Dustin Moseley
Cincinnati Reds
Position: RHP Height: 6-4 Weight: 200 Born: 12/26/81 Bats: Right Throws: Right
Background
The attention in Cincinnati's camp this spring will be focused on rookie pitcher Ryan Wagner. He's certainly an outstanding prospect. But the Reds have another right-hander on the way up who could be quite a surprise this spring: Dustin Moseley. A supplemental first-round pick in 2000 out of high school in Texarkana, Ark., Moseley made 25 starts in the Midwest League at age 19 in '01, holding his own. He took a big step forward in '02, ending the year as one of the youngest players in Double-A. He consolidated his progress in '03, showing good command in another go-around Double-A, then pitching very well down the stretch for Triple-A Louisville.
Scouting report
Stuff-wise, Moseley isn't spectacular, but he gets the job done. His fastball is average for a right-hander at 89-90 mph, sometimes a bit faster than that. He locates the fastball with precision, and will alter his grips to add extra movement when needed. His curveball is an out-pitch, and he added a decent changeup in '03. Moseley has excellent mechanics, and is a very efficient pitcher with a feel for his craft that belies his age. He works hard at maintaining a game plan and getting the most out of his physical ability. Because he is not overpowering, he has to be razor sharp in the strike zone in order to succeed. So far he's been able to do that as a pro. He has no serious weaknesses, but his lack of blazing stuff gives him little margin for error.
Performance
Moseley's numbers have been solid rather than spectacular, but as one of the youngest pitchers at his levels, that's OK. His best attributes have been a low walk rate and solid overall K/BB ratio, factors indicating his fine command. His K/IP and H/IP marks have been less impressive, reflecting his lack of overpowering stuff, and his reliance on having a strong defense behind him. Despite his fine ERA at Louisville, his relatively low strikeout rate there is a warning that he shouldn't be rushed too quickly. He could use another half-season of Triple-A before being pushed into a major-league situation.
Health record
So far, there have been no serious health concerns with Moseley. He felt a twinge in shoulder late last year after swinging a bat, but it turned out to be nothing serious. He's been very durable so far in his career, thanks to his mechanics and efficient pitching approach. This is also testament to his general physical condition; he's a good overall athlete who works at staying in shape and building stamina.
What to expect
Moseley isn't on the 40-man roster yet, as he didn't need to be protected from Rule 5 last winter due to his status as a 2000 high school pick. He is in spring camp with the major-league club, however, and a good performance there should get him on the rapid promotion list. His command and control are strong attributes, and he draws comparisons to pitchers like Brad Radke and other control artists who've shown they can win games without blowing people away. Like most pitchers in that class, he needs defensive support from his teammates in order to truly thrive. A quick start in 2004 could get Moseley to Cincinnati by mid-season. He is a wild card for the coming campaign.
John Sickels is the author of The Baseball Prospect Book 2004, which can be ordered through his Web site, Johnsickels.com. His other book, Bob Feller: Ace of the Greatest Generation, is also out, and can be ordered through on-line book outlets or your local bookstore. He lives in Lawrence, Kansas, with his wife Jeri, son Nicholas, and feline friends Toonces and Spot.