Cole Sands

Sands was drafted in the 22nd round by the Astros out of high school but unlike his older brother, Carson Sands, a Cubs minor leaguer, he opted not to sign and instead went on to play for his hometown Seminoles. Sands has spent his college career in Florida State's rotation and this season moved to the front of the rotation after ace Tyler Holton was injured on Opening Day. Sands has compiled a solid college track record, including a strong performance in the Cape Cod League. Sands throws his fastball in the low 90s, reaching 95 mph with sinking action. He throws his sharp slider for strikes and he has improved his changeup into a viable third offering. Sands comes right after hitters and locates his fastball well. Listed at 6-foot-3, 220 pounds, Sands has good size and has been a reliable starter throughout his career. He missed two starts in April due to bicep tendonitis but returned to the mound in the season's final month.