FanPost

Maikel Cleto Game Report

I saw him play in Savannah against the Rome Braves and wrote up a report for my blog.  Thought you would all want a look considering he's yours now.

Maikel Cleto, RHP, NYM -19-year old IFA from the Dominican Republic; (6 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 8 K)

  • Looked every bit of 218 lbs, but seemed shorter than his listed height of 6'3"
  • Spent first two innings in the 92-94 range with his fastball.
  • Velocity spiked in the 3rd and 4th as he was consistently hitting 94 and topping out at 97 MPH.
  • Fastball seemed to lack movement.
  • Breaking pitches were rudimentary at best. Looked as if he threw a cutter at 88-90 and a very poor curve in the upper 70's.
  • Slowed arm action and altered mechanics tipped curve badly.
  • Sling shot arm action. with size/mechanics, not much room for projection with the fastball. With it already at 92-97, does he need it?
  • Bulldog on the mound, really attacked hitters and had a nice "swagger."

His fastball velocity, along with his demeanor has me thinking closer. Attitude and swagger resembled Ugueth Urbina. Needs SIGNIFICANT refinement or addition of a true second pitch to reach potential.