Could break through in relief Oviedo, who posted a 3.18 ERA and recorded seven strikeouts over 5.2 Grapefruit League innings before spring training was suspended, is believed capable of thriving as either a lat... Impact Oviedo's spring performance turned heads, and it was particularly encouraging considering his first taste of Double-A Springfield last season was somewhat of a mixed bag. The stocky 22-year-old pitched to an elevated 5.65 ERA and 1.63 WHIP across 113.0 innings, but his 10.0 K/9 over his two minor-league stops led the organization. Oviedo also placed an emphasis on diet and nutrition this offseason, leading to a 10.0 percent drop in body fat and increased stamina. Oviedo has been projected by many as a good middle-of-rotation prospect due to an arsenal that includes a 98 mph fastball, but Goold notes that power could also make him a late-inning relief candidate as early as this season, given expanded rosters and likely need for extra arms.
JUNE 2, 2020 • ROTOWIRE