Getting to know your prospects: T.J. House

By foxsports
Published

Name: T.J. HousePosition: Left-handed pitcherCurrent team: Triple-A ColumbusAge: 23Height: 6’1”Weight: 205Bats: RightThrows: Left2013 stats: 3-6, 5.11 ERA, 13 G, 75.2 IP, 82 H, 11 HR, 30 BB, 64 K, .276 AVG
Facts and Info: The Indians selected House in the 16th round of the MLB First Year Player Draft in 2008 out of Picayune High School in Mississippi. He had committed to Tulane University and was considered unsignable, but a last minute coaching changed helped push him into signing with the Indians.  Last season he finished eighth in the organization in ERA (3.56), fourth in wins (10), and third in strikeouts (116).
The Stuff: House features a slightly above average fastball that consistently sits at 90-93 MPH and flashes 95 MPH. His main secondary offering is a plus slider that sits in the mid-80s with good depth and late break, and he also throws a developing changeup that has the potential to be a solid to average offering. He continues to make strides with a curveball that he added to his arsenal at the end of the 2010 season and is starting to feature it more.
The Delivery: House has a smooth delivery with a maturity level that is off the charts and he maintains his composure in the toughest situations. He lowered his arm slot a little bit last season to get it down to a more natural position for him and similar to where it was at in high school. That has helped him locate his pitches better and get more sink on his fastball. His improved physical condition and lower arm slot have combined to help him throw more quality pitches, including more strikes. 
The Intangibles: House is a physically strong pitcher that has a lot of mental toughness and a very high baseball IQ. He is a competitor who shows an ability to battle on nights he does not have his best stuff, and he is always tuned into the game looking for ways he can expose hitters or pick up something new from another pitcher. He is very coachable with outstanding makeup. 
The Focus: House ultimately just needs to become a more consistent performer over the course of a full season. He is focused on honing his pitching skills and does so by better incorporating his changeup and developing his intelligence on the mound. He does that by reading swings and making adjustments not only from at bat to at bat but pitch to pitch. He needs to continue to refine his delivery so he repeats it more consistently. That in turn will lead to better command and crisper stuff.
The Crystal Ball: House had a forgettable 2011 campaign and really bounced back with one of his best seasons as a pro thanks to the work he did prior to the last season by working out and coming into camp in great shape. He is a depth starting pitching prospect for the Indians and could still be a middle-to-backend of the rotation starter at the major league level. He may also get some consideration as a bullpen option down the road.