Cody Poteet: Cubs Scouting Report & Analysis

𝕻𝖆𝖘𝖘𝖎𝖔𝖓 𝕮𝖎𝖙𝖞 𝕮𝖍𝖚𝖗𝖈𝖍 𝕯𝖎𝖌𝖎𝖙𝖆𝖑 𝕸𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖆

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Post on Dec 18, 2024

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Cody Poteet: Cubs Scouting Report & Analysis

Cody Poteet, a right-handed pitcher currently in the Chicago Cubs organization, presents an intriguing case study for baseball analysts. His journey through the minor leagues and his performance at the major league level have been marked by both promise and inconsistency. This scouting report and analysis will delve into his strengths, weaknesses, pitch arsenal, potential, and overall outlook within the Cubs' system.

Pitch Arsenal & Mechanics: A Detailed Breakdown

Poteet's arsenal isn't characterized by overpowering velocity, but rather a blend of well-located pitches designed to keep hitters off balance. His primary weapon is a sinking fastball, typically sitting in the low-to-mid 90s mph range. This pitch generates ground balls, a crucial element for success, especially in pitcher-friendly ballparks. The movement on this fastball is key; its late sink creates difficulty for hitters trying to square it up.

Beyond the sinker, Poteet features a curveball with sharp, 12-to-6 break. This pitch offers a good counterpoint to his fastball, creating a distinct vertical movement difference that keeps batters guessing. The effectiveness of his curveball relies on command and location; a well-placed curveball can be a devastating out-pitch.

He also throws a changeup, a pitch that has shown flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency. A good changeup is vital for a pitcher like Poteet, who lacks overpowering velocity. When effective, this pitch creates a significant speed differential, leading to weak contact or swings and misses. However, inconsistencies in its grip and release have sometimes hindered its effectiveness.

Poteet's mechanics are generally considered repeatable, though minor adjustments have been made throughout his career. Maintaining a consistent arm slot and release point is crucial for his pitch effectiveness. Any deviations can lead to diminished movement and reduced control, making his mechanics a key area for continued development.

Strengths: What Makes Poteet Tick?

• Ground Ball Prowess: Poteet's sinking fastball and overall pitching approach induce a high number of ground balls. This is a significant strength, minimizing the risk of home runs and increasing the likelihood of quick outs. In today's era of home run-happy offenses, this is a highly valuable skill.

• Decent Command and Control: While not elite, Poteet generally demonstrates good command of his pitches, particularly his fastball. This ability to hit his spots consistently is crucial for setting up his secondary offerings and keeping hitters off balance. Improved command of his changeup would significantly elevate his ceiling.

• Competitive Spirit: Reports consistently highlight Poteet's competitive nature and his determination on the mound. This mental toughness is an asset that cannot be overlooked, especially when facing adversity.

Weaknesses: Areas for Improvement

• Lack of Overpowering Stuff: Poteet lacks the overpowering velocity or dominant breaking ball that many elite pitchers possess. This means he relies heavily on precision and deception to succeed.

• Changeup Consistency: As mentioned previously, the inconsistency of his changeup is a significant area for improvement. A more reliable changeup would significantly expand his arsenal and make him a more difficult pitcher to hit.

• Minor League vs. Major League Performance: Poteet has shown a disparity in performance between the minor leagues and the majors. The jump in competition level and the ability to adjust to major league hitters is a critical challenge he needs to overcome.

Potential and Projection: The Future of Cody Poteet

Poteet's potential within the Cubs organization is a subject of debate. His strengths – namely his ground ball tendencies and decent command – suggest a potential role as a back-end starter or a high-leverage reliever. However, his lack of overpowering stuff and the need to improve his changeup consistency present significant hurdles.

The Cubs' organizational depth also plays a role in projecting Poteet's future. The competition for roster spots within the organization is fierce, and Poteet needs to consistently outperform expectations to secure a long-term role.

His future likely hinges on addressing the weaknesses identified above. Improved changeup consistency could significantly boost his effectiveness. Refining his approach against left-handed hitters would also be beneficial. Continued development and refinement of his mechanics will be crucial for maximizing his potential.

Comparison to Similar Pitchers

Poteet's profile bears some resemblance to other pitchers who rely on ground balls and deceptive movements rather than overpowering velocity. Think of pitchers like [insert comparable MLB pitcher names here – examples: Adam Wainwright (early career), Zack Greinke (later career)]. These pitchers have found success through smart pitching, excellent command, and a well-developed arsenal. Poteet could follow a similar trajectory if he continues to develop his secondary pitches and maintains consistent command.

Conclusion: A Work in Progress with Potential

Cody Poteet's journey within the Chicago Cubs organization is one of a work in progress. He possesses the makings of a valuable major league pitcher, but significant improvements are necessary. His ground ball proficiency and competitive spirit are valuable assets, but his lack of overpowering stuff and the inconsistency of his changeup are factors that limit his upside. Ultimately, his future success will depend on his ability to consistently execute his pitches, further refine his arsenal, and overcome the challenges presented by the highest level of baseball competition. The coming seasons will be crucial in determining whether he can realize his potential and become a consistent contributor for the Cubs.