Wymer hoping to build off healthy 2019 and move up in Jays' pitching ranks
Toronto Blue Jays pitching prospect Sean Wymer is hoping to build off a healthy 2019 season that saw him throw 137 2/3 innings for the class-A Lansing Lugnuts. Photo: Logan Lockhart
March 12, 2020
By Logan Lockhart
Canadian Baseball Network
DUNEDIN, Fla.-- Sean Wymer has put the stats aside, and is focusing on continuing to develop his game.
The Toronto Blue Jays have invested a lot in the young pitcher, who turns 23 next week, handing over a US$478,600 signing bonus after taking him in the fourth round of the 2018 draft.
Though yet to solidify himself in two seasons of A ball, he believes a reliance on command and stamina will help him move up to Dunedin (class-A Advanced) at some point in 2020.
“It’s always a hope to move up a level each year,” says the former Texas Christian University hurler. “If I have my stuff, I’m confident that I can move up quicker than one level per year.”
Wymer, 22, went 9-11 with Lansing a season ago, posting a 5.43 ERA while starting 26 games.
Reflecting back while sitting on a bench outside the Jays’ minor league complex, Wymer knows he wants to improve the numbers, but also insisted he won’t become too fixated on them.
“If I focus on other things, (the numbers) will take care of itself,” he said.
As a pitcher, Wymer prioritizes command over velocity, and feels fortunate to be able to throw 137 innings in 2019 with Lansing while staying in good health.
“I’d say the biggest positive (in 2019) is making through almost 140 innings,” says the Flower Mound, Texas native. “I think that’s big because I’ve noticed a big detriment to people is getting injured, so staying healthy was my biggest takeaway from last year.”
The “stuff” Wymer refers to is his fastball command and calmness on the mound.
“I’ve compared myself (in demeanor) to Corey Kluber (of the Texas Rangers),” he says. “A very calm, but still intense pitcher. I’m not going to be running off the field yelling and screaming but you can tell I have an intense focus up there.”