BOSTON -- Franklin Morales made an impression on Martin Prado the first time the lefty pitched against the outfielder in Winter Ball more than five years ago in their native Venezuela.
I always knew since I faced him that he had potential to be a great pitcher in baseball, Prado said.
Over the next few years, Prado faced Morales when his team, the Atlanta Braves, played the Colorado Rockies, Morales club for more than four seasons.
Morales was traded from the Rockies to the Red Sox in May of 2011. After being a reliever for the majority of his career, he was moved to Bostons starting rotation this month.
On Saturday, Morales (1-1, 3.12 ERA) made his second start of the 2012 season. He threw six innings, striking out eight with seven hits, two earned runs, and one walkin the Red Sox 8-4 victory over the Braves. Prado drew a walk, grounded into a double play, and flied out against Morales.
Hes got electric stuff, Prado said before the game. His motion, he makes his presence on the mound known. When its on, you can see he has electric stuff. His fastball is fast. He has an electric curveball. I knew he had the stuff. Im just hoping he can be consistent and I know he can be a great pitcher.
When asked which other Major League pitcher reminds him of Morales, Prado paused.
Boston Red Sox
Nobody comes to mind right now, but that means hes different, Prado said. He can be one of a kind.