Washington Nationals: Erick Fedde coming to the rescue
By Ron Juckett
Erick Fedde, the top Washington Nationals pitching prospect, gets another chance in the majors. Here is how he makes this trip permanent.
The Washington Nationals turn to Erick Fedde to fill one hole in their depleted starting rotation.
With Stephen Strasburg and Jeremy Hellickson on the disabled list, Fedde has the chance to make a strong impression as the Nats battle the Atlanta Braves for the top spot in the National League East. When recalled, this will be his second stint with Washington this season.
Fedde made a spot start May 23 at home versus the San Diego Padres. That afternoon, he pitched into the sixth inning in an unfortunate loss. The Pads scored three off him with six hits and a walk over 94 pitches. On the positive side, he whiffed six and induced ten swings and misses.
A far better performance than his three starts last year in the majors.
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Fedde struggled against the Chicago Cubs and others as he made his major-league debut in similar circumstances. Last summer’s troubles came down to him not ready for the big time and the lack of an out pitch.
As with most over-matched pitchers making the jump, he was flustered that pitches fooling International League hitters in Triple-A were roped in Major League Baseball. Five homers allowed over 15.1 innings—along with a mid-season conversion to reliever, then a quick role change back to starter—ended his Nats season.
This Spring in West Palm Beach, Fedde pitched with confidence and found his footing. He briefly auditioned for the fifth spot in the rotation, but Washington went with A.J. Cole and sent Fedde to Syracuse to pitch every fifth day. When Cole imploded, Hellickson got the call and has shined in his starts.
Now, Fedde gets the chance.
The Nats are thrilled with his control. In 56.2 innings, Fedde has 61 strikeouts with 15 walks. That translates to 4.07 strikeouts-per-walk. His 9.7 K/9 ratio is a career best at any level. He is developing well except in one way; he surrenders hits by the ton.
International League batters have 69 hits off Fedde in 11 starts. The good news is he can keep the ball in the yard as only three have left the park. But, he has a high 11.0 H/9 ratio, a 1.482 WHIP and 4.76 ERA. He remains a work in progress.
Pending how long Strasburg and Hellickson are out for, Fedde will have multiple chances to show the brain trust how far he has advanced. A couple strong outings will calm fears and give Washington leverage if they feel they must trade for another starter come July.
Erick Fedde has the opportunity to wow the Washington Nationals. Here’s hoping he does.