Daniel Mengden as drafted by the Astros in the 4th round of the 2014 draft out of Texas A&M.
He came to the A’s in the July 2015 Scott Kazmir deal.
Mengden was never a flashy prospect, but his instincts and ability to throw strikes meant that he projected to be a major league arm–one that would work as a back-end starter or in the pen.
He made the majors in 2016 but did not really stick around for an extended period until this season. Over 115.2 innings he allowed 103 hits while striking out 72 and only walking 26. Good for a WHIP of 1.115 and ERA+ of 103. He was a shade better than league average. But for the 2018 Oakland Athletics–that made him a godsend. Their rotation was a dumpster fire all season.
He should spend all of 2019 in the rotation. If the Athletics end up fortifying that part of the team I think he would be a great pen arm due to his great command. Either way, he will have a big role in the A’s organization moving forward.
This card was part of a late-season consignment deal. I was happy to get it.