Toronto Blue Jays 2015 Rule 5 Options: Bullpen arms

Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Austin Adams RHP

Adams was taken in the 8th round of the 2012 draft by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. He’s got a quick arm which allows his 4-seam fastball to hit the high-90’s; unfortunately, struggles to find the strike zone have slowed his progress.

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Austin excelled at Advanced-A and Double-A in 2015 before struggling in his brief audition at Triple-A. He produced 13.5 and 12.3 K/9 at Advanced -A and Double-A respectively, but also walked batters at a high rate, 4.5 and 7.75 BB/9.

It’s unlikely that a change of scenery will help the 24-year-old iron out the control problems that have plagued him throughout his minor league career, having never posted a BB/9 under 4.30. Any team willing to take a flier on Adams will under the knowledge that Adams will dominate with his fastball/slider combo but other nights will not be able to find the strike zone.

Overall, Austin Adams finished 2015 with 3-2 record, 3.27 ERA, 47 BB, 71 K’s, 1.45 WHIP and 1.31 GO/AO while holding opponents to a 1.79 batting average.

Next: Zach Jones