The Nationals' bullpen is shaping up to be a fascinating storyline this spring, and Bryce Montes De Oca is emerging as a player to watch. In his first outing, the 29-year-old right-hander made a statement by striking out the side, showcasing the kind of electric stuff that has analytics enthusiasts buzzing.
Montes De Oca is known for his powerful arsenal-a fastball touching triple digits, a devastating slider, a tight cutter in the low to mid-90s, and a changeup. These tools make him a potential high-leverage arm, but his journey hasn't been without hurdles. Health issues, including Tommy John surgery, have limited him to just 10 innings since 2022.
In his recent spring appearance, Montes De Oca looked rejuvenated. His slider, clocking in the mid-80s, was the key to his strikeouts, and he also displayed a 98 MPH sinker. Standing tall at 6'7", his physical presence on the mound is as commanding as his pitch selection.
The Nationals' strategy this offseason, led by Paul Toboni, was to seek out under-the-radar talent rather than spend big on established bullpen arms. Montes De Oca, signed to a minor league deal, fits this mold. While he remains a long shot to make the roster immediately due to his limited recent workload, his performance could force the Nationals to reconsider.
The bullpen isn't exactly overflowing with sure things, making Montes De Oca's potential rise all the more intriguing. Despite just one outing, he has outshone others like Andre Granillo, who was initially seen as having a better chance to make the team.
Montes De Oca's raw data from 2022 is eye-catching: a 100 MPH average fastball, a 95 MPH cutter, and a slider with exceptional movement. Even if his stuff has slightly diminished post-surgery, his recent display was impressive.
Signing pitchers like Montes De Oca to minor league deals is a savvy move. If they struggle with control or aren't fully recovered, they can be sent to the minors.
But when you have an arm like his, it's worth the gamble. His pitches, especially a 101 MPH sinker with insane movement, are a rare find.
Yes, his career walk rate of 7.55 per nine innings in the minors is concerning, but with a strikeout rate of 13.31 per nine, the potential payoff is enticing. For a rebuilding team, taking a chance on a player like Montes De Oca is a calculated risk. Comparisons to players like Clayton Beeter, who despite control issues, managed a 2.49 ERA in 24 outings, highlight the potential upside.
Montes De Oca has the ability to be untouchable when he's on. However, consistency remains a question, and the Nationals will need to be prepared for both his highs and lows. Even if he doesn't break camp with the team, his performance ensures he'll be in the conversation moving forward.
His journey through arm troubles might have led to improved mechanics and control. It's a long shot, but there's always room for optimism.
Montes De Oca's standout performance should have fans and analysts alike keeping a close eye on his progress. Paul Toboni might just have uncovered a hidden gem in the Nationals' bullpen.