Wilkinson has a long track record of performance that dates back to striking out 16 batters against Mexico in a 2015 Little League World Series game for Canada. He helped Central Arizona CC win the 2022 Junior College World Series and was the NJCAA juco pitcher of the year in 2023, when he ranked second at that level in ERA (1.07) and whiffs (136 in 84 innings). Signed for $110,000 as a 10th-round pick last July, he's challenging for the Minor League lead in strikeouts and average-against in his first full pro season.
Wilkinson's fastball parks at 89-91 mph and maxes out at 93, yet it has confounded hitters at two Class A stops with its combination of flat approach angle, high spin rates, carry and command. His mastery of his heater helps his secondary pitches play up, with an average low-80s changeup that features similar characteristics to his fastball serving as his No. 2 option. He also employs an upper-70s slider that lacks power and bite.
Wilkinson will have to prove that his fastball's deception will achieve similar results against more advanced competition. A 6-foot-1, 270 pounder nicknamed "Tugboat," he'll also have to maintain his conditioning. He competes and throws strikes, giving him a chance to become a No. 5 starter.
