Draft Notes 6-3-12 – Jim Callis, Regionals, Kendall Rodgers, Marcus Stroman

Jim Callis‏ -

Q – Any word on the Mets direction?

A - Best guess is HS bat (Hawkins, Dahl, Cecchini), maybe college arm (Wacha

The USC-Clemson game was the best game I have seen in years.

Rice RHP Austin Kubitza -  88-90, 83-84 S,  80 CH

UCF holds on to beat Stony Brook 9-8 in a wild one. Stony Brook faces Missouri State Sunday. Winner gets UCF

College Baseball 360 -

(4) Missouri 6-11-2 rallied (5R b8) to elim. (2) New Mexico St. 2-9-0...MO 33-27, NMSU 35-24...Rob Zastryzny 6IP-2R-6H-2BB-5K

(1) Florida 6-9-1 def. (2) Georgia Tech 2-12-2...FL 43-18, GT 37-24...HR: Tucker & Zunino...Hudson Randall 5.2-R-8H-BB-5K

(2) Arkansas 1-2-0 won at (1) Rice 0-6-1...ARK 41-19, Rice 41-18...Ryne Stanek (7-4) 7IP-5H-2BB-4K.

(1) Florida State 8-9-0 def. (3) Samford 1-6-0...FSU 45-15, SAM 40-22...Brandon Leibrandt 8IP-3H-10K...HR: Johnson & Ramsey

Kendall Rogers

Arkansas RHP Ryne Stanek was tremendous tonight. Consistent command, struck out four, allowed just 5 H in 7 IP. Topped out an easy 98

As expected, in a pitching showdown, Arkansas reliever Barrett Astin closes out #Rice in a very impressive 1-0 win. All pitchers A

Here's a statistic:  Rice is 0-for-17 with runners in scoring position in this Houston Regional. Not going to do much with that

Very-business like win for Florida. Hudson Randall allowed a run in 5 2/3 innings, while Steven Rodriguez was great in relief, 6-2 over Georgia Tech.

-  P Ryne Stanek and Rice P Austin Kubitza looked like big time arms they are

Marcus Stroman‏ -

“People don't realize that the whole height issue doesn't get to me! Keep the doubt coming. It's one of the reasons I am where I am today!”

Draft Notes – Jeremy Martinez, Marcus Stroman, Scotty McCreery

Jason A. Churchill of http://espn.go.com/blog/high-school/baseball/post/_/id/1604/martinez-heads-class-of-2013-backstops ranked the top five high school catchers so you might want to jot down these names because you know we will be begging the Mets to draft one of these guys a year from June:

1. Jeremy Martinez, Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) 

2. Chris Okey, Eustis (Fla.) 

3. Nick Ciuffo, Lexington (S.C.) 

4. Arden Pabst, Harvard-Westlake (Studio City, Calif.)  (is there like an apartment building next to this school that the top junior high players in the state just move to before starting high school?)

5. Zach Collins, American Heritage (Plantation, Fla.) 

Conor Glassey, an associate editor for Baseball America says “a solid No. 2 starter”. Kevin Goldstein, national writer on scouting and player development for Baseball Prospectus writes “shutdown closer”. And Stephen Guilbert of Mack’s Mets says I don’t know the difference between shit and shinola about this guy. We’re talking about Duke starter, 5-9 Marcus Stroman. A converted reliever, he’s been crazy all season: 10-ST, 73.0-IP, 102-K… Five foot nine… really??? 

Speed Check - RHP Alec Rash (IA) - 91-93, 94, 81-CB, 84-CH 

Garner Magnet (NC) H.S. RHP Scotty McCreery had an excellent outing against East Wake – 6-K, 0-BB, 4.3-IP… yeah, that Scotty McCreery. Not bad for an American Idol winner!

