- Full name Chuck Thames
- Born
- Profile Throws: R
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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Though it's possible that a starting pitcher such as Derrick Turnbow could be converted into a closer in the future, Thames is the organization's top relief prospect at the moment. He followed up an All-America season at Texas by earning Northwest League all-star honors, not allowing an earned run in his first 12 pro outings. He throws anywhere from low three-quarters to sidearm, and has better stuff than most pitchers who work at those angles. Thames has an 88-92 mph sinker that dives at the last minute and a solid slider. When he needs it, he also has a changeup he can throw for strikes. Thames gets lots of ground balls and strikeouts, a reliever's two best friends. He'll probably begin 2001 by returning to the California League, where he pitched well last August with the exception of a seven-run outing.
Minor League Top Prospects
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Thames was a first-team All-American for the University of Texas after transferring from San Jacinto, where he pitched to Ryan Jorgensen. Thames’ polish was evident from the start, as he dominated hitters by challenging them and throwing strikes from three arm angles, none of them over the top. Thames has good stuff to go with his deception, throwing a 91-92 mph fastball and a hard slider. "He has a feel for pitching in the bullpen," Kotchman said. "He throws strikes and keeps it down with plus sink. He's a guy who you can definitely see as a big league setup man or closer." Said Poquette: "His role was very fitting for his makeup. He came right after us with pretty good stuff and didn't mess around." Other pitchers in the league may have had higher ceilings, but Thames' polish and maturity should enable him to climb to the big leagues quickly.
Scouting Reports
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Thames was a first-team All-American for the University of Texas after transferring from San Jacinto, where he pitched to Ryan Jorgensen. Thames’ polish was evident from the start, as he dominated hitters by challenging them and throwing strikes from three arm angles, none of them over the top. Thames has good stuff to go with his deception, throwing a 91-92 mph fastball and a hard slider. "He has a feel for pitching in the bullpen," Kotchman said. "He throws strikes and keeps it down with plus sink. He's a guy who you can definitely see as a big league setup man or closer." Said Poquette: "His role was very fitting for his makeup. He came right after us with pretty good stuff and didn't mess around." Other pitchers in the league may have had higher ceilings, but Thames' polish and maturity should enable him to climb to the big leagues quickly.
