4 KC Royals prospects who lost their shine after a rough 2024 season

KC Royals Prospect: LHP Frank Mozzicato

When the Royals drafted prep left-handed pitcher Frank Mozzicato seventh overall back in 2021, there were plenty of detractors to the under-slot approach and limited ceiling. The Connecticut native had promising game-level results for Quad Cities this year, but his third professional year really gave more credence to that limited ceiling.

Mozzicato’s signature pitch has always been his sharp 12-6 curveball, which has baffled batters since day one. This was the pitch that powered his 30.5% strikeout rate across Low-A and High-A from 2022-2023. However, while his draft peer Ben Kudrna garnered more attention from farm system watchers, both rose through the system together. Mozzicato racked up strikeouts but continued to struggle with command, issuing plenty of walks and working with a limited arsenal.

In 2024, Mozzicato spent the entire season with Quad Cities, showing both positive and negative signs. He posted an impressive 3.45 ERA across 22 starts, logging 101 2/3 innings. According to Preston Farr of Farm to Fountains, Mozzicato recorded a solid 28.8% swing-and-miss rate against High-A competition. However, this success came at a cost.

Mozzicato’s strikeout rate dropped to 21.3%, while his walk rate stayed in the low teens. His pitching arsenal hasn't evolved much, with his fastball still averaging 90 MPH and showing inconsistent command. Even his reliable curveball, along with other offspeed pitches, has struggled with control. While his ERA might not suggest a bad season, his lack of growth since 2021 isn’t inspiring much confidence in his MLB future.

Mozzicato is likely to start next season in Double-A, but his stuff needs to improve if he wants to succeed at that level. While he still shows potential as a fourth or fifth starter, another year of low velocity and inconsistent control could see him transitioning to the bullpen by 2026 and beyond.

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