C- Alex Jackson
6-6-13 - John (Minneapolis) - In 2014, Can Alex Jackson be the exception to the HS catcher history like Mauer was? - Keith Law - Maybe. I want to see him more, but was very impressed in a brief look last summer.
6-9-13 - 3.Alex Jackson, INF/C (California HS): The most complete high school player available. It seems likely that teams would prefer him at third once he goes pro, even though he’s quite good behind the plate. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/
6-11-13 - 3. Alex Jackson, C, Rancho Bernardo HS, Calif.: A two-time participant in the Under Armour game, Jackson has some serious raw power from the right side and is a good leader with an accurate arm. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130611&content_id=50293726&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb&tcid=tw_article_50293726
6-12-13 - One of the top hitters at the Area Code Games as a sophomore, Alex Jackson was among the national leaders in home runs again this year with 14. He batted .343 with 33 RBIs while leading Rancho Bernardo to the San Diego Section Open Division championship. http://www.maxpreps.com/news/E9UKfOG1wUq1fo3tzHLHgw/top-10-high-school-baseball-players-to-watch-for-2014-mlb-draft.htm
6-13-13 - Clint Longenecker @Clint_BA29m - Alex Jackson (CA) is showing why he is one of the best top players to watch for the 2014 after depositing a few homers into deep right center
6-13-13 - Perfect Game USA@PerfectGameUSA - Besides Gettys 100 mph OF throw, Alex Jackson (CA) threw 98 mph and Monte Harrison (MO) 97 mph from the outfield! #PGNational
6-13-13 - 6. Toronto Blue Jays — Alex Jackson, C, Rancho Bernardo HS (CA) - The 6’-2”, 210 pound right-hander will be one of the top power hitters in the 2014 MLB draft. Over 35 games as a junior, he hit .343 with 14 home runs and drew 29 walks for a .479 OBP/.806 SLG. Aside from the power potential, he also has a plus arm and is very athletic, making many believe he will stick at the premium position. Like Clint Frazier this year, Jackson may be the most talked about prep player next season. Committed to Oregon. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2
6-17-13 - 3. Alex Jackson, C, Rancho Bernardo High in Poway, Calif. - Jackson (6-foot-2, 200) is a well-rounded backstop. "Catching prospects," Perkin noted, "normally appear in one of two forms: Throwers who can't hit or hitters who can't throw. Jackson is the rare backstop who does both at the highest level." Perkin also pointed out Jackson's tremendous power.
6-28-13 - Alex Jackson, C/OF, Rancho Bernardo HS (San Diego, CA): - Alex Jackson is so good, he got Gosuke Katoh drafted in the second round. As scouts poured into Rancho Bernardo HS to see Jackson, many caught wind of his teammate, Katoh, whose stock rose as a result, finally going to the Yankees at 66th overall. If Jackson is good enough to make a middle infielder with limited arm a 2nd-round pick, imagine what he can do for himself. At 6'2", 210 pounds, Jackson has a nice, loose catcher's build. A legitimate five-tool catcher, he combines outstanding defense with tremendous power, which he's shown to all fields. Pop times in the 1.7's, excellent blocking skills, and quick twitch athleticism will keep him behind the plate, though he also plays third base and the outfield http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2013/6/28/4450674/the-way-too-early-2014-tcb-astros-draft-board
7-2-13 - 2014 Top 100 High School Prospects 3. Alex Jackson- C, Rancho Bernardo (CA) HS - Huge raw power. Might have the best bat in the country. 1.75 pop time at National with a 91 MPH arm from behind the plate http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/
7-25-13 – Top 30 High School Prospects For 2014 Draft - 2. Alex Jackson, C/RF, Rancho Bernardo HS (CA) 6'2/215, R/R, Draft Day Age: 18.45, Oregon commit, Full Report & Video - Quick Take: Rumor is that this dynamic talent with a plus arm and lightning-quick release from behind the plate will move to the outfield long-term to save his health like Bryce Harper. Jackson isn't a Harper-level talent but has special bat speed and above average power: enough to go in the top 10 picks even as an outfielder, in the mold of Padres 2013 1st rounder Hunter Renfroe. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html
8-12-13 - Alex Jackson, C, Rancho Bernardo High School (Escondido, CA) - It was an honor to join Joe Hamrahi on stage this weekend as we presented Alex Jackson with the first annual Baseball Prospectus Prospect of the Year Award, at the Perfect Game All-American Classic in San Diego. Jackson is a dual threat talent, with an easy plus-plus arm behind the plate, near elite pop times, and big power from the right side. It's a similar profile to high-ceiling prospect Jorge Alfaro, which should give you some indication how special this player could be. Getting to watch the talent on the field opened my eyes to his physical abilities, but the way he carried himself off the field, the natural leadership qualities and maturity he possesses, opened my eyes to the type of makeup that can make his ceiling more than just an exaggerated fantasy. When physical talent and makeup join forces, the end result can change the fortunes of an organization, and Jackson looks like a player well on his way to that reality. – http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21504
