Turgeon Looking For Consistency in Brooklyn

June 25, 2009   ·   Patrick Hickey, Jr.   ·   Jump to comments

On the surface, Erik Turgeon’s numbers with the Mets Single-A affiliate in Savannah, a 3.18 ERA with 11 strikeouts in 11.1 innings, don’t seem to shabby, but when you add in the seven hits and 11 walks he surrendered during the time as well, it’s obvious that the 23-year-old could benefit from some time with the Cyclones to polish his game.

A two-way player in College, Turgeon was used to playing the field and then coming in to pitch. Now a full-time pitcher in the minor leagues, the Florida-native is still refining his game.

He even got help from an unlikely source this offseason.

“I worked out at this place called the Winning Inning this offseason,” he said. “I worked out with [Chicago White Sox pitcher] Gavin Floyd. He taught me his curveball; I owe a lot of it to him. Aside from that I just went hunting a few times and worked out all offseason. Last year was more about throwing the ball; this year I’m more a pitcher and I’m ready to go in at any time.”

Appearing in 11 games with Brooklyn last season, Turgeon was dynamic at times, striking out 23 hitters and walking allowing five in 16.1 innings while in a middle reliever role.

This season, Turgeon is splitting the closing duties with Mike Powers, a job he says he’s ready for.

“Closing is one thing that really gets me excited,” said Turgeon, who is also throwing a two-seam fastball this season to compliment a lively four-seam fastball, a changeup and curveball. “I’m looking to doing well there.”