1/4/14

The Top 120 RHPs in the 2014 MLB Draft


 
RHP
1.       Tyler Beede 

5-23-13 - Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt - The only other player who has a chance to challenge Rodon for the top pick in next year’s MLB draft is Beede, who would be one hell of a consolation prize. The 6’-4” right-hander has three plus pitches of his own in a mid-90s fastball with great movement, a power curveball and a deceptive change-up. He doesn’t have quite the command that Rodon does, but he is just as unhittable. On the year, he is 3-0 with a 1.45 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 20 K/9 BB over 18.2 innings, allowing just 12 hits for third-ranked Vandy. LINK

 

6-6-13 - Mike (Toronto) - are you more bearish on Tyler Beede than others? (your comment on his W/L record....) – Keith Law - No, I just don't see any argument that he was top three in the country this year.

 

6-6-13 - Draft 14 – Q and A with Vanderbilt RHP Tyler Beede

Mack – We’re especially excited here at www.bigleaguefutures.com to be talking to one of the projected top picks in the 2014 draft, soon to be junior RHP Tyler Beede. Hey Tyler, I assume you’re all College World Series consumed right now.

Tyler - Well actually we are preparing for Game one vs. a VERY good University of Louisville team. We have our hands full and really just focused on game 1 that is slated to start on Saturday.

Mack – It’s funny… I’m interviewing Nick Burdi at the same time. He says ‘hey’. (out of the interview… don’t let this interview get in  the way of your focus on the game… it will not post up until everything is over and I would update it based on how the team does). Putting the CWS aside, I don’t have to tell you how important next year is going to be to you as baseball player. Have you signed up for any showcases or summer leagues we can look forward to following you once the series is over?

Tyler - Nick is a good friend and fellow "VELOCITY" family member. Please tell him I said hello and will see him Friday. I have been blessed to have been asked to be on the College National Team for TEAM USA. This is truly a DREAM come true. Other than that I will prepare my body at Cressey Performance in Hudson Mass with Eric Cressey. Eric has been helping me since 2008 so I stick with him during the off season.

Mack – Nick also passes on his hellos to you. Your game seems quite complete right now, but will there be anything new you’ll be working on this summer or is it just some more pounding the zone?

Tyler - This summer , both during TEAM USA as well as off season, I will be working on commanding my fastball to both sides of the plate. I will break down video and make adjustments with Coach Bianco and Coach Brown. I have a lot of faith in what coaches see both live and on video.

Mack – Tyler, I want you to go back to the day you decided that baseball was going to be the sport that you concentrated your abilities on. How old were you then, was there a certain person that helped you with that position, and is he or she still helping you now?

Tyler - I played three sports growing up and into high school. I feel that both basketball and football really help my mental ability as to how I handled what I consider impact moments. Example of that would be as a Quarterback staying poised and composed in a huddle and leading teammates and within the game of basketball, learning how to slow the game down and work to execute game plans. I would say after my Sophomore year in high school is when I knew baseball would be my path in college although I would REALLY enjoy the opportunity of playing football at the college level.

As to a specific person that has helped me, there have been many. My father has been there for me since day one, but my biggest mentor would be Eric Cressey. He truly has taught me how to manage emotions and understand the strength and conditioning that it takes to play at the highest level. I have had outstanding youth coaches in my life, Mr. Tim Backlin and Mr. Doug Flink were my football coaches, Mr Jack Barry and Tim Cummins were my little league coaches that really taught me the game of baseball and Mr Bill McGuirk was my basketball coach. I would never be the athlete that I have become without these people. I have been blessed to have my academic life truly altered by Mr Chris Margraff. He is still to this day not only a former coach and advisor from my High School, Lawrence Academy, but a great trusted friend. Lawrence Academy altered my future and has allowed me to be a successful student at Vanderbilt University

Mack – (BTW, Dan Kirby, who just mocked you #1 in the 2014 draft, wishes you good luck next year). That’s awesome. Your father has done a heads up job touting you for the Golden Spikes Award. I’m going to leave it here and let the rest of the pundits ask all the same boring questions. I’ll check back with you before the 2014 draft and we’ll do this again, but, for now, is there anything you want to say to the readers of both Mack’s Mets and Big League Futures?

Tyler - Thank you very much for taking the time to interview me. I would simply like everyone to know that I am extremely grateful and blessed to have had the opportunity to attend and play at Vanderbilt University. It has truly helped me become a better man and more prepared for my future both within and out of the game of baseball. I will continue to work hard and what ever may happen in a year from now is up to GOD and many many baseball scouts and executives. My only focus over the next twelve months will be to get better each and every day in hopes of being  a better teammate and help Vanderbilt win a National Championship.

Mack – Class act!

 

6-9-13  -   4.Tyler Beede, RHP (Vanderbilt): Live fastball and a strong breaking ball, but needs to improve his walk rate. Has clean mechanics and already has the build for pro ball. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/

 

6-9-13  - 1. Miami Marlins — Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt - The 6’-4” right-hander is putting together one hell of a season for the top-ranked Commodores this year and is one of three finalists for the Golden Spikes award. Over 16 starts, he is 14-0 with a 2.20 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 101 K/60 BB over 98.1 innings, allowing just 57 hits. He has an effortless delivery and the ball jumps out of his hand. He features a classic three-pitch mix with a mid-90s plus fastball with great movement, a plus power curveball and a deceptive change-up that freezes hitters. The one knock on him is his control, which can get wild at times, but once he harnesses that, hitters will have no chance of getting on base. I feel with his size, stuff and fluid delivery, he has the most upside of any college pitcher in the 2014 MLB draft. He gets bonus points for his high character and was named a member of Collegiate Team USA. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present/34008#Vj5KQGPZZT1XUyhx.99

 

6-10-13 - Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt - The 2013 SEC Pitcher of the Year looks like a top 10 selection in next year’s draft.  Beede’s stuff is dominant.  His fastball sits 93-95 and he can touch 98.  His curve can be a plus pitch and he also throws a good change.  The key for Beede will be improvement of his command.  He has walked 60 in 98.1 IP this season and when he misses, he can miss big. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/

 

6-11-13 - 2. Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt: Beede, who didn't sign as a first-rounder in 2011, is a Golden Spikes Award finalist thanks to a 14-1 record, 2.32 ERA and .187 batting average against. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130611&content_id=50293726&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb&tcid=tw_article_50293726

 

6-13-13 - 1. Miami Marlins — Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt - The 6’-4” right-hander is putting together one hell of a season for the top-ranked Commodores this year and is one of three finalists for the Golden Spikes award. Over 16 starts, he is 14-0 with a 2.20 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 101 K/60 BB over 98.1 innings, allowing just 57 hits. He has an effortless delivery and the ball jumps out of his hand. He features a classic three-pitch mix in a mid-90s plus fastball with great movement, a plus power curveball and a deceptive change-up that freezes hitters. The one knock on him is his control, which can get wild at times, but once he harnesses that, hitters will have no chance of getting on base. I feel with his size, stuff and fluid delivery, he has the most upside of any college pitcher in the 2014 MLB draft. He gets bonus points for his high character and was named a member of Collegiate Team USA. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2

 

6-17-13  -  2. DP: Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt - Perkin said Beede (6-foot-4, 215), who declined to sign after Toronto drafted him in the first round in 2011, may benefit like Stanford's Mark Appel, the No. 1 overall pick last week whose stock improved after being drafted previously and turning down first-round money. Beede is "a smooth righty with top of the rotation stuff," Perkin said, noting "a 90-to-94 mph fastball that peaks at 95, a harsh 78-to-80 curve and a fall-off-the-table 82-to-84 changeup." http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/mlb/news/20130610/draft-prospects-carlos-rodon/#ixzz2WWk0FqzU

 

6-23-13  -  Player:  Tyler Beede  Position:  RHP  School:  Vanderbilt  Date of Birth:  5/23/1993  Height/Weight:  6’4/215  Bats/Throws:  R/R  2014 Class:  College Junior

Previously Drafted:  2011. 1st rd, Blue Jays  Scouting Report:  from Don Olsen on 6/18/2013  Tyler has the bulldog muscular athletic build, the frame and body to be that work horse to anchor a staff.  He has an easy delivery, safe three piece action that needs to refine extension and release point just a bit more to improve control.  Decent plane on his fastball shows some backspin elevation that could provide some swing and miss to the offering.  He works the offering both sides and changes eye levels with it and makes it tough to square up.  Long cruising speed 92-94 (95) mph. 2S has some tail and can provide another swing and miss wrinkle, good ground ball ability to LHH.  Good shape to curve, quality depth at its best, as release point refinement it should reach plus ability.  Change has two way action with impressive depth and a touch of arm side fade, offering shows deception.  Command and control are points for his progression, but shows an arsenal that can sit atop of the rotation.  Fields position well, very fast twitch reactions. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/23/2014-mlb-draft-profile-tyler-beede/

 

7-17-13 –  Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt - Beede has an ideal, athletic pitchers build (6'4", 215 lbs) and was anywhere from 91-96 mph on his fastball, but mostly was working with a two seamer so it was often at the lower end of that range.  He also tried to work in curve but had some issues commanding it.  He didn't walk a batter but he did hit two of them and didn't seem to locate as well he would have liked.  You don't want to get trapped into scouting results here (3 IP, 3 R) because you'd miss the boat.  The talent is obvious and it appears Beede may have been working on a few things as he prepares to face Cuba. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/07/looking-ahead-to-the-2014-and-2015-mlb-draft-notes-from-the-collegiate-national-team-games/

 

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 3. Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt - At 6’-4” and 215 pounds, the right-hander has the size, along with the stuff, to be an ace at the next level. He features a classic three-pitch mix with a mid-90s plus fastball with great movement, a plus power curveball and a deceptive change-up that freezes hitters. Opponents hit just .187 against him as a sophomore as his ability to miss bats is something to see. The one knock on him is that he also has a tendency to miss the strike zone. His stuff and make-up are top notch, however, and if he can harness his control as a junior, he could challenge Rodon for the top pick. Posted a 2.32 ERA, 1.26 with 103 K/63 BB over 101 innings for the Commodores. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

 

Top 5 MLB Draft Prospects - #4. Tyler Beede, RHP (Vanderbilt):  possesses a quick fastball and a resilient breaking ball, but needs to develop his walk rate. Has clean mechanics and even now has the size for pro ball. At 6’-4” and 215 pounds, the right-hander has the bulk, along with the substance, to be an ace at the next level. He contains a common three-pitch mix with a mid-90s plus fastball with pronounced movement, a plus power curveball and a illusive change-up that freezes hitters. Adversaries hit just .187 against him as a sophomore as his capability to miss bats is astounding. The one knock on him is that he also has a propensity to miss the strike zone. His stuff and make-up are top notch, however, and if he can gain his control as a junior, he could contest Rodon for the top pick. Posted a 2.32 ERA, 1.26 with 103 K/63 BB over 101 innings for the Commodores.  http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/30/top-5-mlb-draft-prospects/

 

9-1-13 - Jim Callis – 7. Tyler Beede, rhp, Vanderbilt - Can make hitters swing and miss with three pitches but can’t always control and command them.

 

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 3 – White Sox – RHSP Tyler Beede – Vanderbilt – Miami’s reluctance to go give out big bucks is the XXXX gain with the  Beede pick. The runner-up for the Golden Spike Award as a sophomore is easily the top college righty in the draft. The classic 6-4 power pitcher has, according to TTF, “a classic three-pitch mix with a mid-90s plus fastball with great movement, a plus power curveball and a deceptive change-up that freezes hitters.” He has had some problems pounding the zone but a pro pitching coach can straighten that out. Beede has  big time talent that projects as someone that can easily start the season at the A+ or AA level.

 

9-27-13 - Jim Callis - The 2014 Draft is a solid group that impresses scouts more than the 2012 and 2013 talent pools. College pitching is always a prized commodity, and there's plenty behind Rodon, starting with right-handers Jeff Hoffman (East Carolina) and Tyler Beede (Vanderbilt). There's more velocity this year in the high school ranks, with righty Tyler Kolek (Shepherd, Texas, HS) leading the way with a consistent upper-90s fastball. The pitchers stand out more than the position players, though there are plenty of intriguing bats. Catcher/outfielder Alex Jackson (Rancho Bernardo HS, San Diego) and shortstop Jacob Gatewood (Clovis, Calif., HS) offer plenty of power, while Trea Turner (North Carolina State) has uncommon speed and is a rare collegian who should be able to play shortstop in the Majors. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130927&content_id=61864804&c_id=

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 2.)RHP, Tyler Beede, Vanderbilt, 6'4 220, R/R, classic pitchers build with very good velo early in games, 92-97 will touch 98 on occ, fb mostly true will run in vs RHH on occ, also decent command of hard cb and straight change, throws strikes, biggest obstacle is he rushes himself at times but when he has everything in synch, he's untouchable with heavy fb down on the knees and buckling cb that he will throw with confidence. Could go in top 5 picks in 2014!  http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/

 

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 7. Philadelphia Phillies — Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt  At 6’-4” and 215 pounds, the right-hander has the size, along with the stuff, to be an ace at the next level. He features a classic three-pitch mix with a mid-90s plus fastball with great movement, a plus power curveball and a deceptive change-up that freezes hitters. Opponents hit just .187 against him as a sophomore as his ability to miss bats is something to see. The one knock on him is that he also has a tendency to miss the strike zone. His stuff and make-up are top notch, however, and if he can harness his control as a junior, he could challenge Rodon for the top pick. Posted a 2.32 ERA, 1.26 with 103 K/63 BB over 101 innings for the Commodores.  http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

 

10-6-13 – Kendall Rogers/PG – College Prospects -  5. Tyler Beede, rhp, Vanderbilt (Drafted: 2011, Blue Jays -- 1st round) - Beede’s past is well-documented after turning down the Blue Jays out of high school. The impressive 6-foot-4, 215-pounder, has an elite fastball that sits anywhere from 90-95, along with a sharp breaking curveball at 80-83 and a fast-developing changeup that made serious strides for the Commodores in the spring. Should Beede show improved command in the spring, he could rise a few spots. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9081

 

10-9-13 – Early Pick for Cubs - Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt - Here’s what you need to know about the 6’-4” right-hander from Vanderbilt: He has two plus pitches in a mid-90s fastball and knee-buckling curveball, and hitters can rarely touch him. He allowed just 64 hits more than 101 innings as a sophomore for a .187 BAA. He also added 103 strikeouts and a 2.32 ERA. He did allow 63 walks, however, and his control is the only knock on him. With three quality pitches in his arsenal, along with the size and make up of a future ace, his upside is special. Another reason to love this pick for the 2014 MLB draft is that former Vanderbilt pitching coach, Derek Johnson, is the current minor league pitching coordinator for the Cubs. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-early-targets-chicago-cubs-fourth-overall-pick/38723

 

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 7. Tyler Beede, rhp, Vanderbilt: Unsigned 2011 first-round pick has three above-average or better pitches, but command has become an issue for him. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

11-4-13 – MLB Draft Insider - Top 14 for ’14: College Pitchers - 7. Tyler Beede / RHP / Vanderbilt – Outside of Rodon, Beede might be the most famous collegiate pitcher in the class after not signing as a first-rounder in 2011; but middling command and some potential medical issues make him more of a mid-first round pick at this point. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/11/top-14-for-14-college-pitchers/

 

11-5-13 - When Tyler Beede was in high school, at Lawrence Academy in Groton, Massachusetts — which wasn’t that long ago – he had no idea he was going to be drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2011 Major League Baseball Draft, and end up deciding not to sign. Instead he chose to attend Vanderbilt University. He was the only first round pick that year not to sign. As of now, it looks like that was a good decision. Beede’s draft stock has risen and he has been projected by many to be a top five pick in the 2014 MLB Draft. That’s a considerable jump up from the 21st overall pick in the 2011 draft. However, that’s not what his focus is moving towards spring. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/05/under-the-lights-with-vanderbilts-tyler-beede/

 

11-20-13 – Tyler Beede - Change up: Beede’s CU could be his best pitch.  It sits in the high 70’s and shows very good deception.  It shows a good tailing and sinking action.  His CU has all the makings of a plus plus pitch if his release point is correct. Command:  This may be the only knock on him.  His release point has been the biggest issue in his development.  But he has shown times when his command is on and he is all but unhittable. Summary:   The only thing holding Beede back is consistence of his release point  If you go with pure stuff, he maybe the best pitcher in the draft.  Beede could become the best pitcher coming out of the 2014 draft, if he can get master his command.  It is very possible, if Beede shows the improvement in his command that he could be a top 5 pick. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/06/scouting-report-tyler-beede-sp/

 

  11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –   2 Tyler Beede    RHP Vanderbilt http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

 

12-4-13 - MLB Pipeline ‏@MLBPipeline   I have Tyler Beede slightly ahead. Both have work to do in spring. @spencerbingol: ... Who should @Phillies take between Gatewood/Beede?

 

B/R – 11-21-13 - 8. Colorado Rockies: Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt - Tyler Beede decided not to sign with the Toronto Blue Jays as a first-round pick in 2011, turning down a seven-figure bonus to continue his amateur career at Vanderbilt. While his upside is still tantalizing, the 6’4”, 215-pound right-hander hasn’t put everything together as quickly as people hoped. Specifically, Beede struggles to keep his delivery in sync and goes through bouts where he comes nowhere close to the strike zone. He features a live fastball in the low-90s that tops out at 94-95 mph, as well as an above-average curveball in the upper-70s and potential plus changeup that registers in the same velocity range. Once Beede’s mechanical issues are ironed out, he should have a chance to reach his high ceiling as a No. 2 or No. 3 starter in the major leagues.  http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

 

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 4. Chicago Cubs — Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt - This fall, the 6’-4”, 210 pound right-hander allowed just three runs on three hits over 14 innings. He also struck out 23 batters without walking a single one. Adjustments have been made in his release point and Beede is now due for a monstrous junior season for the ‘Dores. As a sophomore, he set a school record with 14 wins and posted a 2.32 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 103 K/63 BB over 101 innings. He allowed just 64 hits, holding batters to a .187 average. His four-seam fastball can touch 97 mph and sits in the 93-94 range. His two-seamer was sitting 91-92 mph this fall and had Wiffle ball movement on it, often resembling a change-up to batters. His curveball is a knee-buckler with 12-6 action, sitting in the low 80s. His change-up has great deception and was also rated plus by scouts this fall. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

2.       Jeff Hoffman

6-9-13  -  16.Jeff Hoffman, RHP (East Carolina): The righty has shown a strong low-to-mid 90s fastball, and two potentially-plus off-speed pitches. Doesn’t strikeout as many as the other big college arms though (7.06 K/9 IP). http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/

6-9-13  - 10. Seattle Mariners — Jeff Hoffman, RHP, East Carolina - The 6’-4”, 190-pound right-hander is a workhorse who could have a Jonathan Gray-like rise next season with continued development on his curveball and change-up, both of which are solid offerings right now. His fastball is a plus pitch already and touches 97 mph. Over 15 starts this season, he had a 3.20 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 84 K/39 BB over 109.2 innings. His 7.3 innings-per-start show the kind of stamina he has, and he maintains velocity deep in games. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present/34008#Vj5KQGPZZT1XUyhx.99

6-10-13 -  Jeff Hoffman, RHP, East Carolina - Hoffman was one of the most impressive pitchers on the Cape last summer.  He has 3 pitches that all grade out above average.  His fastball gets above 95. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/

6-13-13  -  10. Seattle Mariners — Jeff Hoffman, RHP, East Carolina - The 6’-4”, 190 pound right-hander is a workhorse who could have a Jonathan Gray-like rise next season with continued development on his curveball and change-up, both of which are solid offering right now. His fastball is a plus pitch already and touches 97 mph. Over 15 starts this season, he had a 3.20 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 84 K/39 BB over 109.2 innings. His 7.3 innings-per-start show the kind of stamina he has and he maintains velocity deep in games. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2

7-17-13 - Kiley McDaniel ‏@kileymcd  - Hyannis/East Carolina 2014 RHP Jeff Hoffman working 94-97 in the first inning in front of a loaded scouting section.

Jeff Hoffman is a 6’4″, 185 pound right-handed starter from Latham, NY. He plays collegiatly for the East Carolina Pirates and for the Hyannis Harbor Hawks in the Cape Cod League. I have seen him pitch three times this season, the first of which was at beautiful Clark-LeClair Stadium in Greenville, NC when the ECU Pirates opposed the University of Central Florida Golden Knights. On 5/16/2013, Jeff threw 8 innings, surrendered 6 hits, walked 6, struck out 5, and allowed 2 runs. The next two outings were on 7/4/2013 and 7/17/2013 during some Cape Cod League Baseball action at McKeon Park in Barnstable, MA. On July 4th, Hoffman went 6 innings, allowed 2 earned runs, 5 hits, 1 walk, and struck-out 8. On July 17th, he was even more impressive. That day, his final line was 7.2 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 1BB, and 11 K. http://bullpenbanter.com/jeff-hoffman-the-ace-of-the-cape/ e-up that is more of an out pitch. His command can be shaky at times as he is still learning how to be a pitcher instead of just running his overpowering fastball. Over 15 starts this year, he had a 4.25 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 109 K/48 BB over 95.1 innings. If he works on his command the way Jonathan Gray did this year, as well as refine his off-speed stuff, he could challenge Beede and Rodon for the top pick. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2  

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 5. Jeff Hoffman, RHP, East Carolina - The 6’-4”, 200-pound right-hander was dominate at the Cape Cod League this year. Over 24.1 innings, he had 33 K/5 BB and allowed 20 hits for Hyannis. His fastball can touch 98 mph, and both his curveball and change-up are solid offerings and getting better. Over 15 starts as a sophomore, he had a 3.20 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 84 K/39 BB over 109.2 innings. His 7.3 innings-per-start show the kind of stamina he has, and he maintains velocity deep in games. We all saw Jonathan Gray rocket up draft boards this past year, and Hoffman could enjoy the same ride.  http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

9-1-13 - Jim Callis – 2. Jeff Hoffman, rhp, East Carolina - Starred in Cape Cod League last two summers with mid-90s fastball, big-breaking curve.

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 9 – Twins – RHP   Jeff Hoffman – East Carolina – 6-4 control finesse pitcher (7.06 K/9 IP) who simply gets the job done working the corners with his 92-95, 97 fastball and two + off-speed pitches. 84 K/39 BB over 109.2 innings last season.  Had a big summer in the Cape Cod League and a lot of scouts are predicting a Jonathan Gray-like rise in the rankings for him once the season starts. I already have him there.

9-10-13 – Top Arms in 2013 Cape Cod League - Jeff Hoffman 6-4/183, Hyannis Harborhawks 24.1 IP, 33K, 3.70 ERA: FB 93-97 CB 78-82 CH 86-89-  Hoffman has put himself in the discussion of top 5 picks for next year’s draft. His FB is thrown with downward plane and flashes late bore. His CB is tight with depth in the zone and late break. His CH is firm but has run. Other than one outing, he dominated CCBL line-ups. http://bullpenbanter.com/2013-all-cape-team-pitchers/  

9-27-13 - Jim Callis - The 2014 Draft is a solid group that impresses scouts more than the 2012 and 2013 talent pools. College pitching is always a prized commodity, and there's plenty behind Rodon, starting with right-handers Jeff Hoffman (East Carolina) and Tyler Beede (Vanderbilt). There's more velocity this year in the high school ranks, with righty Tyler Kolek (Shepherd, Texas, HS) leading the way with a consistent upper-90s fastball. The pitchers stand out more than the position players, though there are plenty of intriguing bats. Catcher/outfielder Alex Jackson (Rancho Bernardo HS, San Diego) and shortstop Jacob Gatewood (Clovis, Calif., HS) offer plenty of power, while Trea Turner (North Carolina State) has uncommon speed and is a rare collegian who should be able to play shortstop in the Majors. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130927&content_id=61864804&c_id=

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 10.)RHP, Jeff Hoffman, East Carolina, 6'4 190, nice easy delivery with fb that reaches 95, most are 91-92 with life and boring action in on RHH, cb and change still coming along, both could be used to get outs in pro ball currently but need improvement at the ML level to be effective, appears to have enough stamina and strength to be a starter but has a loose enough arm that he could be effective best out of the bullpen. Definite one to watch for 2014, 1-3 round projection, for me 4-7 round seems fair. http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/ 

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 4. Chicago Cubs — Jeff Hoffman, RHP, East Carolina   With Javier Baez, Kris Bryant, Albert Almora and Jorge Soler leading the way, the Cubs have some outstanding offensive potential coming through the system at a rapid pace. By selecting Hoffman here, they can hopefully add that ace in the rotation they so desperately need. The 6’-4”, 200-pound right-hander was dominate at the Cape Cod League this year. Over 24.1 innings, he had 33 K/5 BB and allowed 20 hits for Hyannis. His fastball can touch 98 mph, and both his curveball and change-up are solid offerings and getting better. Over 15 starts as a sophomore, he had a 3.20 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 84 K/39 BB over 109.2 innings. His 7.3 innings-per-start show the kind of stamina he has, and he maintains velocity deep in games. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99 

 

10-6-13 – Kendall Rogers/PG – College Prospects - 2. Jeff Hoffman, rhp,  East Carolina (Drafted: Never) - There’s always that prospect who takes a massive step forward during the summer. Last summer, it was Mississippi State outfielder Hunter Renfroe, who parlayed a strong summer and spring into a Padres first-round pick. Now, it’s likely Hoffman, who elevated his status at the Cape Cod League by sitting 94-97, and up to 98, with his fastball, which had exploding life. Hoffman also showed a good 80-82 curveball throughout the summer. If Hoffman is consistent in the spring, it’s not out of the question that he could be the first overall pick in the MLB draft. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9081

10-9-13 – Early Pick for Cubs - Jeff Hoffman, RHP, East Carolina - Carlos Rodon is left off the 2014 MLB draft list because the only way he falls out of the top three is if he has an injury or decides to give up the sport altogether — neither of which I hope happens. Jeff Hoffman, a 6’-4” right-hander, impressed some scouts so much in the Cape Cod League that some have put him in the discussion for 1-1 with Rodon. With more than 24.1 innings, he had 33 K/5 BB and showed off his great stuff, headlined by a mid-90s fastball and the makings of a plus curveball that sits in the 80-84 mph range. Hoffman also adds an above-average change-up and solid slider, giving him a quality four-pitch mix. His command still needs to be a little more consistent but he shows a smooth, effortless delivery so the mechanics are there. At 185 pounds, there is still projection left and he could actually gain more velocity as he fills out. It is no secret that the Cubs organization lacks starting pitching depth and, if Hoffman is still on the board for the 2014 MLB draft, he could be a huge addition to one of the best farm systems in baseball. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-early-targets-chicago-cubs-fourth-overall-pick/38723

10-16-13 – Kevin Gallo on Jeff Hoffman - Fastball: Has a plus FB that sits in the mid-90s with excellent tailing action. Secondary Pitches: Hoffman has an above average to plus Curveball closer to plus. CB sits around 80mph with a 1 to 7 hard biting break. He looks to be an out pitch at the Major League Level. Change up: His Changeup is average but doesn’t use it very much. It sits in the high 80s but shows good tailing and arm action. I have been told his Changeup has improved but I can only go off what I have seen. Command: He works good command of his FB and CB but didn’t see enough of his CU to get an idea of it.  Summary: Hoffman as show the tools to be the #1 pick in next year’s draft but Rondon is going to be difficult to overtake. He also has room to gain muscle and develop. He has the pieces to be a pure #1 and if his changeup has improved he could become an elite pitcher http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/10/guest-post-scouting-report-on-jeff-hoffman/

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 2. Jeff Hoffman, rhp, East Carolina: His stuff isn’t far off from Rodon’s, but he hasn’t performed to a comparable level (6.8 K/9 in two seasons). http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

10-18-13 – Matt Garroich – Jeff Hoffman of East Carolina is a righty that has frontline potential and three plus pitch potential. He would be the kind of guy who would be in discussions for the top pick in any draft, so he should be in this draft as well, even with Rodon in it. I don't want to oversell Hoffman at this point because his stuff has always been better than his results but his summer on Cape Cod was simply dominant. http://www.minorleagueball.com/2013/10/18/4851030/2014-mlb-draft-atlantic-region-college-discussion

11-3-13 – Baseball America - East Carolina’s scout day was held Friday night, which gave in-state scouts a look at righthander Jeff Hoffman, who ranked as the No. 1 prospect in the Cape Cod League this summer. Hoffman dominated with Cape with sharpened stuff that produced 12 strikeouts per nine and a 6.6 strikeout-walk ratio. Hoffman sat 93-96 mph with his fastball through two innings and did not throw a fastball below 94 in his second inning. He has a loose, easy arm action and the ball jumps out of his hand with downhill plane and minimal effort from a three-quarters slot. Hoffman largely pitched off his fastball. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/east-carolina-scout-day-jeff-hoffman/

11-4-13 – MLB Draft Insider - Top 14 for ’14: College Pitchers - 2. Jeff Hoffman / RHP / East Carolina – He doesn’t have Rodon’s track record, but Hoffman was as good — if not better — than any collegiate pitcher this summer, occasionally hitting 97 on the gun with a plus-plus curve and a change that also flashed plus. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/11/top-14-for-14-college-pitchers/

   11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –  3 Jeff Hoffman    RHP East Carolina http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

B/R – 11-21-13 - 2. Miami Marlins: Jeff Hoffman, RHP, East Carolina - A 6’4”, 183-pound right-hander, Jeff Hoffman has a very projectable frame that will allow him to add considerable strength, especially to his lower half, as he develops. Throwing on a consistent downhill plane, Hoffman will usually sit in the 92-97 mph range with his fastball and more toward the high end of that range when he’s at his best. While he does a decent job of working the pitch to both sides of the plate, his overall command leaves room for improvement. In terms of his secondary arsenal, Hoffman features a plus curveball in the 78-83 mph range with tight, top-to-bottom rotation and late downer bite. The offering has plus-plus potential at maturity. Hoffman also throws a mid-80s slider that already grades as at least an average offering when on, though it’s less consistent than the true curveball. The right-hander has a changeup with average fading action that should develop into another weapon during his rise to the major leagues. http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  6- RHP Tyler Beede Vanderbilt 5/23/93- He turned down the Blue Jays (21st overall) out of HS and has become a dominant collegiate for Vandy winning 14 games as a sophomore. He has 3 solid pitches with a 92-94 fastball and a very good curve and change. He still has question marks with overall command. (Cubs @ 4) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 3. Chicago Whit Sox — Jeff Hoffman, RHP, East Carolina - Since Kenny Williams took over in 2000, the White Sox have selected a college player in the first round 13 of 17 times. Eight of those have been pitchers. He would have his pick of a couple here but I say he would go with Hoffman, a 6’-4”, 200 pound right-hander who has been rocketing up draft boards since dominating the Cape Cod League. Over 24.1 innings, he had 33 K/5 BB and allowed 20 hits for Hyannis. His fastball can touch 98 mph, and both his curveball and change-up are solid offerings, and getting better. Over 15 starts as a sophomore, he had a 3.20 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 84 K/39 BB over 109.2 innings. His 7.2 innings-per-start show the kind of stamina he has, and he maintains velocity deep in games. A strong showing his junior season could propel him in talks for the number-one spot. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

