Kyle Schwarber, Dylan Cease, Chris Diaz, Jackson Soto, Trent Gilbert

3-9-14 – MLB Draft Insider - Kyle Schwarber – C/LF Indiana – This class has two players who play catcher and project as first round picks. It seems when one of them is hitting the other is not, and since Pentecost has been struggling it is Schwarber’s turn to hit. He was two for five on the day with a walk, two runs scored, and a double. He started the game at catcher and moved to left field for Indiana. Most scouts don’t see much a future for Schwarber at catcher, but as Jesus Montero showed teams will keep trying a player at catcher until they are certain he can’t play there. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-rundown-march-8/#more-3872

3-25-14 - Dylan Cease, ranked No. 26 on MLB.com’s Draft Top 50 list from this past fall, was slated to be among the highlights at the 2014 National High School Invitational. Instead, an elbow issue will force him to be able to only watch the action as his Milton High School team returns to the NHSI for the second straight  year. Cease, owner of one of the better fastballs in the class that regularly touches the upper-90s, is resting his powerful right arm for a month after dealing with a sore elbow. Cease said that he first felt discomfort in a start with game-time temperatures of around 30 degrees. http://minors.mlblogs.com/2014/03/25/draft-update-dylan-cease-to-miss-nhsi/  

3-5-14 – TTF - 10 college players on the rise — week 3 - Chris Diaz, LHP, Miami (FL) (NR) - On Friday, the 6’-1” southpaw out-dueled projected first-round pick Luke Weaver and Florida State, beating the ‘Noles 3-1. Diaz allowed one unearned run on four hits over seven innings, striking out six to two walks. He is now 3-0 on the year with a 1.90 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 16 K/5 BB over 19 innings. Not a power pitcher, he relies on his ability to keep hitters off balance with a fastball/change-up combo and he commands both of them well. Posted a 1.64 ERA, 1.17 WHIP with 78 K/27 BB over 109.2 innings. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-week-3/41478#ilZqhEaASo2Kkjik.99

3B - Jackson Soto, Sr., West Albany (Ore.) - The physically imposing left handed hitter is also a high level football player and wrestler. He's less developed as a pure hitter than some of his counterparts on the dream team, but his physical strength is a huge asset and he can really drive the ball to the pullside with power and should begin to develop that power to the rest of the field as he progresses. Mitchell Gretler and Evan Haberle were also considered. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9561

3-11-14 – TTF - Trent Gilbert, 2B, Arizona (NR) - Over his last four games, Gilbert has gone 11-for-19 (.579) with five doubles, two triples, a home run and 10 RBI — and that includes an 0-for-5 game. Over 17 games this season, he is now hitting .406/.468/.667 with 12 extra-base hits, 16 RBI and has drawn six walks to seven strikeouts. With a short, compact swing from the left-side, Gilbert has shown developing power from his 6’-1”, 180 pound frame and he has an advanced approach at the plate.  http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-week-4/41715#PjStmsQ7UB5h8BYU.99

Draft 14 – Dylan Cease, Kodi Medeiros, Braxton Davidson, JJ Schwartz

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

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  20- LHP Kodi Medeiros Waikeka HS (Pepperdine Commit) Having seen him pitch twice this year I can say he is one of the most fun HS arms to watch in person. He has an advanced feel for his change and excellent command of 3 pitches. The Hawaiian southpaw is a relentless worker and has plenty of upside as a future mid rotation guy.(Rangers @ 22) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 11. Braxton Davidson, 1B/OF, TC Roberson HS (NC) - Power from the left side is always in demand, and at 6’-3” and 215 pounds, Davidson has plenty of it. He may be relegated to first base, in which case a lot of pressure will be put on his bat to produce. He has excellent bat speed and an advanced approach at the plate, with good pitch recognition and the ability to wait on pitches. Over 31 games as a junior, he hit .403 with seven doubles, eight home runs, and drew 30 walks for a .600 OBP/.831 SLG. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 38 JJ Schwarz C R/R 6-1 193 Palm Beach (Fla.) Gardens Florida http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

