2 Phillies prospects a step closer to the big originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
The current Phillies have taken a closer look at the rest of baseball this season. A few players who represent the future of the franchise are also calling it a day and are one step closer to the greats.
The organizations promoted two of their top picks from the 2023 MLB Draft, as shortstop Aidan Miller and pitcher George Klassen made the jump from Clearwater to High-A Jersey Shore.
Molenaar, the 27e last year’s pick and the organization’s number two pick, has found success in his first full minor league season for the Threshers, led the Florida State League in doubles (16) and ranks in the top five in the FSL in slugging percentage (.483) and OPS (.884).
Klassen earned his promotion through sheer dominance. In his nine starts so far this season for Clearwater, Klassen has allowed 21 hits and struck out 57 in 38 innings, or 1.5 Ks per inning pitched.
His ERA of 0.71 is the lowest in the FSL for any pitcher with at least 20 innings pitched. Last season at the University of Minnesota, he struggled with his control, walking 47 batters in 56 2/3 innings. He’s finding his place as a pro this season, lowering his walks per 9 IP from 7.5 to 2.8.
He dazzles with a 3-pitch mix, with a high-90s fastball, curve and a nasty cutter, which looks more like a sweeper. He pitches once every six days and could play at home Friday night when Jersey Shore hosts the Wilmington Blue Rocks.
