Photograph by Fernando Gutierrez Jr. at FGJPhotography
Interview by David Saltzer, AngelsWin.com Senior Writer -
Since being drafted by the Angels in the first round of the 2014 Major League draft (15th overall), Sean Newcomb has sat atop all Angels Minor League prospect lists. And, in the year after being drafted, Newcomb has shown exactly why he has deserved such praise. Sporting a 93-96 mph fastball, a dominating curve, and plus changeup, Newcomb has racked up 139 strikeouts in 108.1 innings pitched. That amounts to an 11.5 SO: 9 IP ratio!
Standing on the mound, Newcomb has a presence. His 6'5" and 245 lbs frame is imposing. He attacks hitters low and inside, often making them look foolish chasing pitches.
Personally, Newcomb is well-liked by his teammates. His coaches praise him for his hard work, his poise, and his coachability. Speaking with Newcomb, I found him to be very humble, articulate, intelligent, and mature. I can easily see him being a top of the rotation pitcher for the Angels and a go-to guy for the media.
In a wide-ranging interview, we spoke about his roots as a baseball player, his time in college, and his time in the Majors so far. Angels fans, you really need to make the drive to see him pitch at San Manuel Stadium for the IE 66ers while you can. Out there, it's a lot easier to get an autograph, grab a picture, and even meet a player out there than it is in Anaheim. Newcomb is the kind of player you will want to know, so take the time to see him while he's still pitching in the Cal League.
Please click below to watch our interview with this rising star.
AngelsWin.com would like to specifically thank Steve Wendt and Matt Kowallis from the IE 66ers for all their efforts in arranging this interview.