- Full name Justin Gillman
- Born
- Profile Throws: R
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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Primarily an infielder until his junior year in high school, Gillman didn't attract scouts' attention until he took the mound and started throwing 88 mph. His velocity jumped into the low 90s before the 2001 draft, and he showed a tremendous feel for pitching. After signing for $625,000 as a second-round pick, he dominated in his pro debut in the Gulf Coast League thanks to his command of three pitches. He would have pitched in the Midwest League playoffs had Dayton not been eliminated quickly. He returned to low Class A last year, but went down in May with elbow trouble that required Tommy John surgery. Gillman will start 2003 in extended spring training and probably won't see game action until instructional league. The history of the ligament-replacement operation suggests he'll regain his explosive 90-93 mph fastball and plus curveball. He also had shown a promising changeup. The good news is that he'll still be just 20 when he returns at full strength in 2004. -
As the highest-ranked 2001 draftee on this list, Gillman made an immediate impression. The Reds were astounded that such a young pitcher could have as much command and poise as he displayed. He thrived with his fastball, which hovers from 89-93 mph. He also has an above-average curveball and an average changeup. The Reds believe that Gillman can ultimately be a No. 2 or 3 starter in their rotation, though he obviously needs plenty of seasoning. Gifted with a pitcher's frame, Gillman still needs to work on his strength and conditioning to realize his full potential. With a little more beef behind his pitches, he could develop into a bona fide power pitcher. The Reds don't want to rush Gillman, but they're not averse to challenging him. He could open 2002 in high Class A.