A lack of previous starting experience didn't stop Orion Kerkering from putting together a dazzling seven inning performance this past weekend. The 6'2-205 pound righty has been sensational since moving to USF's weekend rotation and his most recent start might have been the best yet. Facing Niagara, Kerkering was nearly flawless for seven innings (a career high) allowing only a couple of hits and a single run on a sac fly. Kerkering attacks hitters with a mid-to-high 90s fastball that garners empty swings and a power slider that can be a putaway pitch. Kerkering doesn't have a long track record of success as a starter but he's answering questions and checking scouting boxes with each dominant outing.
Tyler Cleveland, RHP, Central Arkansas
Tyler Cleveland may not have the same kind of stuff or pedigree as the two names mentioned previously, but his start on March 25th was no less spectacular. Cleveland, a converted reliever, recorded the highest game score of the weekend with a 91 game score. He needed just 111 pitches to record a complete game shutout against Lipscomb on Friday, the first of his Central Arkansas career. Cleveland surrendered a pair of hits, struck out eight, and didn't allow a walk though he did hit a batter.
Cleveland isn't your prototypical Friday night ace. The lanky righty is a sidearmer without premium velocity. He gets heavy two seam movement on the fastball which allows it to pair effectively with his plus slider. Cleveland's slider moves like a frisbee and is reminiscent of the kind of pitch that Sergio Romo has leaned on during his fourteen year career. Cleveland isn't a big name draft prospect but he could still draw some interest from pro teams if he continues to perform thanks to his outlier traits. He was deservedly named A-Sun pitcher of the week and is set to face North Alabama on Friday.
