The Morning Report 7.28.2015 | MORE TRADES!

Evaluating The Trade: Troy Tulowitzki | Chris Soto

• Let's just get right to it shall we? At 12:14AM EST this morning, the Colorado Rockies traded SS Troy Tulowitzki and RP LaTroy Hawkins to Toronto for SP Jeff Hoffman, CL Roberto Osuna, SS Jose Reyes, and SP Jesus Tinoco. This deal was straight up with no money exchanging hands. So of course people are going to ask, "What is the equivalent trade for the Mets?" Well....there is none.....at least not a complete one. I'll do my best to re-create it though

• SP Jeff Hoffman- The Blue Jays top right handed pitching prospect is a potential ace with 2 plus pitches in his upper 90's fastball and his power curveball. His 3rd pitch is a an above average change-up that keeps lefty hitters off balanced.
• Mets Equivalent- Noah Syndergaard

• RP Miguel Castro- Despite only being 20 years old, he displaced Brett Cecil from the closer's role early in the season but giving it up himself to another 20 yr old flame thrower in Osuna. With his mid 90's fastball and a devastating change-up, Castro could develop into one of the better closers for the next 2 decades. 
• Mets Equivalent- Akeel Morris

• SS Jose Reyes- The Rockies do not feel that prospect Trevor Story is ready for the MLB so essentially Jose Reyes is a SS replacement for Tulo. On top of bringing 30 SB wheels, Reyes still has some solid pop in his bat and could be a legitimate threat to hit 15 HRs out of Coors Field. Getting away from the punishing turf field should also work wonders for his legs.  
• Mets Equivalent- .....ummm....I got nothing....Wilmer Flores?? just for the replacement part

• SP Jesus Tinoco- A 2011 Venezuelan bonus baby, the 6' 4" 20 yr old has a ton of projectability. He already has a plus sinker that generates a ton of ground ball outs as well as swings and misses. He still needs to work on improving the breaking stuff and his change-up but if both of those pitches come around, the Rockies could have a potential #3/#4 guy here
• Mets Equivalent- Casey Meisner

• As you can see, the Blue Jays paid a HEAVY price to grab Tulo. A potential top starter, a potential top closer, a significant wild card piece, AND an MLB starting caliber player.

Evaluating The Trade: Tyler Clippard | Chris Soto

• Now that the Tulo evaluation is out of the way....lets turn our attention to the Mets trade yesterday. Sandy Alderson agreed to send SP prospect Casey Meisner to Oakland in exchange for CL Tyler Clippard + cash. The deal utilizes the Mets current SP depth in the lower minors to not only bolster the MLB bullpen, but also provides Terry Collins with a solid weapon against left handed hitters.
• SP Casey Meisner- Meisner is a very RAW prospect who could has some significant upside. When he was drafted out of high school his FB only clocked in at 86-88 mph, but he has since improved it to 92-94mph. He combines this with an ok curveball that flashes promise of being a plus pitch and a change-up that still needs some work but could potentially be an MLB average pitch. Meisner is the definition of the long term project as he still needs significant time to develop his "stuff." If he does improve he could have a solid ceiling as an 200+ inning #3 starter in the big leagues
• RP Tyler Clippard- The former Nationals set-up man, is a battle hardened veteran with 2 years of high leverage bullpen experience in the playoffs. During his 8 seasons with the Nationals and A's, Clippard has a career 2.69 ERA supported by a 10.2 K/9 rate. His superb change-up makes him particularly dangerous against left handed hitters. In his career, lefties are only hitting .183 AVG with a miniscule .571 OPS. 
• Clippard should immediately step into his familiar role as a set-up man in the NL East and knows the Nationals extremely well. He is going to a ridiculously strong weapon for the Mets who suddenly have 4 closer quality arms in the bullpen.

