George Kontos

Kontos has frustrated area scouts more than any pitcher in the Midwest this spring. After starring in the Cape Cod League last summer, he was 2-10, 5.42, leaving him one off the NCAA Division I lead for losses despite pitching for a Northwestern team that finished second in the Big 10 Conference. Kontos has a higher ceiling than any prospect in Illinois, but he just hasn't performed. At his best, Kontos has a pair of plus pitches in a 90-94 mph fastball and an 84-87 mph slider. He has a strong 6-foot-3, 215-pound frame and his arm works well. But he doesn't have an effective offspeed pitch and he doesn't repeat his delivery well. As a result, he can't locate his fastball and slider with much precision, so he gives up more hits and walks than someone with his stuff should. Despite his disappointing performance, he still could go as early as the fourth round. He may flourish more as a pro, pitching against wood bats and coming out of the bullpen.