Checking in on Atlanta Braves pitching prospect Kolby Allard in Rome

ROME, GA — We have been awaiting Kolby’s arrival in Rome for quite some time. He had a brief stint here at the beginning of June, but that barely counted, as he was brought here temporarily to bridge the gap between the end and start of two leagues.

Last night, we saw why the Atlanta Braves drafted Kolby Allard in the first round in 2015. Well, we saw a glimpse of it at least. I don’t want to get ahead of myself. But the Southern Cali southpaw looked great.

Allard dominated Danville, leaving his promotion to Rome inevitable. In Danville, he posted a 1.32 ERA, with 33 strikeouts in 27.1 innings. That was after he gave up 11 runs in just 12 innings during his brief stop in Rome at the beginning of June.

More from Tomahawk Take

• Atlanta Braves 2012 Prospect Review: Joey Terdoslavich
• Braves News: Braves sign Fuentes, Andruw’s HOF candidacy, more
• The Weakest Braves Homers Since 2015
• Atlanta Braves Sign Joshua Fuentes to Minor League Deal
• Braves News: New Year’s Eve comes with several questions about the 2023 Braves

Friday night he went 5 innings, giving up one (unearned) run, giving up 3 hits and striking out 4. Just what he needed in his return to Rome.

I can tell you this about Kolby Allard after watching him from the box last night. His change-up is outstanding and he already knows how to work the corners with his fastball. All of his strikeouts Friday night came with a fastball on the outside corner.

Allard’s also got a little bit of swag. When he strikes you out, he knows it immediately and walks off the mound without any regard to your well-being. When we look at young prospects (especially 18-year-olds like Kolby) this is a good thing, but must be managed correctly. Allard seems to manage his confidence well, which is difficult to teach.

Here’s the quick book on Allard. His fastball ranges from 91-94, has a nasty curve with good depth around 80 mph, and a devastating change up with continues to get better.

With the addition of Allard, the Rome Braves now have four first rounders in their starting rotation – Touki, Fried, Soroka and now Kolby. So, get your butts to Rome.

With Kolby’s command and control developing nicely, coupled with his mental makeup, the sky is the limit for him. He’ll probably stay in Rome the remainder of the season, but next year he could jump up quickly. But, while we should all be excited about him, be patient. He’s only 18.

Next: Atlanta Braves lose game, maybe Teheran

After seeing him live and in person, I’d put his command and control up there with Soroka. Which is a tall statement.