Pirates' Seth Hernandez Shines in the MLB Futures Game: A Pitching Showcase
The MLB Futures Game, a showcase of the league's top up-and-coming talent, took place on Sunday, and it was a pitching-dominated affair. Among the standout performers was Pittsburgh Pirates prospect Seth Hernandez, who showcased his versatility and potential as a top-of-the-rotation starter.
The Perfect Inning
Hernandez, the No. 6 pick in the 2025 draft out of Corona (Calif.) High School, delivered a flawless 14-pitch inning. His fastball sat at 99-101 mph, and his changeup was an absolute gem, clocking in at 87-88 mph. This changeup, in particular, stood out, as it was described as an '80 changeup' on the 20-80 scouting scale, indicating its effectiveness. He also mixed in a curveball and a slider, showcasing his diverse pitching repertoire.
Overwhelming Performance
Hernandez's performance was so impressive that he blew away Baltimore Orioles prospect Ike Irish, who had a strong at-bat. He struck out Irish with 99 pitches, and later overwhelmed Kansas City Royals prospect Blake Mitchell with a changeup, after throwing him three straight fastballs. At just 20 years old, Hernandez's talent and potential are undeniable, and only injury could potentially derail his path to becoming a top-tier starter.
Other Notable Pitchers
The American League's star pitcher, Seattle Mariners right-hander Ryan Sloan, also impressed with his five different pitches. His four-seam fastball sat at 97-100 mph, and he showcased a two-seamer at 95 mph, along with a kick-change, sweeper, and cutter. Sloan's sweeper is usually his best pitch, but he hung one to San Francisco Giants prospect Dakota Jordan, who turned it into a double down the left field line. Ultimately, Sloan's four-seamer and kick-change were his most effective weapons.
Kendry Chourio, a right-hander for the Royals, demonstrated exceptional command, with his fastball at 98-99 mph and a 12/6 curveball. At 18 years old, Chourio was the youngest pitcher in the game, and his talent is evident, despite his young age.
The three college lefties selected in the 2025 MLB Draft also performed well. Kade Anderson, a Mariner, showcased a fastball at 93-95 mph, a plus changeup, and an above-average slider. He allowed only a bloop single to Jesús Made, the top prospect for the Milwaukee Brewers.
Liam Doyle of the St. Louis Cardinals was impressive with a fastball at 97-99 mph, a downward-breaking slider, and a splitter. He struck out Boston Red Sox prospect Franklin Arias, despite overthrowing a bit, which is not uncommon in this game.
Jamie Arnold of the Athletics displayed a fastball at 94-96 mph, with two- and four-seamers, a slider, and a changeup. His performance was a significant improvement from his Spring Breakout game in March.
Struggles and Power Hitting
Not all pitchers performed to expectations. Miguel Sime Jr. of the Nationals struggled, hitting 101.1 mph but failing to command his pitches, walking one and giving up two hits. Anthony Eyanson, Boston's top pitching prospect, was just 93-94 mph, missing the glove side with his fastball and lacking a sharp slider.
In contrast, the game featured impressive power hitting. Tampa Bay Rays catcher Nathan Flewelling was named MVP for hitting the only home run of the game. His at-bat against Wen-Hui Pan was a testament to his skill, as he turned on a pitch at 96 mph, sending it into the right field stands at 95 mph.
Rays teammate Theo Gillen showcased his plus speed, robbing a groundball hit by Made. Blue Jays infielder JoJo Parker had the most impressive single swing, nearly homering off a 101 mph pitch from Sime, settling for a hard-hit double.
Brewers' Talent
The Brewers' infielders, Jesús Made and Luis Peña, also stood out. Made, already mentioned for his strong play against Gillen, had a bloop single, a groundout, and a flyout. Peña, playing third base, made an outstanding catch on a pop fly down the left field line and displayed outstanding bat speed in his at-bats.
Other Observations
Ethan Salas of the Padres singled and walked, with the catcher not swinging and missing once. The hit was smoked the other way, leaving the bat at 104.4 mph off a 94 mph pitch. Ralphy Velazquez, a Cleveland Guardians first baseman, played the whole game and finally got a hit in his last at-bat, a single to left.
Overall, the game showcased the league's top prospects, with pitchers throwing hard and hitters struggling to make contact. The final score of 6-1 felt like a slugfest, highlighting the talent and potential of these young players.
