Top Prospect Reds

Homer Bailey

Position: P

Full Name: David DeWitt Bailey

Born: May 3, 1986 LaGrange,Texas

Height: 6-4

Weight: 185

Bats: R Throws: R

High School: La Grange (La Grange,TX)

Homer Bailey was drafted in the first round in 2004, seventh overall, out of high school in La Grange, Texas. Most scouts thought he was the best righthanded high school pitching prospect available in the draft class. Utterly dominant in high school, he pitched well against good competition, and was named High School Player of the Year by Baseball America in 2004. His first full pro season in 2005 brought mixed results, as he was promising but erratic in the Midwest League, struggling with his command at times but showing outstanding potential. Although he has a reputation as a hard worker in most respects, he sometimes seemed to lose focus on the mound last year, needing to improve his concentration. On the other hand, when he is focused, he has strong mound presence, with an aggressive and self-confident attitude.- john sickels

Fastball: His fastball has been timed as high as 97 MPH, and works consistently in the 92-95 range, with movement. All he needs to do is learn to consistently spot his fastball and it potentially could be one of the best in the majors.

Curveball: Bailey has a potentially devastating curveball. At times he throws it and it looks like a plus-MLB pitch but at other times, hes very inconsistent with it. If he could learn to be consistent and spot his curve it could be a truely filthy pitch.

Changeup: His changeup is below average right now but is gradually improving, and should be a useful pitch in time.

Projection: Scouts say that Bailey projects to be a Number One starter at the Major League level, assuming that he can harness his command. Both his fastball and curveball are (or will be) plus major league pitchers, and if the changeup develops as expected, he can really dominate. We have to see if he can stay healthy, of course.