Oakland Athletics’ Prospect Profile: Starting Pitcher Dillon Overton
It is time to take a look at the Oakland Athletics’ No. 10 prospect Dillon Overton. This left handed starting pitcher was drafted in the second round of the 2013 draft by the A’s. Interestingly enough, Overton was expected to be a first-round pick, but had to undergo Tommy John surgery after incurring an injury that year. However, Overton has pitched effectively since his return in 2014. In just two short years, Overton has been able to work his way up to Double-A this season. So, what does this 24-year-old have to offer?
Overton pitched very well during his first full season in the Minor Leagues in 2014. He had a combined 1.95 ERA over 12 starts. Additionally, he only walked four batters over 37 innings pitched. However, his success did dip a little once he hit High-A ball and Double-A.
This season, Overton pitched for two teams, the High-A Stockton Ports and the Double-A Midland RockHounds. Even though his ERA reached into the 3.00s, he did perform better in Double-A, which is a good sign for the future. While with the Hounds, Overton made 13 starts and had a 5-2 record with a 3.08 ERA. His control has pretty much returned in full force since his surgery in 2013 however his command and velocity are still lacking. Thankfully, Overton has time to work on those things.
Overton is not expected to break into the Major Leagues until 2017. He still has another season or two in the Minors to work on these items and hopefully enter the A’s starting rotation in the future. As Overton continues his journey through Oakland’s farm system, keep an eye on his fastball and slider. These are his two best pitches.
Even though his fastball only reached into the low 90s prior to his surgery, Overton does get a lot of swing and misses since he has such great control over the ball. Additionally, he can consistently throw strikes with his fastball. His slider is arguably his best pitch and it has good break as it makes it way into the catcher’s mitt.
This long and lanky starting pitcher could be a great asset for the Oakland Athletics in the future. As long as he continues to improve each and every season, there should be no reason for Overton not to be called up the Majors in the next few years. Since he was expected to be a first-round draft pick, his potential as a Major League starting pitcher is through the roof.
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