Chris Waters

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Atlanta Braves #24 prospect in 2003
  Durability is one of the keys to success in developing a minor league pitcher, and Waters hasn't missed a start while being able to prove his worth by making consistent progress over his three pro seasons. He ranked fourth in the minors in innings last year, when he led Myrtle Beach in wins and ranked fifth in the Carolina League in ERA. Waters doesn't have an overwhelming pitch, but he has three solid ones: a 90-92 mph fastball, a curveball and a changeup. He has fine overall command of his pitches, thanks to a fluid delivery he repeats on a regular basis. While Waters' stuff is as consistent as any pitcher in the organization, he must understand that every pitch he throws should have a purpose. Waters also needs to become steadier with his control. Though he allowed just 43 walks last year, he needs to cut down on his hit batters (24) and wild pitches (12). Some fine-tuning remains on the agenda for him this year in Double-A.
• 
  Ranked Atlanta Braves #22 prospect in 2002
  Overshadowed in the Macon rotation by Adam Wainwright, Bubba Nelson and Ben Kozlowski, Waters had a quietly successful 2001 season. Though his stuff isn't overwhelming, he gets results by competing well and throwing strikes. His 91-mph fastball isn't one of the best in the organization and his decent curveball never will be mistaken for Bert Blyleven's, but Waters knows what he wants to accomplish every time he takes the mound. As a result, he's making steady progress. He does a good job of setting up hitters and his easy, fluid delivery gives him good command of his three primary pitches. His curve and changeup could use some upgrading, but he still manages to prevent hitters from making solid contact. A promotion to Myrtle Beach appears to be imminent for Waters this spring.
• 
  Ranked Atlanta Braves #29 prospect in 2001
  Waters is yet another pitcher from last year's draft class who attracted rave reviews from the entire organization. He pitched well throughout the Appalachian League season and displayed an easy, fluid motion. Waters then touched 91 mph with his average fastball during the last two weeks of instructional league. He has two other pitches--a changeup and an improving curveball--that are no worse than average. After working intensely with minor league pitching coordinator Rick Adair in Florida, Waters turned his pickoff move into an asset. He must improve his overall strength, which will allow him to go longer in games and reduce his chances for injury. Waters may be one of the more unheralded members of the Macon rotation this spring, but the Braves feel his long-term potential is nearly as promising as that of the pitchers they drafted ahead of him.