Mark Appel looks first-pick-worthy with five-inning, one-hit AFL start

Though Mark Appel, the 2013 MLB Draft's No. 1 overall pick, may have struggled at some points this past season (he posted a 9.74 ERA while pitching in the Cal League's elevated offensive environment before rebounding in the Texas League) he's been impressive in the prospect-rich Arizona Fall League.

On Thursday night, the Astros prospect announced his presence with authority. Squaring off against the Mesa Solar Sox, he pitched five shutout innings while surrendering only one hit and striking out four. 

He did it with the fastball: 

And he did it with the curve:

Why am I slowly teasing these out? Here, enjoy all four in a nonstop loop forever. 

Even more important than Appel's performance were some of the batters he faced: Dalton Pompey, Spencer Kieboom and Boog Powell.

Those are all Major League-caliber names.