Griff McGarry, RHP, No. 5 prospect
Griff McGarry, a 24-year-old right-handed pitcher, is one of the top arms in the Phillies farm system just behind the two top guys, Andrew Painter and Mick Abel. McGarry has a five-pitch repertoire but focuses on his three plus pitches: his fastball (55/60 grade), slider (55/60 grade), and change-up (55/60 grade).
The former fifth-round draft pick's fastball sits 95-97 mph and has reached 100 mph with the ability to blow past hitters. You can see his nasty stuff from a 10-strikeout game he recorded in July this season:
But McGarry has his weaknesses, which are apparent as soon as you watch him. His command is one of the worst in the minors, grading out at 30/35. In 2023, over 16 games played between Double- and Triple-A, he surrendered five-plus walks in five outings, including four games where he lasted two innings or less. With the Reading Fightin Phils, he made 13 starts and carried a 5.93 BB/9 over 54 2/3 innings.
The Phillies No. 5 prospect's raw pitching ability is electric and jumps off the screen. He has the skill to be an impact big league player, and if an organization can get him to harness his command and keep his walks down, they'll find themselves with a diamond in the rough.