8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 7. Alex Jackson, C, Rancho Bernardo HS (CA) - The best catching prospect in the draft, the 6’-2”, 210-pound right-hander has a plus arm and, mixed with his footwork and athleticism, should stick at the premium position. His power is some of the best in the class, and he should hit for a high average with his approach and plus bat speed. He hit .343/.479/.806 over 35 games as a junior with 14 home runs and 29 walks. Committed to Oregon. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99
8-13-13 - The Perfect Game All-American Classic in San Diego - Rancho Bernardo’s Alex Jackson. Jackson was a bit more inconsistent over the weekend, but if you had to ask me which player I like better now, I’d take Jackson. He’s not a catcher, but he’s got the athleticism and arm strength to be a very good rightfielder, and the bat will certainly play there with plus bat speed and above-average power. There may not be as much upside in Jackson, but I think the overall package is just a little better. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/08/thoughts-on-perfect-game-all-american-classic/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
8-16-13 - 11th All-American Classic - Alex Jackson | C/3B/OF | Rancho Bernardo HS (San Diego, CA) Height/Weight: 6-foot-2, 210 pounds B/T: R/R Draft Day Age: 18 years, 5 months Commitment: Oregon Scouting Notes: Big talent; reminds me of Jorge Alfaro because of build and skill-set; arm is a 7; showed sub-1.9 pops; feel for catch-and-throw; shows leadership qualities behind the plate; moves better than expected; still new to the position but work ethic impressed; can stay behind the plate if he wants to; bat is highly projectable; both raw hit and power; good bat-to-ball skills; contact is easy and loud; power is going to be there; could be a 6/6 hit/power type if everything clicks; big makeup; potential to be a top-five pick in 2014. - http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537
8-21-13 – On defense, Alex Jackson could be a catcher or right fielder. But I don’t think he’ll be better than average at either position. Starting with catcher, I didn’t see the agility behind the plate for me to believe he could be an average or better defender. The strong hands are evident, though, as is a plus arm that can profile well in right field. Most people I’ve talked to think he’ll be in right, but there are some believers that he could stay behind the plate. It only takes one team to see the dream. (of course, it depends where they pick in the draft, but you get the point). http://rontrarianreport.com/2013/08/21/scouting-alex-jackson-mlb-draft/
Top 5 MLB Draft Prospects - #3. Alex Jackson, INF/C (California HS): The most comprehensive high school player existing. It seems to be expected that teams would choose to play him at third once he goes pro, even though he’s pretty good behind the plate. In fact- he is an accomplished backstop. At 6’2″, 210 pounds, Jackson has a good, moveable catcher’s physique. A genuine five-tool catcher, he pools exceptional defense with incredible power, which he’s displayed to all fields. Pop times in the 1.7′s, first-rate blocking skills, and rapid twitch flexibility will keep him behind the plate. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/30/top-5-mlb-draft-prospects/
8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Alex Jackson, C/OF: The best catching prospect in the draft and it's a position of great need for the Cubs, something they've admitted themselves. Jackson has a tremendous arm behind the plate and Professor Parks called his pop times "near elite". At the plate he shows the potential for plus power from the right side. Jackson has the great makeup and leadership ability to go with his physical skills, of which Parks says, "When physical talent and makeup join forces, the end result can change the fortunes of an organization, and Jackson looks like a player well on his way to that reality." Jackson sounds like he was tailor made for the Cubs and will undoubtedly become a fan favorite as we approach the draft, if he isn't already. The one question, and it's a big one for Cubs fans, is that not everyone thinks he can stick behind the plate. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/08/2014-mlb-draft-ua-game-roster-and-preview-plus-more-tickets-and-meet-up-information/
8-31-13 – Area Code Games - Alex Jackson (C) 6’2″ 215 (R/R); 2014 Physical body that separates himself. Athletic look w/combo strength from top to bottom. Swing works long w/lift and separation to finish; occ. misses. Sound approach at the plate w/explosive swing; different off bat. Damaging impact at contact; gaps/power hitter. Speed will back up in future and not a SB threat. Displays solid catching tools w/quick footwork and clean transfers. Arm works short and throws stay online to target; POP: 1.8, 1.9. Athletic enough to play OF and bat fitscorner power profile. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/31/area-code-notes/
9-1-13 - Jim Callis – 5. Alex Jackson, c/of, Rancho Bernardo HS, San Diego - Plays a premium position, has some of the best power potential in the 2014 crop.
