Jason

Knapp

Knapp hasn’t pitched since the 2010 season because of ongoing shoulder issues. The 21-year-old righty was part of the Indians’ package for Cliff Lee in July of 2009.

Knapp hasn’t pitched professionally since 2010 due to shoulder issues, but he’s claiming to be healthy now and should be able to find a minor league contract from some team. Knapp is only 23 years old and was one of the prospects sent to the Indians for Cliff Lee in 2009.

Knapp hasn’t pitched professionally since 2010 due to shoulder issues, but the former top prospect is giving it another go. He’s still just 23, so it’s a worthy gamble by the Rangers.

In Cleveland’s eyes, Knapp is the key to the four-prospect package. Knapp, a second-round pick in the 2008 draft, was only 2-7 with a 4.01 ERA at Class-A Lakewood. But the 18-year-old possesses a fastball clocked in the high 90s and has raw stuff comparable to most any pitching prospect in the league. He might settle in as a reliever. Knapp has battled shoulder soreness, but if he can fend off those issues, he appears destined for a bright future.

He gave up just one hit in the process. Knapp is somehow 0-2, but he has a 30/5 K/BB ratio and a .150 average against in 18 1/3 innings over his three starts. A 2008 second-round pick, he’s been viewed as a future reliever since being drafted. That may change if he continues to get these kinds of results as a starter.

Knapp, considered by some to be the key to the Cliff Lee trade earlier this season, was injured at the time of the trade. The Indians pulled the trigger anyways, feeling Knapp would not need surgery after looking at his medical records. However, the right-hander had not had an MRI with Philadelphia, which showed the loose bodies. He should be recovered in plenty of time for spring training; the Indians do not plan to file a grievance against the Phillies.

The surgery was performed by Dr. David Altchek. Indians VP of player development Ross Atkins said the procedure was done to to “stabilize and tighten the anterior aspect of the shoulder.” The Indians are hoping that he will be ready for the start of the 2012 season. Knapp, 20, was one of the key pieces from the Cliff Lee deal in 2009.