Draft 14 - A Quick Look At - RHP - Dylan Cease - Milton (GA) HS

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/

 

Draft 14 – Max Pentacost, Dylan Cease, Trea Turner, Justus Sheffield, Gregory Deichmann

10-14-13 – Top ’14 College Hitters - 3. Max Pentecost / C / Kennesaw State — Pentecost may not be a household name right now, but has drastically improved his draft stock with a very strong summer. Pentecost has average power from the right side (with potential for more) and shows good patience and pitch recognition. He isn’t a lock to stick behind the plate, but if a team believes he can catch due to his athleticism and arm strength he could be a top 15 candidate. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/10/top-14-for-14-college-hitters/

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

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 11.)SS, Trea Turner, N C State, 6' 180, R/R, swift runner with a quick bat and occ power to the alleys, has enough glove and arm to be a starter at the ML level and contribute offensively with his 70 speed. Trea has a compact swing that generates alley power and he's getting better every year. Reminds me some of JJ Hardy. Definite early round guy for 2014! http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 21.Justus Sheffield – LHP, Tullahoma (TN) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 32. Colorado Rockies — Gregory Deichmann, SS, Brothers Martin HS (LA)  Left-handed hitting power shortstops are a nice commodity to have, and the 6’-2”, 190-pound Deichmann has a chance to stick at short due to his strong arm, speed and instincts in the field. He has excellent bat speed and can put on displays in the cage during batting practice. Even if he ends up at third, the power and arm will play well. Committed to USC. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

Draft 14 – Michael Conforto, Luke Weaver, Alex Jackson, Dylan Cease, Carlos Rodon

10-14-13 – Top ’14 College Hitters - 13. Michael Conforto / LF-1B / Oregon State — He likely won’t provide much value with the glove or on the bases, but he’s been extremely productive for Oregon State and should hit enough to stick in left field someday. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/10/top-14-for-14-college-hitters/

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

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects - 8.Alex Jackson – C, Rancho Bernardo (CA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

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/

10-18-13 – Matt Garroich – Carlos Rodon is the best lefty in the country and, as it stands, the clear-cut favorite to go first overall. He is the ace of the N.C. State Wolfpack and has been since he came to campus. He will likely be the same on any team he pitches as long as he is healthy. On the same squad is one of the top college hitters, Trea Turner. He is an impressive athlete with 80 speed and solid defense at short while swinging the bat well enough to impact in the batters box as well. http://www.minorleagueball.com/2013/10/18/4851030/2014-mlb-draft-atlantic-region-college-discussion

Draft 14 – Brady Aiken, Nick Burdi, Dylan Cease, Jakson Reetz, Bradley Zimmer

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 9. Brady Aiken, lhp, Cathedral Catholic HS, San Diego: Projectable lefty with an ideal pitcher’s body has a chance for three plus offerings with command. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

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/

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

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 14.Jakson Reetz – C/RHP, Norris (NE) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

10-14-13 – Top ’14 College Hitters - 4. Bradley Zimmer / OF / San Francisco — The younger brother of Royal first-rounder Kyle, Zimmer is an impressive athlete who looks like he can play center field despite his size (6-5, 205). Right now the left-handed hitting outfielder is much more raw talent than finished product, but with some raw power and above-average tools across the board he will be a coveted prospect come June. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/10/top-14-for-14-college-hitters/

Draft 14 – Kyle Freeland, Kodi Medeiros, Tyler Kolek, Greg Holmes, Dylan Cease

9-10-13 – Top Arms in 2013 Cape Cod League – LHP  Kyle Freeland (Evansville Jr.) 6-4/185, Hyannis Harborhawks 40 IP, 48 K, 2.25 ERA: FB 90-93 CB 78-81 SL 82-85 CH 82 -  His fastball has plus action and he walked 4 batters this entire CCBL season. The slider has the potential to turn into an MLB out-pitch, and he will improve in replicating his arm slot and arm action due to his athleticism. I think his ceiling is as high as any pitcher in the CCBL. http://bullpenbanter.com/2013-all-cape-team-pitchers/