3.       Touki Toussaint

 

6-9-13  -   7.Touki Toussaint, RHP (Florida HS): One of the hardest throwers in this high school class, with a plus curve to boot. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/  

 

6-9-13  - 4. New York Mets — Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs (FL) - The 6’-2” right-hander has an electric fastball which can touch 97 mph with late life and there is still room for more as he fills out. He has a deceptive delivery which makes his plus, mid-70s, knee-buckling curveball even harder to react to. His change-up is still developing, but with two plus pitches already, he will be one of the most talked about prep pitchers next season. Never has a prep RHP gone first overall in the draft. Touki could change that. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present/34008#Vj5KQGPZZT1XUyhx.99  

 

6-11-13 - 4. Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs Christian HS, Fla.: This Florida prepster is very athletic with a ton of arm strength, using a clean delivery to fire fastballs that can touch the mid-90s to go along with a hard downer curve. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130611&content_id=50293726&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb&tcid=tw_article_50293726  

 

6-13-13 - Touki Toussaint, Coral Springs Christian (Fla.), Right-Handed Pitcher - One of the fastest rising players in the class of 2014, Toussaint impressed last year on the mound as a sophomore and didn't do anything to diminish that assessment with a 5-2 record and 65 strikeouts with a 0.95 ERA. Fastball is reportedly up to 97 mph. http://www.maxpreps.com/news/article.aspx?articleid=7c0ad513-b5e1-4ac1-b57e-8dedcc72c783&page=2

 

6-13-13  -  4. New York Mets — Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs (FL) - The 6’-2” right-hander has an electric fastball which can touch 97 mph with late life and there is still room for more as he fills out. He has a deceptive delivery which makes his plus, mid-70s, knee-buckling curveball even harder to react to. His change-up is still developing, but with two plus pitches already, he will be one of the most talked about prep pitchers next season. Never has a prep RHP gone first-overall in the draft. Touki could change that. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2  

 

6-17-13  -  Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs (Fla.) Christian Academy - Toussaint (6-foot-2, 190), who won gold with the U16 national team, stands out as a prep arm in what Simpson said is a draft class whose strength is college pitchers. "His fastball is 96-97 and he has the makings of an above-average curve," Simpson said. "He's the best high school arm at this point." http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/mlb/news/20130610/draft-prospects-carlos-rodon/#ixzz2WWk0FqzU  

 

6-28-13 - Dany "Touki" Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs Christian Academy:  A fireballing 6'2" right handed pitcher with athleticism in spades, Toussaint has been on the radar for a long time thanks to his big velocity. Though a bit raw, Touki shows the framework of two plus to plus-plus pitches in the form of his high-90s fastball and big breaking curve. Toussaint's premium athleticism is on full display in his delivery which features plenty of leg drive and arm speed that he converts into his 98 MPH heat. His fastball has plenty of run and could be a 7 pitch down the line. http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2013/6/28/4450674/the-way-too-early-2014-tcb-astros-draft-board

 

7-2-13 - 2. Touki Toussaint- RHP, Coral Springs Christian Academy (FL) Best pitcher in the country, has touched 97 with a plus CB http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

 

7-5-13 - Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs Academy (FL) - One of the most electric arms in the 2014 MLB draft, the 6’-2”, 190-pound right-hander has touched 97 mph with his fastball and adds one of the best curveballs in the draft; a knee-buckling, hammer that sits in the mid-70s. He adds a lot of deception to his delivery, making his stuff that much harder to pick up. There is still room for added velocity and, with continued work on his change-up, might not even be available when the Chicago Cubs pick. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/prep-arms-chicago-cubs/34856#Vp7zJ4JvRevfV1fR.99

 

7-25-13 – Top 30 High School Prospects For 2014 Draft - 10. Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs Christian HS (FL) - 6'3/185, Draft Day Age: 17.96, No college commitment, Full Report & Video - Quick Take: The most famous name in this class got considerable buzz when he sat 92-95 and hit 97 mph with a knockout plus-plus curveball last October and Toussaint is still young for the class but his stuff has backed up some this summer. His stuff has been more average to above average but it's still way too early to drop him that far. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html

 

8-6-13 - Top pitchers - East Coast Professional Showcase, Syracuse, NY -  3. Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs Christian Academy (Fla.): One of the more projectable pitchers at East Coast, Toussaint was up to 94 mph and showed a curve and a slider. He wasn't always consistent, though he did get better as his outing went on, and scouts love his arm and upside. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130806&content_id=56048786&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb

 

8-6-13 - Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  - Touki Toussaint 90-93 w/ 73-75 CB. Trouble w/ Ks in 1st, but settled in 2nd. Walked 4 in 1st. CB is good, but lacks sharpness it had in Jupiter.

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 6. Touki Toussaint – RHP, Coral Springs Christian Academy (FL) - Sat 92-93, touched 94 and featured his outstanding curveball. Will battle Holmes all year for the best FB/CB mix. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

 

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 9. Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs Academy (FL) - One of the most electric arms in the 2014 MLB draft, the 6’-2”, 190-pound right-hander has touched 97 mph with his fastball and adds one of the best curveballs in the draft; a knee-buckling hammer that sits in the mid 70s. He adds a lot of deception to his delivery, making his stuff that much harder to pick up. The only knock on him right now is his command, which can get the best of him at times. He walked three and struck out three in one inning at the PG Classic. His stuff is outstanding. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99   

 

8-13-13 - The Perfect Game All-American Classic in San Diego - * Touki Toussaint (Coral Springs High School, Fla.) hasn’t been as impressive this summer as he was last fall, but the overall stuff was pretty solid on Sunday; sitting in the mid 90′s and showing a better breaking ball than he has for most of the showcase events. Unfortunately, the command is still poor at best and there’s some mechanical stuff that has to be cleaned up. The talent is immense, but there’s a lot of work to be done. 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 -  Player Spotlight: Pitcher - Touki Toussaint | RHP | Coral Springs Christian (Coral Springs, FL) - Height/Weight: 6-foot-2/190 pounds  B/T: R/R  Draft Day Age: 17 years, 11 months  Commitment: N/A  The high-waisted righty struggled to command his offerings in game, but continues to flash some of the best, and most projectable, stuff in the draft class. Toussaint is a scout’s player, with athleticism, physical projection, loud stuff, and natural arm speed – all of which were on display throughout the weekend’s events. There are arms in this class producing more velocity, and bodies offering more projection, but you would be hard pressed to find a combination of present profile and projected upside to match Toussaint’s. Scouting Notes: Electric raw stuff; three-quarters slot; easy and lighting-fast arm; throws the ball downhill better than any pitcher at the event; lost his release early but showed the ability to make quick adjustments; fastball worked 92-94; touched 95; appears much faster; ball really jumps; impossible to touch when he spots it down; command was off in this showing; slow to the plate (1.65 seconds) with runners on; showed slide-step and held velocity; curve was poor early and then started to flash its promise; 72-75 mph with lots of bite; showed a cut-change offering in the mid-80s; more deliberate than curveball; arm speed and present fastball make me think a really, really good changeup is going to develop out of this arm; could end up as complete starter package; very inconsistent but power arm with very high upside. –Jason Parks  Summer Stock: The BP Prospect Team was huddled behind home plate last October for Touki’s big coming out party in Jupiter—a three-inning outing for the Atlanta Blue Jays against defending champs Marucci Elite in which Toussaint fanned nine and showed a plus curve and lively low- to mid-90s fastball, all as a 16-year-old. He finished the tournament with 18 strikeouts over six innings, standing out as one of the top arms at the event.   This summer, Toussaint’s carrying characteristic has been inconsistent command, though the “now” stuff and projection continue to impress evaluators at each step on the circuit. He’s generally been 89-93, touching 94/95 mph, while showing a hard curve that will flash plus, and a low-80s true change. This June he started mixing in a cut-change that runs from the mid- to upper-80s with cutter action, and the pitch has made regular appearances throughout his various outings. It hasn’t been a dominant summer, but for a player who has flashed front-end potential since the age of 16, Toussaint is doing what he needs to on the field to remain in consideration for early first round selection next June. –Nick J. Faleris  http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537

 

8-21-13 – Area Code Games - 8. Touki Toussaint, rhp, Coral Springs Christian (Fla.)/ Atlanta Blue Jays - Toussaint burst onto the scene as a 16-year-old last summer at Tournament of Stars before an otherworldly performance at the WWBA in Jupiter in October, when he struck out 18 in six innings and showed a mid-90s fastball and plus curveball. Toussaint, who was a soccer player until he started playing baseball four years ago and lived in Haiti for six years, offers rare athleticism for a pitcher and has one of the highest upsides of any high school pitcher. At 6-foot-1, 198-pounds, Toussaint has a wiry, athletic build with long limbs. He has loose, whip-like action from a three-quarter slot and gets extension out front. His fastball sat 90-94 mph and touched 95 with natural cut in Long Beach. Toussaint threw some above-average curveballs with depth but the low-to-mid 70s pitch was inconsistent. He is working a high-80s cutter/slider and low-80s changeup into his repertoire. With three walks in as many innings, Toussaint’s command was not sharp. His lower half has been leaking in his delivery this summer and he has a late hand break. But Toussiant,  once committed to Miami but currently uncommitted, has the athleticism necessary to improve his control. He will form one of the top batteries in the country with Benito Santiago, a lefthanded-hitting catcher who is one of the top catchers in the country, the son of the former big league by the same name. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/area-code-games-top-10-prospects/

 

 

8-25-13 - Touki Toussaint displayed the talent that scouts are dreaming on. However, Toussaint also continued to work on a new wrinkle to his game, which could set him apart from his peers by the time June rolls around.  The word that would best describe Touki Toussaint is projectable. Toussaint’s present stuff is already electric, as I’ll get into, but there may be no prep pitcher that possesses more upside than the athletic right-handed pitcher. It all starts with the loose, athletic body with a big frame that has scouts dreaming about what could be. Toussaint is one of the best athletes I saw this week, and that includes the positional players. http://rontrarianreport.com/2013/08/25/scouting-touki-toussaint-mlb-draft/

 

8-31-13 – Area Code Games - Touki Toussaint (RHP) 6’2″ 195; 2014 Sleek, slender look w/long, lean levers; good projection body. Compact delivery w/lighting quick arm. HTQ slot w/EZ gas 91-92 and will flash 7FB. Electric FB w/occ. tilt on outer third. More control vs command at the moment. FB plays CB up; will flash depth and downer action when right. Limited feel for spin. Mixes in firm CH85 works underneath and still a projection pitch. Cutter 87-88 will play. Strong follow: good athlete w/special FB and deeper projection secondary.  http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/31/area-code-notes/

 

9-1-13 - Keith Law - Touki Toussaint showed his usual arm strength, although 89-94 is actually a little low for him. His curveball, at 72-73 mph, ranged from a 59-footer to an absolute hammer, but he had no command of anything. That has been the norm for him in showcases. He's lean and athletic with a quick arm and he's hit 97 mph lots of times, but I'd like to see Touki (pronounced TOO-key) show he can pitch too. www.baseballamerica.com

 

9-1-13 - Jim Callis – 8. Touki Toussaint, rhp, Coral Springs (Fla.) Christian HS - Has struggled with command this summer but his premium stuff is impossible to deny.

 

8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Touki Toussaint, RHP:  Toussaint has perhaps the best prep arm in this draft and is considered a top 10 pick at this point with a chance to move up if he can improve his command.  He can touch 97 mph and complements that with a plus curve that already gives him a second swing and miss offering.  He's not quite as tall at 6'2" but has room to grow. As mentioned,  his command needs a lot of work, but his stuff is potentially top of the rotation. 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 – 2 – Miami – RHSP Touki Toussaint – Coral Springs (FL) High School – The obvious ‘best player available’ here would have been RHP Tyler Beede out of Vanderbilt, but the Marlins do not want to get into a gigantic bonus negotiation with the college junior. They choose instead  a local high school senior they are banking on will sign for slot. It’s still a very good pick for a kid who is ranked in every top ten mock in the country. Very raw, but throws in the high 90s.

 

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects - 10.Touki Toussaint – RHP, Coral Springs Christian (FL) http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 15. Los Angeles Angels — Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs Academy (FL) One of the most electric arms in the 2014 MLB draft (as well as this 2014 MLB mock draft too), the 6’-2”, 190-pound right-hander has touched 97 mph with his fastball and adds one of the best curveballs in the draft; a knee-buckling hammer that sits in the mid 70s. He adds a lot of deception to his delivery, making his stuff that much harder to pick up. The only knock on him right now is his command, which can get the best of him at times. He walked three and struck out three in one inning at the PG Classic. His stuff is outstanding.  http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

 

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 8. Touki Toussaint, rhp, Coral Springs (Fla.) Christian HS: Like Beede, Toussaint shows premium stuff (mid-90s fastball, curve) but struggles to throw strikes at times. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

 

10-25-13  - PG Showcase - Touki Toussaint (Coral Springs Christian Academy, Coral Springs, Fla.) took the hill for the Atlanta Blue Jays. Toussaint featured similar stuff to what he’s delivered since creating headlines in Jupiter a year ago when he showed off a fastball up to 97 and devastating curveball. This year, the athletic righthander showed off a 91-94 mph fastball, peaking at 95, while predominantly mixing in his plus curveball at 74-77. At its best, Toussaint’s wrinkle earned audible praise from the typically tight-lipped scouting community. The 6-foot-2, 195-pounder also threw an 85-86 changeup with deceptive arm speed, as well as an 84 mph slider. Compared to other national showcase events, Toussaint threw more strikes, though he was not always fine. His body and arm seemed to be working in better sync, allowing him to repeat his delivery. After getting squeezed on some close pitches, however, he had some wildness and ran up his pitch count, forcing his exit after two innings. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/toussaint-wows-evaluators-at-jupiter/

 

10-29-13 – Jim Callis – Top 10 World Wood Bat Association World Championship (WWBA) Jupiter, Fla - 3. Touki Toussaint, RHP, Atlanta Blue Jays (Coral Springs, Fla., Christian High/uncommitted) -  Possesses electric fastball/curveball combination, but still learning how to harness his pitches. http://ht.ly/qi5No

 

11-6-13 – Todd Gold – WWBA World Championship – Touki Toussaint (2014 RHP, Atlanta Blue Jays) - Touki was one of the biggest stars of the 2012 edition of Jupiter, touching 97 mph with his fastball and tantalizing with his loose whippy arm action, if to say nothing of the depth on his curveball. He was back in 2013 with high expectations, and while he didn't light up the radar gun in quite the same way (sitting 91-94), he showed strides towards converting his raw potential into usable ability. In his first inning of work he struck out four batters and showed improved command of his fastball, thanks in large part to a slightly more streamlined delivery. After beginning his journey playing baseball late, Toussaint has never consistently shown good present command of his electric stuff. That began to change with an impressive first inning in Jupiter. Eventually his wildness caught up with him in the second inning, as his filthy curveball was not only devastating to opposing hitters, but also his catcher and the umpire....leading to dropped third strikes and missed strike calls. His short developmental history and underlying athleticism suggest that with a few years of work in a player development system Toussaint can learn to harness his high level stuff and conquer the many miles of development that stand between his present ability and that elite potential. His career line at the WWBA World Championship includes two earned runs on four hits over eight innings, with 13 walks and 23 strikeouts. He has developed the spin rate on his curveball even further giving the pitch more bite and velocity while maintaining the shoulder to ankles depth it featured a year ago. He has also added a devastating splitter to his arsenal. While some may shortsightedly refer to Touki's present command as a nightmare, he is a Pitching Coordinator's dream project and as such is likely to be a high draft pick come June. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9157

 

11-14-13 - Michael Schwartze - Other notable right-handers include right-handers Touki Toussaint (Toussaint has some of the best raw stuff, showing a mid-90’s fastball and a power curveball but struggled throwing strikes over the summer. He did rebound with his command late, setting him up for a big spring. Holmes has been in the discussion as the top prep arm, sitting in the mid-90s and showing a plus curveball with a solid change that flashed above-average in the showcases. Toussaint has the physical attributes and raw stuff to earn his way into the top half of the round. http://www.studentsports.com/blog/2013/11/13/baseball-jupiter-wraps-up-2013-showcase-circuit/     

 

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 5 Touki Toussaint RHP R/R 6-1 198 Coral Springs (Florida) Academy Vanderbilt http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

   11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –  13 Touki Toussaint    RHP Coral Springs Christian (FL) http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

 

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 5. Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs Academy (FL) - Electric stuff but erratic command is the book on Toussaint right now. His fastball can touch 97 mph with explosive life and his curveball is already a plus pitch — a mid-70s hammer that some consider the best in the class. He adds a lot of deception to his delivery, and at 6’-2”, 195 pounds, there is still room for projection. His commitment to Vanderbilt has to be considered at least a little come draft time. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

 

B/R – 11-21-13 - B/R – 11-21-13 - 22. Texas Rangers: Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs Christian HS (Fla.) - A well-known commodity in the scouting community, Touki Toussaint has been on the radar for the last two seasons thanks to a fastball that sits in the low-to-mid-90s and has bumped 97 in the past. The 6’3”, 185-pound right-hander’s curveball ranks as one of the best in the class, as he throws the pitch in the low-70s with exceptional depth and a sharp, two-plane break that induces whiffs. Toussaint is also one of the younger hurlers in the 2014 class, as he doesn’t turn 18 until after the June draft. http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

 

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  19- RHP Touki Toussaint Coral Springs Christian HS (Vanderbilt Commit) 6/20/96- I always find it interesting that there are so many professional baseball players from the Dominican Republic yet hardly any players from Haiti. The 2 share an island and the baseball bug just seems to have missed Haiti. Touki might change that going forward as the native of Haiti continues to climb the ladder as one of the premiere arms in his class. He has only played baseball for 4 years but possesses a very quick arm that should be a consistent mid 90s offering as he develops.  He is still refining his curve and change. I saw him in Jupiter, Florida where he definitely was electric but seemed to tire early and lose the feel for his pitches. Obviously, young arms will get excited when 100 plus scouts eyes are on them. (Nationals @ 20) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 12. Milwaukee Brewers — Touki Toussaint, RHP, Coral Springs HS (FL) - One of the most exciting prep pitchers in the 2014 MLB draft because his stuff  can be electric. His fastball can touch 97 mph with explosive life and his curveball is already a plus pitch — a mid-70s hammer that some consider the best in the class. He adds a lot of deception to his delivery, and at 6’-2”, 195 pounds, there is still room for projection. His command can get erratic at times but the stuff is special. Committed to Vanderbilt. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

 

4.       Tyler Kolek

6-14-13 - Todd Gold‏@TGold_PG - 2014 RHP Tyler Kolek (Shepherd, TX) sat 92-95 with severe downhill leverage and + extension, flashed + SL in 1st IP of PGNational

6-14-13 - Frankie Piliere‏@FPilierePG - Tyler Kolek just pounded the zone at 95-96, topped 97 in his second inning. Easy velo

7-2-13  -  7. Tyler Kolek- RHP, Shepherd (TX) HS -  6’5, 230 RHP who touched 97 at TOS and National Showcase. Rumored triple digits http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/  

7-5-13 - Tyler Kolek, RHP, Shepherd HS (TX) - The 6’-6”, 240-pound right-hander established himself as an early front runner when he hit 100 mph on some scouts radar guns at Area Code tryouts in June. He then sat in the mid-90s at the Perfect Game Nationals with good feel for a slider that has plus potential. His size suggests even more velocity could be coming, and he has great body control considering his frame. He has been timed at 4.8 in the 40, showing great athleticism. Texas is known for producing big, hard-throwing right-handers, and Kolek definitely fits the mold. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/prep-arms-chicago-cubs/34856#Vp7zJ4JvRevfV1fR.99  

7-24-13  -  1. Tyler Kolek, rhp, Shepherd (Texas) HS/Houston Banditos - Kolek broke his non-throwing arm early in his junior season. He resumed throwing in early May and within a month his 91-94 mph velocity jumped to 97, and he touched 99 mph at an Area Code Games tryout. The 6-foot-6, 250-pound Kolek has strength throughout his extra-large frame, long levers and athleticism, garnering Division I scholarship offers as a defensive end. A Texas Christian signee, he delivers his fastball from a three-quarters arm slot, giving it heavy boring action and good downhill plane. Both his low-80s slider and mid-70s curveball show plus or better potential, with the curveball showing more promise. 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 - 3. Tyler Kolek, RHP, Shepherd HS (TX) - 6'5/230, Draft Day Age: 18.48, No college commitment, Full Report & Video - Quick Take: Scouts were tossing around Jonathan Gray comparisons (2013 #3 overall pick, Rockies) when the XL-framed righty hit 100 mph a few months ago with a plus high-70's curveball. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html  

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 6. Tyler Kolek, RHP, Shepherd HS (TX) - Just days after I put out my first mock, the 6’-6” right-hander hit 100 mph at the Area Code tryouts. He then sat in the mid-90s at the Perfect Game Nationals with a good feel for a slider that has plus potential. Then, at the Perfect Game All-American Classic, he hit 99 mph, setting a record for the event. His size suggests even more velocity could be coming, and he has great body control considering his frame. He has been timed at 4.8 in the 40, showing great athleticism. Texas is known for producing big, hard-throwing right-handers, but Kolek definitely fits the mold. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99      

8-13-13 - The Perfect Game All-American Classic in San Diego - * There’s not much to say about Tyler Kolek (Shepard High School, Tex.) that hasn’t been said already, but I’ll try anyway. Kolek was 94-99 in his inning of work, and the two breaking balls I saw were above-average offerings. If the draft were held today, Kolek would be a lock to go in the top ten. 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 - Tyler Kolek | RHP | Shepherd HS (Shepherd, TX)  Height/Weight: 6-foot-6/250 pounds  B/T: R/R  Draft Day Age: 18 years, 6 months  Commitment: N/A  Scouting Notes: Big Texas beef; easy 6’6’’ and easy 250; standard three-quarters slot; some effort; comes across the body a bit; jerky in the set-up with a smoother release and landing; starts with low hands and offers some deception in the swing; 97 mph on first pitch; fastball worked 93-98, touched 99; heavy pitch; some horizontal movement as well; low-80s slider with some tilt; overall command wasn’t sharp and breaking ball didn’t wow, but arm strength is exceptional and fastball is impact pitch; body and arm to chew innings.  http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537  

Most of the top high school hitters in the 2014 draft class are on hand for the Under Armour All-America Game, powered by Baseball Factory. Friday’s workout at the University of Illinois-Chicago’s Miller Field featured batting practice, infield and outfield and a home run derby, winnowing the field for Saturday’s derby prior to the game at Wrigley Field. Righthander Tyler Kolek, the top pitcher in the 2014 prep class, said Friday night he will pitch in the game Saturday. Kolek originally was expected to pitch for the USA Baseball 18U national team but decided to come to the Under Armour Game after not being selected for Team USA. There was talk Kolek would attend but not pitch, but the Shepherd (Texas) High righty said he expected to appear. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/under-armour-all-star-game-notebook/  

8-21-13 – Area Code Games - 1. Tyler Kolek, rhp, Shepherd (Texas) High/Houston Heat - The 6-foot-5, 245-pound Kolek separated himself from the rest of the high school crop early in the summer and retained his billing as the top hurler in the class after showing his mid-90s fastball that touched 96 mph in Long Beach. His high-70s breaking ball showed two-plane break and depth. Although he gave up five hits in three innings and his fastball velocity fell to the low-90s in his third frame, four of his nine outs came via the strikeout. The Texas Christian commit will be the first player ever drafted from his high school. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/area-code-games-top-10-prospects/ 

8-25-13 - Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  - Tyler Kolek (TX) erratic, but hard to argue with 94-97. Heavy ball too. Walked two

8-25-13 - It’s Tyler Kolek’s size that makes him standout, but the stuff is just as big. He features a heavy fastball that he can work down in the zone with through a big leg kick. The fastball sat in the mid-90s  while topping out at 96 MPH during the Area Code Games. However, the fastball touched 99 MPH at the Perfect Game All American Classic. While the big velocity receives all the publicity, Kolek also possesses an advanced curveball with depth that can feature nasty two-plane break at times. The curveball comes in anywhere from 77 to 80 MPH, but the vertical break can be inconsistent. The control profile is iffy, but that can be expected from a 17-year-old with special offerings, as he’s still learning how to harness his pitches and get them over for the strikes. Kolek could become the first prep pitcher to be taken off of the board due to his combination of size and power stuff. He’ll also be the first person from Shepherd, Texas to be drafted. http://rontrarianreport.com/2013/08/24/scouting-tyler-kolek-mlb-draft/  

8-31-13 – Area Code Games - Tyler Kolek (RHP) 6’5″ 245; 2014 Big bodied and country strong w/XXL features. Jonathon Gray (COL) body comp. Power arm w/good rhythm to delivery; repeats. Lands closed and arm works across body at times but does not effect strikes. Boring FB gets on hitters in a hurry. In the starting role, its a fringy 7FB who can gear up to 8FB when needed. Shows the makings of a true, power 7SL. CB has late, softer wrinkle that adds different look to breaking ball. Still learning feel for CB spin. Heavy CH will play to contact. Big upside power pitcher w/4-pitch mix.    http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/31/area-code-notes/  

9-1-13 - Keith Law:  "Shepherd, Texas, right-hander Tyler Kolek, all 6-foot-6, 245 pounds of him, showed big velocity yet again. He worked 93-97 mph, throwing just one off-speed pitch in an 81 mph curveball. Assuming he stays healthy, he'll probably be the first prep pitcher taken next spring because of his sheer size and fastball. However, other guys in the class have better feel or command. www.baseballamerica.com  

9-1-13 - Jim Callis – 3. Tyler Kolek, rhp, Shepherd (Texas) HS - His size (6-foot-6, 250-pounds), consistent upper-90s fastball make him the top prep prospect.

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 11 – Mets – (compensation pick for failure in signing 2013 10th overall pick, P Phil Bickford) –  RHP Tyler Kolek – Shepard (TX) HS – Kolek is the third of the four top high school righties in this draft.  The 6-6 flamethrower turned on the scouts early when their radar guns hit 100. Also has a + low-80s slider, and a low 70s . He also set the record at the Perfect Game All-American Classic with a 99-mph fastball. An absolutely great combination of size and speed that is impossible to pass up on.

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects - 4.Tyler Kolek – RHP, Shepherd (TX) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects /

9-27-13 - Jim Callis - The 2014 Draft is a solid group that impresses scouts more than the 2012 and 2013 talent pools. College pitching is always a prized commodity, and there's plenty behind Rodon, starting with right-handers Jeff Hoffman (East Carolina) and Tyler Beede (Vanderbilt). There's more velocity this year in the high school ranks, with righty Tyler Kolek (Shepherd, Texas, HS) leading the way with a consistent upper-90s fastball. The pitchers stand out more than the position players, though there are plenty of intriguing bats. Catcher/outfielder Alex Jackson (Rancho Bernardo HS, San Diego) and shortstop Jacob Gatewood (Clovis, Calif., HS) offer plenty of power, while Trea Turner (North Carolina State) has uncommon speed and is a rare collegian who should be able to play shortstop in the Majors. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130927&content_id=61864804&c_id= 

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 3.)RHP, Tyler Kolek, 6'5 250, R/R, Shepard HS, Shepard TX, a big'un is all I can say, good arm strength, middle 90's with his FB, at times the fb explodes with tailing life in vs RHH and on occ cuts the fb, topped out at 96 on my gun, also threw some sharp breaking balls he calls a curveball, I won't argue there, he's got a good one when he leads with front elbow and keeps his arm arm and follows through properly, command of his pitches is good for his size and improving from what I was told by several of his team's followers at TOS, definite early round follow, could be in the top 10 for sure with his arm and projection, did have surgery a little while back and seems completely 100%.  http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/  

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 5. Minnesota Twins — Tyler Kolek, RHP, Sheppard HS (TX)  After selecting flamethrower Kohl Stewart fourth-overall this year, the Twins can add another power arm in Kolek, a 6’-6”, 240 pound right-hander who can touch triple-digits with his fastball. I got to see him throw at Wrigley and he was hitting 99 mph with ease. He also shows a good feel for a slider that has plus potential. His size suggests even more velocity could be coming, and he has great body control considering his frame. He has been timed at 4.8 in the 40, showing great athleticism. He is another in a long line of country strong, hard throwers from the state of Texas. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99 

10-9-13 – Early Pick for Cubs - Tyler Kolek, RHP, Sheppard HS (TX) - High school arms are the riskiest of all 2014 MLB draft picks as they are usually far from a finished product and injuries are always a concern. Their bodies aren’t physically mature yet and there is a lot of projection involved when it comes to pitching. At 6’-6”, 245 pounds and the ability to hit triple digits on the radar gun, projection isn’t a concern with Kolek — he already is a man. Aside from his plus heater, he also has shown the makings of a plus slider but still needs to develop his offspeed stuff. He also runs a 4.8/40, showing great athleticism for his size. The Cubs are trying to build a sustainable farm system to be perennial contenders down the line. Kolek would be a kid who they could take their time developing and the finished product could be silly. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-early-targets-chicago-cubs-fourth-overall-pick/38723

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 3. Tyler Kolek, rhp, Shepherd (Texas) HS: Six-foot-6, 250-pounder has touched 99 mph and fits the Texas fireballer description.   http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

11-11-13 – PG HS Rankings –  4  -   Tyler Kolek RHP 1B 6-5 230 R R Shepherd Shepherd TX   Houston Heat  -  Big RHP was up to 97 mph at PG National. Arm works well and off speed shows good potential. Up to 99 mph at PG All American Game  http://www.perfectgame.org/Rankings/Players/Default.aspx?gyear=2014&num=500   

 

11-14-13 - Michael Schwartze - Arms Dominate Class One of the biggest strengths of this year’s class is the quality and depth of frontline starting pitching. After the summer, it appears as if as many as 10 high school pitchers could go in the first round. Right-hander Tyler Kolek (Shepard, Texas) brings some of the biggest heat in the class. The 6-foot-6, 250-pound, right-hander has been up to 99 mph and flashes two plus breaking balls: a low-80’s slider and a mid-70’s curve. “Not a whole lot else to say, is there,” quipped one east coast supervisor. “He’s big, strong, throws hard, shows a feel for his breaking ball — both of them — and is a workhorse.” http://www.studentsports.com/blog/2013/11/13/baseball-jupiter-wraps-up-2013-showcase-circuit/   

 

11-21-13 -  Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  -  No. 2 Tyler Kolek, RHP, Shepherd HS, TX. TCU recruit. Texas-sized at 6-5, 235. Up to 97 with hard slider.

