To learn about our efforts to improve the accessibility and usability of our website, please visit our Accessibility Information page. Skip to section navigation or Skip to main content
Below is an advertisement.

Events

Skip to main content
Below is an advertisement.
Draft 2008
Draft Central  |  Draft Tracker  |  Draft Reports  |  History
Draft Central

Christian Friedrich (Credit: Chris Radcliffe)


Biographical Data
Player Name:Christian Friedrich
Position:Starting Pitcher
School:Eastern Kentucky University
School Type:College
Academic Class:Junior
Birthdate:07/08/87
Height:6'3"
Weight:210 lbs.
Bats:Right
Throws:Left
Report Date(s):04/05/08
Game(s):Tennessee Tech


Focus Area
Comments
Fastball:Friedrich's fastball is average to plus. He pitches comfortably with average velocity that ranges anywhere from 88 to 93 mph.
Fastball movement:It's slightly below average, but projects to be average in the future. There's more when he keeps it down in the zone.
Slider:It's more like a cutter and he throws it 83-85 mph.
Curve:It's an above-average pitch which he throws 72-76 mph.
Changeup:He doesn't throw it much, but it's slightly below average now, 82-83 mph, and projects to be an average pitch in the future.
Control:His command is slightly below average -- he's struggled with walks at times -- but it projects to be average.
Poise:Nothing wrong here. He's got good makeup and competes well on the mound.
Physical Description:Friedrich is a pretty big, strong lefty with a body type similar to Joe Saunders.
Medical Update:He missed one start in mid-April with a groin injury, but has come back and pitched well since.
Strengths:Four pitches that project to be at least average, led by his fastball and curve.
Weaknesses:His command has been inconsistent. He is what he is, a No. 3 starter-type with good stuff and average command in the future.
Summary:College lefties are always in high demand and, truth be told, there aren't that many upper-echelon ones out there this year. Behind San Diego's Brian Matusz, Friedrich is likely the best -- especially once he gains more consistent command -- with a repertoire that should land him in the middle of a big-league rotation in short order. Matusz may go first, but it shouldn't take long for Friedrich to hear his name, either.

Full report >