Travis Lakins
The Red Sox gave Travis Lakins his first taste of big league action this year. He’s allowed eight runs in 15 1/3 innings for an unappealing 4.70 ERA, walking eight batters while only striking out 10 over that span.
His time in Pawtucket was equally discouraging. Lakins posted a 4.60 ERA and 1.53 WHIP in 45 innings this season.
It’s been a tough year for the right-hander yet it feels as though there’s untapped potential with Lakins. He broke out last year, posting a 2.32 ERA in time spent between Portland and Pawtucket. He struck out over a batter per inning and showed improved command after moving to the bullpen.
The success hasn’t carried over to this year but Lakins is still the No. 22 prospect in the Red Sox system. He’s now focused on working as a reliever where he can rely on his bread and butter cutter and mid-90’s fastball.
If any pitcher on this list has a shot at making a significant impact out of the bullpen, now or in the future, it’s Lakins.