 

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 1 Tyler Kolek RHP R/R 6-5 245 Shepherd (Texas) HS Texas Christian http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

   11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –  7 Tyler Kolek    RHP Shepher (TX) http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

 

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 3. Tyler Kolek, RHP, Shepherd HS (TX) - Country strong at 6’-5” and 240 pounds, the right-hander can reach back for triple digits with his fastball, but he needs work on his secondaries and control. He does show a good feel for a slider that has plus potential and has been clocked at 4.8 in the 40, showing very good athleticism for his size. He may not have much projection left, but with his current velocity, not much more is needed. Committed to TCU. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

 

B/R – 11-21-13 - 4. Chicago Cubs: Tyler Kolek, RHP, Shepherd HS (Texas) - At 6’6”, 245 pounds, Tyler Kolek is a big, physical right-hander who boasts the best fastball velocity in the class. Working on a downhill plane with a tough three-quarters arm slot, Kolek works comfortably in the mid-90s and shown the ability to bump 99-100 mph this summer. He also throws a slider that flashes plus potential, as well as an average curveball and undeveloped changeup.  http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

 

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  3- RHP Tyler Kolek Shepherd HS (TCU commit) 12/28/95- Big Texas kid with the quintessential “Texas body” who arrived late on the scene in baseball circles because he missed his junior campaign with a broken left arm. He arrived when he threw 97 at an Area Codes Game tryout and followed that up as a late arrival to the PG National at the Metrodome. His power arm is still finding command of his secondary pitches but it looks like the slider might end up being his second offering. His younger brother, Stephen looks to be a high pick in 2015. (White Sox @ 3) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 5. Minnesota Twins — Tyler Kolek, RHP, Sheppard HS (TX) - I really like Kolek here. The 6’-5”, 240 pound right-hander is a power arm whose fastball can touch triple digits. I saw him at Wrigley Field for the Under Armour AA game and he was hitting the mid 90s with ease. He can get wild with it at times but the arm strength is there already. He does show a good feel for a slider that has plus potential but needs work on refining his secondaries. Has been timed at 4.8 in the 40, so he shows very good athleticism for his size. Lots of upside here. Committed to TCU. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

5.       Michael Cederoth 

6-9-13  -   5.Michael Cederoth, RHP (San Diego State): Currently sits from 92-98, although he’s been clocked at 100 on his fastball in 2013. Both his slider and curve have shown flashes of being plus. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/  

 

6-9-13 - 5. Chicago Cubs — Michael Cederoth, RHP, San Diego State - He is 6′-6″, 210 pounds and can touch 100 mph with his fastball. Shall I go on? He also adds a mid-80s slider, as well as a mid-80s change-up that is more of an out pitch. His command can be shaky at times as he is still learning how to be a pitcher instead of just running his overpowering fastball. Over 15 starts this year, he had a 4.25 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 109 K/48 BB over 95.1 innings. If he works on his command the way Jonathan Gray did this year, as well as refine his off-speed stuff, he could challenge Beede and Rodon for the top pick. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present/34008#Vj5KQGPZZT1XUyhx.99  

 

6-10-13 - Michael Cederoth, RHP, San Diego State - Cederoth may have the best arm among those under consideration early in the first round.  He has a high 90′s fastball that hits 100.  His slider also shows plus potential, while his change also had promise. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/

 

6-11-13 - 8. Michael Cederoth, RHP, San Diego State: The 6-foot-6 right-hander's numbers this year weren't outstanding, thanks largely to some command issues, but he did strike out 109 in 95 1/3 innings and sported an upper-90s fastball at times. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130611&content_id=50293726&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb&tcid=tw_article_50293726  

 

Chicago Cubs — Michael Cederoth, RHP, San Diego State - He is 6‘-6“, 210 pounds and can touch 100 mph with his fastball. Shall I go on? He also adds a mid-80’s slider, as well as a mid-80’s change

 

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 10. Michael Cederoth, RHP, San Diego State- He is 6′-6“, 210 pounds and can touch 100 mph with his fastball. Shall I go on? He also adds a mid-80s slider, as well as a mid-80s change-up that is more of an out pitch. His command can be shaky at times as he is still learning how to be a pitcher instead of just running his overpowering fastball. Over 15 starts this year, he had a 4.25 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 109 K/48 BB over 95.1 innings. If he works on his command the way Jonathan Gray did last year, as well as refine his off-speed stuff, he should be one of the first college pitchers off the board. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

 

Top 5 MLB Draft Prospects - #5. Michael Cederoth, RHP (San Diego State):  He is 6′-6″, 210 pounds, his fastball at this time stands from 92-98, granting however- he’s been clocked at 100 in 2013. Mutually his slider and curve have displayed bursts of being plus, he possesses a mid-80s change-up that is more of an out pitch. His location can be precarious at times as he is still learning how to be a pitcher instead of just running his overwhelming fastball. Over 15 starts this year, he had a 4.25 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 109 K/48 BB over 95.1 innings. If he works on his command, as well as upgrade his off-speed stuff, he may well contest Beede and Rodon for the top pick. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/30/top-5-mlb-draft-prospects/

 

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 17 –  RHP Michael Cederoth – San Diego State – 6-6 power pitcher that has fell down the list due to all the press this season by the high schooler. Still, he is routinely clocked at 100 with a mid-80’s slider to boot. 109 K/48 BB over 95.1 innings this past season.  He does need to work on his control but don’t be surprised if he doesn’t go higher next June.

 

9-8-13 – Exclusive – There might be some injury news involving San Diego State RHP Michael Cederith that could be driving him down the mock drafts as that season progresses. Confidentail word is he pitched most of 2-13 with a similar partial tear that the Mets’ Michael Harvey currently has it this should drive him out of any consideration as a first round pick.

 

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 13. San Diego Padres — Michael Cederoth, RHP, San Diego State  He is 6′-6“, 210 pounds and can touch 100 mph with his fastball. Shall I go on? He also adds a mid-80s slider, as well as a mid-80s change-up that is more of an out pitch. His command can be shaky at times as he is still learning how to be a pitcher instead of just running his overpowering fastball. Over 15 starts this year, he had a 4.25 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 109 K/48 BB over 95.1 innings. If he works on his command the way Jonathan Gray did last year, as well as refine his off-speed stuff, he should be one of the first college pitchers off the board. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

 

10-6-13 – Kendall Rogers/PG – College Prospects - 7. Michael Cederoth, rhp, San Diego State (Drafted: 2011, Diamondbacks -- 41st round) - The ultra-talented Cederoth is yet another prospect who could rise a few spots with a strong 2014 campaign. Cederoth, a striking 6-foot-6, 210-pounder, showed better command last season with 109 strikeouts and 48 walks, but could still use some advancements in that area of his game. Otherwise, Cederoth throws four pitches, his 95-101 fastball the showcased pitch. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9081

 

11-5-13 – TTF - Michael Cederoth, a 6-foot-6, 210-pound right-hander, has the size baseball personnel covet. It didn’t take him long to establish himself in the Aztecs rotation, and the 67 1/3 innings he threw his freshman year were the second most on the team. He managed a 20.1 percent strikeout rate along with a 15.7 percent walk rate. In his sophomore year, Cederoth threw 95 1/3 innings in 15 starts. The strikeout and walk rates improved to 27.3 percent 12.0 percent, respectively. Cederoth uses a herky-jerky delivery with a high leg kick and some back turn. Throwing from a high three-quarters arm slot, he gets very good downward plane on his pitches. He gets very good extension. Cederoth uses a big arm swing, which results in the ball dipping well below his waist before he delivers. With most pitchers, this would be a difficult delivery to repeat, but Cederoth is a very good athlete, and stays pretty consistent with his motion. Still, his delivery probably will be tinkered with at the next level.  http://throughthefencebaseball.com/profiling-2014-mlb-draft-michael-cederoth/39602#MEeDqWBQWYDUurWR.99

 

11-6-13 –  PG -- The scouting world didn’t get their dose of flame-throwing San Diego State righty, Michael Cederoth this summer, and because of that, his fall outings are garnering more attention than they would typically get. Since Cederoth did not pitch on Cape Cod, for Team USA, or anywhere else for that matter, the most recent reports come from his sophomore season. The 6-foot-6 right-hander’s velocity exploits are well documented, as he is known to frequently pitch in the upper 90s with his fastball and touch as high as 100 mph.  Cederoth took the mound on Friday afternoon at Tony Gwynn Stadium, where he was scheduled to throw four innings in San Diego State’s intrasquad game. But, if you looked at the large scouting contingent in attendance, you certainly wouldn’t know this was only a very controlled scrimmage among teammates.  The San Diego State ace did not bring out of his best velocity on Friday, and for most in attendance, the assessment was that this was probably somewhat intentional. We’ll keep an eye on it, but more than anything else Cederoth appeared to be striving for command and movement in favor of pure velocity. He worked consistently at 91-93 mph with his fastball, but throughout his four innings was able to reach for an easy 95 mph fastball whenever he wanted it. If he needed to sit around 95 mph, which we know he’s capable of, it appeared he could have done it quite easily.  More interesting, however, was the frequency of Cederoth’s breaking ball, and his variance of it. To the naked eye, Cederoth threw as many, or more, off-speed pitches as he did fastballs, and was mostly very effective with that approach. He mixed a 12-6 curveball at 76-78 mph that he even dropped down to 73 mph with late in his outing. But, his real put away pitch is his 81-85 mph slider. Although the bite on this pitch was a little inconsistent, when he got on top and not around it, it had the look of a plus or 60 offering on the 20-80 scale. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9172

 

   11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –  15 Michael Cederoth    RHP San Diego State http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

 

B/R – 11-21-13 - 21. Cincinnati Reds: Michael Cederoth, RHP, San Diego State - Michael Cederoth made a name for himself last season by sitting 95-99 mph with his fastball as a starter and maxing out at 101 mph. However, as a 6’6”, 210-pound right-hander, Cederoth has some uneasiness to his delivery and appears almost uncoordinated at times. That said, it’s not as though near-elite velocity grows on trees. Cederoth’s secondary arsenal is comprised of a slider and changeup, both of which register in the mid-80s but lack consistency. The slider is the better pitch at the present, though they both flash above-average potential. http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

 

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  11- RHP Michael Cederoth San Diego St 11/25/92- I watched Cederoth throw last March on TV vs USD and it was obvious he was going to be a name for the 2014 draft. He certainly has a big time arm but it was also clear he was in need of some refinement. The 6’6 righty can dial it up near 100 and if he can show more command with his pitches this spring he could easily enter the discussion as a top 10 pick. (Rockies @ 9) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 19. Washington Nationals — Michael Cederoth, RHP, San Diego State - The Nationals love tall, power arms and Cederoth definitely fit’s the bill. At 6’-6” and 210 pounds, the right-hander can sling it up to 99 mph and sits in the mid 90s. He also adds a mid-80s slider, as well as a mid-80s change-up that is more of an out pitch. His command can be shaky at times as he is still learning how to be a pitcher instead of just running his overpowering fastball. Over 15 starts this year, he had a 4.25 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 109 K/48 BB over 95.1 innings. If he works on his command the way Jonathan Gray did last year, as well as refine his off-speed stuff, he should be one of the first college pitchers off the board. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

6.       Luke Weaver

 

6-9-13  - 17.Luke Weaver, RHP (Florida State): Has a strong two pitch mix with a low-to-mid 90s fastball and a quality slider. With excellent control, the righty posted a fantastic 2.90 FIP, only walking 17 in 92-IP. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/   

 

 

6-9-13  - 13. Minnesota Twins — Luke Weaver, RHP, Florida State - A 6’-2”, 180-pound right-hander, Weaver has enjoyed an outstanding season for the Seminoles this year. Over 15 starts, he has a 2.29 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 119 K/19 BB over 98.1 innings. His 10.9 K/9 and 6.3 K/BB ratios show the kind of power/command pitcher he is. His fastball sits in the low/mid-90s and he adds a change-up that shows plus potential. There is still room for projection and added velocity as he fills out. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present/34008#Vj5KQGPZZT1XUyhx.99   

 

6-10-13 - Luke Weaver, RHP, Florida State - The Florida State righthander has managed to remain somewhat under the radar, but he has the ability to climb draft boards over the next year.  His fasball sits low 90′s and touches 94.  His change is an above average pitch and his breaking ball shows promise.  Weaver’s also shows very good command. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/  

 

6-13-13  -  13. Minnesota Twins — Luke Weaver, RHP, Florida State - A 6’-2”, 180 pound right-hander, Weaver has enjoyed an outstanding season for the Seminoles this year. Over 15 starts, he has a 2.29 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 119 K/19 BB over 98.1 innings. His 10.9 K/9 and 6.3 K/BB ratios show the kind of power/command pitcher he is. His fastball sits in the low/mid-90s and he adds a change-up that shows plus potential. There is still room for projection and added velocity as he fills out. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2   

 

6-27-14  -  Player:  Luke Weaver   Position:  RHP   School:  Florida State   Date of Birth:  8/21/1993   Height/Weight:  6’2/170   Bats/Throws:  R/R   2014 Class:  College Junior   Previously Drafted:  2011, 19th rd, Blue Jays  Scouting Report:  He throws from a ¾ to low ¾ arm slot and gives off a Bret Saberhagen type vibe.  The slot shows a bit of wrap, but decent three piece delivery.  Fastball was 91-94 (95).  Offering shows natural good hand side action on the 2S, some even off the 4S grip.  He works it around and shows solid command of the offering, attacks the lower half of the strike zone.  Luke’s change up has a solid amount of deception, shows depth and fades at times, looks to sit above average.  Slider has bite, can sweep at times, nice horizontal action glove side when throwing away at the RHH, will attack LHH inside with it. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/26/2014-mlb-draft-profile-luke-weaver/  

 

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 12. Luke Weaver, RHP, Florida State - A 6’-2”, 180-pound right-hander, Weaver enjoyed an outstanding season for the Seminoles this year. Over 15 starts, he had a 2.29 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 119 K/19 BB over 98.1 innings. His 10.9 K/9 and 6.3 K/BB ratios show the kind of power/command pitcher he is. His fastball sits in the low/mid 90s and he adds a change-up that shows plus potential. There is still room for projection and added velocity as he fills out. Over 21 innings for Team USA, he had 17 K/5 BB. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99    

 

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 18 –  RHP Luke Weaver – Florida State - Excellent control pitcher with a 2.90 FIP, only walking 17 in 92-IP. Over 15 starts, he has a 2.29 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 119 K/19 BB over 98.1 innings. Fastball sits in the mid-90s. Scouts say there is still room for projection.

 

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 14. San Francisco Giants — Luke Weaver, RHP, Florida State  A 6’-2”, 180-pound right-hander, Weaver enjoyed an outstanding season for the Seminoles this year. Over 15 starts, he had a 2.29 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 119 K/19 BB over 98.1 innings. His 10.9 K/9 and 6.3 K/BB ratios show the kind of power/command pitcher he is. His fastball sits in the low/mid 90s and he adds a change-up that shows plus potential. There is still room for projection and added velocity as he fills out. Over 21 innings for Team USA, he had 17 K/5 BB. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

 

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 32. Luke Weaver, rhp, Florida State: He draws Tim Hudson comparisons for the body and live arm that pumps fastballs up to 96 mph. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

 

10-19 – BLF – Luke Weaver - Fastball:  Weaver shows a 91 to 94 mph Fastball with good tailing action. Secondary Pitches: Weaver throws a slider that shows flashes of plus potential and sits in the low 80s.  It sometimes shows a sweeping action and at times a harder break, once he is able to find a consistency in the slider it will be easier to grade.  But both have plus potential. Command: He shows excellent command and pounds the lower half of the strike zone.  He isn’t afraid  to pound the inner have of the  plate with all his pitches. Summary:   Luke Weaver is my dark horse in this draft.  He has a lot of good pieces and if he puts them together, Weaver will become a very good pitcher.  I see him as a #1/#2 type but could become a pure #1 if things go right.  I have heard comps on him like Brett Saberhagen and Tim Hudson. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/10/19/scouting-report-luke-weaver-rhp/

 

11-4-13 – MLB Draft Insider - Top 14 for ’14: College Pitchers - 10. Luke Weaver / RHP / Florida State – Weaver hit 97 with his fastball this summer and has an above-average change-up, although will have to improve his slurvy breaking-ball to profile as a starter at the next level. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/11/top-14-for-14-college-pitchers/

 

  11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –   16 Luke Weaver    RHP Florida State http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

 

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  40-RHP Luke Weaver Florida State 8/21/93- Broke out as a force for the Seminoles last year after serving as a swing man his freshman campaign. He isn’t a big guy as he stands 6’2 and has a lean build but his arm plays like a bigger guy as he can touch 97. His arm is quick and he adds deception with a potentially plus change up. He could stick as a SP but is also easy to dream on as a very good RP. (Out of first round- Cardinals selection) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  40-RHP Luke Weaver Florida State 8/21/93- Broke out as a force for the Seminoles last year after serving as a swing man his freshman campaign. He isn’t a big guy as he stands 6’2 and has a lean build but his arm plays like a bigger guy as he can touch 97. His arm is quick and he adds deception with a potentially plus change up. He could stick as a SP but is also easy to dream on as a very good RP. (Out of first round- Cardinals selection) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 17. Baltimore Orioles — Luke Weaver, RHP, Florida State - A 6’-2”, 180 pound right-hander, Weaver enjoyed an outstanding season for the Seminoles this year. Over 15 starts, he had a 2.29 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 119 K/19 BB over 98.1 innings. His 10.9 K/9 and 6.3 K/BB ratios show the kind of power/command pitcher he is. His fastball sits in the low/mid 90s and he adds a change-up that shows plus potential. There is still room for projection and added velocity as he fills out. Over 21 innings for Team USA, he had 17 K/5 BB. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

7.       Grant Holmes

7-2-13 - 8. Grant Holmes- RHP, Conway (SC) HS -  RHP who sat 94-96 in his first inning at the National Showcase with a plus slider http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/    

7-5-13 - Grant Holmes, RHP, Conway HS (SC) - A Florida Gator commit, the 6’-2”, 190-pound right-hander hit 96 mph at the Perfect Game Nationals and flashed a plus curveball with excellent command. He adds an above-average change-up, rounding out a solid three-pitch mix. Some scouts think he has maxed out physically, limiting his upside, but as it is, he profiles to a mid-rotation starter and possibly as high as a two. He is a very good athlete with a sound delivery. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/prep-arms-chicago-cubs/34856#Vp7zJ4JvRevfV1fR.99    

7-23-13 - Justin Hlubek ‏@PGJustinHlubek  - Grant Holmes night is done K'd 8 of 9 batters he faced. FB 93-95 touched 96 CB was 84 mph

7-25-13 – Top 30 High School Prospects For 2014 Draft - 5. Grant Holmes, RHP, Conway HS (SC) - 6'1/205, Draft Day Age: 18.21, Florida commit, Full Report & Video - Quick Take: Holmes is another righty that isn't that big and doesn't have any projection but is athletic and strongly-built with big time stuff: he sits 93-95 and hits 96 mph with a wicked 82-85 mph plus curveball and a solid changeup. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html    

8-6-13 - Top pitchers - East Coast Professional Showcase, Syracuse, NY -  9. Grant Holmes, RHP, Conway HS (SC): Holmes faced Sheffield and more than kept up. The 6-foot-2 right-hander reached 94 mph and showed a very good breaking ball. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130806&content_id=56048786&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb    

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 1. Grant Holmes – RHP, Conway (SC) HS - Sitting 92-94 with one of the best breaking balls in the class. He was up to 96 at the National Showcase. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/    

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 14. Grant Holmes, RHP, Conway HS (SC) - A Florida Gator commit, the 6’-2”, 190-pound right-hander hit 96 mph at the Perfect Game Nationals and flashed a plus curveball with excellent command. He also hit 95 mph at the PG Classic, showing one of the better fastballs in the prep class. He adds an above-average change-up, rounding out a solid three-pitch mix. Some scouts think he has maxed out physically, limiting his upside, but as it is, he profiles to a mid-rotation starter and possibly as high as a two. He is a very good athlete with a sound delivery and one of the best prep arms in the draft. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99   

8-13-13 - The Perfect Game All-American Classic in San Diego - * I’ve heard nothing but good things about Grant Holmes (Conway High School, S.C.), and he was very good on Sunday for me, hitting 93 on his first seven fastballs, and showing a good change and breaking ball. The arm action isn’t the cleanest, but I think he’s one of the safer arms in this year’s class. 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 - Grant Holmes (RHP, Conway HS (Conway, SC)): strong build; three-quarters slot; some deception in the arm swing and the high front side in the delivery; brings up a high leg and breaks hands late; arm-heavy delivery with some sling; good arm speed; fastball was meaty at 92-93, touching 94; showed good sink; slider at 82 mph with some bite; attacked and showed poise. —Jason Parks http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537   

8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Grant Holmes, RHP:  Another pitcher who can hit 96 mph, Holmes is about the same size as Toussaint but perhaps a smaller frame and he may not project quite as well.  The alternative is that his change-up and his command are more advanced.  He adds a good curve to the mix but the limits on physical projection may also limit his ceiling. 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 – 14 – RHP Grant Holmes – Conway (SC) HS – The last of the ‘big 4’ high school right handers. Holmes  sits 93-95 and has an above average chamge-up. He’s only 6-1 which could lead him in the direction of the pen someday.

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects - 2.Grant Holmes – RHP, Conway (SC) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/   

9-11-13 – Keith Law - Right-hander Grant Holmes of Conway (S.C.) HS was solid yet again, sitting 92-94 with a strong breaking ball at 80-81 that had good two-plane break, flashing a future-average or better changeup as well. Holmes has impressed at every stop this summer and the fact that he's still showing above-average velocity at this late date, when most kids are already worn out and have lost a little off their fastballs, is a huge point in his favor when considering possible indicators of long-term durability. http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/mlb-draft/post/_/id/1131/top-prospects-flock-to-metropolitan-classic?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter  

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 10. New York Mets — Grant Holmes, RHP, Conway HS (SC) A Florida Gator commit, the 6’-2”, 190-pound right-hander hit 96 mph at the Perfect Game Nationals and flashed a plus curveball with excellent command. He also hit 95 mph at the PG Classic, showing one of the better fastballs in the prep class. He adds an above-average change-up, rounding out a solid three-pitch mix. Some scouts think he has maxed out physically, limiting his upside, but as it is, he profiles to a mid-rotation starter and possibly as high as a two. He is a very good athlete with a sound delivery and one of the best prep arms in the draft. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

 

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 24. Grant Holmes, rhp, Conway (S.C.) HS: Powerfully built but undersized, the 6-foot Holmes has a fastball that reaches 96 mph with power and depth to his curveball. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

 

 

10-25-13  - PG Showcase – The tournament’s first pool play time slot also put power arms on display with Grant Holmes (Conway, S.C. HS) and Alex Verdugo (Sahuaro HS, Tucson) throwing on opposite sides of the Marlins complex. Holmes, a strong-bodied righthander playing with the Evoshield Canes, worked between 91-93, peaking at 96 with two strikes on a hitter once, with excellent late life. He created lots of weak contact off the hands of righthanded hitters, and showed he could spot to both corners of the plate. He also spun a hard, late-breaking 80-81 curveball from his three-quarter slot. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/toussaint-wows-evaluators-at-jupiter/

 

 

10-29-13 – Jim Callis – Top 10 World Wood Bat Association World Championship (WWBA) Jupiter, Florida - 8. Grant Holmes, RHP, Evoshield Canes (Conway, S.C., High/Florida) -  Averaged 92 mph and reached 97 with his fastball in Jupiter, showing nice life and control with the pitch.  http://ht.ly/qi5No

 

10-30-13 - Clint Longenecker/BA – WWBA World Championship - Righthander Grant Holmes started the first game of the tournament on Thursday, which allowed him to come back for Sunday morning’s semi-final matchup against the Orlando Scorpions, who have won many of the national tournaments this year. The strong-bodied Holmes, a Perfect Game All-American, touched 95 mph and sat 89-94, striking out five and allowing one run over four innings. The Canes rallied to win 4-3 in dramatic fashion, scoring three runs in the seventh inning to advance to the championship game, as Lane delivered an opposite-field two-run single. . http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/evoshield-canes-win-perfect-game-wwba-world-championship/

 

11-6-13 – Todd Gold – WWBA World Championship – Grant Holmes (2014 RHP, EvoShield Canes) - It doesn't come as a big surprise that Holmes registered the tournament's highest velocity, touching 97 mph with his fastball in the opening game for the champion EvoShield Canes. His velocity has frequently sat in the mid-90s in showcase settings, and low- to mid-90s in a starting role. Just as importantly, in Jupiter he showed the ability to command that heat well. While his command in the semifinal start against the loaded Mets Scout Team doesn't look impressive in the box score with three walks and 59-percent strikes, he was making a noticeable effort to hit the corners of the strike zone. After pounding the zone in the opener, Holmes stayed out of the middle of the plate effectively in the semifinals and his command was good for the majority of that critical game while sitting 91-95 on fairly short rest. That command is key for his draft stock, as his thick stocky build doesn't neatly fit the mold of a classic starting pitching prospect. But in Jupiter he proved that he can command his fastball well and incorporate his hammer curveball effectively over multiple innings while knowing how and when to work in the changeup. That combination puts him in position to become a top 50 pick. His effort in the semifinals gave his team a chance to win against one of the best lineups in the tournament, and he was rewarded with a championship ring. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9157

 

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 13 Grant Holmes RHP L/R 6-0 216 Conway (S.C.) HS Florida http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –   14 Grant Holmes    RHP Conway (SC) http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

 

B/R – 11-21-13 - 12. Milwaukee Brewers: Grant Holmes, RHP, Conway HS (S.C.) - Grant Holmes has a thick, durable build at 6’2”, 210 pounds with broad shoulders and strong lower half. Even though he has impressive present athleticism for his size, the right-hander is seemingly maxed out physically. However, that doesn’t make his pure stuff any less impressive, as he already showcases two plus pitches in a 93-96 mph fastball with late life and wipeout curveball with sharp break in the low- to mid-80s. http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

 

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 10. Grant Holmes, RHP, Conway HS (SC) - One of the better performers over the summer, the 6’-2” right-hander wowed scouts with a plus fastball, plus curveball and great command. He sat in the mid-90s all summer with his fastball and showed an above-average change-up to round out a three-pitch mix. The one knock: Many believe he has maxed out physically and there isn’t much projection left. Still, he projects to a mid-rotation starter who should miss a lot of bats. Committed to Florida. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

 

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  13- RHP Grant Holmes Conway HS (Florida Commit) 3/22/96- He is the younger brother of former South Carolina hurler and current Braves minor leaguer Colby. Grant is a solid 2-pitch guy right now with plenty of power in his arm. He has touched 97 but does not have that classic pitchers body that several organizations covet. (Padres @ 13) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 18. Kansas City Royals — Grant Holmes, RHP, Conway HS (SC) - One of the better performers over the summer, the 6’-2” right-hander wowed scouts with a plus fastball, plus curveball and great command. He sat in the mid-90s all summer with his fastball and showed an above-average change-up to round out a three-pitch mix. The one knock: Many believe he has maxed out physically and there isn’t much projection left. Still, he projects to a mid-rotation starter who should miss a lot of bats. Committed to Florida. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

8.       Dylan Cease

 

6-11-13 - 10. Dylan Cease, RHP, Milton HS, Ga.: This year's Draft was partly about the outfielders in Georgia. Cease will make 2014 about pitching, as the right-hander has a loose, electric arm that touched 97 mph this past spring to go along with a good breaking ball and a feel for a changeup. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130611&content_id=50293726&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb&tcid=tw_article_50293726  

 

6-30-13 - Jheremy Brown ‏@JBrownPG  - 2014 RHP Dylan Cease (Milton, GA) warming up at 92/93 on field 2 at East Cobb

 

7-2-13 - 10. Dylan Cease- RHP, Milton (GA) HS -  6’2, 180 RHP who ran it up to 97 at the National Showcase http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/ 

 

7-5-13 - Dylan Cease, RHP, Milton HS (GA) - A 6’-2”, 190-pound right-hander with an extremely live arm, Cease hit 97 mph at the Perfect Game Nationals and showed the makings of a plus curveball. He adds a solid change-up and he has a clean, easy delivery. Like many others on this list, he is a very good athlete and two-way player. He had a 1.05 ERA and 98 K/35 BB over 68.1 innings as a junior. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/prep-arms-chicago-cubs/34856#Vp7zJ4JvRevfV1fR.99  

 

7-25-13 – Top 30 High School Prospects For 2014 Draft - 4. Dylan Cease, RHP, Milton HS (GA) - 6'2/180, Draft Day Age: 18.44, No college commitment, Full Report & Video - Quick Take: Cease isn't that big but will sit 93-95 and hit 97 mph with a well-synced delivery, mix in a mid-70's curveball that's plus at times along with a changeup that's at least average. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html  

 

8-2-13 - Jeff Sullivan ‏@JSully12  - Dylan Cease - RHP, Milton (GA) HS sitting 95-96 in the 1st inning. 2 K pic.twitter.com/fMGNd718O0  

 

8-6-13 - Top pitchers - East Coast Professional Showcase, Syracuse, NY - 1. Dylan Cease, RHP, Milton HS (Ga.): In his first inning of work, Cease threw a steady diet of 95- and 96-mph fastballs in a very effective inning. His velocity dropped in his second and third innings, not typically an issue, and he did have trouble commanding his breaking ball a bit. Still, Cease had as big of an arm as anyone at the event. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130806&content_id=56048786&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb  

 

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 2. Dylan Cease – RHP, Milton (GA) HS - Tough choice for 1 and 2, as Cease sat 95-96 in his first inning. His curve ball is a pitch in the works, which is why he is at 2. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/ 

 

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 19. Dylan Cease, RHP, Milton HS (GA) - With a fastball that sits in the 93-96 mph range, the 6’-2” right-hander is another hard throwing prepster in a class deep on them. He adds an above-average curveball and is a very athletic player who also shines on the offensive end. The mound is where he dominates, however, and he still has projection left. Plus, he plays in Georgia where they grow elite players on a farm somewhere. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

 

8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Dylan Cease, RHP:  Per Baseball America, Cease is the 3rd pitcher on this list capable of hitting 96 mph, though he sits 92-93.  He has the type of athleticism the Cubs prefer in a pitcher.  He's loose and projectable with a clean, low effort delivery.  Like Touissant, he's a bit raw -- perhaps even more so as Cease has similar issues with command but his breaking stuff isn't quite as advanced.  His change, like that of most high schoolers, is still developing.  What you get with Cease is a great starter kit for a pitcher.  All the parts you need are there for him to become a front line pitcher. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/08/2014-mlb-draft-ua-game-roster-and-preview-plus-more-tickets-and-meet-up-information/ 

 

8-27-13 - Dylan Cease, a right-hander from Milton High in Georgia, has impressed scouts all summer with his mid-90s fastball and his feel for the changeup and curveball. He said he will spend his offseason preparing for spring, when he and the rest of the high school seniors will make their final impressions before the Draft. "I had a pretty good summer," he said. "During the offseason I'll focus on putting on weight, getting stronger and improving my control."  http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130827&content_id=58571204&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb&tcid=tw_article_58571204

 

  9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 10 – Seattle – RHP  Dylan Cease – Milton (GA) HS – The second of four very talented high school righties that will go high in the first round.  Cease doesn’t throw as hard as the other two (92-95, 97), but he does project by most scouts to wind up being the most successful. Most of his other pitchers are still a work in progress.

