Diamondbacks’ Arizona Fall League Participant: Jimmie Sherfy

Jimmie Sherfy will be heading to the Arizona Fall League. Credit: goducks.com

The Arizona Fall League begins play on October 7th with six teams comprised of various prospects from all organizations in Major League Baseball. The Arizona Diamondbacks will be sending seven players assigned to the Salt River Rafters. We will spotlight one prospect per day up until play begins. Today’s player is pitcher Jimmie Sherfy.

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Background: Sherfy is a 22-year old right-hander who was taken by the D’backs in the 10th round of the 2013 Draft. He was converted to a reliever before his Sophomore year at the University of Oregon. Sherfy was given the nickname, “Wild Thing” after the Rick Vaughn character in the movie “Major League” because his control resembled that of the pre-glasses wearing Vaughn. He was a second team All-American as a Sophomore in 2012 and a first team All-American in 2013, setting the Ducks’ single season record in saves both seasons.

Minor League career: Upon being drafted, Sherfy was sent to the Hillsboro Hops of the Northwest League. In nine appearances covering nine innings, he was not scored on while allowing only three hits and one walk while striking out 17. He was promoted to South Bend of the Midwest League where he continued to excel. Sherfy pitched 8 1/3 innings in nine games, allowing only two runs on ten hits, walking three and striking out 12. He started 2014 at Visalia before being moved up to Double A Mobile. Success did not come as easily as his ERA for the season was 4.59. However, he walked 23,a bit high, while striking out 68 in 49 innings pitched.

Outlook: At 6 feet, 170 pounds, Sherfy doesn’t look like your average closer. However, he possess a fastball in the mid-90’s range and is complimented by a devastating slider. In July, MLB.com ranked him as the #17 prospect in the organization. Look for him to continue to close at Mobile next season with an eye on Triple A Reno as the season progresses.