The Padres have reportedly signed Alex Hinshaw to a minor-league deal according to Kevin Goldstein. Hinshaw, a 6′-3″, 170-lb lefty and Pomona, Calif., native, is also a former San Diego State Aztec. He was drafted by the Giants in 2000 in the 28th round of the amateur Draft, then again in 2002 by the Giants, then by the Marlins in 2003, only to by drafted for the third time by the Giants in 2005 as the 15th-overall pick.
Hinshaw had a cup of coffee in 2008 with the Giants. In 48 games and 39.2 IP, he posted a 3.40 ERA while striking out 47 while walking 29 batters. The 29-year-old lefty posted a 4.40 ERA between the Giants double-A and triple-A minor-league affiliates last year. Over seven minor-league seasons, he has posted a 3.84 ERA in 302 IP, while walking 212 (6.3 BB/9) striking out 377 (11.2 SO/9).
Hinshaw is either hit or miss, or I should say walk or miss. Obviously, he has control problems, but with an incredible strikeout ratio. So, if he can harness some control in spacious PETCO Park (where there is more margin for error) and if he earns a promotion, he could be a valuable lefty out of the depleted Padres bullpen. For now, it seems like a solid MiLB-depth signing for the Friars.
Hinshaw throws a fastball, slider and a curball. His fastball sits comfortably in the low-mid 90s, topping out about 94mph, while his slider can be a wipe out pitch along with his big breaking curve.