Zach Fogell continues scoreless innings streak since beginning his professional career
Former UConn left-handed pitcher Zach Fogell was speechless after the Red Sox drafted him in the 18th round of the 2023 MLB Draft.
“I’ve been at a loss for words, but honestly, this has been a dream come true for me," Fogell said to Beyond the Monsterafter getting drafted. “I can’t thank the coaches and staff at UConn enough for getting me to this point. Also, my parents, family, and friends for supporting me throughout this whole process.”
Following a strong final collegiate season, where he posted a 1.87 ERA over 27 appearances, Fogell has picked up where he left off and has been a bright spot in the Red Sox lower minors.
Fogell made his second appearance of the 2024 season on Tuesday night. He relieved starter Jedixson Paez, who tossed four innings. The southpaw threw 2 2/3 scoreless innings while surrendering one hit and striking out three en route to his first career professional win over the Delmarva Shorebirds.
The lefty came in to pitch during the fifth inning and immediately struck out the first two hitters he faced. Fogell tossed a clean seventh inning, and he issued the only hit in his outing to Cole Urman after a grounder deflected off the lefty and went to the second baseman. He would face one final hitter in Leandro Arias, forcing him to pop out to Marvin Alcantara before being removed for Isaac Stebens.
Fogell threw 32 pitches, 21 for strikes, during his outing; he forced three flyouts and one grounder while facing nine batters in his relief effort.
Through his first five outings in the Red Sox organization, split all with the Salem Red Sox, Fogell has thrown 10 scoreless innings with 11 strikeouts and a 0.70 ERA. While it’s a small sample size for Fogell, he’s been efficient on the mound while owning a 27.6% strikeout percentage.
Fogell offers a three-pitch mix, throwing from a three-quarters arm slot, offering a 92-94 mph fastball, changeup, and slider that looks more like a sweeper.
SoxProspects scouting report on Fogell lists the Cumberland, RI native as an organization reliever. “Attackers hitters and has shown the ability to miss bats with all three pitches. High-floor, low-ceiling type. As long as he can consistently throw strikes, should be able to move up to the upper minors pretty quickly,” wrote SoxProspects.