Justin Twine, Carson Sands, Bradley Zimmer, Mac Marshall, Mike Papi

5-11-14 - Justin Twine, SS/RHP, Falls City HS (TX) - A two-way standout in both baseball and football, Twine is a great athlete who has been a one-man wrecking crew for Falls City this season. At the plate, he is hitting .544/.672/1.196 over 16 games with six doubles, six triples, four home runs and has stolen 18 bases. He has drawn 16 walks to five strikeouts, showing a patient approach. On the mound, he has 49 K/8 BB over 21.1 innings, allowing just seven hits. At 5’-10” and 200 pounds, he has more upside as a position player where his speed (6.52/60) and strong arm will allow him to play at several positions. He is considered raw as he has split his time between sports, but he has all the tools and the power is already coming. Committed to TCU. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-high-school-players-rise-final-edition/42853#cZ17mE5vsjiSvU18.99

3-26-14 – TTF – 10 high school players on the rise — third edition – Carson Sands, RHP, North Florida Christian HS (FL) - In a huge match-up between Alex Destino of The First Academy, Sands was brilliant allowing one run on one hit over 6.2 innings, striking out 11 to one walk in a 7-1 win. Kiley McDaniel at Scoutingbaseball.com tweeted that he was hitting 92 mph with his fastball with plus life. For the season, he now has 45 K/11 BB over 24.2 innings, allowing 10 hits. The 6’-3”, 215 pound southpaw has a low-90s fastball with arm-side run and there is still room for more velocity as he matures. He has great mound presence and looks like a polished pro. He also shows two solid secondaries in a change-up and curveball. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise-third-edition/42098#CmrUPUJfBWKiV2MO.99

3-21-14 - Dan Kirby ‏@DanMKirby  - Bradley Zimmer hitting .424/.473/.706 over 20 G with 5 2B, 5 HR, 9 SB. Cubs have to be looking at him at 4, best power/speed combo in draft.

Mac Marshall, LHP, Parkview HS (GA) - With a fastball that sits in the low-90s, an upper-70s curveball that shows plus potential, and an upper-70s change-up with a good feel, Marshall is one of the better southpaws available in the 2014 MLB draft. He is the best pitcher for one of the best programs in the country and is a big-game pitcher. Through 55.2 innings, he has 80 K/25 BB and has allowed just two runs on 24 hits. He could sneak into the first round and should be gone in the top-40 picks. Committed to LSU. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-high-school-players-rise-final-edition/42853#cZ17mE5vsjiSvU18.99

3-19-14 – TTF – Mike Papi, 1B/OF, Virginia (54) - When projected first-round pick Derek Fisher went down with a broken hamate bone in a series against Duke, Papi let the team know he could carry the load by responding with his bat. In the next game against James Madison, he went 2-for-4 with two home runs and three RBI in a 13-2 win on March 11. Already a gifted hitter with a great approach from the left side, the 6’-3”, 215 pound junior is showing off the power most thought would come with his size. Through 18 games, he is hitting .338/.470/.600 with five home runs and has drawn 16 walks to 11 strikeouts. He is starting to gain late-first round attention. Fisher is expected to miss 4-6 weeks. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-week-5/41905#JeRjl1lAwHFUPJlv.99

Sean Reid-Foley, Chase Vallot, Michael Kopech, Nic Wilson, Michael Conforto

5-11-14  -  Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Sandalwood HS (FL) - One of my favorites in the 2014 MLB draft, Foley was brilliant all season for the Saints. Over 67 innings, he had 124 K/17 BB, allowing six runs on just 17 hits. He tossed three no-hitters and was nearly untouchable all year. The 6’-4”, 200 pound right-hander has been rising all season due to his size and four-pitch mix. His fastball touches 94 mph with late life, and he adds a filthy, upper-70s curveball that is one of the best in this deep class of prep arms. His slider has shown flashes of plus potential and his change-up is still developing. Could go top-20 and is committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-high-school-players-rise-final-edition/42853#cZ17mE5vsjiSvU18.99

5-11-14  -  Chase Vallot, C, St. Thomas More HS (LA) - Blessed with tremendous bat speed, Vallot is one of the best power bats in the 2014 MLB draft and he has a legitimate shot to stick behind the plate due to his receiving skills and plus arm. His offensive upside could force a move to the outfield, however. Through 31 games, he is hitting .529/.633/1.103 with 12 doubles, 12 home runs, 54 RBI and has drawn 24 walks to 14 strikeouts, showing a patient approach at the plate as team want nothing to do with him most of the time. Should go among the top-50 picks and is committed to Mississippi State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-high-school-players-rise-final-edition/42853#cZ17mE5vsjiSvU18.99

