Yesterday night, I was discussing the playoffs with a buddy of mine. He knows I'm a big Sox fan, but, for some reason or another, has just gotten around to telling me that his best friend from high school is in the organization. It turns out that his friend pitched for Lowell this past season and put up some decent numbers. He went on to talk about him being clocked at 96 four times in the 2006 Alabama high school state playoffs and what he says is a nasty, nasty slider.

Per SoxProspects...

QUOTE
Scouting Report: Fastball sits in the low 90s with good sinking movement, can reach 95 mph occasionally. Clay also is improving his secondary pitches, including a slider, changeup, and a curveball. Slider has a lot of movement, almost a slurve. Needs to work on command a bit, and could stand to get some more swings-and-misses. Very raw, as he spent most of his high school career as an outfielder. Wiry frame with a smooth delivery which has been compared to Tim Hudson's. Great all around athlete, who also was the best hitter on his high school team. Excellent work ethic and desire to learn. Tough competitor, works well under pressure. Underwent TJ Surgery in August 2007.


DiehardMagazine.com's Q&A

At any rate, I was glad to find another Red Sox connection down here in Braves territory. I'd be thrilled to see him recover from Tommy John surgery and pitch at Fenway one day!