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 26 – LHP Kodi Medeiros - Waiakea (HI) HS – No one has come out of nowhere quicker this summer than Medeiros, who turned heads at June's PG National in Minnesota. Scouts said his stuff was ‘absolutely filthy’, aided by his strange deliver. FB: 90-93, 94… 78-80 breaking ball… throws from low three-quarters — almost sidearm.

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/

9-11-13 – 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

9-18-13 - 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.

Draft 14 – Chase Vallot, Carl Chester, Nick Gordon, Dylan Cease, Chad Sobotka

8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Chase Vallot, C:  If the Cubs can't land Jackson or feel like he can't stick at catcher, Vallot is the next best prep option.  There's a lot to like about Vallot, starting with a strong arm and great pop times (1.92 seconds) though like most H.S. catchers, he still needs work on his receiving skills.  Vallot has a strong build and should hit for power and as a bonus, is a pretty good athlete.  He's someone the Cubs could certainly be interested in if he lasts to their second pick -- but Vallot also has a chance to shoot up higher into the first round with a good season. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/08/2014-mlb-draft-ua-game-roster-and-preview-plus-more-tickets-and-meet-up-information/

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 43. Carl Chester, OF, Lake Brantley HS (FL) - A plus/plus runner who has been times at 6.28 in the 60, the right-hander can wreak havoc on the base paths, as well as in the outfield where you’d be hard pressed to hit anything over his head. At 6’-0” and 170 pounds, he also shows some raw power in his swing and excellent bat speed. A quick-twitch athlete with a lot of upside. He stole 18 of 20 bases as a junior and struck out just 11 times over 110 plate appearances. Committed to Miami. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

9-1-13 – Petco Game - Nick Gordon (SS/RHP) (L/R) 6’2″ 170; Grad: 2014 Orlando, FL This was my first look at the SS so thought I would include him on my list. Tall, lean look with good projection to body. Two way athlete and EZ  to dream considering the bloodline: father is Flash Gordon and brother is Dee Gordon (LAD). Fast twitch swing geared for contact/LD at the moment; lives in middle part of diamond. /As body matures and strengthens, can project as LD/gaps hitter with BA power. Instinctive base runner and SB threat. Alert defender w/quick first step and smooth, fluid actions. Plenty of arm to stay at SS. Premium  defender and future GG candidate. Pending how the bat progresses this spring, Nick has a chance to go early in the first round 2014. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/09/01/aflac-game-wrap-up-better-late-than-never/

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.

9-10-13 – 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/

Draft 14 – Matt Chapman, Trae Turner, Michael Gettys, Dylan Cease, Carlos Rodon

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 45. Matt Chapman, 3B, Cal State Fullerton - The 6’-2”, 200-pound right-hander has a plus arm and enough range to stick at the hot corner. Whether or not the power will show up to remain there is up for debate. He does show an advanced approach at the plate, having drawn 34 walks to 29 strikeouts over 55 games as a sophomore. I got to see him play with The Collegiate National Team and really liked his line-drive s+wing. If the power comes this year, he could move up draft boards. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

9-1-13 - Jim Callis – 4. Trea Turner, ss, North Carolina State - More than just a burner, he also offers hitting prowess and the ability to stick at shortstop.

