How do you spin a 1 ERA in your first full season of pitching?
Heres baseball america's take on Hughes:
3. PHILIP HUGHES, rhp Age: 18 B-T: R-R Ht: 6-5 Wt: 220
Drafted: HS—Santa Ana, Calif., 2004 (1st round) Signed by: Jeff Patterson
Background: New York had Hughes ranked higher on its 2004 draft board than 23rd overall, but that's where it got him. The Angels strongly considered him at No. 12 before deciding to take top-rated pitcher Jered Weaver. After being drafted, Hughes joked that he had been raised a Red Sox fan but was pleased to be with the Yankees nevertheless.
Strengths: His stuff, size and control have the Yankees comparing Hughes to Roger Clemens. He has similar velocity with a fastball that touches 95 and sits at 90-94 mph, and he generates it with an easy, fluid motion. His fastball also has late life up in the strike zone. Hughes changes a hitter’s sightline with a slider that at times has good bite and depth. He’s also shown good arm action on his changeup, and both his secondary offerings project as at least average pitches.
Weaknesses: Hughes was shut down more than a month after his pro debut with a sore elbow that turned out to be nothing more than tendinitis. He returned with two excellent outings in August before breaking his toe after kicking a door. He also threw well in the Yankees’ fall minicamp, dampening concerns about his health. Otherwise, he just needs innings and experience to refine his stuff.
The Future: The Yankees consider Hughes a high school power arm with the polish of a college pitcher. So if he’s healthy, he’ll move quickly. He’ll start 2005 at their new low Class A Charleston affiliate and could reach New York by 2007.
Come on man just admit that hes good. I GARENTEE YOU Hughes will be in the top 20 prospects or near it in next years BA top 100.