Former LA Angels Top Prospect Off to Hot Start

When the LA Angels traded for defensive superstar Andrelton Simmons, they had to give up some solid assets. The cream of the crop was Sean Newcomb, a left-handed pitcher who was the Halos’ number one overall prospect at the time.

The LA Angels made a risky move trading for Andrelton Simmons. At the time, he was an offensive liability. And giving up their top prospect along with other promising players did not seem like the best idea at the time. However, Andrelton Simmons has developed into a solid offensive shortstop, and is even experiencing a power surge this year with seven home runs.

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However, Sean Newcomb has finally made his MLB debut for the Atlanta Braves, and has showed the Angels what they missed out on. In his first game, Newcomb threw an absolute gem. He went 6.1 innings and allowed a single unearned run. He allowed four hits, none for extra bases, and walked two batters. He sent seven hitters down on strikes, but was unable to earn the win.

Newcomb was not as solid in his second start. He threw five innings, allowing three runs on five hits and four walks. His control was a little shaky, but he was still able to strike three batters out. Once again he recieved no run support, as the Braves lost 5-0.

Newcomb has looked promising in his first two starts. While the Angels are in no way losers of this trade, seeing what could have been with Newcomb must hurt. Outside of Garrett Richards, the Angels do not have a pitcher within the organization with ace potential. Meanwhile, Newcomb leads a Braves farm system that arguably has the most pitching potential in the league.

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The Angels also sent right-handed pitcher Chris Ellis in the trade. He has yet to find much success in the minor leagues. However, Newcomb seems to be more than enough for the Braves in this trade.