IP 222
ERA 3
WHIP 1.225
BB/9 3.892
SO/9 10.784
  • Full name Jordan Craig Walden
  • Born 11/16/1987 in Fort Worth, TX
  • Profile Ht.: 6'5" / Wt.: 250 / Bats: R / Throws: R
  • School Grayson CC
  • Debut 08/22/2010
  • Drafted in the 12th round (372nd overall) by the Los Angeles Angels in 2006 (signed for $1,000,000).
    View Draft Report
    Walden entered 2006 as Baseball America's top-rated high school prospect on the strength of his performance last summer, when he touched 99 mph with his fastball in a Connie Mack game and was named the best pitching prospect at the Aflac All-American game. He hasn't been as spectacular this spring, pitching at 91-94 mph and topping out at 96. On his good days, Walden inspires visions of a big, tall pitcher who could have three plus offerings. His ability to repeat his mechanics fluctuates, as does his command and the quality of his curveball. He has good rotation on his curve but needs to throw it with more power. His changeup has improved and he has good feel for it. A matchup with projected second-round pick Zach Britton drew a horde of scouts, but Walden pitched at just 85-88 mph due to a groin injury. He did rebound to throw 92-93 mph in his next outing, so his draft status is secure. He doesn't hold his velocity as well or have as much polish as fellow Texas prep pitchers Clayton Kershaw and Kyle Drabek. Walden should go no lower than the second round, making it unlikely he'll follow through on a scholarship to Texas.

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Best Tools List

  • Rated Best Fastball in the Los Angeles Angels in 2011
  • Rated Best Fastball in the Texas League in 2010
  • Rated Best Fastball in the Los Angeles Angels in 2009
  • Rated Best Fastball in the Los Angeles Angels in 2008

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