45. Tim Wood

45. Tim Wood -RHP - 6'1 - 185lbs
(last year: NR)

The Marlins drafted Tim Wood in the 44^th round (1310^th overall) of the 2002 draft. Early on, the Pima Community College pitcher of the year did not have any success in the professional ranks. His first three years in pro ball, he threw 123.1 innings, gave up 86 earned runs on 138 hits and 68 walks while striking out just 94 batters. Things started to turn for him in 2007, his second season in Jupiter. It was then that he was turned into a reliever full time. He made 17 appearances, throwing 26 innings. In that time span, he gave up 24 hits, 11 earned runs, just 1 homerun, walked 8 and struck out 26.

Even though he pitched well in 2007, the organization sent him back to Jupiter to begin the 2008 season. He would build off the season prior as he threw 40 innings and gave up just 25 hits and 1 homerun. He would see a late promotion to Carolina. Wood began to struggle in a much better league as he gave up nearly a hit per inning, although his walk rate and strikeout rate would improve.

Blessed with a 94-95mph fastball and a ridiculously nasty 86-88mph slider, Wood has all the tools to be a typical power-reliever. He’s been pitching in the pen out in the Arizona Fall League, trying to improve his command and its working as he has 0 walks in 11 innings of work. He’s battled injuries throughout his entire career but he could have a chance to crack the Marlins bullpen in spring training this season. If not, he’ll be in AAA New Orleans and could be on quickly if a bullpen spot arises early on in the season.