Texas Rangers Trade Interests Pitching Mechanics Breakdown

The Rangers are seeking the Tigers’ Rick Porcello, a 6’5” RHP, that's currently in Detroit's starting rotation. He has 4 pitches in his repertoire…a hard sinker that averages in the low to mid 90s (and can be effective with his 4 seam fastball as well…especially since he’s not afraid to pitch inside), a very decent slider, fair curve, and circle change up.  More importantly, he’s 24 and has better than average mechanics which have been improving yearly. He has long career potential (longevity) with all star caliber ability.

Leg Extension: 0 pts deducted

Hip Rotation: -1

Follow Through: -1

Misc: -3 balance

His mechanically sound delivery  project him to be an innings eater (200+) this year, with a 15% OIP (Overall Injury Probability).

Naturally, he is being sought by many other teams because of his future with ace potential, but will command a high salary in his free agent years.

The Rangers are also considering trading for Boston’s Andrew Bailey. Bailey would serve as the Rangers second set up man for closer Joe Nathan. Bailey’s mechanics are poorly…to be nice. He throws mostly with his arm which made it was difficult to give him any positive marks for his hip rotation, follow through, and balance. He has good leg extension until he falls backwards on his release (not a good thing unless you’ve bought into Dr. Mike Marshall’s pitching physics).  He has graded out to a 50% OIP, and quite frankly, with his mechanics, I’m surprised he hasn’t been injured in one of his spring training outings, yet. I hope the best for him, but he’s a big risk on any pitching staff as a reliever because of his mechanics... and even if he miraculously avoids injury, he will be limited to a small pitch count per outing, require more time for recovery after an outing, and a minimal number of innings that he'll available in a season.

It’s clear that Rick Porcello is the most sensible choice with high performance expectations as opposed to Andrew Bailey's 'a train wreck waiting to happen' remaining career projection. Nolan, please step in and offer your advice on this one.