Kevin Huang

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Boston Red Sox #15 prospect in 2002
  The Red Sox are as active in Asia as any organization, and Huang became their first Taiwanese signee in August 2000. He received a $60,000 bonus, which looks like a bargain after his first year in pro ball. He was more of a shortstop in high school, and Boston sent him to the Gulf Coast League as a reliever so he could get acclimated to pitching and the United States at a comfortable pace. When GM Dan Duquette saw him pitch a perfect inning while throwing 93 mph, he decided Huang should move up a level and begin starting. Huang was even better after the promotion and change of roles, striking out 12 over six shutout innings in his final start. He already has average to plus command of three pitches: a 90-91 mph fastball, a good breaking ball and a changeup. He needs more consistent velocity, but his broad shoulders give the Red Sox hope that he can fill out his compact frame and get stronger. Born Jun-Chung Huang, he has picked up the nickname "Kevin" since coming Stateside. A legitimate prospect by any name, he's destined for low Class A this year.