Randy Wells

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Toronto Blue Jays #22 prospect in 2008
  The Blue Jays selected Wells with the 11th overall pick in major league Rule 5 draft, but his amateur draft experience was much more meager. Drafted by the Cubs in the 38th round as a catcher in 2002, he converted to pitching by the end of 2003, in part because he grew to 6-foot-5. Adding intrigue to the conversion, Wells never had pitched in high school or junior college. But then he didn't hit as a pro, either, batting just .157 with two doubles in 124 at-bats, none above low Class A. Wells pitches at 90-92 mph but can flash 93-94 on occasion. His slider is inconsistent but shows promise, as does his changeup. The Cubs, though, were disappointed that his secondary stuff didn't improve as quickly as they hoped, and that his control regressed in 2007. Interestingly, Chicago left Wells unprotected only to trade up in the Rule 5 draft to select another catcher-turned-reliever, Tim Lahey. With Toronto, Wells will compete for a long-relief role. If he doesn't stick with the big league club, he has to clear waivers and be offered back to the Cubs for half his $50,000 draft price before he could be sent to the minors.