Washington Nationals choose Lucas Giolito as 16th pick in first round draft - MLB Update
An instant success of having picked Bryce Harper and Stephen Strasburg in 2010 and 2009 respectively is now being envisaged from Lucas Giolito, a right handed pitcher, who has been selected as 16th pick in the Major League Baseball first round draft by the
Washington Nationals.
Ability to throw fastballs, along with subtle curveballs by Giolito has impressed the Nationals’ General Manager, Mike Rizzo. For GM, Giolito is a right fit to a culture in the Nationals’ club-house which encourages powerful arms.
As per initial reports, Giolito possesses a diversified repertoire. Fastballs that he can throw touch the 100 mph mark. With couple of years in the Minor League, he can fine-tune his throws to perfection and can make way to the Majors expeditiously.
However, what may cause a potential problem for the Nationals are ligament or tendon issues, which has been troubling him for the last few years. Although, Giolito is cleared of everything by the doctors right now, there is no guarantee that the problem
will not shape up into something undesirable in future.
When the same was inquired from GM, he admitted an injury prone nature of his body, but he clarified that decision was taken after thorough consultations with doctors. Therefore, he proudly calls the pick a healthy addition to the club.
Eager to sign him at the earliest, Rizzo explains that he spotted something incredible in him in the first place. That is why he will go all-out to make sure he is playing in their farm system.
“We’re going to make every attempt to sign him,” Rizzo said. “With the new rules and the collective bargaining, it’s a different ballgame, so we’re going to put our best foot forward and try to sell him on our place here in Washington.”
Giolito will be ecstatic, on the announcement. Being called a name among players like Strasburg and then similar kind of expectations are levied, Giolito will be feeling lucky to have reached this level.
From now onward, he will be starting a new chapter of his life. Getting to the Majors at the earliest will be the most important goal for him.
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