LHP Mike Rayl was recently ranked the 17th best prospect in the Cleveland Indians organization by Baseball America. Additionally, the esteemed baseball publication also declared that Mike has the best control of any pitcher in the club’s Minor League organization.
Mike was originally drafted by the Washington Nationals in the 41st round of the 2008 MLB First-Year Player Draft, and drafted again in 2009 in the 15th round by the Indians. He was one of the top JUCO pitchers in the country while starring for Palm Beach (FL) Community College.
Mike finished his Rookie League year in 2009 with a 3.74 ERA in 10 G, while racking up 41 SO in 34 IP and only 10 BB. In 2010, he pitched at both the Short-season and Low A levels and had a combined 3.18 ERA. In 2011, Mike once again dominated at the Low A level, going 5-5, 2.83 ERA, 84 SO, 13 BB in 83 IP. For his efforts, Mike was named to the Mid-Season All-Star Team. Subsequently, he was promoted to the High-A club, where he finished out the remainder of the season.
We are looking forward to a huge 2012 season from Mike!!