Draft 2012: Marcus Stroman, Duane Underwood, David Dahl, Lance McCullers

RP Marcus Stroman School: Duke  Cl.: Junior, Ht.: 5-9 Wt.: 185  Hometown.: Medford, N.Y.  High school: Patchogue-Medford  Stroman certainly isn’t the most intimidating pitcher in college baseball with his smallish size, but his stuff is electric. The righty dazzled observers at the Cape Cod League over the summer with his 95-98 mph fastball and outstanding slider. In 2011, Stroman had a 2.80 ERA in 64 1/3 innings. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=6498

Duane Underwood, Pope (Marietta, Ga.)  The Georgia commit has hit 97 mph on the radar gun and one scout I spoke to this fall said Underwood was sitting at 93-94 even after 75 pitches. He also offers deception in his delivery as he whips his arm through from a high three-quarter arm slot. http://espn.go.com/blog/high-school/baseball/post/_/id/1051/top-10-class-of-2012-right-handed-pitchers  

 David Dahl — 6’-2”, OF, Oak Mountain HS (AL)  Dahl is another member of U18 Team USA, and his recent play has his stock soaring up draft boards. He hit .364 with 11 runs, nine RBI and seven stolen bases batting leadoff for Team USA, while also playing stellar defense in the outfield at the Pan Am Championships. The lefty is one of the purest hitters in the draft, and his short, level swing allows for consistent contact, which projects to a high average hitter. Runs a 6.5/60 and should be a real threat on the base paths. Aside from his offensive prowess, Dahl also has a plus arm, and coupled with his speed and high baseball IQ, should be among the top 15 picks in the draft. http://www.throughthefencebaseball.com/top-50-draft-prospects-for-2012-25-thru-1/15694/

Lance McCullers, Jesuit (Tampa, Fla.), Pitcher, 6-2, L/R, Florida If there's a high school pitcher out there capable of breaking up the Harvard-Westlake monopoly it's McCullers. Ranked by at least two services as the No. 1 overall pick in the draft, the consensus is that the Jesuit standout will be the fifth overall pitcher chosen and the third among the prep pitchers. McCullers is reported with three plus pitches, including a changeup, a curve and a fastball that has reportedly reached 100 but is consistently in the mid 90s. http://www.maxpreps.com/news/-8V2A0MeEeGkPgAmVebEWg/maxpreps-top-10-mlb-draft-prospects.htm  

2012 Draft: – Marcus Stroman, Teddy Stankiewicz, Stephen Piscotty, Peter O’Brien

Marcus Stroman — 5’-9”, RHP, Duke  Stroman could close for most major-league teams tomorrow if needed. With a fastball that touches 95 mph, and a tight slider that can be ridiculously mesmerizing at times, he is one of the most ready pitchers available in the draft. Went 8.1 scoreless innings for the collegiate Team USA, striking out 17, while walking just one. At the 2010 Cape Cod League, he tossed 25 scoreless innings, striking out 32 while walking just three, including registering 10 saves. http://www.throughthefencebaseball.com/top-50-draft-prospects-for-2012-50-thru-26/15621/

http://espn.go.com/blog/high-school/baseball/post/_/id/1009/mitchell-traver-highlights-2012-texas-class  6. Teddy Stankiewicz, RHP, Southwest Christian High School (Fort Worth, Texas)  Stankiewicz, who has signed on to play at Arkansas as part of their blue-chip class, offers projection thanks to a 6-foot-4, 200-pound frame and some athleticism. He sits in the 89-92 mph range with more velocity on the way. His best breaking ball is a firm slider that has flattened in games but has tilt and late break. The right-hander also offers a curveball with good shape. As with most prep arms, his changeup needs a lot of development.

Stephen Piscotty, 6’-3”, 3B, Stanford - After grabbing Appel with the second overall pick, the Twins grab his teammate in Piscotty. With his smooth swing and excellent bat speed, Piscotty is one of the purest hitters in the draft, able to spray the ball to all fields. He hit .364 with three home runs and 40 RBI over 57 games as a sophomore in 2011. He then led the Cape Cod League with a .349 average. His lack of power could force a move to left field where his strong and accurate arm could play well. http://www.throughthefencebaseball.com/2012-mlb-mock-draft-3-0-now-with-supplemental-picks/16253/

Miami catcher Peter O'Brien has finally been cleared to play in 2012 by the NCAA, according to Hurricanes coach Jim Morris. O'Brien slugged 34 homers over the last two years at Bethune-Cookman and was drafted by the Rockies in the third round last June. He did not sign, instead transferring to Miami for his senior year. He applied for an eligibility waiver from the NCAA on the grounds that the Miami Gardens native was transferring to be near his mother, who was battling health problems. It took several months and a lot of paperwork, but his request was eventually granted this morning  http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/college/2012/01/miamis-peter-obrien-cleared-to-play/

