Michael Main

Main made just two late-season appearances after being sidelined in early June with what was determined to be a viral infection of unknown nature. Whether that was the cause of his season-long struggles isn't known, but his season was a complete disappointment (58 innings, 72 hits, 49:37 K:BB). He's yet to pitch above High-A, and we won't have a good idea on how quickly he'll advance until he gets in some meaningful action at Double-A Frisco.

Main was sidelined early in the season with a rib cage fracture, limiting him to just 10 starts at Low-A Clinton as a result. His numbers were a mixed bag, and the long ball could be a real problem as he advances. He gives Texas another projectable arm at the lower levels, but we'll need to see how he passes the Double-A test before we can get too excited.

Main was selected 24th overall by Texas in the June draft and progressed quickly through the minors, graduating from the Rookie League ranks after just five appearances (12.2 innings, nine hits, six walks, 16 K). In five starts at Low-A Spokane, Main continued to post solid numbers (15.1 innings, 14 hits, seven walks, 18 K) given that he was facing some college-aged kids. He'll start the year at Low-A again, but could see some action at Double-A Frisco by 2009.