NEW YORK -- Payton Tolle , the best starting pitching prospect the Red Sox have had in years, has roared through the team’s farm system at a speed that resembles his blazing fastball.

Now the question is this: Will the big lefty with the distinctively thick moustache make it to the Majors as soon as the current pennant race?

“That’s not something he or we are focused on in his development,” said Red Sox senior director of player development Brian Abraham. “What’s most important is that he stays present, works hard between outings, and remains focused on his pitching goals every time he steps on the mound.

“That said, we have no doubt that when the time comes for him to help our Major League club, he will be fully prepared.”

Tolle was selected by the Red Sox with the 50th overall pick

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