2012 Draft: - SCAD, Michael Fagan, Albert Almora, Marcus Stroman

The Savannah College of Art and Design announced Monday that it is discontinuing baseball, softball and volleyball programs at the end of the 2011-2012 academic year. SCAD vice president for student success Phil Alletto said the money saved will make financial aid available to a greater number of incoming students. Affected student-athletes will keep their scholarships while they remain in good academic standing continue to progress toward graduation. http://savannahnow.com/latest-news/2012-01-23/scad-discontinuing-baseball-softball-and-volleyball

Michael Fagan  LHP  St. Cloud River Bats—Princeton -  Michael was one of the top relievers in the league. He went 3-2 and had a 1.95 era in 50.2 innings of work. He appeared in 19 games and led the league with 81 strikeouts. PG ranked him as the 28th best prospect in the league. http://www.collegesummerbaseball.net/2012/01/top-35-pitchers-in-northwoods-league_20.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter  

Albert Almora — 6’-2”, OF, Marion Christian Academy (FL) Aside from his five-tool abilities, Almora has leadership qualities not seen in many players his age. Those qualities were on full display during this year’s Pan-Am Championship games in Colombia. The six-time member of Team USA won MVP honors as the under-18 team brought home the gold by annihilating the competition. Almora hit .421 (16 for 38) with a team leading 11 runs, five doubles, 11 RBI and nine stolen bases as Team USA went 9-0, outscoring opponents 88-8. He has a plus arm and his speed should allow him to play center field at the next level. A total package of offense, defense, speed and an extremely high understanding and passion for the game, Almora should hear his name called in the upper half of next year’s draft. http://www.throughthefencebaseball.com/top-50-draft-prospects-for-2012-25-thru-1/15694/

We continue the countdown today at number 6 with Duke junior RHP Marcus Stroman. The Medford, New York native attended Patchogue-Medford High School where he was a four year letter winner. He went 9-1 as a senior with a 0.25 ERA and 120 strikeouts while hitting .350 with six homers and 22 stolen bases. His junior season saw him go 7-2 on the mound with a 1.20 ERA and 96 strikeouts while batting .410 with a pair of homers and 30 steals. He was named Louisville Slugger’s Player of the Year and earning the Gatorade Player of the Year honors for the state of New York. He also won the Paul Gibson Award, which goes to the top pitcher on Long Island. He was selected in the 18th round (532nd overall) of the 2009 MLB Draft by the Washington Nationals but decided to head to Duke. As a freshman, he hit .265 with 44 hits, 26 runs scored and 20 RBI while going 6-4 on the mound with three saves and an ERA of 5.31 ERA over 57.2 innings. He was named ACC Freshman of the Year and a second team Freshman All-American by Baseball America. http://ht.ly/1gV4Z8

Draft 2012 – Marcus Stroman, Adam Brett-Walker, Carson Fulmer, Carlos Correa, Ryan Normoyle

Marcus Stroman / RHP / Duke – Stroman doesn’t have the size or command to start, but a plus 90′s fastball and a devastating curveball are good enough that the Blue Devil right-hander will likely be gone by the end of day one. Stroman was unreal this summer for Team USA, and anyone looking for quick gratification from their pick would be wise to target Stroman. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2011/12/top-twelve-college-pitchers/

Adam Brett-Walker — 6’-5”, OF/1B, Jacksonville - One of the top power hitters in the draft, Walker hit .409 with 13 home runs and 73 RBI over 61 games as a sophomore in 2011. Has a long swing that leads to a lot of strikeouts, but he isn’t  afraid to take a walk either. Struggled at the Cape Cod League hitting .216 with 56 strikeouts over 38 games. Still, at 6’-5” and 220 lbs, his power and hitting ability will draw a lot of interest come draft time. http://www.throughthefencebaseball.com/top-50-draft-prospects-for-2012-50-thru-26/15621/

It's not typically a good idea to typecast a high school pitcher as a future closer or setup man, but Carson Fulmer's collection of skills on the mound could point him in that direction. Not that anyone has to make that call just yet, but Fulmer's plus fastball, his delivery and his makeup might fill well in the back end of a bullpen. Strong and durable, he has a fastball that can touch 96 mph. He combines that with a tight and quick slider that has good bite, especially when he keeps it down in the zone. It's an out pitch for him at times. Fulmer does have a changeup which can be deceptive when he keeps it down, though he's not consistent in doing so. Fulmer has a maximum effort delivery, and aggressively goes after hitters, perhaps the biggest reason he looks like a reliever to some. That can be decided later, of course. His arm strength and mound presence should have him in many teams' sights as June rolls around. http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/prospects/watch/y2012/

http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2011/12/top-twelve-high-school-position-players/#more-602   Carlos Correa / SS / Puerto Rican Baseball Academy (PR): There’s no doubt that Correa’s a shortstop, and he should be able to be above-average offensively for the position. His commitment to Vanderbilt is rumored to be strong, however, and while his work ethic and baseball smarts are considerable, the approach does need work. It’d be no surprise if the right-handed hitter is considerably higher as the season progresses, but right now this feels like the safe ranking.

