Sean Gallagher

Gallagher was acquired by the A's as part of the Rich Harden deal, and managed 103 strikeouts in 115.1 innings split between the Windy City and the A's. If he can harness his control there's some decent upside, which should separate him from the rest of the A's staff. He'll begin the year as one of the A's better starters.

Gallagher pitched well both at Double-A and Triple-A a year ago, but struggled during his eight appearances in the majors. We wouldn't be overly concerned about a 15-inning sample for a 21-year-old pitcher, however, and Gallagher's prospect status is still intact. He throws a low-90's heater, a hard-breaking curve and a changeup. He should compete with Sean Marshall and Ryan Dempster for the Cubs' fifth starter job this year.

Gallagher, who throws a low-90s fastball, a hard biting curve and an improving changeup, dominated at high-A early last year and continued to pitch well after his promotion to Double-A, striking out more than a batter an inning at both stops. He also did a good job keeping the ball on the ground and in the park, giving up just nine home runs in 165 combined innings. He struggled with his command at times at Double-A, though. Expect him to start out at Double-A with an eye on a September call-up if all goes well.

The 20-year old Gallagher had a strong showing at Low-A Peoria last season, striking out nearly a batter an inning while displaying good command. His one start at High-A Daytona last September was a five-inning seven-strikeout, zero-walk outing in which he allowed just a solo home run. He'll start off at High-A, and could be in Double-A before too long.