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As the Philadelphia Phillies looked to improve their pitching depth during the MLB Draft, they turned to a former Longhorn. With their 100th pick, the Phillies selected Ruger Riojas just seven picks after his former teammate, Aiden Robbins, was taken. While Riojas had to wait to hear his name called, he could be a very special player for a historic organization.
During his last season in the Forty Acres, Riojas posted a 3.97 ERA in 17 appearances while striking out 120 batters. The Texas native also held opponents to a .235 batting average, while setting a new career-high in innings pitched with 81.2. After a junior campaign full of ups and downs, Riojas took his game to a new level with the MLB Draft looming.
As Riojas shows that he could take his game to another level, he also added to his trophy case. Due to his impressive senior season, the Wimberley High alum earned AAC All-Conference Second Team honors. That helped raise his stock and the Phillies took notice.
In the former Longhorns star, the Phillies are getting a pitcher who has an intriguing arsenal. His fastball tops out at 98 miles per hour, and his off-speed pitches keep hitters off balance. Opponents struggled the most against his splitter, which should continue to be an elite pitch in the minors. If the Phillies can help Riojas grow his arsenal, then he will be an exciting prospect to watch.
While the Longhorns were unable to win a national title during Riojas' tenure, he departed the Forty Acres as a memorable player. In two seasons wearing the burnt orange, he had 15 wins and struck out 182 batters. The talented righty also recorded one complete game and mentored the younger arms.
With the MLB Draft in the books, the Phillies can now focus on finalizing a deal with Riojas and helping him reach his full potential.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Texas LHP Ruger Riojas taken 100th overall by Philadelphia Phillies
Continue reading...
During his last season in the Forty Acres, Riojas posted a 3.97 ERA in 17 appearances while striking out 120 batters. The Texas native also held opponents to a .235 batting average, while setting a new career-high in innings pitched with 81.2. After a junior campaign full of ups and downs, Riojas took his game to a new level with the MLB Draft looming.
As Riojas shows that he could take his game to another level, he also added to his trophy case. Due to his impressive senior season, the Wimberley High alum earned AAC All-Conference Second Team honors. That helped raise his stock and the Phillies took notice.
In the former Longhorns star, the Phillies are getting a pitcher who has an intriguing arsenal. His fastball tops out at 98 miles per hour, and his off-speed pitches keep hitters off balance. Opponents struggled the most against his splitter, which should continue to be an elite pitch in the minors. If the Phillies can help Riojas grow his arsenal, then he will be an exciting prospect to watch.
While the Longhorns were unable to win a national title during Riojas' tenure, he departed the Forty Acres as a memorable player. In two seasons wearing the burnt orange, he had 15 wins and struck out 182 batters. The talented righty also recorded one complete game and mentored the younger arms.
With the MLB Draft in the books, the Phillies can now focus on finalizing a deal with Riojas and helping him reach his full potential.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Texas LHP Ruger Riojas taken 100th overall by Philadelphia Phillies
Continue reading...
