Projected PawSox 2009- Michael Bowden

2009 could potentially be a make or break season for Michael Bowden.

Much is expected of powerful righthander after making great strides in 2008, impressing the organization in Portland before being promoted to Pawtucket and eventually making a spot start with the Red Sox.  Bowden ended up winning that start, an 8-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox on August 30th.

The Sox’ 1st round draft pick in 2005 earned a 0-3 record with a 3.38 ERA in 7 games with the PawSox last year.  In Portland Bowden started 19 games, going 9-4 with a 2.33 ERA.

Bowden possesses an above average fastball (low to mid 90′s) with a biting breaking ball and excellent change-up.  His biggest asset has been his ability to throw all his pitches around the plate, giving up only 30 walks in a total of 149.1 innings between Portland, Pawtucket,  and Boston.

The Red Sox had high hopes last year for Clay Buchholz to make his 2007 Major League debut stick.  Buchholz got off to a slow start and did not recover.  With the depth of starters in Boston, Bowden will be given every opportunity to continue his development in Pawtucket without the pressure of needing to be ready for the Big Leagues too soon.

Photo Courtesy Boston.com