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Rockies Prospect Ready to Make Comeback in Arizona Fall League

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Colorado Rockies pitching prospect Gabriel Hughes is ready for his redemption tour following recovery from Tommy John surgery last season. Hughes will be pitching in the AFL for the Salt River Rafters. The Rafters will kick off their first game in the AFL on Oct 8th. The 23-year-old is seeking to revamp himself following a UCL tear in July of 2023, leading to Tommy John surgery on his right elbow.

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Rockies Pitching Prospect Gabriel Hughes Set to Return in Arizona Fall League

In the 2023 season, Hughes sported an ERA of 6.21 with a 6-5 record in High-A Spokane and Double-A Hartford across 14 games. Unfortunately, on July 9th of that year, Hughes’ season was spoiled when he found out he had a Grade 2 tear in his UCL. He pitched five innings and then was forced to leave the game. His injury also interfered with the opportunity for an MLB call-up. If he had remained healthy, he was on track to make his MLB debut in late 2024.

But now the hopeful starter is ready to bounce back as he’s spent over a year recovering. Hughes is ready to perform in the AFL and hopefully make his MLB debut next season. He recently discussed his recovery and stated that he wants to “make it so I can’t be ignored.” The right-hander was drafted by the Rockies 10th overall in the first round in 2022. He started his minor league career in High-A and then transitioned to Double-A when he was 21.

Hughes Comes From a Family of Baseball

Hughes is a pitcher with promising potential and a high ceiling. He still has room to progress and grow beyond what he has presented so far. Many pitchers showcase resiliency following recovery from season-ending surgeries. Back in his college days in 2022, he showed consistency with an 8-3 record and an ERA of 3.21 playing for the Gonzaga Bulldogs. Hughes brings a dominant mound presence with his 6’4” height and a strong delivery.

Hughes is also known for having a solid arm with a fastball that tends to hit the high 90s. While his ERA needs improvement, he is a pitcher who is unafraid to go after hitters. He also uses a curve and slider that have been effective for him, and his fourth pitch is a changeup. Hughes comes from a family of baseball players. His grandfather Donald Hughes played in the minors for the Detroit Tigers. His younger brother Jacob Hughes is currently a relief pitcher for the WCC Loyola Marymount Lions.

 

Photo Credit: © Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

The post Rockies Prospect Ready to Make Comeback in Arizona Fall League appeared first on Last Word On Baseball.