9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 5 – Brewers – C Alex Jackson – Rando Bernardo (CA) HS – We can talk all day about what a great catcher Jackson is, but this a future corner outfielder in the making. He probably will rate out as an average outfielder, but he does have a ++ arm that will work well out there. But, you’re drafting this guy for his bat. Is one of the top projected power hitters of the draft.
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects - 8.Alex Jackson – C, Rancho Bernardo (CA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
2. Kevin Cron
6-10-13 - Kevin Cron, 1B, Texas Christian - What a difference a year makes. Cron was drafted in the 3rd round coming out of high school and a year ago, he looked like one of the top power bats who would be available in the 2014 draft. Things could not have gone much worse for him in 2013, but the raw power makes him worth watching over the next year. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/
6-18-13 - Kevin Cron - from Don Olson on 6/18/2013 - Kevin is a massive guy with a wide muscular frame, who should be a good deal bigger than his brother CJ, but carries it well. He shows plus-plus raw power and the bat speed is displayed in BP. He is a strong 5 O’ clock guy that has to improve his approach; he needs to stay back and start working to right field to get him on the solid path. Kevin showed a pull oriented swing in game at bats this spring, really a fastball only swing that role over on any break. He has trouble with the outside, clear hole in the approach. Gets weight over too quickly, leaving him off balanced with poor swings on change ups and sliders. The kid is a strong ox and it does not take much behind his swing to connect with power. Any ironing out in the approach, he could grade out in the first round. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/19/2014-mlb-draft-profile-kevin-cron/
7-6-13 - Frankie Piliere @FPilierePG - Monster night for Kevin Cron tonight, 2 homers and now hitting .373 on Cape @TcuCron00
7-17-13 - Kevin Cron (TCU) - First Base, Falmouth Commodores - .330 BA, 19 R, 21 RBI, 4 HR, 6 SB - After an explosive week last week, Cron responded with a mediocre stretch. In four games, he went 2-for-15 with a run and an RBI, striking out more times then he reached base. While his consistency can be called into question, it is still hard to ignore the raw numbers. Cron is one week removed from leading virtually every batting category, and his presence is still being felt. He is tied for first place in extra-base hits, second in RBIs, tied for second in home runs, tied for third in runs, and is just outside the top 10 in batting with a respectable .330 average. Cron is still a very skilled player in all facets of the game, but he cannot afford another week like this. With an MVP contender in Hoskins and the upstart Dylan Davis (Oregon St.) challenging him just on his team alone, he needs to step it up and the struggling Commodores need him to step it up as well. He is still in the conversation, but this week will be a big one for Cron. http://capecodbaseball.org/news/league/index.html?article_id=1565
3. Grayson Greiner
6-10-13 - Grayson Greiner, C, South Carolina - The South Carolina catcher has a big frame and shows a strong arm. He has a quick bat and projects to hit for more power than he has shown to this point. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/
4. Mark Zagunis
5-28-13 - Mark Zagunis, C/OF, Virginia Tech - One of the more athletic catchers you will find, the 6’-1”, 200-pound right-hander stole 17 bases in 22 attempts as a freshman. He also hit .344 with 13 doubles, five home runs, 34 RBI with a slash line of .430/.513/.943 over 49 games, striking out just 25 times. He has started the year out hitting .415 (22-for-53) for the Hokies with five doubles, a home run, 14 RBI and six stolen bases. It remains to be seen if he will stick at catcher or end up in a corner outfield position. His bat and athleticism will find a way into a lineup at the next level. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft/29840#fm24otWuYCEocLQZ.99
6-9-13 - 30.Mark Zagunis, C (Virginia Tech): Was a fixture of the Hokies lineup in 2013, and should be a nice all-around value next spring http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/
6-10-13 - Mark Zagunis, C, Virginia Tech - Zagunis is a good athlete with good tools across the board. He has a line drive swing and shows a good eye at the plate. Zagunis is versatile in the field, showing the ability to play behind the plate or in the outfield. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/
5. AJ Murray
from Don Olson 6/18/2013 - AJ Murray has a compact athletic build with some muscular development, good development through the wrists, should round out into a solid 225-230 athlete. His Footwork around 1st needs work, looks a bit lost, but new to position that repetitions could smooth it out. He did show the chops to play behind the plate as prep player. AJ should be the catch full time next spring and value could soar. At the plate, AJ shows a good quite setup, but a bit heavy lift and load. He has mainly a compact swing that routinely finds the inner half of the ball, but it can get a tad long through the zone. He has the bat speed to keep the barrel on a solid line drive path, so the drop is negligent at this stage. Shows gap power to all fields and with project-ability and strength left it could be power to all fields. He really rides well with outside fastballs, and shows the ability to stay back and drive sliders. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/19/2014-mlb-draft-profile-aj-murray/
