Bryan Mitchell: Eastern League Player of the Week

Eastern League Pitcher of the Week, Bryan Mitchell. Mandatory Credit: Trenton Thunder Official Facebook page.

What a week for the Trenton Thunder’s ace, huh? Bryan Mitchell, the 23-year-old right-handed anchor for the Thunder’s young staff, first pitched a gem earlier in the week and then received his first call to the Bronx to finish it. He was rewarded for his work with this week’s Eastern League Pitcher of the Week Award.

The Trenton Thunder’s official website first broke the news that the Yankees 14th rated prospect in the system won the award. Mitchell’s week started with his April 14th dandy of against Akron. He tossed six lights out innings, allowing no runs and striking out a career high 12 batters. His 12 Ks were the most for a Thunder pitcher since current New York Yankee reliever Adam Warren hurled 15 strikeouts in August of 2010.

Mitchell turned 23 on Saturday and instead of celebrating on the mound he was scratched from his start in favor of Charley Short. The next day, Mitchell was called up to the big show. Talk about a great birthday present! His tenure with the Yankees was short lived, as he was sent back to Trenton on Monday without making a single pitch.

The 2009 16th round Yankees’ draft pick made his Thunder debut at the end of last season. Although he didn’t register a win, he did record a 1.93 ERA over his three starts while striking out 16. He was off to a rocky start this season until his award winning performance this past Monday. He now stands at 1-2 with a 5.14 ERA and 20 strikeouts over his first three starts of 2014. He is scheduled for a rematch against Akron tonight at Arm & Hammer Park.

The Yankees’ bullpen hopes to get some stability back with the return of David Robertson this evening. However, the injury to Ivan Nova will most likely turn Adam Warren, David Phelps, or Vidal Nuno into the Yankees’ fifth starter. The Yankees bullpen will continue to transform itself all season, so this will not be the last we see of Bryan Mitchell. Until then, let’s hope he continues to keep the opposition missing.