Shae Simmons | Right-Handed Pitcher | Age: 22 | Rome

38.0 IP, 14 BB, 59 K, 1.000 WHIP, 1.86 ERA

Shae Simmons was drafted by the Braves in the 22nd round of the 2012 MLB Draft out of Southeast Missouri State. The 5’9” right-hander whips his arm through at a ¾ slot, sitting mid-90’s with his fastball and ability to touch 97. He also offers a hard mid-to-low 80’s slider as a secondary pitch, something that will need improved command as he advances levels. Simmons is a bit old for Southern League prospect standards, but expect him to get promoted soon considering how well he’s performed this season. In 37 innings, he has sported a 1.70 ERA and 1.31 FIP to go along with a 59:13 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Simmons also benefits from keeping the ball on the ground – he has yet to give up a home run in 2013. The obvious player comp many will probably throw out, because he is short in stature, is Craig Kimbrel. While even in a perfect world he will never reach this level, he could turn into a solid back end arm. If he can improve his secondary stuff, look for him to progress rather quickly. You can check him out for yourself here (courtesy of Nathaniel Stoltz).

- Andrew Sisson

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