The Cardinals' strategic move in the recent draft, selecting pitcher Tegan Kuhns, has sparked excitement and intrigue among baseball enthusiasts. Kuhns, ranked as the 25th best prospect by MLB Pipeline, possesses a promising combination of physical attributes and pitch repertoire. His 6-foot-3 frame and ability to generate significant spin on his fastball, reaching up to 98 mph, are already impressive. Moreover, his curveball, clocking in the upper 70s, adds another layer of potential to his arsenal.
However, the key to Kuhns' success lies in his ability to develop a reliable third pitch. While he has shown glimpses of a mid-80s changeup and a low-80s slider, these offerings have not been consistently effective in striking out batters. The loss of a high-80s cutter from his repertoire further highlights the need for improvement in his pitch selection and execution.
Kuhns' journey at the University of Tennessee has been a rollercoaster. In 2025, he struggled with a 5.40 ERA and a 9.5% walk rate across 36 2/3 innings. Yet, his fortunes changed dramatically in the Cape Cod League, where he showcased a remarkable 20:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio. This transformation continued into his sophomore year, where he demonstrated improved control, reducing his walk rate to 4.7%.
Despite his success, Kuhns faced a setback when he was demoted to the bullpen after a series of rough starts this past spring. However, his return to the rotation brought about a resurgence in his performance. A standout 15-strikeout game against Texas on May 8th exemplified his ability to dominate when he is at his best. Kuhns ended the year with an impressive 106 strikeouts over 81 innings, solidifying his potential as a future ace.
In conclusion, the Cardinals' decision to draft Tegan Kuhns is a strategic move that could pay dividends in the long run. While he has the physical tools and pitch repertoire to succeed, his ability to develop a reliable third pitch and maintain control will be crucial to his development. With the right coaching and support, Kuhns has the potential to become a dominant force in Major League Baseball, solidifying his place as a cornerstone of the Cardinals' rotation.
