Future Watch: Ashe Russell Baseball Rookie Cards, Royals – Ashe Russell was a first round selection in the 2015 MLB Draft as the 19th overall pick by the Kansas City Royals. This 6′-4″, 201lb right-handed pitcher hails from Indianapolis, Indiana.
He was drafted out of high school. In his pro debut with the Burlington Royals of the Appalachian League he pitched seven scoreless innings. He started a total of 11 games last year putting this prospect ahead of many in the minors.
This pitcher throws hard but keeps hitters off balance with a great slider and a changeup that continues to improve. This guy has top of the rotation stuff and that is music to the ears of Royals fans who are still basking in the glow of another World Championship. Potential staff ace isn’t out of the real of possibility.
In this video you can see that he has a live arm and a baseball that moves:
According to his MLB.com draft profile:
Because his fastball and slider alone could devastate high school hitters, Russell rarely needed a changeup and will have to develop one as a pro. He’ll also have to maintain his mechanics and command his pitches more consistently. His build, athleticism and long hair have prompted comparisons to Clay Buchholz. ETA 2018.
Ashe Russell’s first MLB licensed autographed baseball card will debuted with the release of 2015 Bowman Draft Baseball, card number BCA-AR.
This guy is special. Collectors should be stocking up on his cards now. There is always a certain risk in collecting pitchers but not this one. He’ll be in the majors before you know it and it wouldn’t surprise me if he’s a Rookie of the Year candidate in his first season. Until then follow him on Twitter @AsheRussell_
- 2024 Leaf Metal Football Cards Checklist - April 17, 2024
- 2023 Leaf Magnificence Multi-Sport Trading Cards Checklist - April 16, 2024
- 2024 Craniacs Trading Cards Series 1 - April 16, 2024