Blade Tidwell

ANALYSIS
Tidwell's ability to throw strikes has been very poor since his promotion from Double-A on May 21, when his stock was at an all-time high (2.41 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, 44 Ks in 37.1 IP at Double-A). Even after Triple-A switched from automated balls and strikes in some games to only a challenge system in late June, there have been very few signs of improvement. He had a zero-walk game July 28, but still gave up four runs in six frames. From a results standpoint, his best Triple-A start may have been his most recent one Sunday, as he struck out four and walked two over five scoreless frames. Tidwell is talented enough to still develop into a quality starting pitcher if he shows up next season with improved control and consistency, as things may have snowballed on him this year for Syracuse. If it doesn't click next year, the Mets may explore how Tidwell's fastball/slider combo plays in relief.