Atlanta Braves starter search should include Zach Plesac
By Fred Owens
Zach Plesac isn’t on the same level as Clevinger, but the Atlanta Braves don’t need another top of the rotation arm.
The Tribe recalled Clevinger and made him their starter in last night’s game, but left Plesac wandering around their alternate site.
Chris Antonetti said he called Zach Plesac after the decision was made to have Mike Clevinger start tomorrow and he explained to Plesac that they don't have an opportunity for him at this time at the Major League level.
— Mandy Bell (@MandyBell02) August 25, 2020
Indians GM Chris Antonetti also told Bell the situation is always subject to change.
"But as we all have seen time and time again, that can change very quickly. So, it’s up to him to continue to pitch the way he’s capable of pitching, continue to put in the work and be an option for us whenever we have the opportunity for it."
There are two ways of viewing the Indians’ situation.
- The first says Clevinger is expendable for current needs at the right (high) price.
- The other says that they view Clevinger as a long term asset and aren’t going to trade him- particularly in-division – at least until the offseason when they go full rebuild.
Plesac isn’t in the same class as Clevinger, but he is having his second year as a number two/three starter, which is more than the club dreamed of when they selected him in the 12th round of the 2016 Draft and gave him a $100K signing bonus.
He didn’t play in 2016 but looked a new pitcher when he returned in 2017, moving through the clubs’ minor league system faster than anyone predicted. Plesac’s 2019 season started with six AA-starts and a 0.96 ERA. He followed that with a 2.73 ERA in three AAA-starts and made his Major League debut on May 28, throwing 5-1/3 innings against the Red Sox, and allowing one run on four hits in a no-decision.
The 24-year-old right finished 2019, with a 3.81 ERA, 4.94 FIP, 1245 ERA+, and 1.228 WHIP in 115 2/3 innings over 21 games, striking out 88 and walking 40. He began the 2020 season with three starts totaling 21 innings, striking out 24 and walking two, on his way to a 1.29 ERA, 2.40 FIP, and a 0.667 WHIP.