Allen Webster

Webster had an interesting developmental year at Triple-A Pawtucket in 2014. Long known for a mid-to-high 90s fastball of which he had sketchy command, Webster dialed it back a bit in order to gain better command. The result was a lower strikeout rate, but also reduced walks and more consistency from start to start. As it became clear that Boston's season was going nowhere and they jettisoned four-fifths of the starting rotation, Webster was promoted and took a regular turn in the rotation from late July on. It was a good opportunity for him to stake a claim on a spot in the rotation for 2015, but his performance was spotty. In particular, his command. He walked 23 batters in 35 innings in his first seven starts. He turned it around in September, posting a 2.63 ERA while permitting just five walks in 24 innings. That's an encouraging sign for Webster, who was penciled into the Diamondbacks' Opening Day rotation by GM Dave Stewart following a December trade.

Webster had an impressive spring training that led to opening the season at Triple-A Pawtucket, where he started well. He was called up to Boston a few times and made six starts with both encouraging and disastrous results. Webster's mid-to-high 90s fastball with movement is tantalizing, but his control was often spotty in 2013. Once he rejoined Pawtucket for the stretch drive, Webster managed to find a modicum of control and finished the season on a roll. With six MLB-capable starters at the major-league level, Webster will likely get another year of seasoning at Triple-A.

Webster was included in the blockbuster deal between the Dodgers and Red Sox in August after entering 2012 as the Dodgers' second-ranked prospect. Logging 130.2 innings, Webster struggled with his control (4.2 BB/9) while striking out nearly a batter per inning at Double-A. In terms of raw stuff, Webster's arsenal includes a 94-96 mph fastball with occasional sink along with a slider and a changeup that both grade out as better than average offerings. The Red Sox are unlikely to force him into prolonged duty with the big club in 2013, but Webster will likely get a bump to Triple-A Pawtucket with an eye toward competing for a full-time rotation spot in 2014 if he's able to cut back on the free passes.