The pitcher with the unusual first name is quickly making a name for himself in the Twins’ minor league system. Zebby Matthews began the season at High-A Cedar Rapids before being promoted to Double-A Wichita and now to the Saints. The 24-year-old has a combined record of 6-1 this season with an earned-run average of 1.
95. The Twins selected the 6-foot-5, 225-pound Matthews in the eighth round of the 2022 draft out of Western Carolina. He currently finds himself among the organization’s top prospects, according to MLB.
com, at No. 19. Matthews, a right-hander, made his Saints debut on Sunday in Toledo, allowing two runs on four hits in five innings to earn the victory.
His parents and brother made the drive from their native North Carolina to be a part of the moment. Matthews said his wife, Kendall, will be at CHS Field on Saturday, when he makes his next start. Along with his impressive professional record, which stands at 13-4 overall, Matthews has drawn attention with his excellent command.
He has allowed only six walks this season in 83 innings pitched. “I’ve always had pretty good command,” Matthews said prior to the Saints’ game against the Omaha Storm Chasers on Tuesday night at CHS Field, a 3-1 loss. “I think a lot of it comes from good mechanics.
I have repeatable mechanics; I have a good feel for the ball. But also there’s a big confidence piece trusting in my stuff, when I throw it in the zone, is going to get guys out.” Matthews has enjoyed a stea.