2012 Indians 22nd round pick: RHP James Stokes
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June 6, 2012
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In the 22nd round of the 2012 MLB Draft the Cleveland Indians have selected right-handed pitcher James Stokes out of Elon University (NC).
Date of birth: 8/12/1990 - Height: 6’6” - Weight: 225 - Bats: Right - Throws: Right
Quick take: Stokes is a big, tall pitcher standing in at 6’6” which allows him to get on top of hitters and get a good downward plane on his ball. He throws from a three-quarter arm slot with good arm speed and solid delivery. He sits in the upper 80s with his fastball and has touched 91 MPH, and has a good developing curveball.
Jeff Ellis: There have been two themes in the Indians draft this year, guys with great intangibles and pitchers who are huge. Jim Stokes fits the latter as he is a 6'6" righty. Before his sophomore year of school he had Tommy John surgery, and this year he returned to the mound. He struggled a lot this year with an ERA over 7 and a WHIP over 2. This year he also switched over and became a starter for the majority of his appearances. I think he projects out more as a reliever with an upper 80's fastball and a solid curve. He might be a hard sign as he would have to assume that another year away from surgery and rust might allow him to put up better numbers and improve his stock.
Video: None available
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