Cleveland Guardians’ Parker Messick Shines in Early MLB Career

BOSTON — The Cleveland Guardians‘ decision to draft Parker Messick 54th overall in 2022 is proving wise. The 24-year-old pitcher made his major league debut on August 20 and has already impressed with a 1.84 ERA and a 2.50 FIP over 29 1/3 innings pitched across five games.

Despite a strikeout rate of 18.3% in the majors, Messick showcased a more impressive 29.1% strikeout rate prior to his call-up from the minor leagues, indicating that his strikeout abilities are still developing. “He leads the minors in strikeouts since 2023,” said Eric Longenhagen, the Guardians’ lead prospect analyst.

Messick’s effectiveness comes from several factors despite his average velocity and the absence of an elite breaking ball. His 92-mph fastball may lack overwhelming speed, but it features an upward trajectory that can deceive hitters. “His changeup is at least plus,” commented Longenhagen, with Messick himself stating that he considers it his best pitch.

“When it’s paired right with my other stuff, it’s at its best,” Messick said during a recent game in Boston. He revealed he has used a unique grip on his changeup since high school, which he describes as a “funky circle.”

Cleveland’s pitching coach noted the pitch’s effectiveness, stating, “He executes it aggressively, matching his delivery and creating tremendous sink and run.” According to Baseball Savant, the changeup achieves 35.5 inches of vertical drop and 14.8 inches of horizontal break, misleading hitters, especially when well-sequenced with his fastball.

Messick also described his four-seam fastball as another strong offering, stating, “It has a decent profile and plays well with my other pitches.” The average four-seam fastball in baseball is 94.1 mph, but Messick emphasizes the importance of pitch sequencing and delivery angle for success.

His pitch repertoire includes a curveball and a recently added sinker, along with an evolving slider. The Guardians’ assistant general manager, who was pivotal in drafting Messick, highlighted his consistency and unique pitching style as key factors in their decision. “He was always going to take the ball,” said Binder, noting Messick’s reliable performance.

As Messick continues to build on his early success, his changeup remains a significant part of his potential impact in the Guardians’ rotation. The team’s early faith in his abilities appears to be validated as he adjusts to major league competition.