 

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 11.Dylan Cease – RHP, Milton (GA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

9-18-13 - CB Daily ‏@CB_Daily  - Good get "MT @johnmwhittle: #Vandy picks up HUGE baseball commitment from RHP Dylan Cease @NewDylancease7" One of the top in 2014 HS Class.

 

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 21. Cincinnati Reds — Dylan Cease, RHP, Milton HS (GA)  With a fastball that sits in the 93-96 mph range, the 6’-2” right-hander is another hard throwing prepster in a class deep on them. He adds an above-average curveball and is a very athletic player who also shines on the offensive end. The mound is where he dominates, however, and he still has projection left. Plus, he plays in Georgia where they grow elite players on a farm somewhere. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

 

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 35. Dylan Cease, rhp, Milton (Ga.) HS: Athletic pitcher who produces easy velocity, with a fastball up to 97 mph; inconsistent breaking ball and command are knocks. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

 

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 28 Dylan Cease RHP R/R 6-1 175 Milton (Ga.) HS Vanderbilt http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

   11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –  18 Dylan Cease    RHP Milton (GA) http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

 

B/R – 11-21-13 - 19. Kansas City Royals: Dylan Cease, RHP, Milton HS (Ga.) - At 6’2”, 180 pounds, Dylan Cease doesn’t have a monster frame like Kolek, but demonstrates similar body control and balance throughout his delivery. The right-hander also boasts a big arm that pumps heavy, sinking fastballs consistently in the 92-95 mph range, topping out around 96-97 mph early in games. Cease has also opened eyes with a slurvey breaking ball in the low-70s featuring with impressive tilt and two-plane break.  http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

 

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 12. Dylan Cease, RHP, Milton HS (GA) - With a fastball that sits in the 93-96 mph range, the 6’-2” right-hander is another hard-throwing prepster in a class deep on them. His secondary stuff is still developing, but with his athleticism and loose delivery, they should come along quickly. He was one of the best arms over the summer. Committed to Vanderbilt. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

 

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  22- RHP Dylan Cease Milton HS (Vanderbilt Commit) He is the second hardest throwing arm in his HS class. Unlike the first (Tyler Kolek) he doesn’t have the big body one traditionally thinks of as having that much power. But, the 6’2 175 pounder has plenty of arm speed and a loose, easy arm that explodes towards the plate. He is one of several big time commits for Vanderbilt and they usually do not lose players to the MLB draft. He threw 94-96 at PG National with a change at 81 and hard slider at 77. ( Moves out of first round-signability, Red Sox selection) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 31. Atlanta Braves (Brian McCann) — Dylan Cease, RHP, Milton HS (GA) - With a fastball that sits in the 93-96 mph range, the 6’-2” right-hander is another hard-throwing prepster in a class deep on them. His secondary stuff is still developing, but with his athleticism and loose delivery, they should come along quickly. He was one of the best arms over the summer. Committed to Vanderbilt. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

9.       Aaron Nola

 

5-28-13 - Aaron Nola, RHP, LSU  - One of the best control artists in college, Nola also has power behind his pitches. As a freshman, he had 87 strikeouts over 83.2 innings and walked just seven. In his second start of his career, he threw 62 out of 78 pitches for strikes against Tulane. The 6’-1”, 190-pound right-hander has been just as impressive this year. In his first start against Maryland, he tossed 6.2 shutout innings, allowing two hits while striking out nine to one walk. Against Brown in his third start, he went seven scoreless, striking out 11 to no walks, allowing three hits. Over his 19.2 innings on the season, he has 26 K/4 BB and has allowed just nine hits. He uses his low-90s sinker to bury hitters and sets up the pitch with a low-80s change-up with good deception. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft/29840#fm24otWuYCEocLQZ.99

 

6-1-13 - College Baseball 360‏ @CB360updates - LSU's Aaron Nola (7IP-5UER-6H-3BB-6K) pitcher of record when 4R t8 vs. Sam Houston (8-5)...SHSU's Caleb Smith no-dec. (2.2-4R/3ER-6H-4BB)

 

6-9-13  -   6.Aaron Nola, RHP (LSU): The righty was sitting in the low-to-mid 90s consistently in 2013, holding his velocity late into games. He controls his fastball well, only allowing 17 walks in 109 IP. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/

 

6-9-13  -  16. Colorado Rockies — Aaron Nola, RHP, LSU - Maybe the best control artist available in the 2014 MLB draft, the 6’-2” right-hander features a plus, low-90s fastball with nasty sink to it. He offsets his fastball with a deceptive change-up that freezes hitters. As a freshman, he had 89 K/7 BB over 89.2 innings and 40 of those strikeouts were looking. This season, he has been lights-out so far. Over 15 starts, he is 11-0 with a 1.82 ERA, 0.85 WHIP and 111 K/17 BB over 109 innings. His size limits his upside, but you’d be hard pressed to find a better pitcher in the true sense of the word out there. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present/34008#Vj5KQGPZZT1XUyhx.99

 

6-10-13 -  Aaron Nola, RHP, Louisiana State -  Like the other pitchers on this list, Nola shows very good stuff.  His fastball sits 89-93 and touches 94, with good run.  His slider and change are also good pitches.  Nola shows exceptional command and can throw any pitch on any count. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/

 

6/-11-13 - 5. Aaron Nola, RHP, Louisiana State: What's a Draft class without a top LSU arm? Nola was LSU's Friday starter this year, going 12-0 with a 1.68 ERA, striking out nearly a batter per inning while holding hitters to a .187 BAA. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130611&content_id=50293726&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb&tcid=tw_article_50293726

 

16. Colorado Rockies — Aaron Nola, RHP, LSU - Maybe the best control artist available in the 2014 MLB draft, the 6’-2” right-hander features a plus, low-90’s fastball with nasty sink to it. He offsets his fastball with a deceptive change-up that freezes hitters. As a freshman, he had 89 K/7 BB over 89.2 innings and 40 of those strikeouts were looking. This season, he has been lights-out so far. Over 15 starts, he is 11-0 with a 1.82 ERA, 0.85 WHIP and 111 K/17 BB over 109 innings. His size limits his upside but you’d be hard pressed to find a better pitcher in the true sense of the word out there. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2

 

6-16-13  -  Aaron Fitt ‏@aaronfitt  - Aaron Nola and Plutko were both fantastic, as expected. Nola was 87-90 late, had 92 when needed it. He loves that backdoor breaking ball vs. LHHs.

 

6-16-13  -  College Baseball 360 ‏@CB360updates - Aaron Nola done for LSU (8 IP–2 unearned runs–5H–BB–HB–5K) ... Nick Rumbelow in ... all 7 runs allowed by Nola in 2013 NCAAs unearned

 

6-28-13 - Aaron Nola, RHP, LSU - Nola represents a change from the hard-throwing pitching prospects like Rodon and Beede with ability to throw multiple pitches at an average to above-average level and great maturity and pitchability on the mound. Though Nola's stuff doesn't quite compare to Rodon or Beede, it's still appealing as a #2 or solid #3 starter in an MLB rotation. His fastball and curve are his best pitches, both with the potential to be plus, and mixes in an average changeup. His control is among the best in the draft, and his fastball has some sink on it. A few things working against Nola; he's only 6'1'' so he doesn't have the prototypical frame or projection a lot of teams look for when drafting a pitcher in the top five picks. And though he's the third best college pitcher right now, pitchers just below him with better pure stuff like Michael Cederoth and Nick Burdi could overtake Nola if they dominate their draft-year seasons, much like Jonathan Gray did http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2013/6/28/4450674/the-way-too-early-2014-tcb-astros-draft-board

 

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 20. Aaron Nola, RHP, LSU - Maybe the best control artist available in the 2014 MLB draft, the 6’-1” right-hander features a plus, low-90s fastball with nasty sink to it. He offsets his fastball with a deceptive change-up that freezes hitters. As a freshman, he had 89 K/7 BB over 89.2 innings and 40 of those strikeouts were looking. He was lights-out as a sophomore for LSU, going 12-1 over 17 starts with a 1.57 ERA, 0.80 WHIP and 122 K/18 BB over 126 innings. His size limits his upside a bit, but you’d be hard pressed to find a better pitcher, in the true sense of the word, out there. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

 

9-1-13 - Jim Callis – 10. Aaron Nola, rhp, Louisiana State - With his solid fastball, plus changeup and impressive pitchability, he’ll move quickly in pro ball."

 

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 31 – RHP Aaron Nola – LSU – Nola is considered the top control pitcher in the 2014 draft. As a sophomore, he went 12-1 over 17 starts with a 1.57 ERA, 0.80 WHIP and 122 K/18 BB over 126 innings. Low 90s fastball with nasty sink. Lack of height (6-2) could send him to the pen.

 

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 17.)RHP, Aaron Nola, LSU, 6'1 185, R/R, classic quick arm and comparisons to Jake Peavy, arm side run and fb that tops 94 on occ, pitchability and a gamer, commands the strike zone, not real tall but gets good leverage and sink on his fb, hard slurvy breaking ball that will end up becoming a slider, also solid straight change that will be a 3rd pitch for him in pro ball. Early 1-3 round guy for 2014! http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/

 

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 23. Texas Rangers — Aaron Nola, RHP, LSU  Maybe the best control artist available in the 2014 MLB draft, the 6’-1” right-hander features a plus, low-90s fastball with nasty sink to it. He offsets his fastball with a deceptive change-up that freezes hitters. As a freshman, he had 89 K/7 BB over 89.2 innings and 40 of those strikeouts were looking. He was lights-out as a sophomore for LSU, going 12-1 over 17 starts with a 1.57 ERA, 0.80 WHIP and 122 K/18 BB over 126 innings. His size limits his upside a bit, but you’d be hard pressed to find a better pitcher, in the true sense of the word, out there. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

 

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 10. Aaron Nola, rhp, Louisiana State: Smallish, athletic college ace has excellent life on a low-90s fastball and plus changeup. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

 

11-4-13 – MLB Draft Insider - Top 14 for ’14: College Pitchers - 5. Aaron Nola / RHP / LSU – Nola was one of the best pitchers in the SEC last year, pounding the strike zone with a low 90′s fastball and above-average secondary offerings. His arm slot is a major concern from the scouts I’ve talked to, however. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/11/top-14-for-14-college-pitchers/

 

11-19-13 - Aaron Nola (RHP) - College: LSU - In short, Nola’s numbers for LSU in 2013 were absolutely ridiculous. In 17 starts, he had 126 innings pitched–good for a little over seven and one/third innings per start. His control was impeccable walking just 18 batters while striking out 122, giving him an impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio of 6.78. At 6’1″, 183 pounds, Nola doesn’t have that towering pitcher build that scouts rave about, but as you can see by the numbers, he doesn’t really need it. He makes up for it by employing a somewhat deceptive three-quarters motion to provide exception movement on three above-average pitches. His go-to is his sinker which touches 94 MPH with both downward and tailing movement. He also has a plus changeup that mimics the movement of his fastball. Finally, he has an above-average 11-5 breaking ball which is resembles a slurve more than just a curveball or slider. Baseball America has him 10th in their latest 2014 draft rankings, so he, like Turner, will likely be unavailable by the time the Cardinals pick. However, if interested here is a video of him pitching in the Cape Cod League in 2012. His deceptive whipping motion is on full display in the video. In my opinion, he has the best chance of any pitching prospect to make a Michael Wacha-like rise through a team’s farm system. Let’s hope he doesn’t end up in the National League Central. http://stlcupofjoe.com/2013/11/19/2014-mlb-draft-five-prospects-to-keep-an-eye-on-part-2/

 

  11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –   22 Aaron Nola    RHP Louisiana State http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

 

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  14- RHP Aaron Nola LSU 6/4/93- He is the younger brother of former LSU SS Austin. Aaron dominated his sophomore year winning 12 games with a 1.57 E.R.A and 122 K. He projects as a solid mid rotation guy who commands 3 pitches well. He is a type of arm that I could see fly thru a system as he is about as finished of a product of anyone in this class.(Diamondbacks @ 16)  http://pinetarpress.com/early  -look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 15. Los Angeles Angels — Aaron Nola, RHP, LSU - Few can match the kind of control Nola possesses. The 6’-1” right-hander features a plus, low-90s fastball with nasty sink to it. He offsets his fastball with a deceptive change-up that freezes hitters. As a freshman, he had 89 K/7 BB over 89.2 innings and 40 of those strikeouts were looking. He was lights-out as a sophomore for LSU, going 12-1 over 17 starts with a 1.57 ERA, 0.80 WHIP and 122 K/18 BB over 126 innings. His size limits his upside a bit, and he isn’t a power arm, but not many can toss a game like he can. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

10.   Nick Burdi

 

5-23-13 - The extremely deep bullpen is anchored by college baseball’s hardest thrower, sophomore righty Nick Burdi (3-3, 0.88 with 56 strikeouts and 11 walks in 31 innings), who routinely runs his fastball into the triple digits (5-29-13)  http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/louisville-regional-preview/

 

6-9-13  -  9.Nick Burdi, RHP (Louisville): As a reliever he consistently touches 100+ mph. His slider is equally ridiculous as it maxes out in the low 90s. He also showed improved command in 2013. It would be fun to watch Burdi as a starter next year. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/

 

6-10-13 - Nick Burdi, RHP, Louisville - The Louisville closer has one of the best arms in the country and progressed well from his freshman to sophomore seasons.  His fastball is 95+ and touches 100.  His slider is also a nice pitch. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/

 

6-11-13 - 9. Nick Burdi, RHP, Louisville: It's not often a college closer gets ranked this highly, but Burdi reportedly hit triple digits during the 2013 season, striking out 61 in 34 2/3 innings. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130611&content_id=50293726&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb&tcid=tw_article_50293726

 

6-17-13  -  Nick Burdi, RHP, Louisville - Simpson compares Burdi (6-foot-4, 218) to Oklahoma righthander Jonathan Gray, who could hit 100 on the gun and just went No. 3 overall to the Rockies. "Burdi's done the same," Simpson said. "He's the big arm for next year." The difference, however, is that Burdi is more of a two-pitch reliever than a starter like Gray -- but a very good closer at Louisville, where he had a 0.78 ERA and an absurd 61 strikeouts in 34 2/3 innings. http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/mlb/news/20130610/draft-prospects-carlos-rodon/#ixzz2WWk0FqzU

 

 6-20-13  -  Mike (Dallas) - I realize its a little early for 2014 draft discussions but I saw a report that said Nick Burdi is a top 5 candidate for next years draft. I realize he throws really hard but is a guy who has been a reliever in college really considered that high of a prospect? If he is that good, why is he not a starter in college? - - - Keith Law: Nick Burdi is not a top 5 draft prospect unless, as you say, he becomes a starter. No team would risk the opprobrium of taking a closer with a top five pick.

 

6-28-13 - Nick Burdi, RHP, Louisville: The top closer in college baseball in 2013, Burdi was a key member of a tremendous Louisville staff that carried the Cardinals to Omaha. A gas-throwing, 6'4" right hander, Burdi posted a 0.78 ERA in 34.2 innings last season, and, even more impressively, struck out 61 batters versus 13 walks in those frames. He allowed just 25 hits, and was nothing short of dominant. Next season, Burdi projects to jump to the starting rotation, and has the stuff to be a star there as well. http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2013/6/28/4450674/the-way-too-early-2014-tcb-astros-draft-board

 

7-2-13 - Louisville Baseball ‏@UofLBaseball  - Summer Update: RHP Nick Burdi had 2 strikeouts in a scoreless inning of relief last night in Team USA's win over Catawba Valley.

 

7-9-13 - Player:  Nick Burdi   Position:  RHP   School:  Louisville   Date of Birth:  1/19/1993

 Height/Weight:  6’4/218   Bats/Throws:  R/R   2014 Class:  College Junior   Previously Drafted:  2011, 24th rd, Twins  Scouting Report:  Strong build  Quick arm  3/4 arm slot

Leg raise slightly above waist high  Does a good job of pitching downhill  Fastball sits 95+, touches triple digits  Upper 80′s slider with nice late break

 

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 23 – RHRP Nick Burdi – Louisville – Very few relief pitchers are drafted in the first round, but Burdi will be the exception.  His fastball consistently hits 100 and his slider is in the low 90s range. Last year, had a 0.78 ERA and 61-Ks in 34.2-IP. Rumors are he will be moving to a rotation slot for his junior year.

 

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 9.)RHP, Nick Burdi, Louisville, 6'4 220, R/R, one of my favorite pitchers in the TOS event a couple years back, this guy has an electric arm and is destined to finish games as a closer if he can command his secondary pitches, right now he possesses a fb that reaches 98, most fb with boring/sinking life are 94-95 and he hardly gets touched as he's deceptive with his slight across the body delivery from 3/4 slot. Slide piece can be a plus pitch when he has it all together and he's got a straight change that he needs to use more. Top 8-10 pick for 2014! http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/

 10-6-13 – Kendall Rogers/PG – College Prospects -  9. Nick Burdi, rhp, Louisville (Drafted: 2011, Twins -- 24th round) - Speaking of dominant arms, the 2013 Perfect Game College All-American has a bright future ahead both as a college junior and at the professional level. Burdi has an unreal arm with a fastball anywhere from 96-100, a plus slider in the upper 80s, low 90s and a changeup that continues to improve. Burdi is somewhat of a gamble putting him this high, this early. For instance, just one college reliever has been selected in the top 10 picks in the past five MLB drafts -- Stanford's Drew Storen, who went to the Washington Nationals in 2009. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9081

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 27. Nick Burdi, rhp, Louisville: The biggest pure arm in the draft class with a 100 mph fastball and low-90s slider; strictly a reliever. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

11-4-13 – MLB Draft Insider - Top 14 for ’14: College Pitchers - 12. Nick Burdi / RHP / Louisville — He’s strictly a reliever, but potentially a very good one with a fastball that has touched triple digits and a slider that will give right-handed hitters fits. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/11/top-14-for-14-college-pitchers/

  11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –   17 Nick Burdi    RHP Louisville http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

B/R – 11-21-13 - 30. Boston Red Sox: Nick Burdi, RHP, University of Louisville - After appearing in only 14 games as a true freshman in 2012, Nick Burdi was absolutely dominating this past season as Louisville’s closer, posting a 0.76 ERA with 16 saves and a 62-13 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 35.2 innings. The 6’4”, 218-pound right-hander has grown into his frame over the last year and has seen his velocity jump as a result. Out of the bullpen, his fastball sits in the upper-90s and frequently eclipses triple digits. Meanwhile, his slider represents a second plus offering with devastating, wipeout break. If he’s ultimately moved into the starting rotation next year at Louisville—or when he turns pro after the season—Burdi may have to adjust his current low-three-quarters arm angle for durability reasons. However, part of his allure stems from the movement on all his pitches generated by said arm angle. Regardless of his role, Burdi’s arm strength and ability to miss bats has already made him one of the more talked about prospects in the 2014 draft class. http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  46-RHP Nick Burdi Louisville 1/19/93- The top collegiate closer who consistently flirts with 100 off the bump. He is a high-energy pitcher who doesn’t waste any juice when he is throwing. He backs up his late moving fastball with a plus slider. Guys like Burdi tend to move through organizations fast so he would be a guy that you could see be the first from his class to reach the majors. (Out of first round- Brewers selection) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 29. St. Louis Cardinals — Nick Burdi, RHP, Louisville - I just keep imagining a bullpen of Burdi, Trevor Rosenthal and Jason Motte — all three capable of hitting triple-digits on the radar gun. Burdi, a 6’-4”, 215 pound right-hander who most certainly will remain a reliever due to his lack of a third pitch, put together a monstrous season for Louisville last year. Over 35.2 innings, he posted a 0.76 ERA with 62 K/13 BB for a silly 15.7 K/9 ratio. Aside from his plus/plus fastball, he also adds a slider that sits in the 88-91 mph range and completely baffles hitters who are waiting on his fastball. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

11.   Luis Ortiz

 

7-14-13  -  Luis Ortiz’s previous experience on the showcase circuit was at USA Baseball’s National Team Identification Series in Cary, N.C., where parents of other players on his summer team, Central Cal Baseball Academy, raised the necessary funds for the 6-foot-3 pitcher to travel cross country and attend the event. The 17-year-old Ortiz turned heads with his natural arm strength, showing a 91-93 mph fastball and 80-82 mph slider. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/luis-ortiz-lights-up-radar-guns-at-pg-national/ 

 

7-2-13 - 11. Luis Ortiz- RHP, Sanger (CA) HS -  6’3, 220 RHP who sat 93-94, touched 95 at the Tournament of Stars http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/ 

 

7-5-13 - Luis Ortiz, RHP, Sanger HS (CA) - The 6’-3”, 220-pound right-hander will be almost 19 on draft day, making him one of the older players in his class. Because of this, his upside isn’t as high as others on this list. That said, his stuff is really good, and his fastball sits in the 92-95 mph range. He adds a developing plus slider that sits in the mid-80s, and his offspeed stuff is still in the developmental stages. He has great mound presence and feel for his pitches, and he also is a good athlete. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/prep-arms-chicago-cubs/34856#Vp7zJ4JvRevfV1fR.99 

 

7-24-13  -  3. Luis Ortiz, rhp, Sanger (Calif.) High/San Diego Show - After losing 35 pounds in the last year, Ortiz has a strong, durable 6-foot-3, 210-pound build with strength in his lower half. Pitching exclusively from the stretch, the Fresno State signee looks effortless producing 92-95 mph velocity and sustains his velocity well. He reportedly hit 97 in early June. Ortiz gets good sink and armside run from his tick above three-quarters arm slot. He consistently throws strikes and has feel for multiple offspeed pitches. His low-80s slider with tight rotation has the makings of a plus pitch.  A mid-80s changeup with tumble flashes average or better. 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 - 11. Luis Ortiz, RHP, Sanger HS (CA) - 6'3/220, Draft Day Age: 18.71, No college commitment, Full Report & Video - Quick Take: Ortiz is maxed-out physically and is one of the older players in the class but still has lots to like about him. He dropped a lot of weight over the past year and consistently sits 92-95 mph with an 82-85 mph slider that's plus at times from a smooth delivery. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html 

 

8-5-14 - David Rawnsley ‏@DavidRawnsleyPG  - Luis Ortiz, we hardly got to know you.  91-94, about 15 pitches in 2 innings, 2 balls....maybe?

 

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 22. Luis Ortiz, RHP, Sanger HS (CA) - The 6’-3”, 220-pound right-hander will be almost 19 on draft day, making him one of the older players in his class. Because of this, his upside isn’t as high as others on this list. That said, his stuff is really good and his fastball sits in the 92-95 mph range. He adds a developing plus slider that sits in the mid-80s and his offspeed stuff is still in the developmental stages. He has great mound presence and feel for his pitches, and he also is a good athlete. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99   

 

8-16-13 - 11th All-American Classic - Luis Ortiz | RHP | Sanger HS (Sanger, CA)  Height/Weight: 6-foot-3/220 pounds  B/T: R/R  Draft Day Age: 18 years, 7 months  Commitment: N/A  Scouting Notes: Good size, strength; pitched from the stretch; starts with high hands; high leg lift; slight rock back and stays tall; good balance; good drive to the plate; arm is fast; fastball worked 92-95; downhill; some sink; slider at 83 with some late tilt; 1.35 seconds to home with runners on; looked comfortable on the mound; showed two quality pitches.  http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537

 

8-21-13 – Area Code Games - 4. Luis Ortiz, rhp, Sanger (Calif.) High/San Diego Show - The 6-foot, 223-pound Ortiz has been one of the most consistent arms this summer. Working from the stretch with an easy delivery and three-quarter arm slot, Ortiz sat 91-94 mph, filling up the strike zone in two quick innings. The Fresno State commit has a mid-80s slider that flashes plus, low-80s changeup and has started integrating a curveball into his repertoire. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/area-code-games-top-10-prospects/

 

8-26-13 - Player:  Luis Ortiz   Primary Position:  RHP  Height/Weight:  6’3/220  Bats/Throws:  R/R  Home Town:  Fresno, CA  School:  Sanger  Travel Team(s):  San Diego Show  Class of:  2014  -  2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen  - Good frame, cleaned up a ton, looks stronger and more athletic and starting to really fire on all cylinders in a Yovani Gallardo type mold now.  I am really impressed with the progress, showing the work ethic to play the game at a high level.  Good arm action with a nice lower half that tends to be a bit upright in the release, could be leave it up with fatigue, and want to see in fuller workloads.   Fastball was 91-93 (94) mph which is worked around, changed eye levels, and shows some backspin on it.  Slider had good tilt, 83-84 mph, depth to be buried glove side, solid shot for above average offering.  Change up, 83-84 mph, had some depth to it and arm showed good deception, solid projectable offering.  Clean three pitch mix and workhorse frame with dedication to match, intriguing arm. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/26/2014-mlb-draft-profile/-luis-ortiz/

 

7-14-13  -  Luis Ortiz’s previous experience on the showcase circuit was at USA Baseball’s National Team Identification Series in Cary, N.C., where parents of other players on his summer team, Central Cal Baseball Academy, raised the necessary funds for the 6-foot-3 pitcher to travel cross country and attend the event. The 17-year-old Ortiz turned heads with his natural arm strength, showing a 91-93 mph fastball and 80-82 mph slider. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/luis-ortiz-lights-up-radar-guns-at-pg-national/

7-2-13 - 11. Luis Ortiz- RHP, Sanger (CA) HS -  6’3, 220 RHP who sat 93-94, touched 95 at the Tournament of Stars http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/   

 

7-5-13 - Luis Ortiz, RHP, Sanger HS (CA) - The 6’-3”, 220-pound right-hander will be almost 19 on draft day, making him one of the older players in his class. Because of this, his upside isn’t as high as others on this list. That said, his stuff is really good, and his fastball sits in the 92-95 mph range. He adds a developing plus slider that sits in the mid-80s, and his offspeed stuff is still in the developmental stages. He has great mound presence and feel for his pitches, and he also is a good athlete.  http://throughthefencebaseball.com/prep-arms-chicago-cubs/34856#Vp7zJ4JvRevfV1fR.99

 

7-24-13  -  3. Luis Ortiz, rhp, Sanger (Calif.) High/San Diego Show - After losing 35 pounds in the last year, Ortiz has a strong, durable 6-foot-3, 210-pound build with strength in his lower half. Pitching exclusively from the stretch, the Fresno State signee looks effortless producing 92-95 mph velocity and sustains his velocity well. He reportedly hit 97 in early June. Ortiz gets good sink and armside run from his tick above three-quarters arm slot. He consistently throws strikes and has feel for multiple offspeed pitches. His low-80s slider with tight rotation has the makings of a plus pitch.  A mid-80s changeup with tumble flashes average or better. 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 - 11. Luis Ortiz, RHP, Sanger HS (CA) - 6'3/220, Draft Day Age: 18.71, No college commitment, Full Report & Video - Quick Take: Ortiz is maxed-out physically and is one of the older players in the class but still has lots to like about him. He dropped a lot of weight over the past year and consistently sits 92-95 mph with an 82-85 mph slider that's plus at times from a smooth delivery. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html

 

8-5-14 - David Rawnsley ‏@DavidRawnsleyPG  - Luis Ortiz, we hardly got to know you.  91-94, about 15 pitches in 2 innings, 2 balls....maybe?

