Rank History
| Year | Team | Position | Team Rank | OFP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | CHC | RHP | 35 | 35 |
Grades Update: Nov 2020
| OFP | Role | FB | SL | CH | Cmd/Cnt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 35 | 30 | 55 | 50 | 50 | 40/40 |
Nov 2020 Report
Evaluator: Matt Thompson
Age: 26 yr
Height: 6-7
Weight: 275 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2016 Draft - Round 10
RuleV: Eligible
Physical Description: Big righty checks in at 6'7" and 275 pounds. Soft body that lacks projection, Mekkes has long limbs and an intense personality on the mound.
Delivery & Mechanics: Low arm slot despite frame, gives hitters an unusual look. Has limited hits and posted big strikeout numbers going back to collegiate days, and has outpitched his stuff. Added funk gives a unique look mostly due to long stride and extension.
Fastball: Fastball sits in the low 90s, does creep up into 93-95 range but jumps on hitters. Hs the illusion of rising as it gets to the plate due to arm slot and extension. Late arm side run also make it very difficult to square up. Grade: 55
Slider: Average pitch that has shown flashes. Gets groundballs and weak contact. Will miss down and use this pitch to entice hitters to chase out of the zone. Grade: 50
Changeup: Works changeup low in the zone, and it will miss down. Average pitch. Grade: 50
Control and Command: Mekkes has a difficult time throwing consistent strikes, and that's largely due to a few things. His XXL frame and low arm slot aren't things you typical find together. He gets great extension as well. Delivery has a lot of moving parts and requires some effort. When he does miss though it is down and in a spot where he won't get hurt. Control: 40 | Command: 40
Overall: Cubs are building a stable of relievers with large frames that occupy the fringes of the 40-man and Mekkes will require a 40-man spot this offseason. He will likely get added but this profile is one that will likely get nabbed in the Rule V draft if the Cubs elect to pass.
OFP: 35
Role: 30 - Up/Down Emergency Depth
Risk: Moderate