3-26-14 – TTF – 10 high school players on the rise — third edition – Michael Kopech, RHP, Mount Pleasant HS (TX) - On Tuesday, March 25, Kopech had 16 strikeouts to two walks over seven shutout innings. He now has 59 K/7 BB over 29 innings, allowing just 11 hits. The 6’-4”, right-hander has touched 98 mph with his fastball this season, and his mechanics and size could allow for even more velocity. He adds a plus slider with hard bite and is one of my favorite players in this year’s class. I saw him at the 2013 Under Armour All-American Game at Wrigley, and he put on a clinic in his one inning of work. Committed to Arizona. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise-third-edition/42098#CmrUPUJfBWKiV2MO.99

3-19-14 – TTF – Michael Conforto, OF, Oregon State (24)  - Conforto has been reaching base at a torrid clip all season and just seems to keep getting better. Over his last six games, he has gone 10-for-18 (.556) with two doubles, a triple and a home run — his first of the year. He has also drawn eight walks over that span and has a .714 OBP. On the season, he is now hitting .400/.582/.600 over 21 games with nine extra-base hits, 30 RBI and a silly 26 walks to just seven strikeouts. The 6’-3” left-hander is starting to look like a top-15 pick in the 2014 MLB draft based on his bat alone. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-week-5/41905#JeRjl1lAwHFUPJlv.99

Cameron Varga,, Michael Gettys, Brady Aiken, Jeff Hoffman, Adam Haseley, Heath Dwyer

5-12-14 - Cameron Varga, RHP, Cincinnati Christian HS (OH) - Varga has been ridiculous this year. With a fastball that has been sitting 92-94 mph, along with an upper-70s curveball with great depth, he has absolutely blown away the competition this season. Over 39 innings, he has allowed just one run on 10 hits while striking out 94 to four walks. He has tossed three no-hitters and, in his last outing, struck out every batter he faced over five innings. At 6’-4” and 200 pounds, he has the size and stuff to be a TOR starter. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-high-school-players-rise-final-edition/42853#cZ17mE5vsjiSvU18.99

5-18-14  -  Michael Gettys  -  I talk about Gettys a lot, but I just believe in the kid and his abilities. He has tweaked his mechanics at the plate and the results over the past 18 games have been stellar. Over those 18 games, he is hitting .455/.565/1.000 with six doubles, eight home runs and 16 stolen bases. More importantly, he has drawn 10 walks to just five strikeouts, showing a much better approach at the plate and better pitch selection. He is now hitting .406/.509/.833 through 32 games with eight doubles, 11 home runs and 24 stolen bases.With his plus/plus arm and plus speed, he should be able to stick at center field at the next level. Add in his raw power and you have one of the highest upside players in the 2014 MLB draft. Committed to Georgia.
 http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-five-high-school-players/42931#BrqM3BlCZROcRBlE.99

3-26-14 – TTF – 10 high school players on the rise — third edition – Brady Aiken, LHP, Cathedral Catholic HS (CA) - No one is rising faster than Aiken, and many now have him as their number-one prospect in the 2014 MLB draft. With two potential plus offspeed offerings, great command of his stuff , an easy delivery and his size (6’-4”, 200 pounds), the only thing scouts wanted to see was added velocity. After sitting 88-91 mph over the summer, he has been up to 97 mph this spring and sitting around 92-94 mph. With that kind of stuff from the left side, mixed with his extreme polish on the mound, everyone is salivating, especially Houston Astros fans. Over 8.2 innings this season, he has 20 strikeouts to two walks. Committed to UCLA. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise-third-edition/42098#CmrUPUJfBWKiV2MO.99

3-18-14 - Every time Jeff Hoffman digs his spikes into a dirt mound this spring there will be a sizeable contingent of individuals in lawn chairs armed with radar guns critiquing his every move. Such is life when you are widely considered to be among the elite pitching prospects in college baseball. Hoffman knows professional scouts will be there in droves this season, but he has pitched with watchful eyes fixated upon him for quite some time now. “It’s really not a big deal unless you let it get into your head. I’m pretty used to it by now,” Hoffman said. “I have always tried to keep my focus on the job I have to do. I need to go out there and pitch well enough to give my team a chance to win the game. That’s my priority. I can’t really worry about who’s there watching and things I can’t control. I think I’ve always done a pretty good job of tuning that stuff out and just pitching.” http://www.troyrecord.com/sports/20140318/high-hopes-for-hoffman

