Chris Stratton, a switch-hitting right-handed pitcher from Tupelo, Mississippi, has made significant strides in his journey through the minor leagues, hoping to join the ranks of the elite pitchers who have left their mark on the San Francisco Giants. Selected in the 1st round, 20th overall, in the 2012 Rookie Draft out of Mississippi State University, Stratton has steadily developed his skills with a clear goal in mind: to follow in the footsteps of Giants greats like Madison Bumgarner and Matt Cain.
Since signing his contract worth $1.85 million, Stratton has immersed himself in the culture and expectations of a franchise known for its pitching prowess. His first visit to AT&T Park left a lasting impression, further fueling his aspirations.
During his visit, Stratton witnessed a stellar performance by Bumgarner and just missed Cain’s perfect game, experiences that have both inspired and motivated him in his professional journey.
Stratton’s path to the major leagues is paved through the minor league system, where he has been honing his skills:
In his ongoing season with Class-A San Jose, despite a challenging start, Stratton remains focused on refining his technique and improving his game. His current stats include a 2-5 record with a 4.97 ERA, and while he acknowledges the need to control his walks better, his strikeout-to-walk ratio continues to be a strength.
Stratton’s ambitions extend beyond the pitcher’s mound. He and his wife have embraced life in the Bay Area, enjoying the local scenery and culinary delights. His goal is not only to succeed in baseball, but also to soak in the vibrant culture of San Francisco.
Chris and his wife enjoy exploring, from touring redwood forests to experiencing San Francisco’s famed culinary scene.
Chris Stratton’s approach to baseball is simple yet effective:
“The best pitch in baseball is strike one. The next best pitch is strike two,” he asserts, emphasizing the importance of aggressive pitching and trusting his defense.
As Stratton continues to develop, his combination of skill, determination, and strategic pitching positions him as a promising future star for the Giants. His journey through the minors is a testament to his resilience and commitment, embodying the spirit of the pitchers who have defined San Francisco’s storied baseball history.