MLB call only a matter of time for Zac Grotz

Versatile pitcher Zac Grotz spent some time in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization in 2016, but he's now excelling with the York Revolution of the independent Atlantic League.

By Devon Teeple

The GM's Perspective

Former Houston Astros draft pick Zac Grotz is putting together a year any baseball person can be proud of

After appearing in five games, including two starts for the Atlantic League’s York Revolution, the 25-year-old hailing from San Mateo, Calif., is leading the league in ERA (0.43).

The last time Grotz dominated in this fashion was in 2016, his first year in independent baseball. He owned the closer role for the Washington Wild Things of the Frontier League posting a 1.36 ERA while recording 51 strikeouts in 46 innings. Eventually he did sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers later that year, but was released after five appearances.

What is most impressive is his ability to handle multiple roles. Not only can he come in relief and/or save games, Grotz can start when needed.

“He’s a good addition for us,” said manager Mark Mason. “He really impressed me every time he came into pitch. We’re going to give him a chance to start, and we know he can pitch out of the bullpen.”

This past Friday (his second year in the Atlantic League) he threw a nine-inning complete game shutout, the fifth in Revolution history. Additionally, this complete game extended his scoreless inning streak to 20 1/3 innings.

With a career 18-8 record and  2.38 ERA in 125 games, there’s little concern about what the rest of the story holds. History shows he gets guys out and gets them out efficiently (WHIP 1.169). What team wouldn’t want that?

Pitching is always a premium and when someone can prove their worth so consistently, their value is unlimited.