6. Kyle Schwarber
6-9-13 - 10.Kyle Schwarber, C/1B (Indiana): One of the best wOBA’s (#13) in all of Division I at .479. The sophomore already has a strong approach and power stroke (17 HRs). Not entirely sure he sticks at catcher, though. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/
I haven't scouted Kyle Schwarber yet, but the people that have can't stop raving about his bat. The squatty lefty hitter catches now but won't stick there and is a right field or first base fit long-term but the above average bat and power stand out, while his sophomore year numbers aren't bad either: .381/.469/.670, 33 BB, 25 K, 13 HR LINK
6-10-13 - Kyle Schwarber, C, Indiana - Kyle Scwarber is one of the top power bats in the country. He has plus power with lift in his swing and should be able to hit home runs anywhere. He also shows a good approach at the plate. Schwarber is likely headed to first base, but his bat will play anywhere. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/
6-13-13 - 18. Cleveland Indians — Kyle Schwarber, C, Indiana - While he may not have enough to stick behind the plate, the 6’-0”, 230 pound left-handed hitter does have a strong arm and makes for a big target. His footwork needs work, however, and most think he will eventually end up at first base. That shouldn’t hurt his stock that much because the kid can flat out destroy a baseball. Over 57 games, he is hitting .374 with 10 doubles, 18 home runs and has drawn 39 walks to just 30 strikeouts for a .462 OBP/.676 SLG. He should be a leading candidate to lead the nation in home runs next season and, with that kind of power and patience from the left side, may be too hard to pass up in the first round. He was also named to the 2013 Collegiate Team USA. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2
6-28-13 - Kyle Schwarber, 1B/C, Indiana University: One of the nation's very best hitters in 2013, Schwarber was the star of a strong Indiana club that made a deep run in the postseason. A former high school linebacker who has deceptive athleticism despite his stocky build, Schwarber has played catcher and first base for the Hoosiers but is more likely to play the latter position in the pros. Either way, it is his bat that will be his mealticket. Schwarber raked to the tune of a .376/.468/.674 slash line for IU in 2013 and added 18 home runs while walking more than he struck out. He has a great power hitter's build and has a swing that maximizes his pop. He shows power to all fields and can be an all-star quality middle of the order hitter at the next level. –Spencer http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2013/6/28/4450674/the-way-too-early-2014-tcb-astros-draft-board
7-17-13 – Kyle Schwarber, C, Indiana - This is a bat that will profile anywhere. The LH hitting Schwarber can flat out mash and he did that in both games, going 5 for 10 with 3 of those hits being doubles, including one deep the opposite way into the left-centerfield gap. He has a thick, stocky build at 6'0, 235 lbs. so as you can imagine, it's not a body that profiles anywhere well defensively. They're trying him at catcher but it was a struggle there for him in terms of mobility, release, and throwing accuracy. If you can get him to stick at catcher, you've got yourself quite an asset but that didn't look likely from what I was able to see. As I said, however, that bat will play anywhere so 1B becomes a legit option. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/07/looking-ahead-to-the-2014-and-2015-mlb-draft-notes-from-the-collegiate-national-team-games/
7-26-13 - Eleven months ago, Kyle Schwarber (Indiana) left Red Wilson Field as a champion, belting two home runs, including the game-winner, in Game 3 of the championship series to lift Wareham past Yarmouth-Dennis. Thursday night, after playing all summer with Team USA, he returned to Red Wilson Field in his first game back and picked up right where he left off. Schwarber went 4-for-4 with the game-tying home run in the ninth inning, as the game ended in a 2-2 tie after 10 innings http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130726/SPORTS/307260321/-1/rss43
8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 23. Kyle Schwarber, C, Indiana - Maybe the best power bat in college, the 6’-0”, 230-pound left-hander also has a great approach at the plate and should hit for a high average at the next level. His ability to remain behind the plate is still up for debate, but he wants to stay there and has been working hard on his defense. Over 61 games as a sophomore, he hit .366/.456/.647 with 10 doubles, 18 home runs and drew 42 walks to just 37 strikeouts. He then hit .308/.396/.436 over 21 games for The Collegiate National Team with 11 walks. We all saw the premium put on college bats in this year’s draft, and Schwarber should benefit from that next year. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99
7. Garrett Kennedy
6-16-13 - Player: Garrett Kennedy - Position: C School: Miami Height/Weight: 6’1/185 Bats/Throws: L/R 2014 Class: College Junior Scouting Report: Defense first catcher Stance starts open Patient approach A bit more strength in bat then he has shown to this point Moves well behind the plate Shows excellent blocking ability Strong arm
8. Tommy Pincin
