A fastball with rise has a high percentage of backspin. When thrown up in the zone, it is more likely to generate a higher fly ball percentage. Rise+ of 100 is MLB average
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Hammer+
A hammer breaking ball drops vertically with velocity through the zone, or 12-to-6 movement. Hammer+ of 100 is MLB average.
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Sweep+
A sweeping breaking ball moves horizontally with velocity through the zone. Sweep+ of 100 is MLB average.
While the stuff doesn't jump out for Funk just yet, the ability to pitch does in an impactful way. Coming off a huge sophomore season for Andrean, Funk retired half the batters he faced at this event via punchout. A lean, youthful-looking 6-foot, 150-pounder, Funk worked in the low-80s with his fastball that played with significant arm-side run. He used a 67-71 mph sweeping breaking ball to play his fastball higher, spinning it at 2600+ at times for freezes and whiffs. He also controlled a swing-and-miss mid-70s change, as well. In terms of projection, future jumps feel extremely safe and the ability to command three shapes establishes a high floor.
2/27/25
Frame / Athleticism: A lean, thin-hipped, projectable, 5-foot-11, 155 pound southpaw. He showed great body control in his bullpen. He is young for the class, still 14.
Stuff: Fastball played at 77-79 with occasional cut and he displayed good control. He pitches from a 4'3" release height and the fastball plays with a very low vertical approach angle. His 63-65 curveball spun over 2300 at times with big sweep, averaging 19". The changeup faded to the arm-side with later break at 70-71. His breaking ball was commanded.
Arm Action / Delivery: Easily the most polished delivery of the day, low effort, balanced and repeatable. Does land with open front toe that likely cleans up with strength. Exceptional hip-to-shoulder. Its a loose, full circle arm action with some whip to 3/4 arm angle.
Summation: Funk was frankly my favorite watch of the day as it was my first time getting eyes on and he came highly recommended. The delivery is exceptional and strikes came with it. While the stuff doesn't jump out right now, the arm action is easy to bet on and there is shape to his secondaries. The ease of operation makes it easy to put a starters' tab and the lower release height should help his stuff play above its' velocities.
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