than the two previous seasons combined (141). He stays relaxed in tight situations, realizing with his repertoire and ability to throw strikes that he has an edge on hitters. The Future: Andrews will probably be invited to big league spring training and open the 1999 season at Knoxville. He has good enough stuff to project as a big league starter.

• December, 1998 Scouting Report
  Background: Andrews bounced between starting and relieving in his first two pro seasons, but moved into the rotation in his second full season at Class A Hagerstown in 1998. He led the South Atlantic League in ERA, ranked third in strikeouts and was voted the league's most valuable pitcher. Strengths: Andrews' fastball hovers in the 89-93 mph range despite his size (closer to 5-foot-10 than the listed 6-foot). He has a power curveball and excellent command. He has walked just 103 batters while striking out 319 in 303 professional innings. Weaknesses: Andrews worked more innings this year (162) than the two previous seasons combined (141). He stays relaxed in tight situations, realizing with his repertoire and ability to throw strikes that he has an edge on hitters. The Future: Andrews will probably be invited to big league spring training and open the 1999 season at Knoxville. He has good enough stuff to project as a big league starter.