For the seventh time in the last 10 years, and fourth year in a row, the Nationals have used their first-round pick on a pitcher. This time it was 21-year-old Oklahoma product Cade Cavalli.
Cavalli made four starts in this year’s shortened season, compiling 37 strikeouts and just 5 walks in 23.2 innings pitched. In the year prior, Cavalli earned first-team all Big-12 honors as a utility player. He started 12 games on the mound and 19 games as the designated hitter.
Cavalli didn’t start focusing on pitching until his sophomore season, yet he has a killer arsenal that includes a fastball that can reach 98 mph and a slider, changeup, and curveball. He has a long string of injuries dating back to high school, but that hasn’t scared away Rizzo in the past.
He has a high upside but will be a project who requires lots of patience. We shouldn’t expect to see him in the majors for at least 4 years, but make sure to look out for updates on how he’s progressing.
