Former UK pitcher Alex Meyer to start for Angels on Wednesday

Former University of Kentucky pitcher Alex Meyer, a 6-foot-9 right-hander who was a first-round pick in 2011, is getting another shot at starting in the majors.

The Los Angeles Angels have added him to their rotation and Meyer, acquired via a trade with the Minnesota Twins on Aug. 1, will pitch Wednesday against the Oakland A’s.

Meyer has made four MLB appearances over the past two seasons with the Twins. But he struggled, posting a 14.12 ERA in 6 1/3 innings pitched.

After missing most of this season with a shoulder strain, he has pitched well in the minors since his return.

“I feel great now,” Meyer told MLB.com. “The other night when I threw (four scoreless innings) in Salt Lake … was the best I’ve felt since coming back.”

The Angels are looking forward to seeing what Meyer, the team’s No. 12 prospect, has to offer. He’s essentially auditioning for next season.

“Like all of baseball, you’re drawn to his power arm,” Angels Manager Mike Scioscia told MLB.com. “He’s got a nice delivery, he spins the ball well. Some of the tough spots he’s gone through in his career, he’s evolved … You want to see him up here against major league hitters and see how his stuff plays.”

Meyer appreciates the opportunity.

“Now it comes to me going out there and taking advantage of it and not letting it pass by. I’m excited to play baseball again, and that’s all I can ask for,” he said. 

This story was originally published September 4, 2016 at 5:53 PM with the headline "Former UK pitcher Alex Meyer to start for Angels on Wednesday."