Kline could pitch for parent club as early as 2013.
The Orioles have agreed to terms with 2nd round pick Branden Kline, according to Steve Melewski of MASN Sports. Kline signed for slot, which is $793,700, according to Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun.
The Orioles today also agreed to terms with 4th round pick Christian Walker and 7th round pick Matt Price.
They have now signed 27 of their 40 draft picks.
Don’s Thoughts: Branden Kline is a bit of a tweener who I feel would be better suited as a relief pitcher, but I would keep stretching him out as a starter to improve his arsenal and command. He is a basically a two pitch pitcher with a good fastball and curve combination. He is a player that was throwing 91-93 mph as a starter and in relief he was up to 95 mph.
He could improve his strength and see a tick or two increase on the fastball with what could be 96-97 mph in relief. The power curve has some serious spin and depth to it, and he has good command and control of the offering. His two pitch combo would make him a quality 7th or 8th inning arm.
He has a change up that needs some refinements. He also needs to refine a few aspects of his delivery, and create a safer arm action. He has the upside of a middle rotation starter. I think if the Orioles feel they are contending sooner rather than later, he may start in the low levels and move to the bullpen as he progresses quickly through the system. I do not think he would take long to develop in relief role, and could pitch for parent club as early as 2013 in relief.