 

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 22. Luis Ortiz, RHP, Sanger HS (CA) - The 6’-3”, 220-pound right-hander will be almost 19 on draft day, making him one of the older players in his class. Because of this, his upside isn’t as high as others on this list. That said, his stuff is really good and his fastball sits in the 92-95 mph range. He adds a developing plus slider that sits in the mid-80s and his offspeed stuff is still in the developmental stages. He has great mound presence and feel for his pitches, and he also is a good athlete. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

   

8-16-13 - 11th All-American Classic - Luis Ortiz | RHP | Sanger HS (Sanger, CA)  Height/Weight: 6-foot-3/220 pounds  B/T: R/R  Draft Day Age: 18 years, 7 months  Commitment: N/A  Scouting Notes: Good size, strength; pitched from the stretch; starts with high hands; high leg lift; slight rock back and stays tall; good balance; good drive to the plate; arm is fast; fastball worked 92-95; downhill; some sink; slider at 83 with some late tilt; 1.35 seconds to home with runners on; looked comfortable on the mound; showed two quality pitches.  http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537

 

8-26-13 - Player:  Luis Ortiz   Primary Position:  RHP  Height/Weight:  6’3/220  Bats/Throws:  R/R  Home Town:  Fresno, CA  School:  Sanger  Travel Team(s):  San Diego Show  Class of:  2014  -  2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen  - Good frame, cleaned up a ton, looks stronger and more athletic and starting to really fire on all cylinders in a Yovani Gallardo type mold now.  I am really impressed with the progress, showing the work ethic to play the game at a high level.  Good arm action with a nice lower half that tends to be a bit upright in the release, could be leave it up with fatigue, and want to see in fuller workloads.   Fastball was 91-93 (94) mph which is worked around, changed eye levels, and shows some backspin on it.  Slider had good tilt, 83-84 mph, depth to be buried glove side, solid shot for above average offering.  Change up, 83-84 mph, had some depth to it and arm showed good deception, solid projectable offering.  Clean three pitch mix and workhorse frame with dedication to match, intriguing arm. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/26/2014-mlb-draft-profile/-luis-ortiz/

 

 

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 21 –  RHP Luis Ortiz – Sanger (CA) HS – Ortiz burst on the scene in July when he traveled across the country and wowed scouts at the USA Baseball’s National Team Identification Series in Cary, N.C. with his 91-93 mph fastball and 80-82 mph slider. Hit 91-93, at the Tournament of Stars in August along with an 83-84 slider. Good height (6-3) and reportedly lost 35 pounds over the past year.

Keep an eye on this one.

 

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 12.Luis Ortiz – RHP, Sanger (CA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 27. Pittsburgh Pirates — Luis Ortiz, RHP, Sanger HS (CA) The 6’-3”, 220-pound right-hander will be almost 19 on draft day, making him one of the older players in his class. Because of this, his upside isn’t as high as others on this list. That said, his stuff is really good and his fastball sits in the 92-95 mph range. He adds a developing plus slider that sits in the mid-80s and his offspeed stuff is still in the developmental stages. He has great mound presence and feel for his pitches, and he also is a good athlete. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

 

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 7.)RHP, Luis Ortiz, Hallmark Charter School, Sanger CA, 6'2 210, live arm, show quickness, all pitches from upper 3/4 slot, slider has proper spin, not the break and deception to be plus pitch, a work in progress still, fb has very good velo, pitch life however is fair, very straight - easy to read, also threw some straight changes with some deception, strong build, has some comps to Giovanni Gallardo, fb velo ranged from 90-94, most fb were 91-92, slider 80-82, change middle 70's, good looking arm for 2014, top 50 for sure. Fresno State commit. http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/

 

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 14. Luis Ortiz, rhp, Sanger (Calif.) HS: Strong-bodied power pitcher with an easy delivery was MVP of 18U World Cup with fastball up to 95 mph and a plus slider http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

 

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 6 Luis Ortiz RHP R/R 6-0 223 Sanger (Calif.) HS Fresno State http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 14. Luis Ortiz, RHP, Sanger HS (CA) - The 6’-3”, 220-pound right-hander will be almost 19 on draft day, making him one of the older players in his class. Because of this, his upside isn’t as high as others on this list. That said, his stuff is really good and his fastball sits in the 92-95 mph range. He adds a developing plus slider that sits in the mid-80s and his offspeed stuff is still in the developmental stages. He has great mound presence and feel for his pitches, and he also is a good athlete. Committed to Fresno State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

 

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  10- RHP Luis Ortiz Sanger HS (Fresno State Commit) 9/22/95- Like a lot of HS arms Ortiz oozes with potential. Right now, he is pretty darn good and he could quickly emerge as a top 5 pick before the June draft. He has powerful legs and I could easily see the 6’2 righty as a 97-98 guy as he reaches his prime. He also possesses a solid slide piece and will show a curve and change. (Blue Jays @ 11) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 25. Pittsburgh Pirates — Luis Ortiz, RHP, Sanger HS (CA) - The 6’-3”, 220 pound right-hander will be almost 19 on draft day, making him one of the older players in his class. Because of this, his upside isn’t as high as others on this list. That said, his stuff is really good and his fastball sits in the 92-95 mph range. He adds a developing plus slider that sits in the mid-80s and his offspeed stuff is still in the developmental stages. He has great mound presence and feel for his pitches, and he also is a good athlete. Committed to Fresno State.  http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

12.   Cameron Varga

6-9-13 - 22.Cameron Varga, RHP (Ohio HS): Varga had one of the better fastballs on display last summer, regularly showing strong low-to-mid 90s offerings. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/ 

 

6-13-13  -  Cameron Varga, Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy, Right-Handed Pitcher Varga transferred from IMG Academy in Florida to Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy this year and had a spectacular season. He threw between 92-95 mph and posted 148 strikeouts and just 14 walks in 64 innings pitched. He was 8-2 with a 0.21 ERA http://www.maxpreps.com/news/article.aspx?articleid=7c0ad513-b5e1-4ac1-b57e-8dedcc72c783&page=10 

 

7-2-13 - 17. Cameron Varga- RHP, Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy (OH) 6’3, 205 RHP topped out at 95 MPH at the National Showcase http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/ 

 

7-5-13 - Cameron Varga, RHP, Cincinnati Hills Academy (OH) - A converted shortstop, the 6’-3”, 205-pound right-hander has established himself as one of the top prep arms in the 2014 MLB draft in a short time, thanks in part to a fastball that sits at 93-95 mph. With his lively arm and fluid delivery, there is still room for added velocity. He adds an /upper-70s curveball with good depth and a solid upper-70s change-up. Considering he has only been pitching full time for two years, his progression has been scary. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/prep-arms-chicago-cubs/34856#Vp7zJ4JvRevfV1fR.99

8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Cameron Varga, RHP: Varga already has a good pitchers build at 6'3", 205 lbs. and sits in the low 90s and can touch 95 mph.  His secondaries are developing.  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 – 28 –  RHP Cameron Varga – Cincinnati Hills (OH) – High school stats were sick: 148 strikeouts and just 14 walks in 64 innings pitched. He was 8-2 with a 0.21 ERA. Fastball sits 92-95 (National Showcase). Was converted fro SS after showing the fastball. Also throws  up-70s change and curve which are still a work in progress. This is a fastball pitcher.

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 44.Cameron Varga – RHP, CHCA (OH) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 40. Cameron Varga, rhp, Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy, Loveland, Ohio: Nagging injuries sidelined Varga this summer, but the 19-year-old has touched 95 mph with his fastball in the past with a plus curveball, and he has an athletic build. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 26 Cameron Varga RHP R/R 6-3* 205 Cincinatti Hills Academy, Loveland, Ohio North Carolina http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 39. Cameron Varga, RHP, Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy (OH) - A converted shortstop, the 6’-3”, 205-pound right-hander has established himself as one of the top prep arms in the 2014 MLB draft in a short time, thanks in part to a fastball that sits at 93-95 mph. With his lively arm and fluid delivery, there is still room for added velocity. He adds an upper-70s curveball with good depth and a solid upper-70s change-up. Considering he has only been pitching full time for two years, his progression has been scary. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

Draft 14 – Jacob Gatewood, Luis Ortiz, Cre Finfrock, Cameron Varga, Scott Hurst

 

  11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –   9 Jacob Gatewood    SS Clovis (CA)  http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

B/R – 11-21-13 - 15. Los Angeles Angels: Luis Ortiz, RHP, Sanger HS (Calif.) - At 6’3”, 220 pounds, Luis Ortiz lacks the physical projection one targets in a high school pitcher. Additionally, the right-hander is one of the older prep prospects in the draft class, set to turn 19 next fall. However, neither of those concerns can discount the fact that he boasts an explosive 92-95 mph fastball from an easy delivery, complemented by a sharp slider in the low- to mid-80s that profiles as at least an above-average offering at maturity. http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 96 Cre Finfrock RHP S/L 5-11 166 Martin County HS, Jensen Beach, Fla. Central Florida http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 39. Cameron Varga, RHP, Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy (OH) - A converted shortstop, the 6’-3”, 205-pound right-hander has established himself as one of the top prep arms in the 2014 MLB draft in a short time, thanks in part to a fastball that sits at 93-95 mph. With his lively arm and fluid delivery, there is still room for added velocity. He adds an upper-70s curveball with good depth and a solid upper-70s change-up. Considering he has only been pitching full time for two years, his progression has been scary. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 24.Scott Hurst – OF, Bishop Amat (CA) HS  http://www.ninebaseball.org /Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

2-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  24- RHP Cameron Varga Christian Academy HS (North Carolina Commit) 8/19/94- He has fallen on some draft boards because he missed significant showcase opportunities with biceps tendinitis. Scouts were excited to see him at Jupiter as many had not seen him throw since the spring. But, he cancelled at the last moment and he becomes a very important follow this spring. He is also one of the oldest HS players in this draft but his arm should make up for that. He is a true power pitcher who also has an excellent curveball. He should be a 95-97 guy at his ceiling in the pros. In Minnesota at PG national he threw 95 and showed a 12 to 6 hammer curve at 80 and a slider at 83. (Indians @ 24) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 47. Philadelphia Phillies — Cameron Varga, RHP, Cincinnati Hills Academy (OH) - A converted shortstop, the 6’-3”, 205 pound right-hander has established himself as one of the top prep arms in the 2014 MLB draft in a short time, thanks in part to a fastball that sits at 93-95 mph. With his lively arm and fluid delivery, there is still room for added velocity. He adds an upper-70s curveball with good depth and a solid upper-70s change-up. Considering he has only been pitching full time for two years, his progression has been scary. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

  

 

13.   Michael Kopech

6-9-13  -  23. New York Yankees — Michael Kopech, Mount Pleasant HS (TX) - Another one of those loose arm, projectable right-handers, the 6’-4” Kopech has an electric fastball that can touch 93 mph and he has some deception to his delivery. His mechanics need some refining and he needs to command his secondary stuff better, but the size and stuff is already there. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present/34008#Vj5KQGPZZT1XUyhx.99 

23. New York Yankees — Michael Kopech, RHP Mount Pleasant HS (TX) - Another one of those loose arm, projectable right-handers, the 6’-4” Kopech has an electric fastball that can touch 93 mph and he has some deception to his delivery. His mechanics need some refining and he needs to command his secondary stuff better, but the size and stuff is already there. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2 

7-2-13 - 13. Michael Kopech- RHP, Mt Pleasant (TX) HS -  6’4, 195 RHP touched 94 at the Tournament of Stars and National Showcase http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/ 

7-5-13 - Michael Kopech, RHP, Mount Pleasant HS (TX) - The 6’-4” right-hander can touch 94 mph and his loose, lively arm project to more velocity as he matures. His secondary stuff still lacks control at times, but he gets by with a deceptive delivery. Once he cleans up his mechanics a bit, as well as refines his secondary stuff, the upside is huge. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/prep-arms-chicago-cubs/34856#Vp7zJ4JvRevfV1fR.99 

7-8-13 - Player:  Michael Kopech   Position:  RHP   School:  Mount Pleasant (TX)   Height/Weight:  6’4/190   Bats/Throws:  R/R   2014 Class:  High School Senior  Scouting Report:  Athletic build  Remaining projection  High leg raise delivery with back turn  3/4 arm slot  Quick arm  Low 90′s fastball, touches 94  Sharp 11/5 curve shows above average potential  Slider at 74-76  Change is developing, shows good arm speed

7-9-13 - Jheremy Brown ‏@JBrownPG  - 2014 RHP Michael Kopech (Mt Pleasant, TX) w an easy 1st inning, working 90-93 on FB and a 77 slider Struck out 2 in 1-2-3 first

7-24-13  -  Michael Kopech, rhp, Mount Pleasant (Texas)/Dallas Tigers-Vanlandingham - The tall, lean and wiry Kopech offers projection to his 6-foot-4, 195-pound frame. While his velocity has been inconsistent this summer, Kopech is capable of low-90s velocity and has hit 94 mph. He has long arm action but also a quick arm. Kopech, who is uncommitted, is flexible throughout his delivery, featuring a high leg kick up to his shoulders, hip turn and loose arm action. His top secondary offering is a mid-70s curveball that flashes three-quarter tilt and depth. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tyler-koleks-heavy-fastball-among-tournament-of-stars-standouts/

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 33. Michael Kopech, RHP, Mount Pleasant HS (TX) - Another one of those loose arm, projectable right-handers, the 6’-4” Kopech has an electric fastball that can touch 93 mph and he has some deception to his delivery. His mechanics need some refining and he needs to command his secondary stuff better, but the size and stuff is already there. Had 129 K/33 BB over 80.1 innings as a junior. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Michael Kopesch, RHP: 6'4", 190 lbs with a lot of athleticism and projection.  Some mechanical issues that a team should be able to fix, but the raw talent is there.  Throws a low 90s FB that can reach 94, a curve, and a developing change.  Some deception there too so a team that's going to take him will need to make sure they don't overhaul that part out of his delivery. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/08/2014-mlb-draft-ua-game-roster-and-preview-plus-more-tickets-and-meet-up-information/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 22.Michael Kopech – RHP, Mt. Pleasant (TX) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 18.)RHP, Michael Kopech, Mt Pleasant HS, Mt Pleasant TX, 6'2 1/2 185, lean frame with long arms and legs, gets good extension out front on his fb and breaking ball, command is good and should improve as he progresses into college and pro baseball, fb velo 88-93, most were 89-91 with tailing action down in the zone, most fb were true, cb with sharp 11/5 break, at times very good, other times flat and easy to read, flashed a few change ups with some deception, tends to slow upper body down on certain pitches he throws, correctible and definitely the type of young arm to watch in 2014, college may be in the picture but open to pro ball for sure. Upside unlimited, improved over the summer in each outing at National scene. http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/ 

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 16. Arizona Diamondbacks — Michael Kopech, RHP, Mount Pleasant HS (TX) - Another one of those loose arm, projectable right-handers, the 6’-4” Kopech has an electric fastball that can touch 93 mph and he has some deception to his delivery. His mechanics need some refining and he needs to command his secondary stuff better, but the size and stuff are already there. He was absolutely dominant at the Under Armour Game at Wrigley, showing off an explosive mid-90s fastball with late life and a nasty slider with hard bite. Had 129 K/33 BB over 80.1 innings as a junior. Quickly becoming one of my favorite players in the 2014 MLB draft. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 35 Michael Kopech RHP R/R 6-2 188 Mount Pleasant (Texas) HS Arizona http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

  11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –   23 Michael Kopech    RHP Mt Pleasant (TX) http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 20. Michael Kopech, RHP, Mount Pleasant HS (TX) - The 6’-3” right-hander worked on his mechanics over the summer and it showed at the 2013 Under Armour Game at Wrigley Field. His fastball was popping the mitt, hitting the mid-90s with explosive life. He also showed his plus slider with hard bite as he worked a quick inning. There is still projection there and his frame suggests more velocity could still come. Had 129 K/33 BB over 80.1 innings as a junior. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  27-RHP Michael Kopech Pleasant HS (Arizona Commit) 4/30/96- Terrific change of pace pitcher who has plenty of giddyup on a 92-94 mph fastball. He has a lot of confidence in his breaking stuff and will showcase those pitches often against some of the elite HS bats he has faced in various showcases. He threw a 91-93 mph fastball at PG National with a 73-76 mph curve. He had a nice downhill feel and was in the zone. He has a fast arm and his pitches run in fast on his opponent. (Pirates @ 27) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 34. Colorado Rockies — Michael Kopech, RHP, Mount Pleasant HS (TX) - The 6’-3” right-hander worked on his mechanics over the summer and it showed at the 2013 Under Armour Game at Wrigley Field. His fastball was popping the mitt, hitting the mid 90s with explosive life. He also showed his plus slider with hard bite as he worked a quick inning. There is still projection there and his frame suggests more velocity could still come. Had 129 K/33 BB over 80.1 innings as a junior. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

14.   Cobi Johnson

 

 7-2-13 - 79. Cobi Johnson- RHP, James W Mitchell (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

 

7-5-13 - Cobi Johnson, RHP, James Mitchell HS (FL) - At 6’-4” and 180 pounds, the right-hander has the ideal size for a frontline starter. His fastball has touched 93 mph, and he adds a solid curveball. His change-up, like most prep pitchers, is still developing, but he shows a  good feel for pitching, and his athleticism will help with his progression. He has shown very good command of his stuff and had 103 K/14 BB over 71 innings as a junior. He also hit .426/.508/.703 over 30 games with 18 stolen bases. His velocity does drop off in later innings, but he should gain more stamina as he fills out his frame. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/prep-arms-chicago-cubs/34856#Vp7zJ4JvRevfV1fR.99

 

7-11-13 - Jheremy Brown ‏@JBrownPG  - 2014 RHP Cobi Johnson (Holiday, FL) with an easy 1-2-3 first inning Loose, easy arm sitting 90-91 w tight, late breaking CB 74/76 #PGTourney

 

7-25-13 – Top 30 High School Prospects For 2014 Draft - 12. Cobi Johnson, RHP, Mitchell HS (FL) - 6'4/185, Draft Day Age: 18.58, Florida State commit - Quick Take: Johnson has been a little tough for scouts to see so far as he's only pitched a few innings this summer to save his arm, wise counsel from his father: Blue Jays pitching coordinator Dane Johnson. I've been told Cobi has been sitting 90-93 and hitting 95 mph with a curveball that flashes plus potential from a smooth delivery and a super projectable 6'4 frame. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html

 

8-6-13 - Top pitchers - East Coast Professional Showcase, Syracuse, NY -  6. Cobi Johnson, RHP, James W. Mitchell HS (Fla.): The son of former big leaguer Dane Johnson, the big right-hander was very efficient, throwing just 28 pitches over three innings. He showed a very good breaking ball, had excellent command and threw everything downhill. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130806&content_id=56048786&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb

 

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 33. Cobi Johnson – RHP,  James W Mitchell (FL) HS - 6’4, 180 RHP sat 88-90, touched 91. Johnson can really pitch and might have had the most impressive outing at ECP. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

 

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 29. Cobi Johnson, RHP, James Mitchell HS (FL) - At 6’-4” and 180 pounds, the right-hander has the ideal size for a frontline starter. His fastball has touched 93 mph, and he adds a solid curveball. His change-up, like most prep pitchers, is still developing, but he shows a  good feel for pitching, and his athleticism will help with his progression. He has shown very good command of his stuff and had 103 K/14 BB over 71 innings as a junior. He also hit .426/.508/.703 over 30 games with 18 stolen bases. His velocity does drop off in later innings, but he should gain more stamina as he fills out his frame. He struck out three in one perfect inning at the PG Classic. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99   

 

 

8-13-13 - The Perfect Game All-American Classic in San Diego - * I was really impressive with Cobi Johnson (Mitchell High School, Fla.), sitting 90-92 with a very good change and above-average breaking ball. His delivery is very simple and clean, and I think there’s projection for more. Keep Johnson’s name in the back of your head as a guy who could rise up draft boards this year. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/08/thoughts-on-perfect-game-all-american-classic/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

 

8-25-13 - John Manuel ‏@johnmanuelba  - Saw the athleticism & projection that makes Cobi Johnson a prospect for #mlbdraft Unique delivery, threw strikes from 87-91 FB, 77 BKB

 

8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Cobi Johnson, RHP:  Johnson is also the son of a former MLB pitcher, Dane Johnson, and while he doesn't yet throw as hard as some of the top players on this list (tops out at 93), he's 6'4", 180 lbs. so there is plenty of room for growth and to add strength.  As you might expect from a son of a former MLB pitcher, Johnson has the feel and pitchability you want along with advanced command for a high school arm. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/08/2014-mlb-draft-ua-game-roster-and-preview-plus-more-tickets-and-meet-up-information/

 

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 51.Cobi Johnson – RHP, James W Mitchell (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 28. Oakland Athletics — Cobi Johnson, RHP, James Mitchell HS (FL) At 6’-4” and 180 pounds, the right-hander has the ideal size for a frontline starter. His fastball has touched 93 mph, and he adds a solid curveball. His change-up, like most prep pitchers, is still developing, but he shows a  good feel for pitching, and his athleticism will help with his progression. He has shown very good command of his stuff and had 103 K/14 BB over 71 innings as a junior. He also hit .426/.508/.703 over 30 games with 18 stolen bases. His velocity does drop off in later innings, but he should gain more stamina as he fills out his frame. He struck out three in one perfect inning at the PG Classic. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

 

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 22. Cobi Johnson, rhp, Mitchell HS, Holiday, Fla.: Son of Blue Jays pitching instructor Dane offers athleticism, projection and command of a fastball that touches 93 mph and a potentially plus curveball. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

 

11-21-13 - Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  -   No. 5 Cobi Johnson, RHP, Mitchell HS, FL. Florida State recruit. Good bloodlines. High upside. Projectable FB, sharp CB.

 

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 8 Cobi Johnson RHP R/R 6-4 188 Mitchell HS, Holiday, Fla. Florida State http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 8. Cobi Johnson, RHP, Mitchell HS (FL) - At 6’-4” and 180 pounds, the right-hander has the ideal size for a frontline starter. His fastball has touched 93 mph, and he adds a solid curveball that could be a plus pitch. His change-up, like most prep pitchers, is still developing, but he shows a  good feel for pitching, and his athleticism will help with his progression. He has shown very good command of his stuff and had 103 K/14 BB over 71 innings as a junior. He also hit .426/.508/.703 over 30 games with 18 stolen bases. His velocity does drop off in later innings, but he should gain more stamina as he fills out his frame. He struck out three in one perfect inning at the PG Classic. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

 

B/R – 11-21-13 - 29. Atlanta Braves: Cobi Johnson, RHP, Mitchell HS (Fla.) - As the son of Blue Jays pitching coordinator Dane Johnson, Cobi’s workload has been limited as an amateur as he’s presumably saving his arm strength to make a strong impression in the spring. At 6’4”, 185-pound right-hander, Johnson’s frame is the epitome of projectable with room to fill out physically and add strength. His fastball registers at 90-93 mph, and he’s reportedly popped up to 95 mph, while his curveball already flashes plus potential despite its overall immaturity. He’ll require considerable time to develop in the minor leagues, but the huge upside could be worth the wait.  http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

 

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  43- RHP Cobi Johnson J.W. Mitchell HS (Florida State Commit) He is the son of former big leaguer Dane. His dad still works in the game as a roving instructor with the Blue Jays. Right now he is a 6’4 kid with a lanky build who throws around 90 with 2 potentially solid secondary pitches. But, his calling card is his smooth delivery that can be credited to his dad. (OUt of first round- Braves selection) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 30. Cincinnati Reds (Shin-Soo Choo) — Cobi Johnson, RHP, Mitchell HS (FL) - At 6’-4” and 180 pounds, the right-hander has the ideal size for a frontline starter. His fastball has touched 93 mph, and he adds a solid curveball that could be a plus pitch. His change-up, like most prep pitchers, is still developing, but he shows a  good feel for pitching, and his athleticism will help with his progression. He has shown very good command of his stuff and had 103 K/14 BB over 71 innings as a junior. He also hit .426/.508/.703 over 30 games with 18 stolen bases. His velocity does drop off in later innings, but he should gain more stamina as he fills out his frame. He struck out three in one perfect inning at the PG Classic. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

 

15.   Chris Ellis                Mississippi

9-10-13 – Top Arms in 2013 Cape Cod League - Chris Ellis 6-5/195, (Ole Miss) Cotuit Kettleers 37.2 IP, 23 K, 2.39 ERA: FB 87-94 CB 79-81 CH 82-84 -  He flashed 1st round stuff throughout the summer. His power curve looks borderline unhittable at times, and the change has a lot of late life. His frame can still fill out, and the FB velocity is only going to increase and become more consistent. http://bullpenbanter.com/2013-all-cape-team-pitchers/

B/R – 11-21-13 - 17. Baltimore Orioles: Chris Ellis, RHP, Mississippi - Chris Ellis, a 6’5”, 205-pound right-hander, didn’t receive much exposure last spring while working out of Ole Miss’s bullpen. However, after a dominant showing in the Cape Cod League this past summer, he now ranks among the top pitching prospects in the 2014 draft class. Ellis has a heavy fastball in the low- to mid-90s with late life, and he complements it with an impressive changeup in the mid-80s with plus potential. The right-hander throws his slider in the 80-83 mph range, though it’s an inconsistent pitch and lags behind his fastball-changeup combo. He profiles as a No. 3 or No. 4 starter in the major leagues.  http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  15- RHP Chris Ellis Ole Miss- Ellis had an excellent summer on the Cape and like many others before him at the greatest place to be for baseball in the summer team he set himself up as a potential 1st round pick. He was used more as a RP as a sophomore but you have to think a lot of eyes will be on Ellis this season when he toes the slab as a weekend starter. He has 3 quality pitches and gets plenty of life out of his 91-93 MPH fastball. He also has a very good slider. (Yankees @ 18) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

 

16.   Benton Moss

5-31-13 - John Manuel‏ @johnmanuelba - Very rough start for Benton Moss; he's allowed 7 baserunners, 5 hits & 2 BB, but only one run. Canisius has left bases loaded twice so far

10-11-13 - Aaron Fitt ‏@aaronfitt  - I'm at @DiamondHeels fall world series. RHP Benton Moss looks strong - 90-93, locating well to arm side, nasty tight slider/cutter at 84-85.

 

17.   Ryan Castellani

7-2-13 - 23. Ryan Castellani- RHP, Brophy College Prep (AZ) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/ 

7-24-13  -  Ryan Castellani, rhp, Brophy College Prep, Phoenix/Diamondbacks Elite Scout Team - With broad shoulders and lean legs, Castellani has a tall, athletic and evenly-proportioned 6-foot-4, 200-pound frame that offers projection. Using a full wind-up, Castellani gets downhill plane from his three-quarter arm slot. Over the last year, the UCLA commit has reduced the effort in his delivery and shortened his arm action, producing a loose, whippy arm. Castellani has hit 93 mph and sits 89-91 with his fastball. He has feel for a 78-82 mph changeup with tumble that has the makings of an average pitch and a mid-70s curveball. Castellani has an advanced feel for pitching. 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 - 30. Ryan Castellani, RHP, Brophy Prep HS (AZ) - 6'4/200, Draft Day Age: 18.18, UCLA commit - Quick Take: Castellani is a well-known prospect who was in the low 90's as a sophomore and is a long-limbed, projectable athlete with a good swing, though he's a much better prospect on the mound. He clearly isn't trying to light up radar guns and looks like he's playing catch at 89-91 mph with solid average stuff and above average command. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 28. Ryan Castellani, RHP, Brophy Prep HS (AZ) - The 6’-4”, 200-pound right-hander has an advanced feel for the mound and can dial his fastball up to 92 mph with late, downward life. He adds a mid-70s curve and a change-up that sits in the 79-83 mph range and both project to above-average pitches down the road. He has good command of his stuff and there is still room for projection due to his size and easy mechanics. Committed to UCLA. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99   

8-30-13 - Player:  Ryan Castellani   Primary Position:  RHP  Secondary Position(s):  OF  Height/Weight:  6’4/195  Bats/Throws:  R/R  Date of Birth:  4/1/1996  Home Town:  Phoenix. AZ  School:  Brophy Prep  Class of:  2014  - Committed To:  UCLA - Scouting Notes:   2013 Tournament of Stars Notes from Don Olsen  - Ryan has the ideal athletic frame with a projectable loose arm.  He could fill out into a 215-220 pound type in Carl Pavano type mold.  Good arm action, but tends to fall and collapse to 1B at times, leaving him riding high the release when he does not get the weight fully over.  Fastball has some life and hop on it, 90-91 (92) mph.  He shows a solid two way bite with the slider, 77-78 mph.  Ryan has a big sweeping curve with decent rotation, 75-77 mph.  Change was 79-80 mph, with nice depth and deception, little touch of hand side movement.  He shows pitchability and works off everything.  Fastball moves around and routinely pounds it in on the hands.  He never gets rattled and shows moxie with the ability to bear and grind out when needed.  Ryan shows projection and ability to show 4 potential offerings, rare combination. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/28/2014-mlb-draft-profile-ryan-catellani/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 79. Ryan Castellani – RHP, Brophy College Prep (AZ) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 48. Ryan Castellani, RHP, Brophy Prep HS (AZ) - The 6’-4”, 200-pound right-hander has an advanced feel for the mound and can dial his fastball up to 92 mph with late, downward life. He adds a mid-70s curve and a change-up that sits in the 79-83 mph range and both project to above-average pitches down the road. He has good command of his stuff and there is still room for projection due to his size and easy mechanics. Committed to Arizona State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

 

 

18.   Spencer Adams

7-24-13  -  Spencer Adams, rhp, White County, Cleveland, Ga./Team Elite - The 6-foot-5, 180-pound Georgia commit has a lean, angular frame with wide shoulders and a tapered waist. Adams uses a loose, easy arm action to deliver his fastball at 90-92 mph, touching 93. Adams hides the ball well with a compact arm arc and the ball jumps out of his hand. He is a consistent strike thrower and gets armside run and sink from a three-quarter slot. His mid-80s slider has some depth and he mixes in a low-80s changeup. A natural athlete who fields his position well, Adams is capable of above-average run times and has seen some action in center field. 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 - 24. Spencer Adams, RHP, White County HS (GA) - 6'5/185, Draft Day Age: 18.15, Georgia commit, Full Report - Quick Take: Adams is one of my favorite projection bets in this year's class, with a near ideal frame, athleticism, delivery and arm action to go with advanced feel for his off-speed stuff. Adams will sit 89-92 mph in short stints with and above average slider and changeup. His velocity will dip some in deeper outings but many first round arms have been much worse at this same juncture without as promising signs for improvement. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html 

