Over the last year, the Red Sox farm system has been on the rise. One player who has seen their stock improve is righthander Brayan Bello. Bello was signed by Boston as an international free agent in 2017 and finished 2021 in Double-A. Bello is expected to start next season in the minors, and has become one of Boston’s most promising prospects.
In 21 starts in 2021, Bello posted a 3.87 ERA. The 22-year-old struck out 132 batters and limited opponents to eight home runs. Although he split time between two levels, he improved his control. His third minor league season, however, was full of ups and downs. While Bello finished the year with an ERA under 4.00, he allowed 33 runs in 63.2 innings of work for Greenville. In his first taste of Double-A action, he walked 24 batters and threw ten wild pitches. The 2017 signee, however, was able to end the season on a positive note, as in three September starts he posted a 3.95 ERA. When the calendar flipped to September, Bello rediscovered his early-season form.
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As the Red Sox sixth best prospect moves closer to the majors, consistency will be critical. He possesses a fastball that tops out at 100 MPH and a solid changeup. His slider is still a work in progress but has the potential to be an above-average pitch. Thanks to his three-pitch mix, Bello is seen as a middle of the rotation starter or high-leverage reliever.
What to expect from Bello next season
The Red Sox showed their faith in Bello when he was added to the 40-man roster in November. The athletic righthander was one of four prospects Boston protected in the Rule 5 draft. While the 2022 season is full of uncertainty, the Dominican native has already proven that he can handle adversity and joined unique company in 2021.
Due to his performance, Bello was named the organization’s starting pitcher of the year. He continued to improve in a Red Sox system full of talent as he faced more advanced hitters. When baseball does resume, he will be looking to build on his success and show why he belongs in the rotation. Regardless of where he begins next season, Bello has a bright future.
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Main Image Credit: via Over The Monster