9-1-13 – Petco Game - Michael Gettys (CF) (R/R) 6’2″ 205; Grad: 2014 Gainesville, GA Large frame w/compact, muscular build. From a body perspective, it’s similar to a Mike Trout look. Uphill swing w/extra juice at contact. Exceptional RAW power has the ability to put them in the seats during BP. Swing geared for FB and still working on pitch recognition in game; some swing and miss to CB. Burner on the bases. More than enough range for  CF and playable arm anywhere in the OF. Can’t miss 8arm and still remains his best tool. Bat remains suspect, but if he puts it together you’re looking at a complete 5 tool package. Big  upside here.  http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/09/01/aflac-game-wrap-up-better-late-than-never/

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 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/

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 –  1 – Houston – LHSP Carlos Rodon – North Carolina State – This might be the last year that the Astros gets the first pick in the draft, though it is the third in the row. It’s close to impossible… no, I take that back… it’s literally impossible for them to pass on picking Rodon, who is so far more taleted than anyone in this draft. He has a five- pitch arsenal that includes a mid-90s fastball, a wipeout slider, a lethal cutter, an above-average curveball and a change-up with nice fade. He could be in the majors by late 2015.

Draft 14 – Dylan Cease, Jakson Reetz, Devon Fisher, Mike Conforto, Tyler Kolek

8-25-13 – Dylan Cease - Dylan Cease is a 6’2 180 LB RHP out of Milton Georgia and he pitches for Milton High School. He’s arguably the top arm in the class at this point and it really comes down to him and recent BLF post subject Tyler Kolek at the very moment for me anyways. Touki is obviously still on the map but he’s given more cause for concern then these two have at least recently. He’s already gotten his fastball into the high 90s and he’s got one of the fastest arms I’ve seen. Kyle Crick 2011 Draftee and current Giants #1 Prospect is one of the names I’d mention when talking about top arm speed but once Cease joins the minors he’ll be up there. He’s got great movement on the pitch already and with his projection it’s almost scary to think where his velocity could go. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/25/dylan-cease-yet-another-georgia-gem/

8-16-13 - 11th All-American Classic - Jakson Reetz | C/ RHP/OF | Norris HS (Hickman, NE) - eight/Weight: 6-foot-1, 190 pounds B/T: R/R  Draft Day Age: 18 years, 5 months  Commitment: Nebraska - History: Reetz entered the summer as a talented but raw backstop, flashing big athleticism and almost casual actions on the field, belying his loud and impactful tools. In the Metrodome in June, Reetz stood out at the PG National Showcase for his catch-and-throw game, gunning down multiple baserunners and showing sub-2.0 pop times to second, in addition to a couple of hard hit balls, in game. He has built on that showcase throughout the summer, making loud contact with increasing regularity throughout his showcase and tournament stops. Like Reid-Foley and McKinney, Reetz’s Tournament of Stars performance at the end of June bought him a ticket to the USA Baseball 18U Team Trials, and the Nebraska commit continued a successful summer with impressive showings at both the Perfect Game 17U National Championship in July and the Area Code Games last week. - Development: Reetz added another impressing showing to his summer, earning MVP honors for the game. While he struggled some handling the arms while behind the plate, no player had a greater impact offensively. Reetz went 2-for-4 with a long opposite-field double off of hard-throwing Dylan Cease, and added three stolen bases to his output over the course of his four trips to the plate. There is simply no ignoring the growth in Reetz’s game over the past two months, and he’ll get a chance to add to his rapidly expanding resume should he earn a spot on the final USA Baseball 18U squad. His Marucci Elite travel club will be one of the favorites at the final event of the scouting circuit—the WWBA World Championship in Jupiter, Florida this October—and, should he attend, Reetz will be one of the most highly scouted catchers in the tournament. He’ll almost certainly enter the spring as the top draft prospect in the Cornhusker State. http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537

2013 East Coast Pro Showcase Top 50 Prospects    - 28. Devon Fisher – C, Western Branch (VA) HS - Liked Fisher a lot at TOS, but he played even better here at ECP. Really impressive behind the plate and with the bat. http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-top-50-ecp-prospects/