6-16-13 - Player: Tommy Pincin Position: C School: Upland (CA) Height/Weight: 6’0/190 Bats/Throws: R/R 2014 Class: High School Senior Scouting Report: Strong, solid build Very good bat speed Power projects well Moves well behind the plate Average arm strength Accurate throws Top recorded pop of 1.90 Top recorded 60 time of 6.79 http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/16/2014-mlb-draft-profile-tommy-pincin/
9. Nate Causey
6-27-13 - Player: Nate Causey Position: C School: Arizona State Date of Birth: 3/6/1993 Height/Weight: 6’2/236 Bats/Throws: L/R 2014 Class: College Junior Previously Drafted: 2011, 46th rd, Rockies Scouting Report: from Don Olsen on 6/18/2013 - Nate has a thick build, strong lower half, will fill into a Jim Thome type build. Strong BP, lots of strength to his game, shows pull power. Hands have a strong load and bat shows a bit of wrap that leaves him long through the zone. He has a collapsing backside with some forced lift to the swing. He shows the bat speed and strength, heavy pull power approach in a “mash or slash” type offensive game. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/27/2014-mlb-draft-profile-nate-causey/
10. Jose Trevino
6-18-13 - Player: Jose Trevino Position: C/IF School: Oral Roberts Date of Birth: 11/28/1992 Height/Weight: 5’11/195 Bats/Throws: R/R 2014 Class: College Junior Scouting Report: from Don Olsen on 6/18/2013 - Jose has a compact athletic build with a thick lower half, good muscular development and gives off a bit of Raul Mondesi body comparison. He starts off with ear hole high hands, not much of a trigger to get the bat head going. There is a lot of raw power in the bat, gets a good amount of leverage and backspin in BP, translates better into games from last year. The bat speed is present and the path is line drive with a touch of loft, ideal. He can turn on speed and shows the ability to stay back and hammer a break. He has more pull power, but showed the ability to drive it into the opposite gap. Jose has the quick twitch first step and charge to stay at 3B with an above average to plus arm. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/27/2014-mlb-draft-profile-jose-trevino/
11. Brandon Chapman
7-11-13 - Jheremy Brown @JBrownPG - 2014 C Brandon Chapman with an exclamation point, putting Marucci up 5-0 with a 3run homerun that go out in a hurry over LF fence #PGTourney
12. Michael Conger
7-14-13 - A few top players we are tracking at the PW Finals in Port St. Lucie, FL thus far that are 2014 grads or YOUNGER. Still plenty more to come! - (7) Mike Conger (2014, C/ 1B) All American Prospects - Good catch and throw guy. Quiet behind the plate. Strong hands with potential to improve at plate. http://prospectwire.com/pw/article.php?id=440
13. Max Pentacost
7-17-13 - Max Pentecost (Kennesaw St.) - Catcher, Bourne Braves - .370 BA, 12 R, 18 RBI, 5 HR, 2 SB - The toughest position in baseball to find elite talent at is catcher. But the Cape League has been lucky to have great young talent at catcher the past few years, and Pentecost may be the next in line. He is on fire. This past week, he batted a stunning .636, which vaulted him into second place in the batting race. He also drove in six runs, including two homers, and is tied for third in RBIs and tied for first in homers. Pentecost has flown under the radar up until this point, thanks mainly to the Braves’ poor performance. But if his individual numbers continue at this rate, the team’s numbers will seem less relevant. Pentecost has been steadily improving, and a repeat performance this coming week could go a long way in his MVP chances. http://capecodbaseball.org/news/league/index.html?article_id=1565
8-7-13 - Cape Cod Times CCBL @CapeLeagueCCT - Over in Bourne, catcher Max Pentecost (Kennesaw State) named CCBL Pat Sorrenti MVP.
8-7-13 - greg schaum @Greg_Schaum - Max Pentecost is a very good receiver, great arm, very fast, excellent drag bunter (rare to see these days) and has power to give.
8-7-13 - Bourne Braves @BourneBraves - Pentecost finished the regular season with a .338 average, 6 home runs, and 29 RBIs. He was top 5 in the @Official_CCBL in all 3 categories.
8-21-13 - Until now, it had been a couple of years since Kennesaw State catcher Max Pentecost experienced life in the limelight. Pentecost was quite the hot commodity coming out of high school in Georgia. He was ranked No. 203 nationally as a high school senior, and attended KSU despite heavy overtures from the Texas Rangers as a seventh-round pick in the Major League Baseball draft. Though some at the time felt Pentecost should’ve signed and skipped his collegiate career, it’s becoming more clear he made the right decision. Following a good college spring season as a sophomore, Pentecost traveled to the prestigious Cape Cod Baseball League this summer, where he put together a performance that had scouts buzzing, making major strides in all aspects of the game, particularly from an offensive standpoint. For that reason and more, Pentecost, one of the nation’s fastest-rising 2014 MLB draft prospects, is the Perfect Game College Summer Player of the Year. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=8911
9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 30 – C Max Pentacost – Kennesaw State – Players earn their summer stripes in different ways and Pentacost earned his at the Cape Cod Games. He dominated offensively and was also named the Perfect Game College Summer Player of the Year. You can’t do better than that.
