Rob Caputo

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Washington Nationals #19 prospect in 2003
  Former Expos scouting director Jim Fleming thought Caputo was a sleeper when he drafted him in 2001, and the assessment seems accurate after the way Caputo performed last season. He opened 2002 at low Class A Clinton before being sent back to extended spring training in April to rework his delivery and mechanics. Once he returned, he pitched well out of the bullpen before minor league pitching coordinator Brent Strom decided he warranted a shot in the rotation. Caputo went 2-0, 2.67 in six starts with 43 strikeouts in 27 innings. His command improved after he switched roles. Caputo has an outstanding pitcher's body, standing 6-foot-7 with plenty of room remaining for projection at 200 pounds. His fastball sits at 91-95 mph and sinks, and his 81-84 mph slider also has a chance to be a plus pitch. He's also developing a changeup. Caputo will try to build on his progress this year in high Class A.