Klassen deals 7 scoreless innings in latest strong start at Triple-A
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George Klassen may have had a rough introduction to the Majors earlier this year, but he's still showing at Triple-A why his right arm holds a lot of promise.
The Angels' No. 4 prospect tossed seven scoreless innings with three hits, one walk and nine strikeouts for Salt Lake in its 4-0 triumph over Las Vegas on Wednesday at The Ballpark at America First Square. That's the most K's he's had in a game this season and is tied for his third-most since the Phillies drafted him in the sixth round in 2023. Klassen's 18 whiffs were also the most among all Triple-A pitchers Wednesday.
Klassen's season didn't get off to the best start as an early callup to the Majors saw him allow six earned runs and 10 walks over 4 2/3 innings combined in two short starts for the Halos. Once he returned to Triple-A, Klassen's MiLB ERA remained above 6.00 into June.
But the 24-year-old has given up two or fewer earned runs in six of his past seven starts. His ERA during this span is a stellar 2.17. And he has posted a quality start in each of his previous three turns.
One thing to watch, however, is his walk rate. Klassen hasn't always shown the greatest ability to command his nasty, powerful, four-pitch repertoire, And even during his current run of success, he has walked 16 batters in 37 1/3 frames. When you combine his big league and Minor League numbers, he has issued 46 walks across 66 1/3 innings this year.
But if Klassen's run prevention continues at this rate, he should get another shot in the The Show sooner than later.