Tidewater Pitching

Bird,

  Since you asked for the best "1-2" I would have to think Kellam boys are as good as any of them.  Sammy has looked pretty good this spring and Turner will most likely ease into the early schedule, but by May and June... Look out !

I agree on all accounts, specifically how the schedule plays a role.  I do think that Kellam's No. 2 is better than anyone else's No. 2...right now.  I also think that Fitzwater is likely to evolve as a pretty special talent.  It will be interesting, given weather, and especially those weeks where there are three games.  Numbers 3 and 4 might actually be almost as important as No. 2, if things were to play out that way.  If that becomes the case, it seems as though NR has as many options as one could hope for.

Jones was absolutely impressive all Summer and Fall and especially in Jupiter against top level talent.  He has only gotten stronger since then, so he would definitely be the best "1" in Tidewater and probably the State in my opinion.  Last time I saw Sinnen was in a relief appearance at ODU during the Regional Championship game and he closed the door on Nansemond River over 2 or 3 innings touching 91 a couple of times. He will certainly be dominant this Spring.  Bishop is a pure athlete who I got to see pitch in Marietta in 2011 where he was very good and in the mid to upper 80s....20 months ago.  Without the unfortunate knee injury he would be as good as anybody when he's on.  Rice has looked very good so far this Spring and is coming off an offseason Velocity Program with Jamie Evans that saw him sitting 90+ in a 35 pitch bullpen in January.

Haven't seen enough of the others mentioned, but they'll all rely on the 8 guys around them defensively and offensively as well.  So based on all factors I would give the edge to Kellam for the best "1-2" combo.

I'd have to agree with redbird!!! Kellam has the best two for sure. I don't know much about the #2 for GB, but Conner is a beast and I can't wait to see him throw. If the second job allowes me to be off the 3rd week into the season, I'll be watching Conner throw against WB @WB where he shut them down with a 3-1 victory last season! Rice is steller and will carry his own. I'm not sold on Fitz though. He is a very special talent, but there have been times where it takes him forever to get settled in on the mound. I can't comment on Hickory, because I haven't followed those guys enough. As far as a stable of pitchers, NR has the most arms in all with 7 guys that could throw if problems occur.

"I don't know much about the #2 for GB"

Check back on this thread at the end of May.  It's always fun to compare predictions to results after the fact.  I am confident that Logan Harrelson will perform.

Will do Midlo Dad

It is going to be fun to watch all the arms this season, the cream will rise to the top. Hoping all kids stay healthy and arms are not overused. Let the games begin.