Cleveland Indians: 3 pitching prospects who could surprise in 2021

Sam Hentges, P

The Tribe doesn’t really have a need for starting pitchers right now, but should an injury happen down the road, Sam Hentges would be an intriguing option.

At 6-foot-6, 245 pounds, the left-hander. is an opposing figure on the mound. He was recently mentioned, unsolicited, by pitching Carl Willis and Zach Please, which gives an of where his stock is within the organization.

His minor-league stats aren’t all that great. He was 2-13 with a 5.11 ERA in 2019 at Double-A Akron.

That said, two seasons can be an eternity in sports. And since his last outing, Hentges game has significantly improved as he he impressed talent evaluators at the alternate site last summer.

Having never played at Triple-A, Hentges will likely start for the Clippers to start the season. If he’s as improved as they say he is, it should be evident on the bump at Huntington Park. And if that’s the case, he’s only a phone call away.

Additionally, the Tribe may decide to try him out of the bullpen, particularly if they need help in relief.