Project Prospect has a breakdown of the big Stanford right-hander Mark Appel, who came into this college season as the best bet to land in the No. 1 overall pick. However, a slow start has raised concerns. None of those were present when Wes Yee looked at him against Rice last Friday:
↵↵↵While he could grow and add even more velocity than he already has, it's more likely that he'll mature into a #2 type of arm....After the rough first inning, Appel was a man amongst boys. On the mound, he's a composed presence capable of controlling the tempo of a game. He warrants serious consideration at the very top of the draft in June, and looks like he could be ready for the major leagues as soon as 2013.
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Yee goes on for a pretty detailed look at what Appel offers. I have to say, it's an intriguing package. The thing about Appel that's really probably attractive to GMs and scouting directors is he can move very quickly. With that fastball and those breaking pitches, Appel could help a team quickly.
↵Just look at his curve
↵↵That said, I'm not convinced that's what Houston needs most. Do they need a pitcher who can help quickly? Or a guy with higher upside that may take a little longer to develop? I'm leaning towards the second, but if Appel continues to pitch like he did against Rice, he's going to make it hard to not take him.
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