Jack Leiter Makes 2023 Debut for Texas Rangers Affiliate
Jack Leiter earned a no-decision in his first start of the 2023 season as the Frisco RoughRiders beat the Amarillo Sod Poodles 12-4 on Thursday night.
It was the opener for the Texas Rangers’ Double-A affiliate and marked the second straight season that Leiter started the year with he RoughRiders (1-0).
Leiter is the Rangers’ No. 5 overall prospect, per MLB.com.
Leiter’s start was uneven. He threw 4 1/3 innings and only gave up three hits. But he also allowed four runs, all earned, three walks and two home runs.
Leiter did strike out five hitters. He threw 79 pitches, 44 for strikes.
The Rangers hope Leiter is able to be more consistent this season. He's one of several arms the team hopes will be ready for the majors in the next few seasons.
Leiter was a first-round pick in 2021 (No. 2 overall) and went 3-10 with a 5.54 ERA in 23 games (22 starts) at Frisco. He struck out 109 and walked 56, while opponents batted .246 against him. He played in the MLB Futures Game at Dodger Stadium in July.
Grant Anderson picked up taking the victory in relief for the Riders.
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