Bryan Mata is flashing his potential in 2022
After missing two seasons due to injuries, Bryan Mata is making up for lost time
For Bryan Mata, the 2022 campaign has been full of encouraging signs. After missing the last two seasons following Tommy John surgery, Mata has appeared in 16 games. Despite the injury, he has been one of the most exciting prospects in the Red Sox system. So far this season, he is providing a reminder of his potential.
In 68.2 innings the twenty-three-year-old, has posted a 2.23 ERA and struck out 81 batters. Opponents have only managed to hit .192 against him which would be a career low if this season ended today. While splitting time between four levels, the Venezuela native has excelled at every stop and is currently getting his first taste of Triple-A action.
In two starts with the WooSox, Mata has continued to show encouraging signs. In nine innings, he has allowed three runs and struck out seven batters. The Red Sox's seventh-ranked prospect has yet to allow a home run and limited base runners. However, his one issue has been command.
During Mata’s first stint with the WooSox, he has walked six batters. Throughout his minor league career, that has been an area of concern. However, it has been an encouraging sign that despite the walks, he has placed his team in a position to win most of the time he takes the mound.
As the Red Sox turn their focus to 2023 and beyond, Mata is expected to be part of their plans. He projects as a back-end starter or late-inning reliever. He has been able to miss bats in the minors and posted a 3.19 ERA in 383.2 innings. In that span, he has posted a solid strikeout rate and continues to show improvement.
While Mata will likely start the 2023 campaign in Triple-A, his major league debut could come sometime next summer. He has a four-pitch mix, and how he improves his command will determine if he ultimately is a starter or bullpen arm at the next level. In 2022 he has been an exciting prospect to watch every time he toes the rubber.
Although the Red Sox are expected to be busy this winter, Mata provides hope for a bright future. If the season ended today, Mata would finish his fifth professional season with career bests in ERA and batting average against. Not bad for a prospect who had missed two seasons due to injury.
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