Cincinnati Reds Prospect Profile: LHP Ismael Guillon

With Spring Training under way, teams are in full-out evaluation mode, trying to figure out which players will make the cut and help the club be competitive in 2015.  It’s a perfect time for prospects to emerge from the pack, and for us to look at which Cincinnati Reds‘ prospects have the best shot at a future with the team.  We’ll begin near the bottom of Cincinnati’s top prospect list and work our way up as the  Spring progresses.   Up first is Ismael Guillon.  

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Name: Ismael Guillon

Age: 23

Position: LHP

Highest Level: High-A Bakersfield Blaze

2014 Statistics: 5-7, 4.89 ERA, 1.330 WHIP, 8.3 K/9, 4.0 W/9

Overview:

Guillon is an exciting power pitcher who averaged nearly 10 strikeouts per nine innings over three seasons split between Rookie-level Billings and Single-A Dayton from 2011-13.  During that time, the lefthander struggled with control, a problem that came to a head in 2013 with the Dragons, when he gave up a whopping seven walks per nine innings.

Guillon  started 2014 in Dayton once again and had a strong first half, which earned him a promotion to High-A Bakersfield, and that’s when the wheels fell off his season.  In 58 innings spread over 12 games, Guillon surrendered 13 home runs and 28 walks, posting an ugly 6.79 ERA.

Nevertheless, the Reds protected him on their 40-man roster this winter, but, when they signed Daniel Badehop and Kevin Gregg in early February, Guillon was designated for assignment.  He cleared waivers less than a week later, though, and will remain with the organization.

The Reds invited Guillon to Spring Training.

At age 23 and having failed thus far to really impress as a starter, it seems that the Guillon will need to take a different trek if he hopes to someday land in the Major Leagues.  Given the electricity in his left arm, he seems to be a good candidate for conversion to a left-handed bullpen specialist.  It’s not really a glamorous role, but it’s one that every team needs to fill, every season.

Riverfront ETA: 2017, if he can make a successful transition to the bullpen.  Maybe never otherwise.

Next: Cincinnati Reds Spring Training Report: Homer Bailey Behind Schedule