Ryan Normoyle   Elmira Pioneers of the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League   Washington (MD) College   Senior   SS   Profile  6-2/190 pounds   From Mt. Laurel, NJ   Attended Lenape High School   Bats left   Throws Right  Synopsis of  Summer Season   Ryan was one of the best middle-infielders in the PGCBL this summer. He was tied for the league-lead with a .379 batting average in 177 at-bats. He also finished first in the league with 67 hits this summer.   He scored 35 runs and was fifth in the league with 34 runs batted in. He also hit 9 doubles this summer for the Pioneers.  He showed that he can steal a base (12) and isn't afraid to take a walk (14).  He was named both an All-Star and was named to the All-League First Team

2012 Draft: - Stephen Bruno, Kenny Diekroeger, Marcus Stroman, Victor Roache, Duane Underwood

Stephen Bruno:


6-20-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series#/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series/page/2  - INF Stephen Bruno saw very little time this year after a breakout freshman season that saw him hit .388 in 36 games. A native of New Jersey, Bruno is a baseball rat, who can do a little of everything on the field. He is somewhat limited by his size (5'9", 165), but he was already drafted once by New York back in the 26th round of the '09 draft.


Kenny Diekroeger:


7-21-11: - http://www.mockdraftmania.com/  - 5. San Diego Padres Kenny Diekroeger SS Stanford The Padres need a shortstop. Diekroger had a breakout freshman campaign, but fell of the map as a sophomore with a batting average that fell from .342 to .292. Scouts said he would have to move to outfield straight out of high school. Diekroger has mastered his craft at shortstop and should remain a shortstop in the MLB despite his 6 foot 2 200 pound size. Kenny Diekroeger has the ability to be a complete shortstop prospect with the baseball IQ and high character that former Stanford baseball prospect Sam Fuld had coming out of college. I don’t see any reason why the Padres should not draft Kenny Diekrogger if he slips to #5 overall.


Marcus Stroman:


7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments  - Marcus Stroman, Duke, 5’9 185, one of the best arms I’ve seen in this area, starts mostly for Duke, but used as closer for Team USA this summer. Upper 90’s fb with hard slider, both pitches abv ave and yes, you can compare to former MLer Tom “Flash” Gordon. Definite early round guy!


Victor Roache:


Victor Roache (Georgia Southern)- He has dominated the Cape Cod Baseball League this summer as he has a .328 batting average while hitting six homers and driving in 28 runs. Roache is coming off an outstanding sophomore year with Georgia Southern which saw him hit .326 with 30 homers and 84 RBI. These numbers were off the charts as the new bat rules went into effect this season to help deaden the bats but Roache’s was far from it. - http://www.collegebaseballdaily.com/2011/07/29/2011-cape-cod-all-star-game-players-to-watch/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CollegeBaseballDaily+%28College+Baseball+Daily%29&utm_content=Twitter  


Duane Underwood:


7-30-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=6082  - Duane Underwood (2012 RHP/OF, East Cobb Astros 16u)- PG was first introduced to Duane Underwood at the 16U National Championship in 2009. Underwood was a primary OF for the Georgia Blue Jays, and he made a mildly positive impression with his bat. The scouting notes on Underwood from that event read: “high hands, late start, athletic, quick hands, spins out on curveball, runs well.” The pitching notes were more positive on the secondary RHP who sat 82-84, topping out at 86, throwing all fastballs. Underwood showed enough raw talent to be invited to the 2010 Jr National Showcase, where he touched 89 mph on the radar gun and flashed potential with both his curveball and slider and a much improved swing. In 2011 Underwood absolutely blew us (and opposing hitters) away with his ability on the mound. With significantly improved mechanics Underwood’s live arm now routinely generates low-mid 90s velocity, touching 96 on the PG gun with sharp downhill plane. One of the best power arms in the country, Underwood’s bat is almost as impressive and he’s a big time two-way prospect who will be representing the East team at the PG All-American Game on August 14.

