Could this former top prospect be the mets 5th starter? An analysis of Max Kranick, an intriguing depth option



*This article is an expanded version of a thread on Twitter/X follow me there - https://twitter.com/isaacgroffman*





Could this former top prospect be the mets 5th starter?

Isaac Groffman



As the Mets try to recover and look within to find a new 5th starter after Senga's injury, the most likely options are Megill, Butto, Luchessi, and Kranick. While the first two are more likely to get oppurtunities because of their  experience, Kranick intruiges me the most.


As recently as 2021 Max Kranick was ranked as the Pirates #26 prospect. He was projected as a potential rotation piece with a plus fastball, slider and command. Kranick was never able to reach his potential with the Pirates due to injury but at 26 now he has a chance on the mets.


I see Kranicks fastball as the best pitch in his reperoire. It has gained velocity, as it was known to top out at 94 in the minors but touched 97-98 in the big leagues. Kranicks slider, which is a tight, high velocity offering with a bit of sweep has had some good results in the big leaugues as it has acted as his primary out pitch. and his curveball profiled well in the minors, and his changeup can be a decent 4th offering.


While he might not have the experience of Megill, Butto, or Luchessi. I think Kranicks' stuff is better and as a result his ceiling is higher. The 26 year old who grew up as a Mets fan has a chance to make a serious impact for his team in a desperate time.

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