Pittsburgh Pirates: Tyler Glasnow Dominates in Spring Debut

Tyler Glasnow made his spring debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday. The result was a dominant relief appearance with six strikeouts against seven batters.

The Pittsburgh Pirates appear to have one spot available in the rotation. On Sunday, Tyler Glasnow made a strong case for his consideration.

Jameson Taillon started the game for Pittsburgh, but was roughed up early by the Baltimore Orioles. Glasnow then got the call to pitch the third and fourth inning. The 6'8 right-handed giant was terrific as he struck out six of the seven batters he faced.

Manny Machado was the first victim with Glasnow striking him out looking. The inning proceeded quickly when Glasnow struck out Chris Davis and Mark Trumbo swinging.

The fourth inning was almost as successful. It began when Glasnow caught Seth Smith and Jonathan Schoop looking at strike three. New Orioles catcher Welington Castillo broke up his rhythm briefly with a single. Glasnow came back and finished off his day by striking out Ryan Flaherty looking.

Although it's spring, the debut yielded promising results. Glasnow did not strikeout the Orioles' Triple-A squad. He got the third strike against six MLB hitters including an MVP candidate (Machado) and the last two American League home run champions (Davis and Trumbo).

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There is no doubt Glasnow will at some point get his chance in the big leagues. The only thing holding him back thus far seems to have been his control issues. His high walk ratio has haunted him throughout his professional career. It was not much better last year either. Glasnow would finish the 2016 campaign with a 5.2 walks per nine combined during his time at Double-A, Triple-A, and MLB. The frightening total has been the main reason why Pittsburgh has held him back.

Despite the wildness, Glasnow has remained unhittable. He had a 1.87 ERA in 110.2 innings last year at Triple-A. He has survived thanks to the strikeouts, which on Sunday, were on full display.

One could argue in favor of Glasnow by referencing his WHIP. Even though he has issued 4.4 walks per nine at the minor league level, Glasnow has only a 1.08 WHIP. This is a great total for a guy who sometimes cannot find the strike zone. One would have to ask, is it better to give up a hit with a runner on third or issue a walk?

The Pirates have many choices for their fifth spot. Along with Glasnow, they may want to consider Drew Hutchison, Steven Brault, and Trevor Williams. Glasnow may have the advantage as the highly touted prospect among the foursome.

Better command this spring and continued strikeouts will keep Glasnow as a top choice for the fifth spot in the rotation.