He’s only 18, but Fireflies pitcher showing flashes of brilliance early in 2019

In six starts with the Columbia Fireflies, it’s easy to see what has scouts so enamored with 18-year-old Simeon Woods-Richardson.

The 6-foot-3, 210-pound right-handed pitcher who was the 48th overall pick in the 2018 Major League Draft has an electric fastball to go along with three other secondary pitches that make it seem he’s a lot older than his age. Wood-Richardson is on a limited pitch count since it’s so early in his career, but the flashes of brilliance have been seen.

He’s pitched 18 innings so far, allowing 17 hits with 27 strikeouts and one walk. In four of his six starts, he hasn’t allowed a run.

But he’s also seen the side of disappointment as his record is 0-3 after this past week’s loss to Delmarva. He gave up five runs in 3.1 innings against the Shorebirds, including the first home run he’s allowed this season. His ERA went from 1.23 to 3.50 after that game.

Understanding the process is a huge key for Woods-Richardson, who was used to just blowing hitters away in high school.

“I gave up a grand slam, but it came off a change-up, something I’m developing,” he said. “That means I need to go back and work on that better. So there are always things I can do to get better and that’s what I try to execute each day.”

Fireflies pitching coach Royce Ring, who pitched for four different teams in the majors from 2005-2010, has seen nothing but positive strides for a youngster that won’t turn 19 until after the season is over.

“He’s a tremendous young talent,” Ring said. “He has a good arm, is competitive, has secondary pitches, and makes adjustments well. He continues to improve and is an exciting arm we get to work with on a day-to-day basis.”

More than anything else, Ring believes the humble, grounded ways of Woods-Richardson is most helpful. He understands the process of trying to improve each day and never lets an opportunity pass to find a way to improve go unnoticed.

“This is a developmental level still, so I don’t think we’re worried about wins and losses as much as what he is doing,” Ring said. “He has a good head on his shoulders and understands the process. He’s kind of unique in a lot of difference ways, which is what will make him special down the road.”

Woods-Richardson, who was committed to Texas before being drafted, has adjusted to the rigors of minor league baseball as well. The travel and wear and tear make for a long 140-game season, but Woods-Richardson has learned taking care of things off the field are just as important as doing things on the field.

“Have a routine,” Woods-Richardson said. “Last season I was still trying to feel some things coming out of high school. I was sort of ‘show and go’ and I learned I can’t do that here. You learn arm care is very important, you learn conditioning is very important, sleep is very important. All the things to help you perform on the field really helps.”

Tough times

The Fireflies (8-18 as of games through Thursday) have hit a bit of a rough stretch. They’ve only won once since April 19, losing 11 out of 12 during that stretch. Four of the losses have been by one run.

They opened a homestand with three straight losses to Delmarva but continue at Segra Park through Monday against Hickory. Game times are 7:05 on Friday and Monday, with a 6:05 start on Saturday and 2:05 first pitch on Sunday.

South Atlantic League

Northern Division

Southern Division

This story was originally published May 3, 2019 at 10:04 AM.