- Full name John Curtice
- Born
- Profile Throws: L
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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Curtice's migration to the Reds system wasn't a complete surprise. Former manager Jack McKeon scouted him heavily as an amateur and encouraged the Reds to draft him in the first round instead of Brandon Larson in 1997. Cincinnati finally got him in the Dante Bichette trade with Boston. McKeon compared Curtice to David Wells, down to the free-spirit demeanor and girth. Curtice might never match Wells' effectiveness, however. He has had problems with his arm, weight and command. The Reds hope Curtice can exceed expectations if he regains consistency with his fastball, which travels between 88-92 mph. His curveball and changeup look decent at times. Curtice still is regaining strength after shoulder surgery in 1999. After a disastrous season in high Class A last year, he'll probably need to repeat that level. -
Background: Curtice and Twins shortstop prospect Michael Cuddyer, the second high school teammates to get picked in the first round of the same draft, became the first first-round teammates to face each other in a game this season in the Midwest League. Strengths: Curtice is a power lefthander who held his own in full-season Class A at 18. He throws comfortably in the low 90s and can reach 95 mph. He has a good curveball and changeup and has shown good mental toughness so far. Weaknesses: As a young pitcher, consistency is the watchword for Curtice. His command is the most inconsistent part of his game, but his curve, his movement and even his velocity are inconsistent as well. Some also have reservations about his body and athleticism. The Future: Curtice, who should start off at Class A Sarasota in 1999, could move faster because pitching at the upper levels of the farm system has gotten thin. He was identified as untouchable in trade talks.