14. Jakson Reetz
6-16-13 - • Versatile Jakson Reetz stood out in many facets of the game. During Friday’s evaluations, he showed one of the strongest arms of any catcher and quick feet behind the plate. Then he made a tough play in right field on Saturday by chasing down a long fly ball to the warning track. The Nebraska commit sat 88-90 mph on the mound, touching 91. Yet Reetz, who attends Norris High in Hickman, Neb., saved his loudest performance for the plate. The 6-foot-1, 195-pounder took quality at-bats and made consistent, hard contact. He smacked a triple in the seventh inning. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tournament-of-stars-promising-power-outlook-for-2014/
7-2-13 - 2014 Top 100 High School Prospects - 12. Jakson Reetz- C/RHP, Norris (NE) HS - Top two-way player can really catch and throw, and hit everything hard at TOS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/
7-24-13 - Jakson Reetz, c/of/rhp, Norris, Hickman, Neb./Marucci Elite
At 6-foot-1, 195 pounds with a compact build and powerful lower half, the strong-bodied Reetz is an athletic backstop. Reetz is a three-sport athlete who also plays quarterback and point guard. He has advanced defensive skills behind the plate and a strong arm capable of 1.95-2.00 second pop times. Holding the bat close to his head and using an aggressive stride, Reetz has a quick, line-drive oriented swing and has hit well in games. His natural strength gives him gap power. He has enough speed and athleticism to play the outfield. On the mound, Reetz sits 88-90 mph and touches 91. He is committed to Nebraska, where his father played football. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tyler-koleks-heavy-fastball-among-tournament-of-stars-standouts/
7-25-13 – Top 30 High School Prospects For 2014 Draft - 17. Jakson Reetz, C/RHP, Norris HS (NE) - 6'1/195, R/R, Draft Day Age: 18.43, Nebraska commit - Quick Take: Reetz is a great athlete with solid average speed and has a chance to stick behind the plate with an above average arm and very quick release. At the plate, he's more a contact hitter that is very productive in games though he flashes more power in BP that could find it's way into his game swing down the line. He's also not bad on the mound, sitting 88-91 with an above average 77-80 mph slider. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html
8-10-13 - New Balance Area Code games - Jakson Reetz (NE) hit well today. He has squared up the ball each game and stroked a ball into left for a base hit in the first. http://prospectinsider.com/view/2013-area-codes:-day-4-notes/
8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 26. Jakson Reetz, C/RHP, Norris HS (NE) - A terrific athlete and two-way player, the 6’-1”, 200-pound right-hander’s ability to stick behind the plate make him a highly touted prospect. More of a line drive hitter now, more power should come as he matures, and he has the bat speed to back it up. Can hit the low-90s on the mound so his arm plays well behind the plate and he makes for a big target. Committed to Nebraska. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99
8-16-13 - 11th All-American Classic - Jakson Reetz | C/ RHP/OF | Norris HS (Hickman, NE) - eight/Weight: 6-foot-1, 190 pounds B/T: R/R Draft Day Age: 18 years, 5 months Commitment: Nebraska - History: Reetz entered the summer as a talented but raw backstop, flashing big athleticism and almost casual actions on the field, belying his loud and impactful tools. In the Metrodome in June, Reetz stood out at the PG National Showcase for his catch-and-throw game, gunning down multiple baserunners and showing sub-2.0 pop times to second, in addition to a couple of hard hit balls, in game. He has built on that showcase throughout the summer, making loud contact with increasing regularity throughout his showcase and tournament stops. Like Reid-Foley and McKinney, Reetz’s Tournament of Stars performance at the end of June bought him a ticket to the USA Baseball 18U Team Trials, and the Nebraska commit continued a successful summer with impressive showings at both the Perfect Game 17U National Championship in July and the Area Code Games last week. - Development: Reetz added another impressing showing to his summer, earning MVP honors for the game. While he struggled some handling the arms while behind the plate, no player had a greater impact offensively. Reetz went 2-for-4 with a long opposite-field double off of hard-throwing Dylan Cease, and added three stolen bases to his output over the course of his four trips to the plate. There is simply no ignoring the growth in Reetz’s game over the past two months, and he’ll get a chance to add to his rapidly expanding resume should he earn a spot on the final USA Baseball 18U squad. His Marucci Elite travel club will be one of the favorites at the final event of the scouting circuit—the WWBA World Championship in Jupiter, Florida this October—and, should he attend, Reetz will be one of the most highly scouted catchers in the tournament. He’ll almost certainly enter the spring as the top draft prospect in the Cornhusker State. http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 14.Jakson Reetz – C/RHP, Norris (NE) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
15. Handsome Monica
7-2-13 - 2014 Top 100 High School Prospects - 42. Handsome Monica- C, St. Paul’s (LA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/