Tony Renda, Tom Murphy, Deven Marrero, Jake Barrett, Marcus Stroman

Tony Renda:


6-20-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series#/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series/page/6  - Cal’s top draft prospect for 2012 is 2B Tony Renda, the 2011 Pac-10 Player of the Year. Renda had a sensational season for the Bears, taking on the role of team leader, despite having sophomore status. He paced the squad with a .335 average, 85 hits, 112 total bases and nine steals. He also scored 37 runs and drove in 42. He was also an integral part of one of the best defensive units in the Pac-10. Renda made nine errors, good for a .967 fielding percentage. Renda isn’t likely to be a first-round guy, but he should most certainly improve upon his standing from the 2009 draft, when he was selected by the Dodgers in the 42nd round. Renda spurned their offer to head to Cal, where he made an immediate impact as a freshman, winning Pac-10 First-Team honors after hitting .373 with 21 doubles, four triples, three HR and 37 RBI. He also swiped 13 bases.


Tom Murphy:


7-9-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=6002  - Tom Murphy, C, Buffalo - A natural leader, Murphy is a good fit behind the plate at a position that is always in demand at every level of the game. Putting up big numbers in two years while hailing from a non-traditional baseball powerhouse, he had the opportunity to showcase his skills among the best college players in the nation, and made the most of that opportunity, albeit in limited duty.


Deven Marrero:


7-21-11: -  http://www.draftsite.com/article/College-Names-To-Know/92 Strengths    – Right away you notice his athletic stance at the plate, with his weight evenly distributed. He has a solid set up at the plate, with his hands at shoulder height allowing him to have a short path to the ball. There are not a lot of moving parts to his swing. He has solid hip rotation and a quiet foot plant; He gets his front side firm and gets tall on his back foot. He stands close to the plate, giving him excellent plate coverage. Marrero has very solid bat speed and shows a very good eye. He has a good high finish at the plate and can take pitches the other way, using a solid inside out swing on inside pitches. He should hit for a good average. In the field he is a plus defender, he won Pac-10 defensive player of the year. He is very smooth, with great range and plus actions. He also has a plus throwing arm.


Jake Barrett:


7-21-11: - http://www.mockdraftmania.com/  - 9. Minnesota Twins Jake Barrett P Arizona State Jake Barrett is the best player available. Barrett could go anywhere between picks 4 and 10. Barrett has the size to be a starting pitcher at 6 foot 3 225 pounds. There are some off the field concerns with Barrett’s character. Barrett posted a winning record, but had a bad ERA. The mechanics and pitching control are two areas he needs to work on. Barrett recorded 72 strike outs in 76 innings during the 2011 season. Barrett has a 4 seamer that is 94 miles per hour along with a 90 mile per hour 2 seamer. Barrett also has the curveball and splitter that could develop into complimentary pitches.


Marcus Stroman:


Duke rising junior RHP/infielder Marcus Stroman spent this summer as a member of the USA Collegiate National Team. He appeared in seven games totaling 8.1 innings of innings without giving up a single hit while walking one batter. This is the second straight summer that Stroman has impressed as in 2010, he played with the Orleans Firebirds in the Cape Cod League. He didn’t give up a run then either in 15 appearances (one start) in 25.0 innings pitched. He allowed 10 hits while striking out 32 batters. GoDuke.com recently caught up with Marcus to discuss his summer experience this year. - http://www.collegebaseballdaily.com/2011/07/20/dukes-marcus-stroman-continues-to-impress/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CollegeBaseballDaily+%28College+Baseball+Daily%29  

Cameron Strickland, Adam Westmoreland, Marcus Stroman, Lucas Giolito, Lucas Sims

Cameron Strickland:


6-30-11: - http://www.prospectwire.com/pw/article.php?id=268  - Cameron Strickland, OF/C, 2013, Knoxville, TN - Diamond - Simcox (Midwest Team) - The 6'2/175 pound Strickland is well put-together and has an outstanding frame for added weight and strength gains. Strickland couples a live arm, with near-plus speed and a knack for hitting. Strickland has outstanding experience on big stages playing for a loaded powerhouse high school like Farragut, and playing up at the 18U level during summer ball in the leadoff spot for Diamond-Simcox based out of Tennessee.



