Minor Leagues Beat Writer
Chicago Sports Online
The Beloit Blue Sox this week named Gilberto Cordero, Chicago’s top pick in the 2042 draft, as their Pitcher of the Year.
Gilberto Cordero
He was 3-0 with 23 saves and a 0.76 ERA in 33 appearances for the Sox, striking out 48 and walking just 8 in 35.1 innings pitched. He did not allow a home run all season.
“There were some who questioned starting Gilberto at AA, rather than taking the traditional route through the lower minors,” said pitching coach William Neal. “Well, I think he showed everyone just why we thought he could handle AA competition.”
The BBA Scouting Consortium can barely contain its love for Cordero in its scouting assessments. He currently rates 50/80 for his overall potential, and 8/11 for his stuff; 7/7 for his pitch movement; and 7/7 for his control.
Scouts assess his cutter at 7/10 and his wicked curveball at 10/10.
“His stuff should play well above average once he’s finished developing. He has great command of his pitches and he’ll rarely give up a long ball. Cordero has the talent to be a top reliever,” the report says.
Cordero said he’s looking forward to the challenge of one day facing major league hitters.
“I love the contest of wills and the chess game of pitching,” Cordero said. “I can hardly wait!”
He likely won’t have to wait long. After a stint in the Florida Prospect League, Cordero will go to Spring Training with the Black Sox. Although team officials say they may start him out at AAA, there’s little question they hope he’ll play in Chicago at some point in 2043.
“We don’t want to rush Mr. Cordero,” said Black Sox General Manager Benny Vitale, “but we also don’t want to keep him in the minors longer than necessary. We are very excited about his prospects, and look forward to watching a long and excellent career.”
