In the grand scheme of things, tonight’s start doesn’t mean a lot. It’s just one start in full-season A-ball for a 19-year-old pitcher who is still fresh out of high school. However, San Diego Padres fans can’t help but to be excited over MacKenzie Gore making his 2018 debut tonight.
Last year’s first round pick started seven games in the Arizona League in 2017. Tossing 21 innings, Gore struck out 34 hitters while walking just seven and giving up 14 hits. Now, Gore finds himself in full-season ball after skipping over short-season rookie ball.
The San Diego Padres plan to be aggressive with Gore’s development plan, moving him up the ladder quickly.