2010 Deep Sleepers: Wade Davis
By Adam Forsyth
Wade Davis - Starting Pitcher
Impressive in his six start audition at the end of the 2009 season, this home grown talent and former 3rd round pick put the pressure on the struggling Andy Sonnanstine and will surely challenge to make the starting rotation in what should be a great spring training challenge as the Rays number five.
Wade Davis brings a much better overall palate to the mound, offers greater control - and more effective full plate and corner use. While it’s no mystery that Sonnanstine struggled mightily last season (in what many believed would be a breakthrough season) Wade Davis seemed cool and confident on the mound in all but one of his starts.
The Rays seem to have tremendous success in grooming their own talent the last few seasons and should Davis be allowed to make the roster and show the expected growth, the coaches and management in Tampa deserve some accolades as they are in tough in a money-spending AL East where even Don Zimmer is seemingly a small fish
in the big pond
.
Davis has the stuff to be a K/IP pitcher while maintaining control (career minor league 2.83K/BB) and is a quality start heavyweight who typically toes the hill with his head on straight. Power, poise and a top end curve makes this yet another worthy Rays starter to keep on the tip of your tongue and the front of your mind on draft day.
