Weekly Minor League Thread: The Fabulous B Boys

Michael Bowden and Clay Buchholz came into 2007 as the Red Sox most highly touted pitching prospects. The general consensus, among both scouts and stat types, was that Buchholz was a notch above Bowden, with more of a #1-2 potential than the #2-4 label that was put on Bowden. Looking at what they’ve done so far this year, it’s hard to say who has been more impressive:

Bowden, A+, 7 GS, 39 IP, 34 H, 1 HR, 7 BB, 41 K, 1.62 ERA
Buchholz, AA, 6 GS, 34 IP, 22 H, 3 HR, 4 BB, 46 K, 1.85 ERA

Those numbers really do speak for themselves but that won’t stop me from blathering on about them. Bowden is particularly impressive when you realize that 5 of his 7 games have come in his home park, which is considered one of the most extreme offensive parks in the minors. In his 2 road games, he’s put up 11.2 IP, 7 H, 0 HR, 1 BB, and 14 K. He is dominating High-A as a 20-year-old. I sort of hope he gets promoted quickly just to get him out of that scary environment.

Buccholz is 22, so he’s not extremely young for his level. But he does have limited experience pitching and weather issues have forced him to pitch on a bizarre schedule. His first start of the year was delayed until April 10, and his second didn’t come until 9 days later. This hasn’t stopped him from posting a 12.1 K/9 or a 11.5/1 K/BB ratio. With Lester in some sort of limbo right now, at what point does this guy become an option for the team’s 5th starter spot?

It’s still early and things can change quickly, especially with pitchers, but these two have to be considered big bright spots so far.