Mitch Haythorn Named Future Games Most Valuable Pitcher
August 4, 2022
EMERSON, Ga. --The velocity just keeps climbing higher and higher at the PBR Future Games. Whether it’s the throwing programs they’re on, the number of games they play, or the fact that they are going through a significant growth period, these pitchers can bring some heat.
But what happens when it all evens out? The answer: “Spin Wins.”
Whether it is a fastball that can garner swings and misses in the zone in hitters’ counts or a hammer breaking ball, the idea of spin is coveted more than ever. So while he was still pumping out 90 mph fastballs, it was 2024 RHP Mitch Haythorn’s (Eaton HS, CO) slider that set him apart from the rest of the talented arms at the Future Games.
For his electric performance and the upside that he holds, Mitch Haythorn has been named the Most Valuable Pitcher of the 2022 PBR Future Games.
‘24 RHP Mitch Haythorn (CO) might be the best arm I’ve seen today.
— Shooter Hunt (@ShooterHunt) July 28, 2022
Up to 90 & pitching mean w/ intent to punish late in counts w/ sharp breaking ball up to 80. Manipulates shape & throws with intent.
Impressive. 🔥#PBRFG22 || @pbrcolorado pic.twitter.com/rLXJQj4zbF
“That slider was the single best pitch that I saw,” Vice President of Scouting Shooter Hunt said. “Not only was it filthy, tunneling the fastball late before dropping, but Haythorn threw it with intent to embarrass. Hitters likely knew it was coming and he still had no chance. Having a weapon like that in your arsenal is a carrying tool. Combine that with a good fastball and changeup, and he looks the part of a starter at the next level. But, man, that slider got me into the front row in a hurry.”
-Shooter Hunt
The quick-armed right-hander showcased an athletic, more durable frame on the mound for Team Colorado, and was brilliant in an electric two inning stint that saw him strike out five of the seven hitters he faced. Working more up tempo through a well-connected delivery, Haythorn got quality extension out front while delivering out of a near-3/4 slot. While the fastball eagerly captured swings and misses down in the zone with some ride and run, and the changeup (83-85) profiled nicely with similar horizontal activity, it was a vicious slider that drew audible gasps from the coaches and fans alike. Up to 80 mph and ripped off with dangerous intent, Haythorn exhibited supreme confidence in the pitch, and it looked the part of a future plus offering. Easily the top offspeed pitch thrown at the event, it was a weapon in those two innings, and will almost assuredly be even more so in later looks.
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