3-17-14 – TTF – 10 High School Players On The Rise – Adam Haseley, LHP, The First Academy HS (FL) - A teammate of Foster Griffin, who is gaining first-round attention, Haseley has a lot of upside himself as a left-handed starter and an outfielder. With a fastball that touches 92 mph, as well as a promising breaking ball, he has struck out 28 to just three walks over 13.1 innings this season. At the plate, he has gone 15-for-30 with three doubles, a triple, two home runs and three stolen bases. He runs a 6.51/60 and is a very good athlete — a great sign for projection on the mound. Haseley starred for U18 Team USA Baseball, leading the team with a .484/.515/.800 line. Committed to Virginia. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise-second-edition/41810#OfV5L7GbWgi2Xqtf.99

3-18-14 - The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) released its National Player of the Week awards for the period ending March 16 today. VCU’s junior left-handed pitcher Heath Dwyer was named National Pitcher of the Week. Dwyer went the distance, posting one of the most dominant pitching performances in recent VCU history, in a 1-0 two-hit win over Buffalo. The Chandler, Ariz., native’s day was highlighted by his 15 strikeouts, setting a new career-high. The final two strikeouts of the pitcher’s night came in the ninth inning to preserve the Rams’ 1-0 win and conclude his fifth career complete game.  http://www.collegebaseballdaily.com/2014/03/18/ncbwa-announces-players-of-the-week/

Trae Turner, Jeff Hoffman, Brady Aiken, Trea Turner, Aramis Garcia, Grant Holmes

5-12-14  -  Trea Turner, SS, North Carolina State - Turner has been showing all the tools that had him projected as a top-five pick before the season started. Over his last 15 games, he is hitting .407/.527/.678 with five doubles, a triple, three home runs and 15 walks. He also has stolen 10 bases, showing off his plus/plus speed and great instincts on the base paths. For the season, he is up to .330/.424/.523 with nine doubles, seven home runs, 21 stolen bases and 30 walks to 21 strikeouts. He has the speed, an advanced approach and now has started to show the power everyone has been waiting for. Some scouts still question his hit tool. I think a team is going to get a steal if he lands in the 8-12 range. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-20-college-players-rise-extended-version/42827#fT3rk0vlpqPHPiFi.99

3-15-14 - East Carolina’s Jeff Hoffman, struggled for the second straight week in a 7-2 loss to Tulane. I was on hand for that one getting my first look at Hoffman this year, and it was not a great look. Hoffman’s defense did him no favors, struggling in the outfield and behind the plate, but he was hardly overpowering anyway, allowing six runs (five earned) on seven hits and two walks over 6 1/3 innings, while striking out five. Hoffman did not have his best velocity, working mostly at 93-94 mph and reaching back for 97 in the first and once in the fifth. He did a good job jamming righthanded hitters with his 91-92 mph two-seamer, which had good arm-side run, but he left too many four-seamers out over the plate, and Tulane squared a handful of them up. His curveball ranged from 74-80 and showed some sharp bite, but it did not have the kind of power it had in the Cape Cod League, where we heard reports of it ranging from 79-84. Even in his season debut, he threw some curveballs at 80-83. He mixed in a short slider at 84-86, but his most impressive secondary pitch Friday was his 84-86 changeup, which he threw effectively against righthanded hitters to get multiple swing-throughs. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/friday-roundup-nola-weaver-win-marquee-showdowns/

3-26-14 – MaxiPreps – Brady Aiken, Cathedral Catholic (San Diego) - In two outings, Aiken has given up just one hit and no runs in posting a 2-0 record. He has struck out 20 batters in 8.2 innings pitched while walking only two. He struck out 12 in 4.2 innings against La Costa Canyon. http://www.maxpreps.com/news/kRbRSgP8z06XdyYf0_JnPg/tyler-kolek,-michael-gettys,-brady-aiken-among-senior-baseball-prospects-off-to-strong-starts.htm 

