Kyle Nelson

Nelson was the shutdown closer for UC Santa Barbara during its run to the 2016 College World Series, memorably earning a three-inning save against Miami to give UCSB its first CWS win. He tried out for the USA Collegiate National Team after the postseason run but was limited by an elbow strain. Nelson joined the Gauchos rotation as a junior, but it is as a reliever evaluators want him. His fastball sits 89 mph and his devastating low 80s'slider makes him special. Nelson's excellent hand speed gives it sudden horizontal break and a late drop, causing hitters to swing over it even when they are looking for it. It is a true plus pitch he commands, making him a prime bullpen option against lefthanders who can also handle righties.