A.J. Burnett

Guide Note

A.J. Burnett is a right-handed pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays. Burnett was originally drafted by the New York Mets, in the eighth round of the 1995 amateur draft (217th overall pick). In 1997 Burnett was traded to the Florida Marlins organization, and in 2001 Burnett recorded a no-hitter against the San Diego Padres, despite walking none batters. Despite a productive 2003 campaign with the Marlins, Burnett's tenure with the team was marred by injuries, having missed the teams 2004 Championship run following Tommy John Surgery. At the 2005 Winter Meetings the Toronto Blue Jays signed Burnett to a five-year $55 Million contract.

Fast Facts

1. Born: January 3, 1977
2. 2001: Pitched a No-Hitter
3. Birthplace: North Little Rock, Arkansas

Burnett throws three pitches very effectively, a mid-90's fastball, a change-up, and a very effective curve ball[1]. He uses a combination of these pitches to strike out a lot of batters. Burnett is athletic, and an above average batter for a pitcher, bunting effectively to advance runners.

Though he has been effective while healthy, Burnett has not proven to be very durable over the course of his career, with a laundry list of shoulder and elbow injuries[2]. Scouts have questioned his concentration on the mound, as well as his command. While Burnett does field his position well, his concentration issues have hindered his ability to hold runners on base[3].