2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects - 43. Handsome Monica – C, St. Paul’s (LA) HS - Has a serious power bat and showed good pop times at TOS and ECP. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 78.Handsome Monica – C, St. Paul’s (LA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
16. Griffin Helms
7-2-13 - 2014 Top 100 High School Prospects - 49. Griffin Helms- C, Norcross (GA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 60.Griffin Helms – C, Norcross (GA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
17. John Jones
7-2-13 - 2014 Top 100 High School Prospects - 53. John Jones- C, East River (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 81.John Jones – C, East River (FL ) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
18. JJ Schwartz
7-2-13 - 2014 Top 100 High School Prospects - 60. JJ Schwarz- C, Palm Beach Gardens (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/
2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects - 16. Forrest Wall – INF, Orangewood Christian (FL) HS - Was the best hitter at ECP, including a home run. Squared up the ball in every at bat and really made a name for himself. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 17.JJ Schwarz – C, Palm Beach Gardens (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
19. Bryce Carter
7-2-13 - 2014 Top 100 High School Prospects - 95. Bryce Carter- C, Cascia Hall Prep (OK) http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/
8-3-13 - Player: Bryce Carter Primary Position: C Secondary Position(s): OF Height/Weight: 6’1/195 Bats/Throws: L/R Home Town: Tulsa, OK School: Cascia Hall Travel Team(s): Dallas Tigers Class of: 2014 Committed To: Stanford Scouting Notes: - 2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen: - Bryce has a decent frame, present development that should fill out a bit more into the 210-215 pound range. He gives off a little bit to Ed Herrmann. Little trigger, needs to quite the back foot and rotate, but bat speed and path are ideal for natural loft in swing. There is some thunder in the bat down the line, especially once he fills out, good present backspin to project. Arm strength is okay, but fast twitch catch and release, really hops out the set. Caught two in game POP for 1.97 and 1.98, sound fundamentally. Solid receiving skills and provides a good target, rounds out to above average defensive game. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/03/2014-mlb-draft-profile-bryce-carter/
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 67.Bryce Carter- C, Cascia Hall Prep (OK) http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
20. Mike Rivera
7-2-13- - 2014 Top 100 High School Prospects - 97. Mike Rivera- C, Venice (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 70.Mike Rivera – C/INF, Venice (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
21. Devon Fisher
7-2-13 - 2014 Top 100 High School Prospects - 98. Devon Fisher- C, Greenbrier Christian Academy (VA) http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/
2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects - 28. Devon Fisher – C, Western Branch (VA) HS - Liked Fisher a lot at TOS, but he played even better here at ECP. Really impressive behind the plate and with the bat. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/
8-20-13 - LOS ANGELES - The Blue team used a pair of home runs and a five-run first inning to beat the Red team, 10-2, in Game 3 of the 2013 USA Baseball 18U National Team Trials at Dodger Stadium on Monday evening – C Devon Fisher (Portsmouth, Va.) wasted no time getting acquainted to playing in a major league stadium. following up RBI hits from Jakson Reetz (Hickman, Neb.) and Scott Hurst (Glendora, Calif.), Fisher launched a two-run home run into the left field seats to give the Blue team a 5-0 lead in the bottom of the first. The catcher followed up the home run with a triple to right center in the bottom of the fourth, finishing the night 2-for-3 with a walk. http://web.usabaseball.com/article.jsp?ymd=20130820&content_id=57577990&vkey=news_usab
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 39.Devon Fisher – C, Western Branch (VA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
22. Chase Vellott
7-24-13 - Chase Vallot, c, St. Thomas, Youngsville, La./Marucci Elite - The 6-foot, 200-pound Vallot has a compact, physical build and muscular lower half. He has a strong arm capable of pop times in the 1.9-2.0 second range. His hands and receiving skills are developing. With a wide base and minimal stride, the strong-bodied backstop produces good raw power. The Mississippi State recruit has good athleticism for the position and has posted average running times to first base. Vallot is one of the youngest players in the class and will not turn 18 until the end of the minor league season next year. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tyler-koleks-heavy-fastball-among-tournament-of-stars-standouts/
7-25-13 – Top 30 High School Prospects For 2014 Draft - 19. Chase Vallot, C, St. Thomas More HS (LA) - 6'0/205, R/R, Draft Day Age: 17.79, Mississippi State commit, Full Report - Quick Take: Vallot is just five days older than Forbes in the competition for youngest player in the class and also brings a lot of tools to the table. He has an ability to stick behind the plate with an above average arm and a powerful, sturdy frame that already generates average raw power with a good mix of bat speed and strength. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html
