On Wednesday night, the Washington Nationals made some news when they dealt Tanner Roark over to the Cincinnati Reds. However, they acquired reliever Tanner Rainey, who looks like he could be a diamond waiting in the rough.
Rainey was ranked as the Reds’ 23rd best prospect according to MLB.com after transitioning to the bullpen before the 2017 season. Since then, he’s been able to fly through the minor leagues, culminating in his major league debut last season.
Some may immediately look at the horrendous 24.43 ERA he posted in eight major league appearances and cringe.