QUOTE (kwolf68 @ Dec 23, 2009 -> 03:47 PM)
I realize Ely doesn't have electric stuff, but does Mark Buehrle? Not to compare the two, but what I understand is Ely was really studying hard to be a solid pitcher, his work ethic and devotion to his craft was turning him into a pretty damn good prospect.
NO, he was never gonna be a front of the rotation starter, but just looking at raw stuff sometimes doesn't tell the tale. I mean...a guy with 'average' stuff that struck out the numbers he did while also giving up a paltry number of home runs makes you wanna keep tabs on this guy.
It's over and done with, he's gone...probably won't be a huge loss, but I still think the character of the young man, his ability to grow, and work ethic, combined with a great understanding of how to pitch may find him pitching in the majors one day.
Oh yea, Ely also grew up a Sox fan...
Mark Buehrle was an anomoly, but people always bring him up. We've had 40 "mark buerhle's" come through our system since 2001. Josh Stewart ? = Mark Buerhle!
I doubt Ely turns into anything special.