7-26-13 - Player:  Spencer Adams  Primary Position:  RHP  Secondary Position(s):  SS  Height/Weight:  6’5/180  Bats/Throws:  R/R Home Town:  Cleveland, GA  School:  White County Class of:  2014 Committed To:  Georgia = Scouting Notes: = 2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen: - Spencer has a tall athletic frame with narrow sloped shoulders in a Kevin Brown mold.  He throws from a ¾ to a low ¾ slot, has a bit of whip action in transition, but decent three piece delivery without concerns.  He does tend to short up his extension.  Fastball was 87-90 (92) with a bit of tail when thrown from the lower slot.  81-82 mph change was a bit hard without much action, an offering that is still developing.  He had a blend of CU/SL 84-85 mph that showed some decent glove side two way actions, more cutter horizontal tilt.  Intriguing arm speed and strength that could rise as the body fills out and the velocity improves. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/07/25/2014-mlb-draft-profile-spencer-adams/

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 36. Spencer Adams – RHP, White County (GA) HS - Was his usual self at ECP, sitting 89-90, touching 91. Projects for more velocity. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 90.Spencer Adams – RHP, White County (GA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

10-25-13  - PG Showcase – Righthander Spencer Adams (Cleveland, Ga.), pitching for Team Elite, worked two innings in his start, showing the same feel for four pitches that made him an interest of scouts all summer. The 6-foot-5, 190-pounder sat between 89-91, peaking at 93 once, while also using a cutter-like slider at 85-87, curveball at 76-77 with two-plane action, and lesser-used changeup at 84. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/toussaint-wows-evaluators-at-jupiter/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 21 Spencer Adams RHP R/R 6-3 175 White County, Cleveland, Ga. Georgia http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

 

19.   Trevor McGill                       LMU

 

20.   Nigel Nootbaar

 

6-27-13  -  Player:  Nigel Nootbaar  Position:  RHP  School:  Southern California  Date of Birth:  3/24/1993  Height/Weight:  6’1/185  Bats/Throws:  S/R  Scouting Report: from Don Olsen on 6/18/2013 - Nigel has a compact lean athletic build.  A little effort to the delivery, slightly unorthodox with a little whip arm action.  There was some deception in the delivery and hides it well, gives hop on the arsenal.  Fastball is 92-94 mph with some late movement, has some tail on it.  The slider shows more vertical tilt with late bite 82-84 mph, overall above average movement that flashed plus.  Saw a different type break of 12/6 variety that had more depth in 78-80 range, path had a bit different action, weakening slider or curveball. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/27/2014-mlb-draft-profile-nigel-nootbaar/

 

 

 

21.   Joseph Gatto

 

7-2-13 - 29. Joseph Gatto- RHP, St. Augustine Prep (NJ) http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/  

7-5-13 - Joseph Gatto, RHP, St. Augustine Prep (NJ) - The 6’-5”, 210-pound right-hander turned heads begaining nearly 10 mph on his fastball over the last year and now can sling it 95 mph with explosive, late life. He showed great command of his secondary stuff at the Perfect game Nationals, and he still has a ton of projection due to his size and arm action. Scouts reportedly were raving by his efficiency and feel for his stuff. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/prep-arms-chicago-cubs/34856#Vp7zJ4JvRevfV1fR.99  

7-31-13 - Clint Longenecker ‏@Clint_BA   - 6'5 projectable rhp joseph gatto 90-93

7-31-13 - Jeff Sullivan ‏@JSully12  - Joe Gatto - RHP, St. Augustine Prep (NJ) worked a scoreless 1st, sitting 90-91

8-6-13 - Top pitchers - East Coast Professional Showcase, Syracuse, NY -  8. Joe Gatto, RHP, St. Augustine Prep (NJ): Gatto is 6-foot-5 and touched 94 mph. While he was very fastball heavy, he maintained his velocity for three innings and filled up the strike zone. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130806&content_id=56048786&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb

8-6-13 - Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  - Gatto started out 88-91 for Yanks last game and settled into the high 80s. Relatively easy delivery. Didn't show much secondary

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 15. Joe Gatto – RHP, St. Augustine Prep (NJ)  - 6’5, 215 RHP has came a long way in a year. Came out sitting 92-93, touching 94. Top of the class arm. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 46. Joseph Gatto, RHP, St. Augustine Prep (NJ) - The 6’-5”, 210-pound right-hander turned heads by gaining nearly 10 mph on his fastball over the last year and now can sling it 95 mph with explosive, late life. He showed great command of his secondary stuff at the Perfect Game Nationals, and he still has a ton of projection due to his size and arm action. Scouts reportedly were raving about his efficiency and feel for his stuff. He hit 93 mph at the PG Classic. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99    

 

8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Joseph Gatto, RHP: A chance to be a complete pitcher with a good arm that right now generates low 90s fastball while occasionally reaching the mid 90s.  He has  advanced feel and command for his age while also having enough room on his 6'5", 210 lbs frame to add some muscle and perhaps the velo increase that sometimes goes with it.  The height also gives him the advantage of being able to throw with some downward plane. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/08/2014-mlb-draft-ua-game-roster-and-preview-plus-more-tickets-and-meet-up-information/

 

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 27.Joe Gatto – RHP, St. Augustine Prep (NJ) http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 46. Joey Gatto, rhp, St. Augustine Prep, Hammonton, N.J.: Gatto offers athleticism, projection and a fastball up to 94 mph from a big 6-foot-3, 204-pound frame. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

 

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 29 Joseph Gatto RHP R/R 6-3 209 St. Augustine Prep, Hammonton, N.J. North Carolina http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 41. Joe Gatto, RHP, St. Augustine Prep (NJ) - The 6’-5”, 210-pound right-hander turned heads by gaining nearly 10 mph on his fastball over the last year and now can sling it 95 mph with explosive, late life. He showed great command of his secondary stuff at the Perfect Game Nationals, and he still has a ton of projection due to his size and arm action. Scouts reportedly were raving about his efficiency and feel for his stuff. He hit 93 mph at the PG Classic. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

 

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 54. Arizona Diamondbacks — Joseph Gatto, RHP, St. Augustine Prep (NJ) - The 6’-5”, 210 pound right-hander turned heads by gaining nearly 10 mph on his fastball over the last year and now can sling it 95 mph with explosive, late life. He showed great command of his secondary stuff at the Perfect Game Nationals, and he still has a ton of projection due to his size and arm action. Scouts reportedly were raving about his efficiency and feel for his stuff. He hit 93 mph at the PG Classic. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

22.   Karsten Whitson

 

6-10-13 - Karsten Whitson, RHP, Florida - Whitson was a first round pick (9th overall, Padres) coming out of high school and was seen as a likely first round selection before undergoing a shoulder procedure and missing his junior year.  Assuming that he does not come to terms with the Nationals, they drafted him in the 37th round, Whitson will be one of the wildcards for 2014.  When right, he has easy velocity, touching 95 with good movement, a plus slider, and a nice change. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/

10-2-13 - Kendall Rogers ‏@KendallRogersPG  - O'Sullivan said P Karsten Whitson is progressing very well. Looks good, will take things slow this fall, but on track

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  42- RHP Karsten Whitson Florida - Placement on this list is purely for the P he has been and this year he should be healthy and give himself a chance to move up higher. That being said, he has the injury bug following him now so that will affect his draft status. (Out of first round- Red Sox selection) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

23.   Mason McCullough

6-30-13 - Frankie Piliere ‏@FPilierePG  - Mason McCullough says hello. Sitting 97-98 mph in his @HarwichMariners debut @DiamondHeels

 

24.   Brandon Murray

6-13-13 - 1st PG National pitch from 2014 RHP Brandon Murray (Hobart, IN) was 98 mph

7-2-13 - 32. Brandon Murray- RHP, Hobart (IN) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

7-24-13  -  9. Brandon Murray, rhp, Hobert (Ind.) High/Region Storm - Murray, a South Carolina signee, is another pitcher with elite arm strength. He sits 92-94 mph and touches 95 with above-average armside run from his three-quarters arm slot. Murray has an athletic 6-foot-4, 200-pound build with sloped shoulders, a tapered waist and strong legs that offers projection. His high-70s slider with two-plane break is his best secondary pitch. Although currently inconsistent, his low-80s changeup showed good tumble. He is working on reducing the effort in his delivery, which includes a head whack, and repeating it more consistently. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tyler-koleks-heavy-fastball-among-tournament-of-stars-standouts/

8-27-13 - Player:  Brandon Murray   Primary Position:  RHP  Secondary Position(s):  1B  Height/Weight:  6’4/200  Bats/Throws:  R/R  Home Town:  Hobart, IN  School:  Hobart  Class of:  2014  - Committed To:  South Carolina -  2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen  - Brandon has an ideal height with narrow athletic build, little bit of development in the hips and rear in a Jeremy Bondermann type mold.  Good push drive from the lower half; arm shows a little wrap and elevation with a decent slot at plant.  Really good weight transfer and extension allows him to keep it down in the zone constantly.  Really good arm speed and drive using the entire body.  He is a solid athlete that fields well, shows the one step lateral agility, high caliber athlete.  Fastball was 92-93 (94) mph, with a bit of hand side tail with the ¾ delivery.  Curve, 79-81, flashed some depth and solid 11/5 type movement in a power curve type offering.  He did not show a change up in event.  Good athlete and some items to iron, but arm speed you want to see. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/26/2014-mlb-draft-profile-brandon-murray/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 29.Brandon Murray – RHP, Hobart (IN) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 16.)RHP, Brandon Murray, 6'2 1/2 185, R/R, Hobart HS, Hobart, IN, this kid has arm strength from 3/4 arm slot for 3 pitches, a fb that runs in on RHH and sinks away on occasion, his change and slider both from same arm slot and deceptive to hitters. Slider still in development stage it seems, not a sharp breaker, but enough to fool hitters at this level. FB velo was 89-94, most were 90-91, not afraid to pitch down in the zone, competitor and the type of body to fill out in time, small shoulder frame. http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 98 Brandon Murray RHP R/R 6-2 204 Hobert (Ind.) High South Carolina

 

25.   Jeff Harding Jr.

7-2-13- 44. Jeff Harding Jr.- RHP, Cambridge- South Dorchester (MD) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 39. Jeff Harding Jr. – RHP, Cambridge (MD) HS - Love the way he pitches. 5’11, 175 power RHP at 90-91, touched 92. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 82.Jeff Harding Jr. – RHP, Cambridge-South Dorchester (MD) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

26.   Sean Reid-Foley

7-2-13 - 46. Sean Reid-Foley- RHP, Sandalwood (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/ 

7-5-13 - Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Sandalwood HS (FL) - The 6’-3”, 210-pound right-hander flashes a plus fastball that touches 94 mph with late life, thanks to his easy delivery and strong build. He also features a filthy, upper-70s curveball that may be one of the best in his class, as well as a slider that looked like a future plus pitch at The Tournament of Stars in North Carolina. He has put his name on the map over the last month and has huge upside due to his size, easy delivery and stuff. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/prep-arms-chicago-cubs/34856#Vp7zJ4JvRevfV1fR.99

7-21-13 - Player:  Sean Reid-Foley   Primary Position:  RHP  Height/Weight:  6’3/208  Bats/Throws:  R/R Date of Birth:  8/30/1995 Home Town:  Jacksonville, FL School:  Sandalwood Class of:  2014  Committed To:  Florida State  Scouting Notes: - 2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen: Sean is the ideal athletic frame with narrow sloped shoulders, which may fill out a bit more into the Aaron Crow mold.  He has long arms and big hands for his size.  His delivery shows a bit of timing issues, a little wrap and transition delay, but in an okay slot at plant in a high ¾ delivery.  Fastball was 88-92 (93) mph that changed eye levels and showed good backspin, solid command.  He has an 88-89 mph 2S that shows very good tail, not afraid to work it inside on the hands of the RHH.  Slider was 78-79 mph, decent tilt at times.  It needs consistent rotation, as sometimes the offering rode too horizontal and hung up. There is flashed ability in the offering and requires some consistency, but looks to project.  Change was hard action split or straight with a touch of depth, it is a show me offering.  He has the frame, arm speed, arm strength that makes him a hard follow to monitor the development of his three pitch mix.  http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/07/20/2014-mlb-draft-profile-sean-reid-foley/   

7-24-13  -  6. Sean Reid-Foley, rhp, Sandalwood High, Jacksonville/FTB Chandler - For just the second time in the last 20 years, Florida produced only one high school pitcher in the first three rounds of the 2013 draft. Reid-Foley is one of several pitchers who could be drafted in that range in 2014 after showing 91-94 mph velocity with good glove-side run. The 6-foot-3, 208-pound Reid-Foley has a quick arm, and the ball jumps at hitters because of his athletic delivery with a long stride. His mid-70s curveball has good depth and is Reid-Foley’s best secondary offering. The Florida State signee also has feel for a 78-81 mph slider with sweeping action. His hard changeup lags behind the breaking balls. 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 - 20. Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Sandalwood HS (FL) - 6'3/205, Draft Day Age: 18.84, Florida State commit - Quick Take: He's old for the class and some scouts don't like his high back elbow but Reid-Foley has been one of the most consistent arms so far this summer. He sits 91-94 mph with a 76-80 mph slurve that is above average to plus with a good delivery and feel to spot his power stuff.  http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html 

8-6-13 - Top pitchers - East Coast Professional Showcase, Syracuse, NY -  4. Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Sandalwood HS (Fla.): Scouts like to see improvement as the summer goes on, and Reid-Foley threw better at East Coast than he did during Tournament of Stars. During three hitless innings, the right-hander was at 92-94 mph with his fastball, with a ton of sink. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130806&content_id=56048786&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb 

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 8. Sean Reid-Foley – RHP, Sandalwood (FL) HS - Big RHP who sat 92-94, touched 95. Struck out top prospect Nick Gordon on 3 straight 94 mph fastballs. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 27. Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Sandalwood HS (FL) - The 6’-3”, 210-pound right-hander flashes a plus fastball that touches 94 mph with late life, thanks to his easy delivery and strong build. He also features a filthy, upper-70s curveball that may be one of the best in his class, as well as a slider that looked like a future plus pitch at The Tournament of Stars in North Carolina. He has put his name on the map over the last month and has huge upside due to his size, easy delivery and stuff. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99   

8-16-13 - 11th All-American Classic - Sean Reid-Foley | RHP | Sandalwood HS (Sandalwood, FL) - Height/Weight: 6-foot-3/208 pounds - B/T: R/R  Draft Day Age: 18 years, 9 months Commitment: Florida State - istory: Reid-Foley’s solid PG National showing in June kicked off his summer, and he quickly followed up that performance with a Tournament of Stars showing that earned him an invite to the USA Baseball 18U Team Trials beginning today in Fullerton, California. Two weeks ago the Florida State commit sparkled in a three-inning outing in Syracuse, New York during the East Coast Pro Showcase, easily carving through the outing sitting 92-94 mph and showing two future plus offerings in a low-80s slider and mid-80s changeup. His follow-up outing in Long Beach at the Area Code Games last week involved a step back, as he struggled to find consistency in his offerings and left some evaluators wondering whether he was running on empty after a long summer schedule. - Development: This past weekend in San Diego, Reid-Foley was once again dominant—this time in a one-inning showing during the Perfect Game All-American Classic. His fastball sat in the 92-94 mph range, touching 95, and his slider was back to flashing plus with hard bite and tilt. It was an important outing in front of a lot of high-level decision makers, particularly after struggling in front a lot of the same faces last week in Long Beach. Reid-Foley has raised his stock greatly this summer and should enter the spring as one of the top righty arms in the class.  http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537

8-21-13 – Area Code Games - 10. Sean Reid-Foley, rhp, Sandalwood High, Jacksonville/FTB Chandler - A physical 6-foot-1, 222-pound Florida State recruit, Reid-Foley came to the Area Code Games off a very strong showing at East Coast Pro, where he filled up the strike zone with command of four offerings and looked like one of the top arms in the class. Throughout a long summer, nearly every pitcher has an occasional hiccup with his control and Reid-Foley’s came in Long Beach. His fastball sat 91-94 mph from a three-quarter slot, but he issued three walks and allowed two runs in an inning. At his best, Reid-Foley offers an above-average low-80s slider, an 82-84 mph changeup with tumble that has the makings of an average pitch and a mid-70s curveball. - http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/area-code-games-top-10-prospects/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects - 5.Sean Reid-Foley – RHP, Sandalwood (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 26. Detroit Tigers — Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Sandalwood HS (FL)  The 6’-3”, 210-pound right-hander flashes a plus fastball that touches 94 mph with late life, thanks to his easy delivery and strong build. He also features a filthy, upper-70s curveball that may be one of the best in his class, as well as a slider that looked like a future plus pitch at The Tournament of Stars in North Carolina. He has put his name on the map over the last month and has huge upside due to his size, easy delivery and stuff. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 31. Sean Reid-Foley, rhp, Sandalwood HS, Jacksonville: Athletic righthander with a fastball up to 95 mph, above-average slider and average changeup with good control. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

10-29-13 – Jim Callis – Top 10 World Wood Bat Association World Championship (WWBA) Jupiter, Fla - 6. Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Cardinals Scout Team/FTB Chandler (Sandalwood High, Jacksonville, Fla./Florida State) -  Inconsistent but has shown a quality fastball, breaking ball and command at different times during the summer. http://ht.ly/qi5No

11-6-13 – Todd Gold – WWBA World Championship – Sean Reid-Foley (2014 RHP, Cardinals Scout Team/FTB Chandler) - While he is still learning to harness the command of his high caliber raw stuff, he has shown good command in stretches while his stuff has been reliable. He struck out four of the six batter he faced in Jupiter, sitting 92-94 consistently, while showing a sharp biting mid-80s slider. He has shown a quality four pitch mix in the past and has touched 95 with the fastball. He has had crisp outings where he commanded the strike zone well and outings where he would miss high and to the arm side. While he lacks polish, he is unhittable when he's on, and he has been on while pitching on some big stages. In a lot of draft classes he would be one of, if not the elite high school arm in the class. The depth of high school arms in 2014 could allow a team to get a very good value on him come June, unless he takes a step forward and begins to separate himself from an impressive peer group in the spring. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9157

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 11 Sean Reid-Foley RHP R/R 6-1 222 Sandalwood HS, Jacksonville Florida State http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

   11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –  25 Sean Reid-Foley    RHP Sandalwood (GA) – http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

B/R – 11-21-13 - 26. Detroit Tigers: Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Sandalwood HS (Fla.) - At 6’3”, 205 pounds, Sean Reid-Foley is an athletic right-hander with fluid delivery and a fastball that sits in the low-90s and scrapes 95 mph. Although his arm action—particularly his elbow positioning prior to shifting his momentum toward the plate—isn’t ideal, it’s hard to argue against his consistent plus velocity. Also one of the older prep prospects in the 2014 draft class, Reid-Foley features an above-average breaking ball in the upper-70s that offers significant contrast relative to his heater.  http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 9. Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Sandalwood HS (FL) - The 6’-3”, 210-pound right-hander flashes a plus fastball that touches 94 mph with late life, thanks to his easy delivery and strong build. He also features a filthy, upper-70s curveball that may be one of the best in his class, as well as a slider that looked like a future plus pitch at The Tournament of Stars in North Carolina. He has put his name on the map over the last couple of months and has huge upside due to his size, easy delivery and stuff. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  36- RHP Sean Reid-Foley Sandalwood HS (Florida State Commit) 8/30/95- Florida State has set themselves up for some heartbreak with 3 elite prospects committed to be Seminoles. But, big time programs have grown to expect that and that is why they often over recruit because they know they will have to constantly replenish a recruiting class. Reid-Foley is a fairly advance HS arm who has solid command and works well against lefties with a delivery suited for some deception. He works with 3 pitches and has mid 90’s upside with his fastball. (Out of first round-Indians selection around #38) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 23. Los Angeles Dodgers — Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Sandalwood HS (FL) - The 6’-3”, 210 pound right-hander flashes a plus fastball that touches 94 mph with late life, thanks to his easy delivery and strong build. He also features a filthy, upper-70s curveball that may be one of the best in his class, as well as a slider that looked like a future plus pitch at The Tournament of Stars in North Carolina. He has put his name on the map over the last couple of months and has huge upside due to his size, easy delivery and stuff. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

27.   Mitch Hart

7-22-13 - Player:  Mitch Hart   Primary Position:  RHP Secondary Position(s):  3B/1B Height/Weight:  6’3/175 Bats/Throws:  R/R Home Town:  Granite Bay, CA  School:  Granite Bay  Class of:  2014  Committed To:  Southern California - Scouting Notes: 2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen: - Mitch has a lean athletic frame with a great deal of projection in the Kurt Ainsworth mold.  Easy three piece action, good loose arm, timing and lower half drive are not inline and arm slot moved a great deal, a lot more velocity in the arm.  Fastball was 87-90 (91) mph and showed the ability to pound the zone with it, missed bats with a bit of cut fastball 87-88 mph.  Curve was more of slurve type, in 76-78 mph.  It had some action and can see offering down the line.  Change was more of a show me stage 80-82 mph.  He is tied to projection and refinements could see a solid three pitch mix. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/07/22/2014-mlb-draft-profile-mitch-hart/ 

7-25-13 – Top 30 High School Prospects For 2014 Draft - 27. Mitch Hart, RHP, Granite Bay HS (CA) - 6'4/175, Draft Day Age: 17.80, USC commit - Quick Take: Hart is another solid projection play in this class, as one of the younger player in the class with good command and a long, lean frame that should add strength down the road. He'll sit 88-92 with occasional sinking life, two above average off-speed pitches in a 78-80 mph slider and 80-82 mph changeup and a curveball that's average and changes hitters' eye level. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html

8-10-13 - New Balance Area Code games - A’s right-hander, Mitch Hart (CA) is one of the tops arms in the tournament and showed good stuff in his outing. He has a long, projectable body with a loose arm action. His fastball sat 89-90 MPH early on but was down a bit later on and sat 86-88. The pitch had some run but he located it well. He also threw one of my favorite changeups from the week. The pitch sat 80-82 MPH and really dropped off the table with good deception. Hart also mixed in a curve that had tight, hard, sweeping break at 73-75 MPH. http://prospectinsider.com/view/2013-area-codes:-day-4-notes/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 79 Mitch Hart RHP R/R 6-2 178 Granite Bay (Calif.) HS Southern California http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

28.   Josh Dezse                            Ohio State

 

 

29.   Hawtin Buchanan               Mississippi

 

30.   Kevin Pimentel

7-2-13 -  28. Kevin Pimentel- RHP, Shoreham-Wading River (NY) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

8-1-13 - Zach Mortimer ‏@ZachMort  - Sad news from #eastcoastpro Kevin Pimentel suffered a torn triceps muscle and potential broken arm.

 

31.   Sam Coonrod                      

9-10-13 – Top Arms in 2013 Cape Cod League - Sam Coonrod (Southern Illinois Jr.)  6-2/190, Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox 16.2 IP, 14 K, 4.86 ERA: FB 92-96 CB 75-81 SL 84-87 CH 81-84 -  Strong build and a power arm. He didn’t possess a lot of control, but the raw stuff is excellent. I think he is a work in progress, but will develop into a stud with professional seasoning. http://bullpenbanter.com/2013-all-cape-team-pitchers/

11-4-13 – MLB Draft Insider - Top 14 for ’14: College Pitchers - 14. Sam Coonrod / RHP / Southern Illinois – Coonrod has touched 98 with his fastball and has shown an average breaking ball, though most I’ve talked to believe he’s a reliever at the next level unless his command improves considerably. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/11/top-14-for-14-college-pitchers/

 

32.   Daniel Mengden

6-18-13  -  Daniel Mengden - from Don Olson on 6/18/2013 - Smaller compact frame with sloped shoulders, wide hips, development in lower rear, sits about 210 pounds, may have some projection left. Upright delivery, high release, does not get weight over well, 93-96 mph on 4S with just okay movement. He has some shape on the split change with a touch of hand side run to the solid dip in the offering. Daniel has a projectable slider with bite and tilt. Erratic release point and timing leaves command an item to monitor down the road. He does showcase a compact delivery and leverage should allow it to improve down the road. Daniel has very potent arm speed and another year under the belt could iron out the wrinkles. High track and follow at this stage.

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 14.)RHP, Daniel Mengden, Texas A&M, 6'1 210, R/R, may end up a catcher if pitching don't work out, this kid has a great arm and loves baseball, on the bump he's 92-96 with no fear, also hard slide piece and good control, rushes delivery some from upper 3/4 slot, as a catcher, he's sub 2.0 on pop times and shows good glove skills and does enough behind the dish to be competent defender, will be a below average hitter but enough strength and bat speed to improve further up the ladder. Definitely 1-3 round talk for 2014! http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/

 

33.   Cre Finfrock

7-2-13 -  54. Cre Finfrock- RHP, Martin County (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

7-23-13 - Player:  RHP Cre Finfrock   Height/Weight:  6’1/170  Home Town:  Jensen Beach, FL  School:  Martin County  Committed To:  Central Florida  - Scouting Notes: - 2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen: Cre is a compact athletic build with a bit of slope in it.  There is a bit of projection out of the smaller frame in a Justin Garza mold.  He has a short three piece action with a little bit of effort, not a huge concern as the extension is relaxed and without wasted motion.  I would like to see him get his weight over a bit more, but size/frame should not be a command problem.  He has a good deal of arm speed and arm strength, sustains peak velocity out of the stretch.  His fastball was 88-91 (92) mph from a ¾ to low ¾ slots that shows a bit of hand side action.  The curve was 71-73 mph that showed depth and flashed above average ability.  Change up was 76-77 mph, with a bit of depth and hand side fade to it, shows the deception to project.  He has a good deal of pitchability and can work off any offering. He shows decent fastball command and ability to live in the lower half of the zone.

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 35. Cre Finfrock - RHP, Martin County (FL) HS - Can really pitch and sat 90-91, touching 92 http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 96 Cre Finfrock RHP S/L 5-11 166 Martin County HS, Jensen Beach, Fla. Central Florida http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

34.   Pat Connaughton               Notre Dame

 

 

35.   Parker French                      Texas

6-24-13  - Mack – We’ve moving on to Austin, Texas and visiting with the University of Texas RHP Parker French. Hey Parker, how’s my old home and is there still a ‘Hippie Hollow’?

Parker – Hey Mack, Austin is as great as ever! It is really growing and extremely busy. As you know there is so much to do here and yes there is still a “Hippie Hollow” but I can say I have never been. We stick to places like Barton Springs or Lake Austin for our entertainment.

Mack – I like to ask this question to some of you. Take me back to that day that someone put a baseball in your hands and it made sense. Then, walk us threw the steps taken to get where you are today.

Parker – Well, growing up I was never an overpowering or feared pitcher. I think it was after my sophomore year that my coach showed me a group for my “sinker”. The ball started running and sinking like crazy and ever since then that has been my bread and butter pitch. I have since then become better at locating it to both sides of the plate. I have always had a good feel for a change up but since coming to college I have picked up on a slider, which is really coming along nicely. The crazy thing about pitching is that it is all about feel, and you must work on that feel each and every day.

Mark – Parker, I don’t have to remind you how important your junior year is going to be. First off, do you have any summer leagues/showcases scheduled to continue sharpening your tools?

Parker – I am currently in Santa Barbara, California play for the SB Forester of the California Collegiate League. Even though I threw a lot of innings this spring I felt like there were certain things I wanted to work on and fine tune for this upcoming season.

Mack – That’s what I was going to ask next. Care to share anything you are working on (if not, I understand)?

Parker – I am working on simplifying my delivery so that it is easier to repeat. I am also working on the command of my breaking pitches so I have confidence to throw them in any count at any time. Mainly I am just trying to make myself a well rounded pitcher, that can beat hitters in a variety of ways.

Mack – Last question Parker. Is there anything you want to say directly to your fans and the readers out there on both www.bigleaguefutures.net  and www.macksmets.blogspot.com

Parker – Obviously I’d like to thank everyone for all their support of me over the years. And just know that I am working hard this offseason to deliver a great season to all the Texas Longhorn fans out there!

Mack – Thank you Parker, and good luck this season.

7-18-13 - Aaron Fitt ‏@aaronfitt   - Whalen and the South team won 3-2, but the best arms belonged to the North: Patrick Weigel, Grayson Long, Drew Van Orden, Parker French.

