PHILLIES PROSPECT PROFILE: young RHP Jean Cabrera
RHP Jean Cabrera — 21 years old — signed as an international free agent 7/2/19 from Maracay, Venezuela
2023 Stats : Made great strides as a member of the starting rotation for the Threshers. In the Florida State League playoffs Jean excelled allowing just one run in 12.1innings with two wins in two starts. During the season he appeared in 19 games making 13 starts and accumulating a career high of 81.1 IP — a total of 93.2 counting the playoffs. He struck out 86 batters in the regular season (97 total with the playoffs) while walking 22 and posted a 4.32 regular season ERA. Finished with a 66 % strike ratio and averaged 16 pitches per inning pitched.
2023 Notes : Jean won the 2021 Paul Owens Award as he struck out 61 batters and walked only 10 in 13 ( 52.2 IP ) in the Dominican Summer League posting a 1.54 ERA. The team fellowship that the Threshers had this season helped him to grow as a player. He told me “The impression that this team has shown me is how we work a lot, it’s together and the camaraderie that we have is everything and for me that’s great.” The torque he gets on his pitch deliveries and his competitiveness along with a quick motion make him a tough opponent for hitters. He generally uses a sinker/slider combination particularly later in the year as primaries with the fastball in the 94 to 96 mph range with above average spin. The slider will sit 82 to 85 mph and he will spot a change-up along with a four seamer. He also has a curve ball but didn’t throw it as often this season. Jean can reach back and fire into the 97–98 mph range on occasion as well, we’ve seen that in the past.
Jean’s reflections : “I want to improve my strength for next season.”
Pitching Coordinator Travis Hergert : “Jean cut his walk rate in half and improved his average fastball velocity. He showed improvements in his slider movement and continues to gain physicality. He was very durable this season and never missed a scheduled outing. Late in the season he picked up a two seamer that he can use to right handed hitters.”
2024 Projection : He’s spent two seasons now with the Threshers appearing in 31 games, is ready to bump up a notch next spring.
(Steve Potter is the author of www.philliesbaseballfan.com. Residing in Clearwater, Steve follows the Phillies minor leagues in person at Carpenter Complex, BayCare Ballpark or via MiLB.com game videos. Nobody is as dedicated, thorough and knowledgeable).
