Sammy Gervacio

Gervacio got his first taste of the big leagues as a "situational right-hander," working out of the Astros' bullpen. Despite the pedestrian numbers at Triple-A, he has strikeout stuff, as evidenced by the high K/9IP and .219 BAA he racked up in his 29 appearances. Part of that success is due to his unorthodox delivery, which allows him to wing the ball sidearm toward the plate, occasionally touching 95 mph. He doesn't project as a future closer, but he should continue to be effective in middle relief. Look for him to build on his 2009 success.

Gervacio made 50 relief appearances between Double-A Corpus Christi and Triple-A Round Rock in 2008, combining to go 3-5 with a 3.93 ERA, five saves (all at Corpus Christi) and 96 strikeouts in 73.1 innings. He walked just 29 batters, and his ability to miss bats suggests he could be closer material. Boasting a three-pitch arsenal, the Astros haven't been tempted to convert him into a starting role thus far. He’s still just 24 years old and has experience at Triple-A, which means he’ll have a chance to break spring training with the Astros. Even if he doesn’t, he should start the year at Round Rock and could contribute to the big league club in 2009.