Henry Owens: A Pleasant Surprise

Six days ago, Owens took the hill against the New York Yankees in Yankee Stadium for his first major league start. No pressure, right? 

The lanky lefty looked noticeably nervous, but still pitched a great game. He left in the sixth inning, at 2-1, after allowing two runners on. The Red Sox bullpen went on to blow the game, but we saw flashes of greatness out of Owens. 

In Detroit on Sunday, Owens seemed more assertive and confident as he allowed 3 hits and 1 run in five innings as he one-upped former Cy Young Award winner, Justin Verlander. Owens used his fastball more, yet control continued to be an issue. 

Owens looks to be like someone that could be at the front end of the rotation for the Red Sox for years to come. His change up and curveball are major league ready, while his fastball is questionable. While his velocity is anywhere from 91-93 mph, he continuously leaves it up. If there is one place in the major leagues where you don't want to be as a pitcher, its up. 

Expect to see Owens here for the rest of the season, as the Red Sox look to see if they want to keep him for the future or trade him in a package deal for a starting ace pitcher. 

By Pete Packowski @Pete_BBS