 

36.   Keaton McKinney

7-2-13 -  50. Keaton McKinney- RHP/1B, Ankeny (IA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/ 

7-24-13  -  Keaton McKinney, rhp, Ankeny (Iowa) High/Marucci Elite - At 6-foot-5, 220 pounds, McKinney has a physical build with a strong lower half and still has room to grow into his upper body and large frame. With a quick, whip-like arm action from a three-quarter arm slot, McKinney sits 89-92 mph, touching 93. An Arkansas signee, he also throws a two-seamer with above-average armside run and sink and pitches aggressively off his fastball. His low-80s changeup with fade is his most advanced secondary offering. His 76-79 mph slider with tight rotation shows the makings of an average pitch. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tyler-koleks-heavy-fastball-among-tournament-of-stars-standouts/ 

8-7-13  -  Kendall Rogers ‏@KendallRogersPG  - #Arkansas commit @TGold_PG: 2014 RHP Keaton McKinney (Ankeny, IA) showing the best changeup of #ACGames. Makes good hitters look bad

8-16-13 - 11th All-American Classic - Keaton McKinney | RHP | Ankeny HS (Ankeny, IA) - Height/Weight: 6-foot-5/220 pounds - B/T: R/R - Draft Day Age: 18 years, 5 months  Commitment: Arkansas - History: McKinney started the summer in style, sitting upper-80s to low-90s with a heavy fastball at the Perfect Game National Showcase in June, while showing off a highly deceptive changeup a grade better than he’d shown in past showcase outings, and among the best off-speeds of any arm at the Metrodome over those five days. McKinney maintained his stuff through USA Baseball’s Tournament of Stars, earning himself an invite to the 18U Team Trials along side Reid-Foley. He showed well at the Area Code Games last week, as well, and entered the Perfect Game All-American Classic as an arm of interest, but not necessarily one of the big names in the class. - Development: McKinney breezed through his inning of work on Sunday, striking out three and walking one. The big Iowan set the tempo for the outing in his first four pitches, going changeup, fastball, changeup, changeup to big slugger, and Vanderbilt commit, Justin Bellinger, drawing empty swings on each of the off-speeds and sending Bellinger to the bench. As impressive as McKinney’s changeup has been thus far this summer, it was at its best at PGAAC, and the deceptive quality of the offering, along with the late tumble, left the East Squad hitters helpless. It’s a deep crop of high school arms this year, with a number of potential impact hurlers at the college ranks as well, but a dominant outing in front of the right collection of evaluators can do wonders for a players draft stock—McKinney’s inning was just such an outing, solidifying for him a prominent spot on follow lists for next spring. http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537

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 – RHP  Keaton McKinney (Ankeny, Iowa) followed suit in the bottom of the second, ripping a pitch into the left field bleachers to lead off the inning for the Blue team and pushing the lead to 6-0.  http://web.usabaseball.com/article.jsp?ymd=20130820&content_id=57577990&vkey=news_usab

9-1-13 – Petco Game - Keaton McKinney (RHP) (R/R) 6’5″ 220; Grad: 2014  Ankeny, IA Tall, XL frame with durable pitchers build. Avg. athlete that repeats his delivery w/quick arm from HTQ slot. Ball comes out of hand well and showed ability to manipulate both sides of plate. FB91-93 and uses 2-seamer 88-90 with sink. Advanced CH880-82 that remains his best secondary offering. Plus feel to repeat fading action with swing and miss potential. Uses SL78-80 as third pitch and has a tendency to wrap and action will get slurvey. Intriguing, fresh arm w/feel for strikes who could continue to boost his stock if the SL develops this spring. Shows the ingredients for 3-pitch mix w/the FB and CH being plus offerings. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/09/01/aflac-game-wrap-up-better-late-than-never/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 32.Keaton McKinney – RHP/INF, Ankeny (IA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 43. Keaton McKinney, rhp, Ankeny (Iowa) HS: Six-foot-5, 223-pounder has a low-90s fastball that has touched 94 and one of the better changeups in the class. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 31 Keaton McKinney RHP R/R 6-4 223 Ankeny (Iowa) HS Arkansas http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 28. Keaton McKinney, RHP, Ankeny HS (IA) - At 6’-5” and 220 pounds, the right-hander has the ideal size for a frontline starter. His fastball can touch 93 mph and he also shows the makings of a plus change-up that sits in the low 80s with good tilting action. He also is a very good athlete, which bodes well for future projection and mechanics. Another member of Team USA Baseball. Committed to Arkansas. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  49-RHP Keaton McKinney Ankeny HS (Arkansas Commit)- He will be a two way player at Arkansas as his bat has some boom to it and he should be a big time college run producer given the opportunity. But, his stuff on the mound, which includes an advanced change up, and solid curve ball make him a big upside pick for someone in June. (Out of first round- Royals selection) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 38. Miami Marlins — Keaton McKinney, RHP, Ankeny HS (IA) - At 6’-5” and 220 pounds, the right-hander has the ideal size for a frontline starter. His fastball can touch 93 mph and he also shows the makings of a plus change-up that sits in the low 80s with good tilting action. He also is a very good athlete, which bodes well for future projection and mechanics. Another member of Team USA Baseball. Committed to Arkansas. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

37.   Lukas Schiraldi

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 47. Lukas Schiraldi, rhp, Texas: Son of former big leaguer Calvin, he shined this summer while flashing a plus fastball and solid secondary repertoire. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

10-29-13 - College Baseball Daily kicks off our countdown to the start of the 2014 College Baseball season by checking in on the top 100 players in the country. We will be providing one player per day until we reach number 1.  We continue the list today at number 82 with University of Texas RHP Lukas Schiraldi. Before fully committing to the Longhorns staff, Schiraldi pitched at Navarro College where he dominated the Region XIV Athletic Conference in the NJCAA. Son of former Longhorn ace Calvin Schiraldi, Lukas has followed in his father’s footsteps and looks forward to potentially playing as a career. During his sophomore season with the Bulldogs, Schiraldi went 9-2 with a 2.84 ERA. In 76 IP the righty was able to strikeout 67 and quickly became a player to watch. http://ht.ly/2BaiSA

11-19-13 - Lukas Schiraldi (RHP) - College: University of Texas - After pitching his first two post-high school seasons at the JUCO level, Schiraldi is now a member of the Texas Longhorns. Because he was at the JUCO level, he flew under the radar a little bit. This, however, is no longer the case due to his 2013 Cape Cod League performance. He was given the BFC Whitehouse Outstanding Pitcher Award after he led the league with a 1.20 ERA. He had 27 strikeouts in 37.2 regular-season innings. Also, in his one playoff start in Cape Cod, he threw six shutout innings. At 6’4″, 197 pounds, he could add a little bulk to his frame, but his height is what is desired in a pitching prospect. Baseball America has him ranked 47th–noting his “plus fastball and solid secondary repertoire.” His fastball touches 95 MPH, and his changeup is already big-league ready. As he develops his breaking ball at UT, he will be one of the top pitching prospects out there. One of my favorite parts about him is his laid-back, goofy personality which can be seen in this 2.5 minute interview after his first start at Cape Cod. Give him time, and he could be the next Adam Wainwright–both on the mound and in the dugout/clubhouse. Based on his spring performance with Texas, he very well could be available for the Cardinals late in the first round, and I would be ecstatic if they were to pick him up. However, now that he plays for a perennial baseball powerhouse, Texas, scouts won’t be able to overlook him. I could see him flying up the draft board as the season rolls along. http://stlcupofjoe.com/2013/11/19/2014-mlb-draft-five-prospects-to-keep-an-eye-on-part-2/

 12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  37- RHP Lukas Schiraldi Texas- He pitched at Navarro College before moving onto the University of Texas. He is another pitcher who generated a lot of buzz on the Cape. He is the son of former UT star Calvin, and like his dad he is a pitcher who developed more “wow” stuff after high school. He works with a heavy fastball and has solid secondary offerings to work off of his fastball. (Out of first round-Royals selection around #35) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

 

38.   Grant Hockin

 

6-13-13  -  22. Baltimore Orioles — Grant Hockin, RHP, Damien HS (CA) - Hockin is an athletic 6’-4” right-hander whose fastball has touched 95 mph with late life. He also adds two solid secondary offerings in a curveball and change-up and he locates his pitches well. He repeats his delivery well and still has some projection left. He is the grandson of Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2 



 

7-15-13 – 2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen:  - Grant Hockin is a highly projectable with a loose arm and present arm speed.  He has a nice frame, little sloped narrowness to it similar to Trevor Williams at the same age, looks to fill out similarly as well. FB was 87-90 (91) mph and showed solid command with the a little ability to work it and change eye levels, something to monitor as he progresses.  His 2S was 87-89 showed run with enough tail to drop in on the RHH and away from the LHH. His curve, 80-81 mph, had good average depth and rotation on it to project.  The CH showed a bit of fade at 78-79 mph, providing a third offering that projects.  Good three pitch mix with arm speed. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/07/15/2014-mlb-draft-profile-grant-hockin/ 

 

8-2-13  -  Elite Baseball ‏@EliteBaseball  - Grant Hockin  Futures Game RHP is Legit! pic.twitter.com/nw73yj8xyK

 

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 38. Grant Hockin, RHP, Damien HS (CA) - Hockin is an athletic 6’-2” right-hander whose fastball has touched 95 mph with late life and sits in the 89-92 mph range. He also adds two solid secondary offerings in a curveball and change-up, and he locates his pitches well. He repeats his delivery well and still has some projection left. He is the grandson of Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

 

8-25-13 - Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  - I was also excited to see RHP Grant Hockin (CA) get an MVP nod in the #UAAllAmerica Game today

 

  8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Grant Hockin, RHP:  Projectable arm with a loose body that sits low 90s but can hit 95 mph.   Throws curve and change with solid command for his age. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/08/2014-mlb-draft-ua-game-roster-and-preview-plus-more-tickets-and-meet-up-information/

 

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 80.Grant Hockin – RHP, Damien (CA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 37. Grant Hockin, RHP, Damien HS (CA) - Hockin is an athletic 6’-2” right-hander whose fastball has touched 95 mph with late life and sits in the 89-92 mph range. He also adds two solid secondary offerings in a curveball and change-up, and he locates his pitches well. He repeats his delivery well and still has some projection left. He is the grandson of Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew. Committed to UCLA. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

 

 

 

39.   Keith Weisenburg              Osceola (FL) HS

7-2-13 -  51. Keith Weisenberg- RHP, Osceola (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/ 

7-24-13  -  Keith Weisenberg, rhp, Osceola, Seminole, Fla./Marucci Elite - With a large frame, broad shoulders and lanky physique, the 6-foot-4, 190-pound Weisenberg is very projectable. From a full arm circle, Weisenberg produces considerable arm strength with ease from a three-quarter slot. The ball jumps out of his hand as it looks like he is playing catch. The Stanford commit sits 90-92 mph and can touch 93 with armside run. Weisenberg shows feel for an 82-84 mph changeup and low-80s breaking ball. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tyler-koleks-heavy-fastball-among-tournament-of-stars-standouts/

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 27. Keith Weisenberg – RHP, Osceola (FL) HS - Big RHP has looked good all summer and continued that by sitting 90-92 at ECP. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 75.Keith Weisenberg – RHP, Osceola (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

10-28-13 – Jim Callis - One of the best pitching matchups of the tournament pitted Marucci Elite's Keith Weisenberg (Osceola High, Seminole, Fla.) against Chicago Scouts Association's Noah Burkholder (Crown Point, Ind., High).Weisenberg, a right-hander who's committed to Stanford, also has a projectable frame at 6-foot-4 and 190 pounds. His loose arm delivered 91-95 mph fastballs in the first inning and still pumped 89-91 mph heat in his fourth and final frame. His fastball has sinking action, as does his changeup, which was a bit firm in the mid-80s. He threw 13 changeups and just two sliders. Weisenberg filled the strike zone with 46 of his 70 pitches, but his command wasn't as sharp as his control. He left some pitches up and gave up three runs on six hits and two walks while striking out five. http://ht.ly/qeYJz

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 32 Keith Weisenberg RHP R/R 6-4 187 Osceola HS, Seminole, Fla. Stanford http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 50. Keith Weisenberg, RHP, Osceola HS (FL) - The 6′-4″ right-hander was sitting 91-96 mph with his fastball in Jupiter and was able to maintain velocity into the fourth inning, showing good stamina. His size suggest there is still room for added projection and velocity. He also features a tailing change-up that still needs some refining but he shows a good feel for it. Committed to Stanford. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 59. Cincinnati Reds — Keith Weisenberg, RHP, Osceola HS (FL) - The 6′-4” right-hander was sitting 91-96 mph with his fastball in Jupiter and was able to maintain velocity into the fourth inning, showing good stamina. His size suggest there is still room for added projection and velocity. He also features a tailing change-up that still needs some refining but he shows a good feel for it. Committed to Stanford. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

40.   Adam Ravenellle                                Vanderbilt

 

41.   Erick Fedde                           Nevada-Las Vegas

 

7-17-13 –  Erick Fedde, RHP, UNLV - The biggest surprise in the two games was Fedde .  He flew in from the Cape Cod League, where he'd been pitching well, and put on a uniform so new that they didn't even have time to sew his name on it yet.  Fedde is long, lean and projectable at 6'4", 175 lbs -- but he showed plenty of present stuff, including a 93 mph fastball and a tight slider that looks like it has plus potential.  He commanded both pitches well.  He got a few hitters to chase on the slider, pitching 3 no-hit, no-walk innings and striking out 5. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/07/looking-ahead-to-the-2014-and-2015-mlb-draft-notes-from-the-collegiate-national-team-games/

7-10-13 - Erick Fedde is a rising Junior from UNLV who plays for the Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox. I have seen his past two starts on July 3 and July 9. On July 3, he threw 7.0 innings, allowed 5 earned runs, 8 hits, walked 1 and had 5 strikeouts. On July 9, he pitched 4 innings, allowed 1 earned on 2 hits, 4 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Summation: In both starts, Fedde showed a good arm, and really showed an ability to spin the baseball. What’s most promising for his future is that his changeup showed some potential for enough development to warrant consideration as a starter. In all probability, however, Fedde will wind up as a reliever, albeit one with a strong chance of a late-inning role. http://bullpenbanter.com/erick-fedde-is-a-dude-to-watch/

9-10-13 – Top Arms in 2013 Cape Cod League - Eric Fedde 6-4/175, Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox 30.2 IP, 26 K, 2.35 ERA: FB 91-96 SL 78-80 CH 83-84 -  Slim, projectable frame with 2 plus pitches. The third is a work in progress and will determine whether or not he hears his name called in the first round.  http://bullpenbanter.com/2013-all-cape-team-pitchers/

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 26. Erick Fedde, rhp, Nevada-Las Vegas: He has room to fill out his 6-foot-4 frame and add velocity to a fastball that he throws in the low 90s with good command. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

11-4-13 – MLB Draft Insider - Top 14 for ’14: College Pitchers - 4. Erick Fedde / RHP / UNLV – The issue right now with Fedde is consistency — and the lack of a quality third pitch, but when he’s at best he’ll show a fastball that sits 93-95 and a slider that will flash plus. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/11/top-14-for-14-college-pitchers/

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  30- RHP Erick Fedde UNLV 2/25/93- A very lean RHP who stands at 6’4. He emerged as a guy to watch on the Cape last summer and became a late addition to Team USA. He has a consistent 92-93 mph arm with a solid slider. He has an advanced feel for his pitches and locates his stuff as good as any in this draft. (Tigers @ 26) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 37. Cleveland Indians — Erick Fedde, RHP, UNLV - The 6’-4”, 180 pound right-hander features a classic three-pitch mix and all three are solid offerings. His best pitch is his mid-80s power slider that shows plus potential. He adds a 90-93 mph fastball and a solid change-up to his arsenal. As a sophomore, he posted a 3.92 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 83 K/28 BB over 96.1 innings. He also was a member of Collegiate Team USA, striking out eight to one walk over 5.2 innings. Great mound presence and knows how to mix up his offerings. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

42.   A.J. Vanegas                        Stanford

 

43.   Brigham Hill                          Nacogdoches (TX) HS

 

 

7-2-13 -  74. Brigham Hill- RHP, Nacogdoches (TX) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

 

44.   Bryce Montes De Oca     

 

6-9-13  -  29. Texas Rangers — Bryce Montes De Oca, RHP, Lawrence HS (MO) - This one is all about upside. At 6’-8” and 265 pounds, the right-hander can run his fastball up to 95 mph with ease. Add in the fact that it his release point is probably halfway to home plate, it is near impossible to pick it up as a hitter. His secondary stuff is still developing and he is still learning to pitch, but it’s hard to pass on a kid with his size and arm strength. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present/34008#Vj5KQGPZZT1XUyhx.99 

 

6-9-13  -  14.Bryce Montes De Oca, RHP, (Kansas HS): Good velocity on his fastball, currently sitting in the low-to-mid 90s, with two developing offspeed pitches. Big frame at 6’7″, 255 lbs. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/ 

 

6-13-13  -  29. Texas Rangers — Bryce Montes De Oca, RHP, Lawrence HS (MO) - This one is all about upside. At 6’-8” and 265 pounds, the right-hander can run his fastball up to 95 mph with ease. Add in the fact that it his release point is probably halfway to home plate, it is near impossible to pick it up as a hitter. His secondary stuff is still developing and he is still learning to pitch but it’s hard to pass on a kid with his size and arm strength. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2 

 

7-2-13 - 35. Bryce Montes De Oca- RHP, Lawrence (KS) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

 

8-9-13 - The biggest player on either the East or West teams' rosters for Sunday's 11th annual Perfect Game All-American Classic presented by Rawlings won't throw a pitch, swing a bat or field a ground ball at all this weekend.  But Lawrence (Kan.) High School senior and University of Missouri commit Bryce Montes de Oca is determined to make the most out of the PG All-American Classic opportunity that he has been presented with, even if Tommy John surgery performed in early April will keep him from competing. http://www.perfectgame.org/AllAmerican/News.aspx?num=8868

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 63.Bryce Montes De Oca – RHP, Lawrence (KS) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 62 Bryce Montes de Oca RHP R/R 6-8* 265 Lawrence (Kan.) HS Missouri http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

45.   Jake Reed                             Oregon

 

46.   Brandon Woodruff            Mississippi State

 

47.   Jesse Lepore                        Ocala Trinity (FL) HS

 

7-2-13 -  62. Jesse Lepore- RHP, Trinity Catholic (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 – 95.Jesse Lepore – RHP, Trinity Catholic (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

10-15-13 – Baseball America - RHP Jesse Lepore featured an 88-91 mph fastball, touching 92 once in his three-inning stint. He limited the Bulls to one hit. From his similarly high slot, Lepore spun a sharp 12-6 curveball between 72-75, and sparingly mixed in a mid-70s changeup with effective arm speed and sink.

 

Early on, the Miami commit’s biggest issue was getting ahead and throwing consistent strikes, though he eventually settled in the zone with greater regularity. This may have been a product of Lepore’s athletic yet deceptive delivery, which has some effort. He begins slowly, taking his time getting to his balance point, but as he readies to move toward the plate he quickly tilts his shoulders back, creating a better plane. It’s relatively difficult to repeat, and seemed to cause his body to race ahead of his arm at times. In all, he finished with two walks and three strikeouts http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/projectable-righties-rule-as-playoff-push-begins-in-jupiter/

 

48.   Kyle Marsh                           Spruce Creek (FL) HS

7-2-13 - 68. Kyle Marsh- RHP, Spruce Creek (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

 

49.   Daniel Gossett                    Clemson

 

50.   Ryan Harris                           Florida

 

51.   Alex Lange                            Lee’s Summitt West (MI) HS

6-9-13  -  30. St. Louis Cardinals — Alex Lange, RHP, Lee’s Summit West HS (MO) - With three potential plus pitches in his arsenal, the 6’-3” right-hander has that classic mix you look for in a starter. His fastball sits in the low-90s with room for more as he continues to refine his mechanics. His mid-80s split change-up already shows plus, and his upper-70s curveball could be a dominant pitch down the road. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present/34008#Vj5KQGPZZT1XUyhx.99 

 

6-13-13  -  30. St. Louis Cardinals — Alex Lange, RHP, Lee’s Summit West HS (MO) - With three potential plus pitches in his arsenal, the 6’-3” right-hander has that classic mix you look for in a starter. His fastball sits in the low-90s with room for more as he continues to refine his mechanics. His mid-80s split-change-up already shows plus and his upper-70s curveball could be a dominant pitch down the road. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2 

7-2-13 - 99. Alex Lange- RHP, Lee’s Summit West (MO) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/ 

8-6-14 - Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  - RHP Alex Lange (MO) was 87-89. Threw a good 77-80 SL for strikes

9-1-13 - RHP Alex Lange strikes out the side in the 1st. 89-92, touched 93. Arm-side life. Low-80s SL is working again. - RHP Alex Lange has given up a couple runs but has 11 Ks through 5 innings. Command has wavered some but stuff is still good.

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 59 Alex Lange RHP R/R 6-3 221 Lee’s Summit West (Mo.) Louisiana State http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 47. Alex Lange, RHP, Lee’s Summit West HS (MO) - With three potential above-average pitches in his arsenal, the 6’-3” right-hander has that classic mix you look for in a starter. His fastball sits in the low 90s with room for more as he continues to refine his mechanics. His mid-80s split change-up already shows plus, and his upper-70s curveball could be a dominant pitch down the road. Committed to LSU. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

 

 

 

52.   Chandler Shepard              Kentucky

Chandler Shepherd 6-2/185, Harwich Mariners (Kentucky RHP JR) 35.2 IP, 28 K, 2.77 ERA: FB 87-92 CB 76-80 CH 83-88 -  A personal favorite of mine. I heard grumblings of: “he doesn’t miss many bats” and “he lacks deception” but, in my opinion, he has a lot of Mike Mussina in him. The spiked curve is just the beginning, he works ahead with a very athletic delivery, and is competitive on the mound. I think he has room to add weight, and he will impress a lot of scouts in the spring. http://bullpenbanter.com/2013-all-cape-team-pitchers/

 

 

 

53.   Carson Cross

 

The Huskies are led by sophomore starter Carson Cross, who finished the season 7-4 with a 2.52 ERA in 89.1 innings pitched. Cross, who converted to a starter this season and took over the #1 spot for Coach Jim Penders, registered 73 strikeouts and held opponents to just a .243 batting average in his 2013 campaign (5-29-13) – LINK

 

 

 

54.   Anthony Lazo

 

Anthony Lazo - Position:  RHP  School:  Roosevelt (CA)  Bats/Throws:  R/R  2014 Class:  High School Senior  Scouting Report:  Strong, durable frame  3 pitch mix; fastball, curve, change  Mid 80′s fastball  Fastball cuts to glove side  Curve is pretty traditional, more down action than glove side movement  Solid action on change with some sink and fade - http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/18/2014-mlb-draft-profile-anthony-lazo/

 

 

 

 

 

55.   Darin Gillies

 

6-23-13  -  Player:  Darin Gillies  Position:  RHP  School:  Arizona State  Date of Birth:  11/6/1992  Height/Weight:  6’4/202  Bats/Throws:  R/R  2014 Class:  College Junior

Scouting Report:  from Don Olsen on 6/18/2013  Darin has an athletic bulldog frame with a strong lower half.  He looks to sit 220-225, so a bit of projection left on the slim build.  Long back end with solid timing and rhythm.  Hand is hiding well behind the body, shows very good deception that makes it come out last second, catching up on the hitter, and tough to time.  Solid at plant, he should a good extension and gets weight over well.  4S was 87-89 (90) that comes out faster to the hitter.  He changes eye levels and needs to work both sides of the plate with the velocity.  2S showed sink and plane, better command of this pitch right now, works it well low/away to LHH.  SL shows some bite, could tighten the rotation more, overall vertical with a touch of glove side tilt 79-82 mph. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/23/2014-mlb-draft-profile-darin-gillies/

 

56.   James Torres

 

6-2-13 - Perfect Game USA ‏@PerfectGameUSA - 2014 RHP James Torres (NJ) showing a 90 mph FB and nice breaking ball at the Sunshine Northeast!

 

6-16-13  -  • • James Torres, an uncommitted 5-foot-11, 170-pound righthander from Bloomfield (N.J.) High, provided much-needed innings for a pitching-depleted RBI squad. Using a classic full windup, the athletic and live-armed Torres hit 91 mph with his fastball and sat 88-90. He also threw a curveball, slider and changeup. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tournament-of-stars-promising-power-outlook-for-2014/

 

 

57.   Scott Blewett

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 22. Scott Blewett – RHP, Charles W Baker (NY) HS - 6’6, 210 RHP came out sitting 91-93 and touched 94. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

8-6-13 - Top pitchers - East Coast Professional Showcase, Syracuse, NY -  5. Sean Blewett, RHP, C.W. Baker HS (NY): A local kid from just outside of Syracuse, Blewett is going to make scouts travel back to New York next spring. At 6-foot-6, there's projection here, and he hit up to 93 mph during his outing. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130806&content_id=56048786&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 41.Scott Blewitt – RHP, Charles W Baker  (NY)  HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

10-28-13 - There are dozens of future big leaguers playing in Perfect Game's 16th annual World Wood Bat Association World Championship. Of the roughly 1,700 players on the 85 teams, perhaps none looks more like a big leaguer than RHP Scott Blewett. He won't turn 18 until April, but Blewett (Baker High, Baldwinsville, N.Y.) already is a sturdy 6-foot-6 and 210 pounds. The Syracuse Sports Zone right-hander has a sound delivery, especially for a teenager with such a big frame, and the ball comes out of his hand well. Blewett opened the game by firing 91-94 mph fastballs and touched 96 one time in the first inning. Even when the St. John's recruit dipped to the upper 80s in the latter half of his outing, he still was able to get outs thanks to the riding life on the pitch. http://ht.ly/qeYJz

10-29-13 – Jim Callis – Top 10 World Wood Bat Association World Championship (WWBA) Jupiter, Fla - 7. Scott Blewett, RHP, Syracuse Sports Zone (Baker High, Baldwinsville, N.Y./St. John's) -  Looks like a big leaguer at 6-foot-6, 210 pounds and already can reach 96 mph with riding life on his fastball. http://ht.ly/qi5No

11-21-13 - Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  - Yes he is, at No. 9. RT @DLaBrier Is RHP Scott Blewett the NY rep? Thanks…   Mack Ade ‏@JohnMackinAde  - @NathanRode - wow... Blewett is shooting up the rankings…  Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  - @JohnMackinAde Yes he is. Looked good at Area Codes. Very good outing at Jupiter.

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 14 Scott Blewett RHP R/R 6-6 220 Baker HS, Baldwinsville, N.Y. St. Johns http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

   11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –  24 Scott Blewett    RHP Charles W Baker (NY) http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 18. Scott Blewett, RHP, Baker HS (NY) - I’ll be honest, I didn’t know a lot about Blewett before Perfect Game’s WWBW held in Jupiter in October. The 6’-6” right-hander impressed everyone with a sound delivery and a fastball that touched 97 mph. His curveball is still developing but looks like a potential plus pitch down the line. Had a great showing in tournaments and I probably still have him ranked low. Committed to St. Johns. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  28- RHP Scott Blewett Baker HS (St. John’s Commit) The kid from New York would definitely be a working project for any club that takes him. But, the 6’6 righty also is easy to like because he does not have the wear on his arm that a kid from a baseball rich state typically has. He has plenty of power in his arm and has touched 96 while his off speed stuff continues to mature. (Out of 1st round-Yankees selection soon after) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 27. Atlanta Braves — Sean Blewett, RHP, Baker HS (NY) - The 6’-6” right-hander was extremely impressive during the fall, hitting 97 mph and showing a sound delivery at the perfect Game WWBW in Jupiter, Florida. His curveball is still developing but he shows a good feel for it and it could be a plus pitch. With his size and arm strength, his upside is sky high and a strong senior season could propel him higher. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

 

58.   Spencer Turnbill

6-24-13 - Player:  Spencer Turnbull   Position:  RHP   School:  Alabama   Date of Birth:  9/18/1992   Height/Weight:  6’3/220   Bats/Throws:  R/R   2014 Class:  College Junior   Previously Drafted:  2011. 2nd Rd, Brewers  Scouting Report: - from Don Olsen on 6/18/2013 - Good frame and bit of lower half development that looks the part of a 215-220 pound type power RHP in a Matt Cain type mold.  High slot and upright delivery shows higher plane more suited to a pitcher a few inches taller.  Fastball, 90-94 (95) mph, has some plane that makes it tough to square up, but not much movement and does not change eye levels.  His secondary’s are a work in progress, shows a 12/6 power curve, 79-81 mph, with his slot should be able to sit above average.  Change is not quite present, but flashes it.  Change progression is a point to monitor and could raise his stock. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/24/2014-mlb-draft-profile-spencer-turnbull/

7-1-13 - Spencer Turnbull, RHP, Alabama (Wareham) - Turnbull was as advertised this week in terms of having the big fastball and the ease in which he produces it. Pitching in Brewster on the 24th, Turnbull lived at 91-94 mph, topping out at 95 on several occasions. The fastball has good, late movement down in the zone and he stays off the barrel. But, his secondaries are going to need work. His breaking ball gets a little soft and loose for a pitcher with his arm speed. He pitches aggressively, though, and cruises mostly on the strength of that moving fastball. This will be a big summer of development for him as a prospect. He has a big league body type and a first round type arm. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=8735

 

 

59.   J D Davis

6-29-13  -  Player:  JD Davis  Position:  RHP/IF  School:  Cal State Fullerton  Date of Birth:  4/27/1993 Height/Weight:  6’3/215  Bats/Throws:  R/R  2014 Class:  College Junior  Previously Drafted:  2011, 5th rd, Rays  Scouting Report:  from Don Olsen on 6/18/2013 - JD has a wide, muscular frame and sloped shoulders.  He shows lower half development in the hips, strong foundation in a Gerrit Cole type mold.  Delivery has a bit of effort.  Lower half driven, but can show an upright release on occasion as he fails to get his weight over consistently.  Arm slot has decent three piece action and good at toe touch.  Overall, clean with a few minor issues.  Release has some plane, offering is fairly straight and lacks movement, but shows some rise around 93-94 mph.  Curve has some shape with some late drop that should round into an average offering. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/29/2014-mlb-draft-profile-jd-davis/

 

60.   Noah Dyals

 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! - (4) Noah Dyals (2014, RHP) Tampa Empire - Athletic, projectable build. FB up to 88, throws it for strikes, CB is 75.  http://prospectwire.com/pw/article.php?id=440

 

61.   Efren Sanchez

 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! - (5) Efren Sanchez (2014, C/ 3B) South Florida Clippers - Descent body with a smooth fluid swing and quick hands. http://prospectwire.com/pw/article.php?id=440

 

62.   Ladson Montgomery

10-3-13 - 30.         RHP Ladson Montgomery  - Kendall Rogers ‏@KendallRogersPG  - Also, Sr. C Ladson Montgomery will have an operation on his left hand tomorrow, but he'll be fine and ready to go in the spring

 

63.   Eric Hepple

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! - (3) Eric Hepple (2014, RHP) Florida Heat - Average build. FB up to 89 with some sink, run, and late life. CB is 72-76, Sharp with tight spin, throws it for strikes. http://prospectwire.com/pw/article.php?id=440

 

64.   Marvin Gorgas

7-16-13 - 2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen: - Marvin Gorgas is a short, stocky frame, present development in the legs, hips, rear.  He will be compared to Marcus Stroman, but he is much stronger and more developed.  He has the arm speed with streamlined could see some velocity improvements from the high slot.  There is a little effort and funk in the delivery.  He shows a touch of elevation and wrap, but slotted at plant.  He shows good timing and gets his weight over well to repeat the delivery.  Fastball was 91-92 (93) mph that showed some backspin, was able to work both sides and command the offering, not much plane and did not target low in the zone.  His slurve, 78-80 mph, showed okay vertical bite.  It flashes the tight rotation to show growth and project down the road, just a bit inconsistent offering at this time.  Size and action give me more of a relief type power pitcher future.

