Phillies pitching prospect off to breakout start in Clearwater

George Klassen is in Single-A Clearwater. (Cheryl Pursell)

Phillies fans may want to remember the name George Klassen.

Because if he pitches anywhere near the way he has through four professional starts, the young right-hander will certainly make an impact on the organization in one way or another.

Klassen, a sixth-round pick in the 2023 draft, has excelled as a starter for Single-A Clearwater so far this season. The hard-throwing 22-year-old has yet to allow an earned run through four outings while displaying a repertoire that should encourage those within Philadelphia’s organization.

After redshirting his freshman year, Klassen pitched two seasons in college at Minnesota. He posted a 5.72 ERA in 14 games his redshirt sophomore season, but the Phillies bet on his stuff over the results when they selected him with the No. 193 pick last summer. That choice seems like a good one early on.

Klassen has dominated the Florida State League in April with the Threshers, surrendering just a single unearned run in 21 innings over four starts. He struck out eight Bradenton hitters in six scoreless innings on Friday and gave up just two hits and one walk. Klassen has used his fastball that he can rev up near triple digits and two power breaking balls to strike out 32 batters while walking only five. The righty has allowed seven hits so far this year.

Of course, this level of production won’t be sustainable over the course of a full season, but Klassen’s pro debut has been a great sign. Despite some concern he’d more likely move to the bullpen in the long term — still a possibility as it’s very early — he’s handled the starter’s workload. Klassen has stood out in a big way and his development will be something to keep an eye on, either as a future contributor for Philadelphia or a potential trade chip down the line.