7-17-13 –  Mike Conforto, OF, Oregon State - Conforto has a strong, sturdy build at 6'1, 215" that looks like it's all muscle.  He's not going to wow you with his tools the way Turner does but he makes hard contact consistently, including a pair of HRs in the Tuesday game.  His bat is his main weapon as he should hit for average that he'll supplement with walks and above average power.  Defensively he's probably relegated to LF.  He's a little thick legged and doesn't have great range nor did he display good arm strength.  That puts a tremendous burden on his bat, but it looks like it's capable of carrying the load. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/07/looking-ahead-to-the-2014-and-2015-mlb-draft-notes-from-the-collegiate-national-team-games/

8-25-13 - 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/

Mack Ade – AM Report – 8-21-13 – Dylan Cease, Starters, Darin Gorski, Christopher Lane

 

Last 61 games...  34-27

 

Loses as of Tuesday morning –

1)          Houston – 84…  2) Miami – 76…  3) White Sox – 74…  4) Brewers - 71...  5) Cubs – 71…   6) Phillies – 70…  7) Padres - 70... 8) Twins – 69…   9) Giants – 69…  10)  Angels 69… 11)  Toronto - 69...  12)   Rockies - 68...  13) Seattle – 67…  14)  Mets 66

 

Current projected 14^th pick: 

                                     RHP 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  

 

We're going to have to keep an eye on Kingsport 12-year out phenom starter, Chris Flexen. Okay, he's not 12, but he pitched a complete game last night and is now 7-1, 2.14 for the season with 56-K (only 12-BB) in 11-starts and 63.0-IP.  Watch for a jump to Lucy in Spring 2014.

 

Michael Scannell –

I have another question for you.  Juan Lagares is cementing himself as one of the best defensive CF in baseball.  Can he hit and get on base enough to hit leadoff it #2?

                Mack – That’s the $64,000 question.

                All anyone is looking for is the second coming of Carlos Gomez.

                This year’s BA, April (.083), May (.171), June (.271), July (.353), August (.211). You can’t have a starting centerfielder that hits only one month out of the year.

Now, if he can hit what he hit for the combined June-July period for the entire year and be flanked by two other outfielders that hit for both average and power, then you have yourself a starting centerfielder.

                Me? I want to see more first.. I want to see him beat out both Matt den Dekker and Eric Young Jr. in the spring for the CF slot and then start off strong. Then and only then will I anoint him with the job.

 

John – on ‘bone chips’

As someone who has bone chips and plays baseball (granted in a men's league far from the pros) and someone who pitches, it can be very difficult and at times painful to pitch with bone chips in your elbow. I felt that I had a harder time finishing my pitches and reaching back for velocity. I know it is not the same thing as Mejia since he is in the majors and has vastly superior stuff compared to mine, but as I pitched this summer, the pain came and went but never got much worse and was tolerable most of the time when anti-inflamatories were taken. So I think that it was okay to let Mejia pitch through it as long as he could as long as he did not do any more damage. At the same time, I think that letting him get the surgery now is good so he can be ready for spring training.

 

 

Suspended Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun told stars around baseball before spring training 2012 that the man who collected his urine that tested positive for synthetic testosterone was anti-Semitic and a Chicago Cubs fan in an effort to gather support throughout the game, three sources familiar with the conversations told Yahoo! Sports. Ryan Braun received a 65-game suspension from MLB for his ties to the Biogenesis clinic. (AP)Braun sought backing from Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Matt Kemp, whom he had beaten out for the National League MVP months earlier, along with Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto and Colorado Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, among others, sources said. He reached out to peers in hopes they would publicly stick up for him following an expected suspension. http://sports.yahoo.com/news/ryan-braun-tried-to-discredit-urine-collector-in-calls-to-mlb-stars-021053235.html

 

 

