HEY HEY HEY HEY!

The Kansas City Royals former first round pick (33rd overall) in the 2015 MLB Draft threw a CGSO for the Wilmington Blue Rocks today. The Blue Rocks are on the road in Frederick playing a double header, and Watson went all 7 innings without giving up a run. Here’s his final stat line:

7 IP, 1 BB, 4 K, 2 H, 0 ER

It’s been a struggle for Watson since being drafted. His lowest career ERA at any level is 4.91, when he threw 29.1 innings in rookie ball (Burlington) the year he was drafted. Moving a prep pitcher to Burlington the year he is drafted is a bit of a power move, but it should show you how much the Royals liked Watson out of high school.

Despite his struggles, Watson now owns a 3.65 ERA in the Carolina League this season, and appears to be turning things around just a little bit. He’s not striking anyone out, he’s still walking too many people, but he’s also still 21 years old. That’s important to remember when talking about Nolan Watson. Will he ever be a top prospect again? No. That time is over for him. But Jake Junis didn’t make his MLB debut until the age of 25 and he’s worked out pretty well, no? Give Watson some time. He may be able to turn his career around before it’s all said and done.