If you're thinking about picking up or trading for Kansas City hurler Luke Hochevar, think carefully before you pull the trigger. At first glance, he seems like a slam dunk: 24 years old, former #1 overall pick, no pressure on a bad Royals team, low 90s fastball. Sure he might end up being a slam dunk, but I'm not willing to bet on it right now.
Sure, Hochevar (pronounced HO-chay-ver) is solid right now. He works quick and carries a good mound presence. He gets ahead of a hitters who haven't seen him yet with fastballs at the knees. He keeps the ball down A LOT, which is great for a young pitcher. Early in the count, with the bases empty, he'll touch 93-94 mph. A lot of ground balls, quick innings - which is what you like to see from a young pitcher.
With that being said, so far through 4 major league starts, Hochevar appears hesitant to challenge hitters. He won't tempt anyone to climb the ladder. He works the corners well, but that leads to more than his fair share of walks (9 BB in 16 IP this year.) When he gets behind in the count, he won't challenge up in the zone. He continues to nibble. His curveball doesn't bite. Its worked sufficiently so far because hitters aren't sure when its coming. His curve is average and it hangs over the plate sometimes - not something you want to see from a sinkerballer.
The talent is there. The future is there. He's got potential to be a #2 or #3 starter, probably nothing more. He doesn't have overpowering stuff, and unless he learns to challenge hitters, he'll never be an overpowering pitcher. Hochevar beat C.C. Sabathia on Saturday night, and he currently sports a 2-1 record and 4.86 ERA. He'll bring some inconsistency but probably more good days than bad.
But remember, its HO-chay-ver.
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