ON Top 50 Prospects – #9: Parker Bridwell

A three sport star in high school (football, baseball & basketball), Parker Bridwell signed for an over-slot bonus of $625,000 as the Orioles’ 9th round selection in the 2010 draft. He was heavily recruited as a quarterback and had originally committed to Texas Tech.

Now that he’s focusing on one sport the projectable righty has the ability become a serious threat on the mound.

Bridwell throws a 90-95 mph fastball, curveball, changeup and cutter. Catcher Riley Hornback, who caught most of Bridwell’s bullpens during his time in the GCL said there is something unique about the way his sinking fastball lands in his glove.
Hornback described Bridwell’s sinker as “very heavy” and said he felt like it was coming in 3-4 mph faster than it actually was.

Bridwell has the bulldog mentality that you look for in a young starter and reminds me of a right-handed version of Zach Britton because of his heavy sinker/cutter.

I asked Bridwell if there was anything from basketball or football that would carry over and help with baseball during my time in the GCL. “The only similarities between the three is the feeling of winning; I hate to lose.”

Because of his lack of experience it may take some time for him to adjust from week competition at his Texas HS to the pros, but there is a ton of potential here.

I expected him to open 2011 in the Delmarva rotation, but it appears the Orioles are going to take it slow with him and stick him in the Aberdeen rotation when extended spring training is over. Good stuff and command combined with focusing on strictly baseball leaves Bridwell a good chance to find success with experience.

Career Statistics

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