Adam Westmoreland:


6-20-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series#/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series/page/9  - After Walker, there is a significant drop-off in talent, but one of the guys who will be the most intriguing to keep an eye on is 6'7", 270-pound LHP Adam Westmoreland. Westmoreland was South Carolina’s Mr. Baseball back in 2008 and was drafted by the Dodgers in the 35th-round that same year. After a solid freshman campaign, Westmoreland tore his elbow ligament in his pitching arm just before the 2010 season began. He missed the entire season after having Tommy John surgery and was forced to redshirt. He struggled when he finally did get back on the mound this season, posting a 5.77 ERA in 11 games, nine of which were starts. He pitched only 34.1 innings and had some issues with his command, posting a 26:18 K:BB ratio. He also hit three batters and issued two more wild pitches.


Marcus Stroman:


7-9-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=6002  - Marcus Stroman, RHP/IF, Duke - Entering the day recording 16 of the 20 outs via strikeout, Stroman was arguably the most exciting player on the Collegiate National Team. He generates unusual 93-94 mph velocity for a 5-foot-9, 175-pound athlete that also has served as an infielder at both the high school and college levels. His nasty low-80s slider is also a plus pitch, and after he was named the ACC Freshman of the Year for Duke in 2010, he went on to be named a Cape All-Star last summer by recording 11 saves in 11 chances for the Orleans Firebirds. Stroman earned high praise at the 2008 National Showcase for his five-tool potential and electric arm on the mound, and received MVP honors for Team USA in the series against Team Japan.


Lucas Giolito:


7-11-11: - http://diamondprospects.blogspot.com/  - At 6'7" Lucas Giolito has projectability written all over him. When you see that he already reaches 96 MPH with his fastball and has room to add on 25-30 pounds to his frame, you understand why he is considered one of the top prep prospects for the 2012 Draft. Giolito has a smooth delivery and has taken great strides in repeating it. He also features a power 12-6 curveball that has plus potential and an improving change that features depth and could also be a plus pitch. His command could use some work and he could incorporate his lower half more to help maintain his mechanics. He threw a no-hitter in the spring and it will be interesting to see how he fares with Team USA 18U squad in the fall. No 2012 prep pitcher has more upside than Lucas Giolito and he is definitely one of the top follows over the next year.

Lucas Sims:


7-11-11 via Twitter: - PerfectGameUSA - Perfect Game USA - 2012 RHP Lucas Sims(GA) up to 94 mph in first innings at 17U #wwba

Josh Urban, Devin Harrison, Mark Appel, Marcus Stroman, Taylor Rogers

Josh Urban:


6-20-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series#/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series/page/4  - Sophomore RHP Josh Urban is another solid bet to end up getting drafted, most likely earlier than his 19th-round selection by Pittsburgh back in 2009. He only made 13 appearances this season but was solid, striking out 23 batters in 17 innings, while posting a 2.65 ERA. He too figures to get some more time on the mound as a good chunk of the Longhorns bullpen was drafted this season. Urban has more prototypical size at 6'4" and 215 pounds and seems like a better bet to make the jump to starting.


Devin Harrison:


6-30-11: - http://www.prospectwire.com/pw/article.php?id=268  - Devin Harrison, OF, 2013, Tucson, AZ - 520 Elite (West Team) - The 6'0/170 pound Harrison can do a little bit of everything. While none of his tools are "plus" at this time, he was one of the more well-rounded players at the 2011 PW West Coast Finals in Scottsdale. Harrison combines a 7.0 60 with solid arm strength and some good hitting tools that allowed him to swing an impact bat during the Memorial Weekend tournament.


Mark Appel:


7-9-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=6002  - Mark Appel, RHP, Stanford - Appel is currently one of the top projected prospects for the 2012 draft, and is an early candidate to go first overall. It isn't a huge surprise that Appel's velocity, which sat in the upper-90s against the New England Collegiate League All-Stars at Fenway Park, has climbed as it has since throwing in the low-90s at the 2008 National Showcase. His athleticism and projectability were evident then, and he now serves as the Friday ace for a Stanford team that advanced to the Super Regionals. He wasn't as electric in Omaha as he was at Fenway two weeks ago, but threw roughly a half-dozen mid-90s fastballs down in the zone to quickly record three straight 4-3 groundouts.


