Minor Leagues Beat Writer
Chicago Sports Online
The Grand Junction Gold Sox have selected relief pitcher Francisco Salgado as their Pitcher of the Year for 2040.
Grand Junction is the Class A minor league affiliate of the Chicago Black Sox.
Francisco Salgado
He appeared in 54 games for the Gold Sox, all but two in relief. He took over as closer for Grand Junction about half-way through the season, going 5-3-25 with a 2.43 ERA, 74 Ks, 6 walks, and 2.3 WAR.
“Francisco was just outstanding all season long,” said Manager Eduardo Martínez. “Whatever role we asked him to fill – setup duties, closing, even starting a couple of games – he did admirably.
“Given the strength of our staff, it really says something that Francisco emerged as the choice for Pitcher of the Year.”
Among the pitchers Salgado beat out were SP Andresa Frederico (14-7, 4.01 ERA, 2.4 WAR), SP Thomas Kirchmann (17-5, 3.31 ERA, 1.8 WAR), SP Raúl Vallejo (11-8, 4.28 ERA, 2.6 WAR) and RP James Matarazzo (4-4-15, 2.47 ERA).
Salgado was chosen in the 6th Round of the 2038 amateur draft, 194th overall. He was used as a starter in his first couple of minor league seasons and did well enough, but scouts ultimately determined he was best cast in a relief role because he really has just two viable pitches in his repertoire. He has an elite slider and cutter, but an abysmal changeup.
“Francisco’s future in the bullpen is bright as can be,” said Chicago Asst. GM Bill McGuffin. “Our scouts grade him as a 40/80 as a reliever, as opposed to 35/45 as a starter. I know he sees himself as a starter, but we think he’ll grow to embrace his role as a lock-down relief specialist.”
Salgado, however, still hasn’t given up on starting.
“Look, I’ll do whatever it takes to make it to the majors,” he said, “but I still think I can start. Gimme a chance, guys!”