- Full name Monte Mansfield
- Born
- Profile Throws: R
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Mansfield teamed with Mariners prospect Derrick Van Dusen in a formidable lefty-righty starting combo that propelled Riverside to the California junior college title in 2000. Mansfield pitched three complete-game victories in three tournament starts before signing with the Astros as a 16th-round pick. While Van Dusen has made a smooth transition to pro ball, Mansfield struggled for most of 2001 in the Midwest League. He had a 7.82 ERA in the first three months before posting a 4.40 mark in July and August. His velocity increased all season long and he was throwing up to 93 mph at the end. He already owned a big league curveball, and Houston hopes he can pick up a changeup so they can try him as a starter. Mansfield has a projectable body and his size and arm angle make him tough on righthanders. He still needs a lot more polish and command, and he'll get the chance to develop both. He'll probably spend 2002 in Lexington.