 

65.   Jake Godfrey

7-18-13 - 2013 Tournament of Stars notes by Don Olsen: - Jake Godfrey has a good wide frame with a bit of slope in it, nice development in the hips and rear, could sit in the 220 in an Andrew Doyle mold. Fastball, 90-91 mph, had a decent amount of movement, not much backspin in it, shows more natural glove side break, sinker has some potential. Curve, 75-77 mph, flashed some above average ability with the depth and rotation to project. Circle change, 80-81 mph, had a touch of deception and action, solid feel for the offering. He has to curve as he is a bit curve happy and with the recoil and borderline elevation, there are some concerns. He shows a solid three pitch mix that shows some future ground ball ability, good follow into next spring. - http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/07/18/2014-mlb-draft-profile-jake-godfrey/

 

8-6-13 - Top pitchers - East Coast Professional Showcase, Syracuse, NY -  10. Jake Godfrey, RHP, Providence Catholic HS (Ill.): Godfrey threw his fastball 91-93 mph and coupled it with a very nasty curveball. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130806&content_id=56048786&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb

 

8-8-13 - Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  - RHP Jake Godfrey (IL) sitting 89-91 w/ 77-80 SL & 79 CH in Thursday's first game. Struck out the side in the first

8-9-14 - Jacob Godfrey RHP from New Lenox, IL showed a live arm with a low 90s FB and hitting 93 with good late tailing action.  He also showed a hard breaking slider in the high 70s.  He has a good feel for and change up and it could develop into a very good pitch http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/09/area-code-day-4/

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 12. Jake Godfrey – RHP, Providence Catholic (IL) HS - 6’3, 215 RHP was fantastic in his outing, sitting 91-93 http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

8-10-13 - New Balance Area Code games - Jake Godfrey (IL) stood out amongst the White Sox arms that went yesterday. The right-hander has a big, strong body and good arm speed. He sat 89-91, touching 93 with good downhill plane. He also threw an impressive slider at 78-80 MPH with tight, two-lane break that he had a great feel for. He mixed in a 79-81 MPH change too. http://prospectinsider.com/view/2013-area-codes:-day-4-notes/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects –  33.Jake Godfrey – RHP -  Providence Catholic (IL) HS  http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 41 Jake Godfrey RHP R/R 6-3 220 Providence Catholic, New Lenox, Ill. Notre Dame http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

66.   Braden Webb


 

67.   Bryce Dyrda

7-2-13 -  47. Bryce Dyrda- RHP, Oakdale (CA) HS  http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 58.Bryce Dyrda – RHP, Oakdale (CA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

 

68.   Jonah Patton

7-2-13 -  52. Jonah Patten- RHP, Norwell (IN) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

7-24-13  -  Jonah Patten, rhp, Norwell, Ossian, Ind./Indiana Bulls - Patten has a lean, well-proportioned and athletic build at 6-foot-3, 200 pounds that offers room to fill out. His delivery is athletic, featuring a long stride and good extension out front. The Arkansas commit has a quick arm and has a tick below three-quarter arm slot. Patten can sit 90-91 mph in shorter stints and pitches comfortably in the 88-89 range over more innings. He has a feel for pitching and can mix multiple secondary offerings, a high-70s slider, mid-70s curveball with 11-5 tilt and low-80s changeup. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tyler-koleks-heavy-fastball-among-tournament-of-stars-standouts/

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 48. Jonah Patten – RHP, Norwell (IN) HS - Can really pitch and was 90-91, touching 92. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

 

69.   Andrew Karp

7-2-13 -   57. Andrew Karp- RHP, West Orange (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 29. Andrew Karp – RHP, West Orange (FL) HS  - 6’2, 190 RHP sat 89-91 and topped out at 93 http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 94.Andrew Karp – RHP, West Orange (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

70.   Brad Wegman

7-2-13 - 58. Brad Wegman- RHP, Great Oak (CA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

 

71.   Rich Boe


 

 

72.   Jake Nix

7-2-13 -  66. Jake Nix- RHP, Los Alamitos (CA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

7-24-13  -  Jacob Nix, rhp, Los Alamitos (Calif.) - With a large frame, wide shoulders and a strong lower half, the 6-foot-4, 205-pound Nix has a durable pitcher’s build. A UCLA commit, Nix has a smooth, easy delivery that looks like he is playing catch. He possesses impressive arm strength and his fastball sits 90-93 mph, touching 94, from a high three-quarter arm slot. He varies the shape and velocity of his 71-75 mph breaking ball that shows two-plane break but lacks power, and he mixes in a mid-80s changeup. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tyler-koleks-heavy-fastball-among-tournament-of-stars-standouts/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 71.Jake Nix – RHP, Los Alamitos (CA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 74 Jacob Nix RHP R/R 6-4 205 Los Alamitos (Calif.) HS UCLA http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 43. Jacob Nix, RHP, Los Alamitos HS (CA) - Like a lot of players on this list, Nix is a big, hard throwing righty with a lot of upside to his size and easy delivery. At 6′-4″ and 205 pounds, he can dial his fastball up to 94 mph and shows the makings of a plus curveball. Committed to UCLA. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

 

73.   Micah Miniard

7-2-13 -  67. Micah Miniard- RHP, Boyle County (KY) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 50. Micah Miniard – RHP,  Boyle County (KY) HS - 6’7, 200 RHP worked 90-91. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

 

74.   Blake Cairnes

7-2-13 -  75. Blake Cairnes- RHP/3B, Hiram (GA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

 

75.   Brady Feigl

 


 

76.   Branden Kelliher

7-2-13 - 86. Branden Kelliher- RHP, Lake Stevens (WA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

 

77.   Turner Larkers

7-2-13 - 92. Turner Larkins- RHP, Arlington Martin (TX) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

7-24-13  -  Turner Larkins, rhp, Martin, Arlington/Dallas Tigers-Vanlandingham - The 6-foot-3, 215-pound Larkins is a strongly built Texan with a large frame and a powerful lower half. He has an easy delivery from a high three-quarter arm slot and gets good extension out front. In shorter stints, the uncommitted Larkins is capable of sitting in the low-90s and touching 94 with minimal effort and natural sink. He shows an ability to spin a mids-70s curveball and a high-70s changeup is his third offering. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tyler-koleks-heavy-fastball-among-tournament-of-stars-standouts/

8-4-13 - Turner Larkins   Primary Position:  RHP  Secondary Position(s):  3B/1B   Height/Weight:  6’3/215  Bats/Throws:  R/R  Home Town:  Arlington, TX   School:  Martin  Travel Team(s):  Dallas Tigers   Class of:  2014  Committed To:  Texas A&M  Scouting Notes: - 2013 Tournament of Stars Notes from Don Olsen - Turner has an ideal workhorse frame, thick development, little sloped, little rigid at times in a Shane Reynolds type build.  Shows the efficient velocity type delivery from a ¾ slot, tall and relaxed, solid arm action and gets weight over well.  Delivery and release may maintain high, could be a fly ball style pitcher. Fastball was 90-92 (93) mph works the ball well and shows some hand side run at times, offering hides okay and tough to pick up at times. Curve, 73-76 mph, has solid path and shows the depth.  It can sweep at times in a slurve fashion from the slot.  Turner shows ability to work the fastball around, good command of the two offerings.  He had a show me change, and something to monitor on growth.  Intriguing arm with a touch more velocity down the road. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/04/2014-mlb-draft-profile-turner-larkins/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 54 Turner Larkins RHP R/R 6-2 208 Martin HS, Arlington Texas A&M http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

78.   Erik Manoah Jr.

7-2-13 - 94. Erik Manoah Jr.- RHP, South Dade Senior (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 91 Erik Manoah Jr. RHP R/R 6-2* 210 South Dade HS, Homestead, Fla. Florida International http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

79.   Dominique Key

7-2-13 - 100. Dominique Key- RHP, San Diego (CA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/jeff-sullivans-top-100-2014-prospects/

 

 

80.   Byron Hood

7-23-13 - Mack - We're here today with Norris (NE) HS ace RHP, Byron Hood.  Hey Byron, first of all, how did the 2013 season treat you back in school?

Byron - Our team did very well ending the 2013 season as state champs! My defense played very well behind me as I posted an era below 1. I finished 6-0. We have a stellar offense to also back me up and we did a great job hitting the ball.

Mack -  Checking on the stats, I have you at 86-91, 91,  74 slider, and 76 change... any update on that?

Byron - Sounds about right to me.

Mack - Take us back to the day someone put a baseball in your hand and it felt right. Then, take us through the steps that you have taken to get to where you are today.

Byron - Wow that was a long time ago.. Hmmm. Probably when I was 11 and I started throwing harder! Then from 8th grade to freshman year I went from 82 to about 90.

Mack - Who and why are the people that have influenced your game the most over the years?

Byron - Mostly my mom and dad! They have been there for me since day one and I couldn't thank them more for that! Secondly my coaches have done a great job of coaching me up on my mechanics!

Mack -   What do you have scheduled this summer or are you taking the time off?

Byron - I took some time off but now I'm playing legion. I will take part in a couple pro showcases over the next month.

Mack -  Obviously, next year will be the most important baseball year of your young career. Working on anything new?

Byron - Working on enhancing my delivery to be able to up my game and improve my velocity/control.

Mack -  Anything special you want to say to your fans and the readers out here on The Mack’s Mets Report?

Byron - Coming from a kid in Nebraska, never let anything ruin your dreams. If its size, strength, or even ability, keep working and everything will fall into place! I just couldn't thank all of the people who have helped me get to this spot anymore! I would be nothing without them. Thanks, Byron Hood #12

 

81.   Kyle Wright

8-4-13 - Kyle Wright   Primary Position:  RHP   Secondary Position(s):  3B   Height/Weight:  6’3/190  Bats/Throws:  R/R  Home Town:  Huntsville, AL  School:  Buckhorn  Class of:  2014  - Committed To:  Vanderbilt  - Scouting Notes: - 2013 Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen: - Kyle is a sloped shoulder, long limb, and loose arm pitcher.  Good frame that is lanky and shows a great deal of projection from the ¾ to low ¾ slot. He gets a great deal of lateral movement with the fastball and shows some two way natural tail that was 87-89 (90) mph.  He flashes a sweeping curve that gives off a bit slurvy path with the slot, tough for RHH to attack that was 74-77 mph.  He has a show me change that needs to some work to project.  Nice foundation, limited exposure arm that is high projectable, good under radar follow into the spring. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/04/2014-mlb-draft-profile-kyle-wright/

 

 

82.   Josh Pennington

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 23. Josh Pennington – RHP, Lower Cape May Regional (NJ)  - Has been impressive this summer, and was sitting 90-92 at ECP http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 64.Josh Pennington – RHP, Lower Cape May Regional (NJ) http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

83.    Brian Dobzanski

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 24. Bryan Dobzanski – RHP, Delsea Regional (NJ) - 6’4, 225 RHP sat 91-93. All state wrestler who has big time potential on the mound. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 42.Bryan Dobzanski – RHP, Delsea Regional (NJ) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

84.   Austin DeCarr

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 25. Austin DeCarr – RHP, Salisbury (MA) HS - Topped out at 91 at National Showcase. Came out at ECP sitting 91-93 with a plus curve. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 76.Austin DeCarr – RHP, Salisbury (MA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 86 Austin DeCarr RHP R/R 6-2 211 Salisbury (Conn.) School Vanderbilt http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

 

85.   Drew Carlton

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 38. Drew Carlton – RHP, George W Jenkins (FL) HS - 6’2, 190 RHP sitting 88-90, touched 92 - http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

 

86.   Jesse McCord

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects   37. Jesse McCord – RHP, Spanish Fort (AL) HS - RHP sitting 90-91, touched 92 a couple times. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

 

87.   Tyler Schimpf

8-10-13 - New Balance Area Code games - Tyler Schimpf (CA) is an interesting arm for the A's, sitting 88-90 with his fastball. He had a curve at 74 MPH that had good shape and a change at 77 MPH. He struggled with command but he had a big, long body and the right-hander should tack on more velocity as he develops. http://prospectinsider.com/view/2013-area-codes:-day-4-notes/

 

88.   Jonathan Teaney

8-10-13 - New Balance Area Code games - Brewers’ right-hander Jonathan Teaney (CA) had good stuff, sitting 88-91 with his fastball and had a tight two plane slider at 78-79 MPH.  http://prospectinsider.com/view/2013-area-codes:-day-4-notes/

 

89.   Justin Blatner

8-10-13 - New Balance Area Code games - For the Royals, right-hander Justin Blatner was interesting. He didn’t have big time velo at 83-85 MPH but was a side armer with good movement on his fastball. He’s tall and lean showing good athleticism. He’s committed to Gonzaga. http://prospectinsider.com/view/2013-area-codes:-day-4-notes/

 

90.   David Burkhalter

8-10-13 - New Balance Area Code games - Nationals’ right-hander, David Burkhalter (LA) has a lanky, projectable body and sat 86-88 MPH with his fastball. He mixed in a 76-79 MPH changeup that had deception with good action. Brigham Hill (TX) closed things out for the Nationals and the small righty was 88-90 MPH thanks to a quick, strong arm. He had a solid changeup at 78 MPH that he had a good feel for and got batters to chase. http://prospectinsider.com/view/2013-area-codes:-day-4-notes/

 

91.   Maverick Buffo

8-10-13 - New Balance Area Code games - Maverick Buffo (UT) was interesting for the Nationals yesterday. He’s a smaller arm but had a clean, compact arm action with good arm speed. He sat 87-89 MPH and commanded it well. His curve was big and loopy at 68-71 MPH. http://prospectinsider.com/view/2013-area-codes:-day-4-notes/

 

92.   Parker Joe Robinson

8-16-13 - Parker Joe Robinson is a 6’5 230LB RHP from California who pitches for Junipero Serra High School. He’s already getting his fastball into the Low-90′s and I wouldn’t be surprised if as we get closer to June 2014 he begins throwing more regularly in the mid-90s. What stood out the most for me though, was his breaking ball and the movement on his fastball. The fastball gets good running action on it and it has some sink as well. The Curve is a up and down curve that has some great break to it. Typically, pitchers of this age are still growing into how comfortable they are with their secondary pitches but he seems to be pretty comfortable with his curve. Now with how strong the 2014 class is beginning to look in these early stages a guy like Robinson might get lost in the pack as we get near June but I see him as a top 3 Round type of talent and a team who likes these big strong durable looking types will certainly fall in love with good ol’ Parker Joe. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/15/parker-joe-robinson-coolest-name-in-2014-class/

 

93.   Colton Hock

8-30-13 - Player:  Colton Hock   Primary Position:  RHP  Height/Weight:  6’5/215  Home Town:  Bloomsburg, PA  School:  Bloomsburg Area  Class of:  2014  - Committed To:  Stanford - Scouting Notes: -  2013 USA Baseball Tournament of Stars Notes from Don Olsen - Colton has a slightly sloped wide frame with decent lower half development in a Chris Tillman type mold.  He does show present development, but could fill out and gain a ton of additional strength; there is more velocity in the arm.  He throws from a high ¾ to OH delivery.  Delivery is fast, not effort best.  Good push and drive, gets weight over well, a good deal of things to like with it.  Arm action is sound, shows good arm speed.  Fastball is 88-90 and loses cursing speed early, point of maturation and projection.  Slider, 79-84 mph, was a bit inconsistent, but showed 11/4 glove side action went he snapped it off, flashes above average potential.  He throws a circle change, 78-80 mph, with the nice two-way hand side fade. Colton flashes three solid offerings with the frame an arm speed that is a high follow into next spring. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/28/2014-mlb-draft-profile-colton-hock/

 

94.   Greg Kuhlman

9-9-13 – Top 10 Far West League Prospects - 5. Greg Kuhlman, lhp, Top Speed (R-Jr., Indiana State)  - Kuhlman pushed his way into the Sycamores’ weekend rotation late in the spring, and he stood out this summer as a projectable southpaw with power stuff. His fastball ranges anywhere from 90-94 mph, and he flashed a plus breaking ball that was very tough on lefties. At 6-foot-3, 180 pounds, Kuhlman has room to add strength, and his whippy arm is fast. He’s battled through inconsistent release points in his first few years in college, leading to significant control problems. He walked 23 in 25 summer innings but also struck out 35.  He has swing-and-miss stuff and could be poised to take a leap forward if he can clean up his mechanics. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/far-west-league-top-10-prospects/

 

95.   Tyler Cyr

9-9-13 – Top 10 Far West League Prospects - 9. Tyler Cyr, rhp, Top Speed (Jr., Embry Riddle, Fla.) - Cyr transfers to NAIA power Embry Riddle this year after pitching for Skyline (Calif.) CC, and he opened some eyes this summer thanks to the league’s best fastball. It sat at 93-95 mph in the FWL and touched 97. Cyr has a long, lean frame with room to add more weight. His changeup flashed plus potential out of the bullpen and he also mixed in a get-me-over slider. Cyr has issues commanding his pitches and throwing strikes in general, walking 17 in 15 innings while striking out 20. But he throws gas, and he could reward a pro club that takes a flier on him next June. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/far-west-league-top-10-prospects/

 

96.   Matt Troupe

9-10-13 – Top Arms in 2013 Cape Cod League - Matt Troupe (Arizona – Jr. ) 6-1/190, Orleans Firebirds 20 IP, 32 K, 1.35 ERA: FB 87-92 CB 73-75 -  As far as dominant relievers and pitchers who strikeout that many hitters, Troupe does not possess the same off-the-charts stuff. However, Troupe has a 9th-inning mentality/make-up and keeps his fastball between the lower thigh and mid-shins, consistently. When he incorporates his plus CB into the mix, that is the moment he becomes the “Trouper.” http://bullpenbanter.com/2013-all-cape-team-pitchers/

97.   Chris Sobotka

9-10-13 – Top Arms in 2013 Cape Cod League - Chad Sobotka  (USC-Upstate Jr. ) 6-7/200, Chatham Anglers 24 IP, 24 K, 2.25 ERA: FB 89-94 CB 76-78 SL 81-87 CH 83-86 -  I became enamored with Sobotka the first time I same him mowing guys down at Y-D. His over the top arm angle generates tons of downward plane, and he spins the ball really well. With room to add weight, his stuff will get even better. http://bullpenbanter.com/2013-all-cape-team-pitchers/

11-4-13 – MLB Draft Insider - Top 14 for ’14: College Pitchers - 11. Chad Sobotka / RHP / S.C. Upstate – The command isn’t there yet — nor is a quality third pitch — but Sobotka hit 97 over the summer and features a slider that has also flashed plus. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/11/top-14-for-14-college-pitchers/

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  34- RHP Chad Sobotka USC-Upstate- Little know right hander who was a high school SS in Sarasota, Florida. He has been used as a reliever at small USC-Upstate but emerged as a “must look” guy this summer on the Cape pitching for Chatham. He has a long, muscular frame and throws 3 quality pitches. He will be coached this year by the son of Royals great Bret Saberhagen. Sobotka will be one to keep an eye on this spring. (Out of first round- Orioles selection) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

 

98.   Chris Oliver

9-10-13 – Top Arms in 2013 Cape Cod League - Chris Oliver (Ark. Jr.) 6-4/180, Harwich Mariners 14 IP, 16 K, 2.57 ERA: FB 88-96 SL 84-88 -  I caught a lot of Harwich games, which was good enough for me to watch Oliver on multiple occasions. The stuff is excellent. He generates downward plane, and the slider is very tight. The arm action and finish to his delivery aren’t ideal, but it should not be a detriment in his relief role. http://bullpenbanter.com/2013-all-cape-team-pitchers/

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 61. Tampa Bay Rays — Chris Oliver, RHP, Arkansas - A 6’-4”, 185 pound right-hander who can touch 97 mph with his fastball and adds a mid-80s power slider, Oliver will get a chance to start this year after working out of the bullpen his first two years. His change-up is still developing and a big year could propel him up draft boards. Had 21 K/8 BB over 20 innings last year, allowing 14 hits. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

 

99.   Jackson McClelleand

9-11-13 - JACKSON McCLELLAND, rhp, Palm Springs Power (Pepperdine/SO in 2014) -  With a 4-1, 2.88 record in 10 appearances (5 starts), McClelland was hardly the go-to arm on the Power staff this summer. But at a physically-imposing 6-foot-5 and 230 pounds, and coming off an impressive freshman season at Pepperdine (2-1, 1.46 in 22 appearances, mostly in a mid-week starter and set-up role), McClelland easily showcased the most upside of any player in the SCCBL. A 35th-round pick of the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2012 draft out of a California high school, where he starred equally as a pitcher and at the plate, McClelland is very athletic on the mound and has the makings of two above-average pitches in his fastball and breaking ball while coming from a high-three-quarters delivery. A spot in the Pepperdine weekend rotation as a sophomore should be his for the taking if he can master a reliable changeup, develop his command and raw stuff, and continue to grow into his big frame. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=8980

 

100.   Richard Boe

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 65.Richard Boe – RHP, St. Francis (CA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

 

101.   Nick Brown

9-21-13 –  Starting the game for the Prospects was RHP Nick Brown, a 2014 righthanded pitcher who has commited to play for Missouri State. Brown sat 84-86 mph with his fastball, but when he wanted to bumped it up, particularly on a 0-2 or 1-2 count, he would touch 88-90 mph. With a big 6-foot-4 frame, the ball leaves his hand cleanly and gets downhill well, pounding the strike zone. Brown's curveball sat at 76 mph and flashed 12-to-6 break. .  http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9017

 

102.   Drew Weston

9-21-13 – RHP Drew Weston is an uncommitted righthander from San Marcos, Calif., who may not be uncommitted for much longer. Repeating his low three-quarters arm slot well on all pitches, Weston topped at 88 mph with consistent, hard arm-side run, never getting above the hitter's mid-thigh. With a balanced delivery and a loose, easy arm action, he gets nice fade on his changeup, which was up to 78 mph, and also throws a tight spinning curveball. When the ball was put in play, it wasn't barreled up, inducing routine ground balls for his fielders. And if his pitching wasn't enough, Weston showed off at the plate also, hitting a double to each gap in his first two at-bats. .  http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9017

 

103.   Zane Gray

9-21-13 – The name Zane Gray is recognizable to most well-read people and Big Island Baseball righthanded pitcher of the same name isn’t the first player of that name I’ve come across. This Gray threw three shutout innings Friday afternoon, striking out seven hitters with a fastball that topped out at 86 mph, a hard spinning 73 mph curveball to go with a long, loose arm action that projects well. .  http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9017 

 

9-21-13 –  Zane Gray  is a projectable right handed pitcher from Kailua-Kona, Hawaii who topped at 86 mph with his fastball and sat 82-84 with the pitch. He has a quick, long arm with good downhill on his pitches, including his fastball which showed occasional arm side run. .  http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9017

 

104.   Aaron Pinto

9-21-13 – Aaron Pinto took the ball for the SGV Arsenal on Friday night, and was aggressive from the get go. Attacking hitters with his fastball, the righthander worked at 84-86 mph, reaching 87 mph in the first inning. He also mixed in a curveball that flashed 11-to-5 depth at 71 mph. His delivery stays very compact and he does a good job of hiding the ball. It’s a delivery that he should be able to repeat time after time. .  http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9017

 

105.   Kevin Steen

10-25-13  - PG Showcase – In relief of Toussaint was righthander Kevin Steen (Oak Ridge, Tenn., HS) who threw three sterling innings, primarily with his fastball. At 6-foot-2 and 165 pounds, Steen has a long, loose, projectable body and whippy arm, allowing his fastball to sit 90-91 mph in his first inning. Though his fastball eventually settled in the 87-89 range, his late life allowed him to carve through the Elite’s lineup, racking up six swing-and-misses and two strikeouts in his final inning. Steen commanded the zone, thanks to his athletic, repeatable delivery and fluid arm action, and also showed a 74-77 curveball with 10-5 shape. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/toussaint-wows-evaluators-at-jupiter/

 

106.   Shaun Vetrovec

9-21-13 - The Trombley Nighthawks are on the short list of pre-tournament favorites but struggled in their first game due to an absolutely masterful pitching performance by Blue Wave righthanded pitcher Shaun Vetrovec in a 0-0 tie. The 6-foot-2, 200-pound Cal-State Irvine commit threw a 96-pitch complete game one-hitter, allowing only a soft ground ball single to right field off the bat of PG All-American outfielder D.J. Peters. Vetrovec relied on an 84-88 mph heavy fastball from a deceptive short arm delivery while mixing in a big low-70s curveball, just enough to keep the Nighthawks off balance http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9017

 

107.   Kyle Keller

9-23-13 - Southeastern Louisiana pitcher Kyle Keller, who pitched for the Victoria Generals of the Texas Collegiate League this past summer, was named Thursday to Baseball America's top prospects lists covering 21 college summer leagues.   BA ranked the top 30 prospects for the talent-rich Cape Cod League, the top 20 prospects for Team USA, the top 25 in the Northwoods League, and the top 10 prospects in 18 other summer college leagues, plus a top five in the New York Collegiate Baseball League.  Named the eighth-best prospect in the TCL earlier this week as well by Perfect Game, the 6-foot-4 right-hander turned some heads with a fastball reaching 95 mph.  http://www.sportsnola.com/sports/local-sports-news/slu-news/599678-keller-named-to-baseball-americas-top-prospect-lists.html

 

108.   James Norwoord

10-23-13 - Pitcher Name:  James Norwood - Ht:  6’2  Wt:  200  Position:  RHP  Draft Status:  2014 Draft Eligible  Physical:  Norwood has a big upper body that helps produce easy velocity out of his hand.  He has wide shoulders and room to add weight down the road.  Mechanics:  Norwood starts on the 1B side of the rubber and pitches with a downward style action.  He has an extremely easy and elusive delivery.  He uses a high 3/4 arm slot with a good stride.  Fastball:  94-97 MPH.  Norwood looks very comfortable and confident using his top tier fastball against any level of hitting.  He has a great deal of run on his two-seam fastball.  Secondary Pitches:  Norwood uses a variety of pitches to fill out his 4 pitch repertoire.  All 3 offspeed pitches Norwood uses are still developing, but his curveball and changeup are becoming legit

 

109.   Alex Gironda

9-21-13 –  Alex Gironda took the ball for the SoCal Marlins and immediately showed off a lively fastball. The righthander hit 86 mph with his fastball and lived consistently at 83-85. He has good life through the zone and threw a lot of strikes with his fastball. Gironda also mixed in a sharp 71-73 mph curveball with 11-to-5 break. This was a pitch he was clearly confident in and went to in almost any situation he needed a big pitch. He gets good extension out front, finishing his curveball consistently and throwing strikes with

it. The 6-foot-1, 180-pound righty also projects to add strength and velocity. .  http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9017

 

110.   Jayce Vancena

10-27-13 – PG Showcase – RHP  Jayce Vancena (Lake HS, Millbury, Ohio) tossed four innings, allowing two hits and walking none, while striking out two. He settled in around 87-88 with modest boring action, revving up to 90 on occasion during two-strike counts or against the heart of the Scorpions lineup. He mixed in a curveball that has improved since East Coast Pro at 73-74 with 11-5 shape, though the pitch is still round and lacks bite. His best offspeed offering may have been his 78-79 slider, though he used it as his secondary breaking ball. He seldom mixed in a changeup at 81. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/projectable-righties-rule-as-playoff-push-begins-in-jupiter/

 

111.   Jeremiah Muhammad

10-27-13 – PG Showcase – RHP Jeremiah Muhammad (Coral Springs Christian Academy, Somerset, N.J.) intrigued with his 6-foot-4, 200-pound frame and quick arm in two innings of relief with the Atlanta Blue Jays. Muhammad, who hails from the Garden State but attends school in the Sunshine State, worked in the 87-90 range and was around the zone. He coupled his heater with an 11-5 shaped, 75-76 mph curveball that flashed two-plane bite. At this point, the righthander is raw, more of a thrower who could stand to improve his angle and rhythm, but Muhammad’s physicality and speed of his arm are certainly attention-grabbers. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/projectable-righties-rule-as-playoff-push-begins-in-jupiter/

 

112.   Gabe Gonzalez

11-6-13 – Todd Gold – WWBA World Championship – Gabe Gonzalez (2014 RHP, Ohio Warhawks) - While most of the scouting world caught a glimpse of the power armed Las Vegas product in his first outing at the Area Code Games, most of that massive scouting contingent had left Long Beach before he took the mound for his second outing, in which he was far more comfortable. After topping out at 89 mph and finding himself behind in the count too frequently to show any of his offspeed pitches, most scouts didn't get to see the real Gonzalez. With his nerves calmed, his second outing of the Area Code Games was considerably better, and while he still battled some wildness, he sat 88-90 touching 91 and got to use his solid mid-70s curveball and low-80s changeup. In Jupiter he kicked it up another notch, hitting 94 mph in a relief outing. His fastball velocity also plays up due to the combination of a wingspan longer than that of a typical 6-foot-3 pitcher, with his very long arm action and long extension out front. He's still a bit of a mystery as a prospect, but scouts will be watching him closely next spring as they search for clues as to his future. One thing is certain, he has a live arm. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9157

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 84 Gabe Gonzalez RHP R/R 6-3 206 Arbor View HS, Las Vegas UNLV http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

113.   Blake Bivens

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 44 Blake Bivens RHP R/R 6-2* 205 George Washington, Sutherlin, Va. Liberty http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

114.   Alex Faedo

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 48 Alex Faedo RHP R/R 6-4 203 Alonso HS, Tampa Florida http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

115.   Kyle Marsh

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 64 Kyle Marsh RHP R/R 6-2* 177 Spruce Creek HS, Port Orange, Fla. Central Florida http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

116.   Garrett Fulenchek

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 80 Garrett Fulenchek RHP R/R 6-3* 190 Howe (Texas) HS Dallas Baptist http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

117.   Derek Casey

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 81 Derek Casey RHP R/R 6-1* 185 Hanover HS, Mechanicsville, Va. Virginia http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

118.   Branden Kelliher

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 85 Branden Kelliher RHP R/R 5-10 170 Lake Stevens (Wash.) HS Oregon http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

119.   Weston Davis

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 97 Weston Davis RHP R/R 6-4* 175 Manatee HS, Bradenton, Fla. Florida http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

 

120.   Jake Cosart

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  23- RHP Jake Cosart Seminole State- Duke transfer and younger brother of Zack. He is a fast riser and would be the highest JC player drafted. He is a late bloomer after getting only a few looks out of HS where he was known more as an OF. But, a lot of eyes will be on his JC program this spring as they have several potential high draft picks on their roster. (Reds @ 21) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 62. Cleveland Indians — Jake Cosart, RHP, Seminole State (JUCO) - The younger brother of Astros’ prospect Jarred Cosart, Jake is a 6’-1”, 185 pound right-hander with quick arm actions that can touch 98 mph with his fastball. He is still raw as a pitcher and has a lot of work to do on his secondary stuff but he has a ton of upside due to his arm strength, long arms and quick hands. He shows a mid-70s curveball that, when on, looks like a future plus pitch. Could end up being a steal in this draft. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

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