Sandberg is inheriting a team of ghosts: Ryan Howard, the franchise player who once was and never again shall be; Chase Utley, the aging fan-favorite who has gone on the disabled list each of the last four years; Jimmy Rollins, the former face of the franchise who has all but gone on record saying he's playing for career milestones now; and Jonathan Papelbon, the reliever whose fastball velocity, strikeout rate and usage are declining already, with three years remaining on his monstrous deal. People talk about a youth movement in Philadelphia, and for some reason Darin Ruf's name keeps popping up, because 27 actually does seem pretty young when compared to all of the other regulars holding down spots in the lineup. And the farm system? There isn't really one to speak of. http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/57463086/?tcid=tw_share  

 

Jose Torres asked –

Mack, I know you don’t handle the ranking of the prospects anymore, but I’m curious what your thoughts are right now on the potential of how many future major leaguers we have in our system.

                Mack – No problem, Jose.

Projecting major league pitching is almost impossible to do below the AA level. That being said, I’ll give it a stab.

I think the Mets have five future MLB starters in their system… Noah Syndergaard, Rafael Montero, Steven Matz, Michael Fulmer, and Luis Mateo.

I think there are eight more that have a 50-50 chance of starting in the majors… Logan Verrett, Jake deGrom, Dan Gorski, Rainy Lara, Matt Bowman, Gabriel Ynoa, Akeel Morris, and Luis Cessa.

And, I think there are six more in the lower levels that have a 30-70 chance of being a major league starter… Miller Diaz, John Gant, Robert Gsellman, Carlos Valdez, Chris Flexin, and Robert Whalen.

Anywhere from three to five of these guys will go down with career crippling injuries, but still, this is a lot of quality pitching for one organization. 

 

There are ton of Mets writers out there all trying to figure out who’s going to be added to the Mets rotation if and when somebody else is either hurt or shut down. It look like Carlos Torres will step in for the opening created with the Jenrry Mejia injury, but what’s next come September 1^st? It seems like every Mets pitcher from Binghamton to Willet’s Point is being shut down for too many innings pitched this year.

So, while all this speculation is being… well… speculated, let me throw out the name of Darin Gorski.

The 25-year old lefty has pitched in 15 games this year and did have four miserable games in Las Vegas (4-games, 3-starts, 6.59,  13.2-IP, 7-K, 9-BB), but, since then, has been almost spotless for Binghamton. He’s now pitched in 12 games there (11-starts) and has cared an impressive 1.97 ERA.

Sandy and Company fell in love with this guy during spring training and actually considered bringing him to Queens on opening day as the ‘other lefty’ a long side Josh Edgin. That never happened, but I can’t think of a better time to showcase another lefty in the system than September.

 

An East Central University (OK) student from Australia has been found shot to death in Duncan. Duncan Police Chief Danny Ford says 23-year-old Christopher Lane was found shot to death Friday. Three juveniles have been arrested on first-degree murder charges for the shooting. Ford said Lane was jogging on Country Club Road when the three suspects, ages 15, 16 and 17, chose him as target in what he believes was a random drive-by shooting. http://www.kjrh.com/dpp/news/state/australian-east-central-university-student-shot-to-death-in-duncan-three-juveniles-arrested#undefined.uxfs#ixzz2cT2lzjhS

 

Draft 14 – Justus Sheffield, Dylan Cease, Mac Marshall, Jacob Gatewood, Bryce Carter

 

7-24-13  -  10. Justus Sheffield, lhp, Tullahoma (Tenn.)/Ohio Warhawks - Sheffield is a year younger than his brother, Jordan, who entered the spring as one of the top high school pitchers and was up to 97 mph before having Tommy John surgery in April. Both brothers are committed to Vanderbilt. Justus Sheffield has a strong, compact 6-foot, 190-pound build and has gotten a little leaner in the last year. His fastball can sit in the 90-92 mph in shorter stints and was up to 94 in the spring. He has an athletic delivery that features a high leg kick and throws from a three-quarter slot. His mid-70s changeup with fade could become an above-average pitch. Sheffield also throws a 75-78 mph breaking ball with three-quarter tilt. A good athlete, Sheffield has also shown potential in center field. Young for the class, Sheffield will turn 18 just prior to the draft. http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/tyler-koleks-heavy-fastball-among-tournament-of-stars-standouts/