Marcus Stroman:


7-11-11: - http://baseballdraftreport.com/  - Stroman is a high level relief prospect follow who has done nothing but produce on the biggest of stages. His timeline since entering school – excellent freshman season, perfect (literally) summer on the Cape (35 K – 3 BB – 0.00 ERA – 27 IP), another great season as a sophomore, and now a breakout summer pitching for the Collegiate National Team – shows his track record of dominance is on par with any pitcher in the 2012 college class. The present stuff is enough to warrant early round consideration, and the possibility of a third pitch — he’s shown a change, but He is also a tremendous all-around athlete who plays a mean defensive shortstop on days he doesn’t pitch. In what may or may not be considered ironic (Alanis Morissette has me forever confused on the word’s definition; I’m almost positive coincidental would be the better word choice, but it was two syllables too long), I’ve heard a Dee Gordon, Tom’s son, comp on Stroman as a fielder at short. That’s what we call coming full circle.


Taylor Rogers:


7-11-11: - http://collegebaseball360.com/2011/07/11/cape-cod-baseball-playerpitcher-awards-july-11  - Taylor Rogers (Kentucky) has earned this week’s Coca Cola Pitcher of the Week honor for leading his team to a 1-0 victory over Orleans on Saturday. Rodgers threw seven innings of two-hit ball, striking out two and walking none. The shutout performance lowered Rogers’ earned run average to a paltry 2.14. He is 2-2 on the season, but has pitched two shutouts and not given up more than three runs in a start this season. Rogers is a sophomore at Kentucky. He is a promising prospect, and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the SEC, leading the Wildcats in innings pitched in his freshman year. Rogers was selected by the Orioles in the 37th round of the 2009 Major League Baseball draft.

Brian Johnson, Michael Morin, Stephen Perez, Hudson Randall, Marcus Stroman

Brian Johnson


6-28-11: - http://baseballdraftreport.com/  - It may be taking the whole left-handed pitching two-way prospect thing too far, but I think there are some similarities between the Danny Hultzen of last season and this year’s Brian Johnson. He’ll hit this weekend, but his ultimate home is on the mound. His ceiling as a pitcher does not compare to Hultzen’s (i.e. don’t go penciling in Johnson as the 2012 second overall pick now or ever), but I see first round stuff (88-92 fastball, good upper-70s curve that flashes plus, much improved low-80s change, and a raw but promising slider) in Johnson’s four-pitch mix

Michael Morin:


6-20-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series#/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series/page/8  - Expect UNC’s closer RHP Michael Morin to get some looks as well. He hasn’t had the best year (4.71 ERA, .263 avg against), but he has locked down 10 saves for the Tar Heels. He has also posted a 65:18 K:BB ratio in 63 innings. He also shared duties as a weekday starter for UNC, making six starts, leading many to think he could be in line for an expanded role next season. Morin has great size (6'4", 180 lbs) and was already drafted once, by the Royals in the 40th round of the ’09 event.



Stephen Perez:


6-29-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250695/the-all-reese-team#storyjump  - SS: Stephen Perez, Sophomore from the University of Miami - I only had the opportunity to see him once this year, and he really make an impression on me defensively. It was a poor day by his standards as he committed a couple of errors on routine ground balls; yet, he showed silky smooth actions throughout the game. In one instance he ranged far into the hole, fielded the ball on a slider and made a strong throw to first in the same motion. It was MLB caliber and the best defensive play that I saw all season. The bat, especially when batting right handed, is a work in progress, but there is some wizardry in that glove. Honorable Mention: Nolan Fontana, Sophomore from the University of Florida


Hudson Randall:


7-1-11: - http://mlbdraftguide.com/1/2011/06/30/hudson-randall-2012-draft-profile  - Hudson Randall is one of the top pitchers in college baseball. The question with Randall is how much his lack of elite velocity will affect his success at the next level. Randall has great command. He walked just 10 batters in 102 innings during the 2011 season. Randall changes speeds and moves the ball around well. In games I have seen, his velocity has been between 87-90 and there are reports as high as 92. His change is a plus pitch, while both his curve and slider are quality offerings. Randall is tall and thin, giving some hope of added velocity still to come. If his fastball were to climb a few notches, he would be a truley elite pro prospect.


