Dylan Jordan Shines in Spring Breakout
In Tempe, Arizona, 20-year-old right-hander Dylan Jordan made quite the impression against Guardians prospects during the third annual Spring Breakout. Despite the Angels' 4-2 loss, Jordan's performance was a standout, showcasing his potential and electric pitching arsenal.
Ranked as the Angels’ No. 11 prospect, Jordan delivered two scoreless innings with four strikeouts, allowing just one walk and no hits. His fastball was clocked at an impressive 97.7 mph, leaving fans and scouts buzzing at Tempe Diablo Stadium.
Reflecting on his outing, Jordan shared, “It was great. Just the opportunity to face these guys and play for this team was just awesome.”
Drafted in the fifth round of the 2024 Draft out of Viera High School in Florida, Jordan signed for $1.25 million, over the slot value. He had a solid debut season in the Minors, boasting a 2.36 ERA with 85 strikeouts over 76 1/3 innings. His late-season dominance at Single-A, where he posted a 0.94 ERA, further solidified his rising stock.
Facing a lineup filled with top Guardians prospects like Angel Genao, Ralphy Velazquez, and Cooper Ingle, Jordan relied on his sinker, slider, and curveball to overpower the competition. He kicked off his outing by striking out Kahlil Watson with a 96.4 mph sinker and, despite a walk to Ingle, quickly regained control with more high-velocity pitches.
In his second inning, Jordan navigated around an error and showcased his defensive skills by picking off a runner at first base. He capped off his performance by striking out Jaison Chourio with a perfectly placed sinker.
“Trying to pound the zone and get ahead was the plan,” Jordan explained. “The fastball was working, so that was good.”
Snead, Cortez, and Victor Bring the Heat
Nate Snead, the Angels’ No. 20 prospect, also impressed with two scoreless innings in relief. His fastball reached 100.5 mph, hinting at his potential future role in the big league bullpen. Drafted out of the University of Tennessee, Snead’s powerful arm is one to watch.
Chris Cortez, another promising right-hander, struck out three in his inning of work, touching 98.9 mph with his fastball. Originally a closer at Texas A&M, Cortez’s versatility could see him shifting between roles this season.
Najer Victor, who gained attention by striking out MLB stars in the World Baseball Classic, continued to build his reputation. He delivered a scoreless eighth inning, striking out two with a fastball reaching 98.3 mph.
Manager Kurt Suzuki noted, “We have a lot of guys nobody is talking about, and this year they really have a chance to put themselves on the map. It’s exciting to see.”
The Angels’ pitching prospects are certainly making waves, and if these performances are any indication, the future looks bright for the team.