Back in October, the Braves sent Edgar Renteria to the Tigers for what seemed like a few prospects with goofy names, pitcher Jair Jurrjens and outfielder Gorkys Hernandez. Sure Renteria was no longer needed due to the emergence of middle infielders Kelly Johnson, and in particular Yunel Escobar. Reports from Braves camp had manager Bobby Cox touting the success of Escobar over the winter, and his time in the majors last season. It appears however, that Escobar might not be the only beneficiary of this trade.

This spring, one of the biggest success stories so far has been Curaçao born Jurrjens. The originally undrafted free agent, has been the best pitcher so far this year in Braves camp, and possibly in all of the Grapefruit League.

The 22 year old righty started off the spring taking on the LA Dodgers, and pitched 2 innings succeeding two hits, one earned run, a walk, and struck out one batter. Although it wasn’t the most impressive start, it was an important one. Not only did it get Jurrjens’ confidence up, he looked comfortable with possible backup catcher Javy Lopez.

In his second start of the spring against the Indians, Jurrjens pitched for three innings allowing no base runners while striking out two. The Braves went on to combine for a one hitter, allowing Danny Sandoval to get a hit in the 9th inning with two outs.

Finally, in Jurrjens latest start, he pitched against the Cardinals on March 10th. He faced 13 batters in 4 innings allowing two hits and a walk, while striking out one. Jurrjens was awarded his second win of the spring.

Although he is only 22, General Manager Frank Wren feels confident that Jurrjens could end up with the 5th spot in the rotation beating out a cast of Buddy Carlyle, JoJo Reyes, and others. Strikeouts have been hard to get for Jurrjens, but he has been consistent to get the ball in the zone showing good control.

It’s still not a lock for Jair to win the 5th spot, but if he does keep an eye on him in April to see if these numbers hold up.