2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects - 13. Chase Vallot – C, St. Thomas More (LA) HS - One of the elite bats in the class. Big time power and hits everything hard. Also stands out behind the plate. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/
8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 44. Chase Vallot, C, St. Thomas More HS (LA) - One of the youngest players in the draft, the 6’-0”, 205-pound right-hander generates a ton of raw power due to his bat speed and strong wrists. His strong arm, size and footwork should allow him to stick at a premium position and he also has pretty good speed. Committed to Mississippi State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99
8-23-13 - Player: Chase Vallot Primary Position: C Height/Weight: 6’0/210 Bats/Throws: R/R Home Town: Youngsville, LA School: St. Thomas More Travel Team(s): Marucci Elite Class of: 2014 Committed To: Mississippi State - Scouting Notes: 2013 USA Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen: Chase is thick compact athletic build in an Austin Romine type mold. His swing has a little load and drops a tad early, leaving him a little long, but good bat speed to work with down the line. The swing has a line drive path with a bit of loft. He has a patient approach that shows the plate coverage to work gap to gap type production, may show above average power. Defensively, he shows a clean set up, quite footwork, high caliber receiver. Chase possesses a strong arm with quick transfer that already POP sub http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/22/2014-mlb-draft-profile-chase-vallot/
8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Chase Vallot, C: If the Cubs can't land Jackson or feel like he can't stick at catcher, Vallot is the next best prep option. There's a lot to like about Vallot, starting with a strong arm and great pop times (1.92 seconds) though like most H.S. catchers, he still needs work on his receiving skills. Vallot has a strong build and should hit for power and as a bonus, is a pretty good athlete. He's someone the Cubs could certainly be interested in if he lasts to their second pick -- but Vallot also has a chance to shoot up higher into the first round with a good season. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/08/2014-mlb-draft-ua-game-roster-and-preview-plus-more-tickets-and-meet-up-information/
9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 22 – C Chase Vellott – St. Thomas More (LA) HS – There’s a lot of good catching in this draft and Vellott is one of them. Has a strong arm capable of pop times in the 1.9-2.0 second range. Vallot is one of the youngest players in the class and will not turn 18 until the end of the minor league season next year
9-8-13 - <iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/WsCEyRWoN0Y?feature=player_detailpage" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 16.Chase Vallot – C, St. Thomas More (LA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
23. Drew Lugbauer
2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects - 21. Drew Lugbauer – C, Arlington (NY) HS - Made a bigger name for himself than any player at ECP. Has some big, easy raw power and can really hit. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 38.Drew Lugbauer – C, Arlington (NY) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
24. Benito Santiago
2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects - 31. Benito Santiago – C, Coral Springs Christian Academy (FL) - Was fantastic behind the plate and with the stick at ECP. Can really run, especially for a catcher. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 47.Benito Santiago – C, Coral Springs Christian Academy (FL) http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
25. Tim Susnara
8-10-13 - New Balance Area Code games - Tim Susnara (CA) has looked good behind the plate all week and had a 1.98 pop time in the game on a throw down to second. He also picked up a base hit to left, fighting off an up and in fastball. http://prospectinsider.com/view/2013-area-codes:-day-4-notes/
26. Cole Tucker
8-23-13 - Player: Cole Tucker Primary Position: SS Height/Weight: 6’3/175 Bats/Throws: S/R Home Town: Phoenix, AZ School: Mountain Pointe Class of: 2014 Committed To: Arizona Scouting Notes: 2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen: Cole is a tall thin frame with a good deal of projection, very little lower half development with long arms, hands and feet big for frame, could continue to grow. He is a little noisy in the box from the left side, good bat speed, path with a bit of lift. Cole has gap power and ability to turn on velocity. Right side was a little more natural, path was similar, but more line drive path. Both sides show the bat speed and patience, works the ball to all fields. Cole displays above average to plus speed, could be a high doubles producing bat with developing power. Plus arm strength with carry, moves around well, first step burst, lateral range to both sides. His footwork around the bag is fluid, quality defensive player. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/22/2014-mlb-draft-profile-cole-tucker/
27. Colton Shaver
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 99.Colton Shaver – C, Jordan (UT) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
28. Slade Heggen
9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 100.Slade Heggen – C, Loyala Sacred Heart (MT) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/
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