In some disappointing and sad news out of South Carolina headquarters, it was announced today that the career of P Reginald Thompson (AA), 23 years old, has ended.
On August 23rd, Thompson went onto the DL with severe shoulder inflammation. Team doctor's and trainer's knew the nature of the injury was serious from the onset, but all indications were that Thompson would be ready for Opening Day. But while Thompson's rehab was going exceptionally well until last week. The turn went from good to bad almost instantaneously. High ranking team officials were informed last week of the developments hoping a week of rest would benefit Reggie.
Thompson was quoted as saying, "It was totally unexpected, which makes it a little bit harder to deal with."
Thompson, drafted in the 4th Round of the 2012 entry draft (#75 overall) was expected to via for a bullpen role in the 2015 season and the thought process with ownership was to eventually be converted into a starting pitcher. Thompson topped out on the radar gun at 97 MPH, had tremendous stuff, movement and control with two plus pitches (cutter & slider).
Upon signing his contract, Thompson was placed in AA where he struggled a bit. He was moved to A ball and pitched and started in 19 games, throwing 111 innings, striking out 99 and having a WHIP of 1.24.
On August 1st, just 3 weeks before his injury, Thompson was awarded the Buck O'Neil Pitcher of the Month Award going 5-1, 1.26 ERA, over 7 games and starts. He threw 43 innings, striking out 37 and having a WHIP of 0.93
He was brought back to AA on August 23rd, for what would be his final start. He took the loss going 4 innings, giving up 6 H, 1 R (earned), walking 0 and striking out 5.
