Red Sox Prospect Hunter Dobbins Has Added a Splinker and Upped His Velo

Hunter Dobbins has emerged as one of the top pitching prospects in the Red Sox system. Selected in the eighth round of the 2021 draft out of Texas Tech University, the 25-year-old right-hander is coming off of a 2024 season in which he logged a 3.08 ERA and a 3.04 FIP over 125 2/3 innings between Double-A Portland and Triple-A Worcester. Assigned a 40+ FV grade by Eric Longenhagen after being added to Boston’s 40-man roster in November, Dobbins was called “a near-ready fifth starter prospect” by our lead prospect analyst back in July.
Dobbins discussed his repertoire and approach when the Red Sox held their annual Rookie Development Camp at Fenway Park earlier this month.
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David Laurila: What have you most learned about pitching since getting to pro ball?
Hunter Dobbins: “I would say how to attack hitters. Every single year I’m learning how to follow our plan and execute that plan. I think I’ve taken a big step forward in that aspect. The pitch shapes are also getting a lot more consistent. Last year, a couple of my pitches would have almost two different movements. This year, I’m looking at having consistent movement so that I can go right at hitters. But overall, it’s more of the strategy side of things where I’ve learned the most.”
Laurila: How do you balance attacking weaknesses versus throwing your pitches where they tend to play best?
Dobbins: “I side more on sticking to my strengths. That said, I have five pitches. I have pitches that move in all different directions, so I’m going to take into account if a guy struggles on this half of the plate with pitches that move in this direction; I’m going to have a strength in that realm. But I’m also not going to shy away from something I know I can land, even if that is considered one of his strengths. I’m going to take my best ball versus his best swing and see what happens.”
Laurila: How many pitches did you have when you signed? Read the rest of this entry »