 

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

 

7-25-13 – Top 30 High School Prospects For 2014 Draft - 14. Mac Marshall, LHP, Parkview HS (GA) - 6'2/185, Draft Day Age: 18.36, LSU commit, Full Report & Video - Quick Take: Marshall comes from a powerhouse Atlanta-area program that's produced RF Jeff Francoeur and first rounders in the past two years, 1B Matt Olson (Athletics) and CF Josh Hart (Orioles). Marshall sits 90-92 and has hit 94 mph with his fastball while his off-speed pitches are inconsistent but his 75-79 mph downer curveball and 79-82 mph changeup are both above average at times with potential for more. http://sbb.scout.com/2/1310090.html

 

8-5-14 - Kendall Rogers ‏@KendallRogersPG  - #USC commit, top #MLBDraft prospect RT @DavidRawnsleyPG:  Jacob Gatewood hits balls in BP that the shaggers in OF just turn around and watch.

 

8-3-13 - Player:  Bryce Carter   Primary Position:  C   Secondary Position(s):  OF  Height/Weight:  6’1/195  Bats/Throws:  L/R  Home Town:  Tulsa, OK  School:  Cascia Hall  Travel Team(s):  Dallas Tigers  Class of:  2014  Committed To:  Stanford   Scouting Notes: - 2013 - Tournament of Stars notes from Don Olsen: - Bryce has a decent frame, present development that should fill out a bit more into the 210-215 pound range.  He gives off a little bit to Ed Herrmann. Little trigger, needs to quite the back foot and rotate, but bat speed and path are ideal for natural loft in swing.  There is some thunder in the bat down the line, especially once he fills out, good present backspin to project.  Arm strength is okay, but fast twitch catch and release, really hops out the set.   Caught two in game POP for 1.97 and 1.98, sound fundamentally.  Solid receiving skills and provides a good target, rounds out to above average defensive game. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/03/2014-mlb-draft-profile-bryce-carter/

Draft 14 – Bryson Brigman, Turner Larkins, Dylan Cease, Jeff Hoffman

7-2-13 - 2014 Top 100 High School Prospects - 19. Bryson Brigman- INF, Valley Christian (CA) HS -  One of the best all around players in the country who does everything well 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/

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

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/

Draft 14 – Touki Toussaint, Dylan Cease, Nigel Nootbaar, LSU

 

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. LINK

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

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. LINK

6-27-13 - LSU: The Tigers will be a very intriguing team entering the 2014 campaign. Starting pitchers Aaron Nola and Cody Glenn give Paul Mainieri are a very solid one-two punch on the weekend, but the Tigers must replace relievers Nick Rumbelow and Chris Cotton, among others, so the bullpen is a definite question mark going into the offseason. Meanwhile, offensively, LSU has some serious holes to fill without Mason Katz, Raph Rhymes, JaCoby Jones and even catcher Ty Ross, who meant a lot to the Tigers in '13. The good news? LSU welcomes a great recruiting class in the fall. LINK

Draft 14 – Austin Cousino, Dylan Cease, Kodi Medeiros, Touki Toussaint, Luis Ortiz

6-10-13 - Austin Cousino, OF, Kentucky - The 2013 season was somewhat disappointing for Cousino, but the first round tools are there.  He can run and provides exceptional defense in center.  At the plate, he has a line drive swing and should develop into a top of the order bat at the next level.

 LINK  

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. LINK

6-13-13 - Todd Gold‏ @TGold_PG - 2014 LHP Kodi Medeiros (Hilo, HI) is sitting 90-92, touched 94 from low 3/4 slot with + tailing life, good 80 mph frisbee SL

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. LINK

6-14-13  -  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. LINK