Marcus Stroman:


7-2-11: - http://www.draftsite.com/article/Quick-MLB-Draft-Hits/89  - Duke’s Marcus Stroman is basically Tom Gordon version 2.0. He packs a powerful 95 mph fastball for such a small package, at only 5’9’’ and 185 pounds. To go along with that fastball, that has hit the upper 90’s, potentially as high as 100 mph; he has a nasty slider that falls off with tremendous lateral movement. He is a starter for the Blue Devils now but with his size and stuff he has the makings of a fast moving reliever in someone’s system down the road, with the ceiling of a closer

Addison Russell, Mark Appel, Dominic Ficociello, D.J. Baxendale, Marcus Stroman

Addison Russell:


mlb.com  Addison Russell, SS, Pace HS, Fla.: Russell is very strong and athletic. He's an excellent right-handed hitter who makes consistent, hard contact with power. He's got a plus arm as well.



Mark Appel:


6-12-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/722354-2012-mlb-mock-draft-early-predictions-for-next-years-top-10-picks#/articles/722354-2012-mlb-mock-draft-early-predictions-for-next-years-top-10-picks/page/4  - Right now (Mark) Appel looks to be the top college pitcher heading into the 2012 season. He's coming off of a stellar season in which he's won six games (so far), posted a 3.02 ERA and struck out 83 batters in a team-leading 104.1 innings. He helped guide Stanford into super-regional play with a seven-hit complete game in the NCAA opener against Kansas State. He struck out eight in the game and walked none. Last year as a freshman, the 6'5", 190 pound right-hander had a tough year pitching out of Stanford's bullpen. He was hit hard (44 H, 25 R in 38 IP) and finished the year with a 5.92 ERA and almost as many walks (19) as strikeouts (24). He didn't let a disappointing first-year campaign keep him down though. He traveled, along with Diekroeger, to the New England Collegiate League and dominated, posting a 6-1 record and a 1.87 ERA, earning top prospect honors. Appel has all the tools to end up as a top five pick. He has the easy velocity that can produce 97 mph bullets, although he sits more comfortably in the 92-95 mph range. He has a very impressive slider and also throws a changeup and a cutter—a pitch becoming more and more popular amongst younger pitchers these days. One thing scouts are always looking for is excellent arm speed, and Appel has that too



Dominic Ficociello:


5-18-11: - from http://www.4029tv.com/r/27944839/detail.html  - Arkansas freshman infielder Dominic Ficociello has been added to the 22-man roster for the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team, as announced on Wednesday evening. A native of Fullerton, Calif., Ficociello has developed into one of the top freshman hitters in both the Southeastern Conference and the country. Entering this weekend’s series with Ole Miss, Ficociello is hitting a team-best .363 with four homers and a team-leading 47 RBI. Currently on a 12-game hitting streak, Ficociello leads all freshmen in the SEC in batting average, hits (66), doubles (15) and RBI. Ficociello has also been the Razorbacks’ top hitter in conference games, batting .337 against SEC competition with two homers and 18 RBI.


D.J. Baxendale:


5-10-11: - http://nwahomepage.com/fulltext-news/?nxd_id=238167  - Arkansas sophomore pitcher DJ Baxendale has been selected to the 22-man roster for the 2011 USA Baseball Collegiate National Team, it was announced on Tuesday morning. A native of Jacksonville, Ark., Baxendale is one of the most versatile pitchers in college baseball, seeing time in both the Razorbacks’ starting rotation and in the bullpen. Baxendale currently ranks third in the SEC with a 1.58 ERA and has a 7-1 record with two saves in 14 appearances, including eight starts. In 57 innings pitched this season, Baxendale has given up 14 runs, only 10 earned, and struck out 53 batters, while issuing 11 walks. Opponents are hitting just .226 against the sophomore right hander.



Marcus Stroman:


6-8-11: - http://www.wralsportsfan.com/duke/story/9702563  - Duke pitcher and infielder Marcus Stroman has been selected to the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team. A 5-9, 185-pound right-hander, Stroman was Duke’s top pitcher as a sophomore, logging a 2.80 ERA over 64.1 innings. He ranked third in the nation with 12.60 strikeouts per nine innings, trailing only No. 2 MLB Draft Pick Danny Hultzen of Virginia and No. 3 MLB Draft Pick Gerritt Cole of UCLA in that category. Stroman served as a reliever and starter for the Blue Devils, posting a 3-4 record and four saves over eight starts and nine relief appearances. He surrendered just 59 hits while striking out 90 batters and walking 21. He also started 33 games at second base, hitting .250 with 15 RBI and 12 stolen bases.