Riley Quick: Alabama’s Pitching Phenom Selected by Twins at 36th Pick

Jacksonville, USA - The Minnesota Twins made a significant move in the first round of the 2025 MLB First-Year Player Draft by selecting Alabama pitcher Riley Quick with the 36th pick. This choice is particularly notable as Quick was the third-earliest pitching selection from the University of Alabama since the one-draft system began in 1987. He follows in the footsteps of Ben Hess (No. 26 in 2024) and Taylor Tankersley (No. 27 in 2004) in achieving this early selection status, as AL.com reports.

Clocking in at an impressive 6-foot-6 and weighing 250 pounds, Quick is more than just a tall tale on the mound. His comeback story is compelling too; after undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2024, he returned with vigor during the 2025 season, posting an impressive 8-3 record. With a 3.92 earned-run average (ERA) and 70 strikeouts in 62 innings, Quick demonstrated that he’s not just throwing numbers—he’s delivering solid performances when it counts.

A Standout Athlete

Quick’s prowess extends beyond the diamond. At Hewitt-Trussville High School, he didn’t just excel as a pitcher; he also made his mark on the football field, earning All-State honors as an offensive lineman in both 2021 and 2022. His accolades include being named Alabama’s Mr. Baseball in 2022, solidifying him as a versatile sports talent.

• High School Achievements:
• 2021 and 2022 Class 7A Pitcher of the Year
• Junior season: 9-2 record, 0.99 ERA
• Senior season: 13-1 record, 0.92 ERA, 130 strikeouts in 82.2 innings

With his early selection, Quick’s development in MLB will be closely watched. The Twins are no doubt banking on his mid-90s sinker—a pitch that not only hits speeds up to 98 mph but also boasts a remarkable ground ball rate exceeding 60%. His ability to generate significant horizontal break with his changeup complements his pitching arsenal, suggesting that Quick might become a key player in professional baseball if he continues to stay healthy.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 draft season unfolds, Quick stands as a rising prospect. With his effective pitching results improving after surgery, he’s anticipated to face strong competition in SEC conference play, which could further enhance his reputation. If he continues to perform well, there’s talk that he might solidify his status as a first-round draft prospect, maybe even returning to the first half of the round next year, according to insights from Twins Daily.

The MLB Draft has always been a launchpad for aspiring young talents, and with the data analytics provided by platforms like MLB.com, fans and analysts alike can track Quick’s journey closely. With detailed statistics measuring everything from games played to strikeouts, every player’s development can be examined, giving us a glimpse into what the future might hold for rising stars like Quick.

As we cheer on the Minnesota Twins and their choices, it’s clear that Riley Quick is one to watch. Whether on the field or off, he has a compelling story that promises to engage fans for years to come.