Carson Whisenhunt is Moving Fast by Throwing Slow

The 2022 2nd rounder has moved through three levels in two months

Photo Credits: K.A. Fulmore | Richmond Flying Squirrels

For a minor league pitcher, moving up a level brings plenty of challenges that are apparent to the outside observer: older, more experienced hitters who are capable of taking that pitch just off the outside corner, or with the barrel control to get good wood on the most minute mistake in execution.

But there are other, less obvious challenges as well. Getting back on a normal sleep schedule after changing time zones, for instance. Even forming locker room bonds can be a challenge, as Carson Whisenhunt somewhat sheepishly admitted to me when we spoke the morning after his Double A debut. “Getting to know each team member is a little tough, moving around this much,” he grinned.

It’s been a whirlwind of progress for the 2022 2nd rounder, who is now on his third level in just two months. After opening in Low A San Jose to start the year, Whisenhunt was pushed up to High A Eugene before the end of April. He lasted scarcely longer at that level — and was even more dominant, with a 1.42 ERA and 36 strikeouts in 25 innings — before being bumped up again at the end of May. Asked if the quick succession of promotions surprised him, he admitted “I had a plan, but I was not expecting it to be this quick.”