4 years agoSan Diego Padres top pitching prospect MacKenzie Gore will open the 2021 season in Triple-A El Paso and start Friday against the Tacoma Rainiers. Battling mechanical and command issues, El Paso manager Edwin Rodriguez admits Gore is "very close" but he'll need several strong outings before a potential promotion. In-line with the long term view for Gore, the Friars want him to stick as a big league starter when his anticipated debut arrives. The 22-year-old left-hander registered a 4.91 ERA during spring training with eight walks, but was MLB Pipeline's Pitcher of the Year in 2019 with a 1.02 ERA and 29 percent strikeout rate in 15 starts at High-A. With the call-up hype veered elsewhere for now, it's time for baseball's No. 6 prospect to prove himself as a key dynasty piece for both the Friars and fantasy managers.--Andrew Le - RotoBaller
Source: Twitter - Dennis Lin