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After serving a 50 game suspension for multiple failed drug tests, Jeffress was re-instated yesterday to Class A Brevard County and made his first start of the season. I think it would be fair to see that he was a bit rusty after missing that much action. Jeffress is considered this team's top pitching prospect but in his first outing back after the suspension he went just 2.2 IP giving up 5 ER on 6 hits while walking 4 but striking out 5. He was victimized by the longball; he gave up two of them.
Jeffress is an excitable player that exudes confidence on the mound. He often pumps his fist into his glove before delivering a pitch, and matches his confidence with an explosive mid-90s fastball that often times reaches triple digits. He also throws a nasty slider, although the pitch could use more consistency. His delivery seems effortless, and he uses his lower half well when pitching. Overall he is a very good overall athlete whose frame and stuff has drawn comparisons to Dwight Gooden. While he does throw extremely hard, it remains to be seen whether or not he can maintain that velocity as a starter, as his fastball can dip into the high-80s. With plenty of room to add strength many believe maturity will help aid that perceived problem
The Brewers hope to one day call this guy the staff ace. He has long way to go both on and off the field though.
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