Kevin Gunderson
| IP | 193 |
|---|---|
| ERA | 3.031 |
| WHIP | 1.358 |
| BB/9 | 3.731 |
| SO/9 | 6.995 |
- Full name Kevin Chase Gunderson
- Born 09/16/1984 in Portland, OR
- Profile Ht.: 5'10" / Wt.: 165 / Bats: R / Throws: L
- School Oregon State
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Drafted in the 5th round (160th overall) by the Atlanta Braves in 2006 (signed for $162,000).
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Gunderson is the safest remaining Oregon State pick as a small lefty with three pitches he can throw for strikes. His stuff isn't as firm as it was last year. His fastball has sat in the 86-89 mph range and rarely hits the low 90s, which it touched consistently last season. His slider has gone backward as well, and he has compensated by showing improved control of his fastball and a solid-average changeup. Despite the dip in stuff, he was among NCAA Division I leaders with 15 saves. Gunderson also is a team leader and durable despite his small stature. He profiles as a lefty reliever if his slider comes back.
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Gunderson was one of the heroes of Oregon State's 2006 College World Series championship. He earned a victory and three saves in Omaha, winning an elimination game with 51⁄3 gutsy innings and coming back the next day to record the final two outs of the clincher. The NCAA Division I leader with 20 saves, he signed for $162,000 as a sixth-round pick. Gunderson doesn't have a high ceiling, but he has a huge heart and excellent command. Given those attributes and the Braves' need for lefthanded relievers, he could advance quickly to the majors--where his uncle Eric Gunderson carved out a 10-year career as a reliever. Kevin gets ahead of hitters by locating his 86-89 mph fastball, then tries to put them away with a slider that's effective against both lefties and righties. He can vary the break and velocity on his slider to keep hitters off balance. He also mixes in an occasional changeup. Gunderson keeps hitters uncomfortable with his low three-quarters arm angle and slingshot delivery. Though he's small, he's athletic and has proved resilient during his college career. He had every reason to be gassed during his pro debut, yet he handled low Class A with ease. Don't be surprised if he climbs to Double-A--or higher--in his first full season.