3-11-14 – TTF -  Aramis Garcia, C, Florida International (NR) - Over his last five games, Garcia has gone 8-for-21 (.381) with two doubles, four home runs, nine RBI and has drawn four walks to one strikeout. Over 16 games, he is now hitting .424/.521/.763 with five home runs, ranking among the leaders in all four categories. At 6’-2” and 220 pounds, the right-hander has an easy swing with plenty of power behind it. As a sophomore, he hit .321/.378/.522 with 11 home runs. Scouts love the bat more than his defense right now, but with a canon arm and very good footwork, he has a chance to stick behind the plate. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-week-4/41715#PjStmsQ7UB5h8BYU.99

3-12-14 – 10 High School Players on the Rise –  Grant Holmes, RHP, Conway HS (SC) - In his first start of the season on March 7, Holmes struck out 12 to one walk over five innings. He has been reported to be hitting 97 mph with his fastball, and he adds a plus curveball to go with a change-up that projects to above-average. With three quality pitches in his arsenal, and that type of velocity, he doesn’t need much projection — the one knock on him as many believe he has maxed out physically at 6’-2” and 200 pounds. He has great mound presence and commands his stuff well. Should be a first-round pick and he seems to keep climbing draft boards. Committed to Florida. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise/41773#oFu0m6JRyhOHXIwD.99

Austin Cousino, Michael Chavis, Jeff Hoffman, Joe Wainhouse, Luke Bonefield

3-11-14 – TTF - Austin Cousino, OF, Kentucky (NR) - I had Cousino on my list last week and he just keeps hitting. Over his last six games, he has gone 14-for-27 (.519) with three doubles, two triples and has driven in five runs. On the season, he is now hitting .443/.500/.657 with eight doubles, two triples, a home runs and is a perfect 7-for-7 in stolen base attempts. The 5’-10” left-handed hitter is good defender in center field and has shown some extra pop in his bat this season as he ranks among the leaders in SLG. He also leads the nation in hits with 31. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-week-4/41715#PjStmsQ7UB5h8BYU.99

3-26-14 – MaxiPreps – Michael Chavis, Sprayberry (Marietta, Ga.) - The shortstop has at least one hit in all 13 games his team has played, with 10 multi-hit outings. He's batting .667 (26 for 50) with 15 runs scored, 17 RBIs, four doubles and six home runs. His best outing came against Osborne in a 10-0 win when he went 3-for-3 with two home runs and five RBIs. http://www.maxpreps.com/news/kRbRSgP8z06XdyYf0_JnPg/tyler-kolek,-michael-gettys,-brady-aiken-among-senior-baseball-prospects-off-to-strong-starts.htm

3-9-14 – MLB Draft Insider - Jeff Hoffman – RHP East Carolina – It was another rough outing for Hoffman who only last three and a third innings. He walked seven, hit another two, and had a wild pitch. He only gave up just two hits but thanks to the control issues, he gave up three runs on the day. The positive side is he did manage to strike out six, but he ended up with the loss against Marshall. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-rundown-march-8/#more-3872

1B - Joe Wainhouse, Sr., Kentridge (Wash.) - Wainehouse is a huge presence at 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds. He has huge strength that translates to raw power and when he connects he connects big. His large frame comes in handy defensively on handling high throws and stretching for close plays. Quinn Rawson was also considered for this spot. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9561

3-12-14 – 10 High School Players on the Rise – Luke Bonfield, OF, IMG Academy - One of the better prep hitters in the 2014 MLB draft, the 6’-2”, 190 pound right-hander was impressive in every event he played in over the summer, showing off excellent bat speed and power. Over 12 games this season, he is hitting .323/.500/.742 with three doubles, two triples, two home runs and 11 walks to just one strikeout, showing his advanced approach at the plate. He runs a 6.85/60 and has a strong enough arm to hold down a corner outfield position. Committed to Arkansas. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise/41773#oFu0m6JRyhOHXIwD.99

Draft 14 – Braxton Davidson, Brandon Finnegan, Grayson Greiner, Jeff Hoffman, Branden Kelliher

2-3-14 – MaxPreps - Top 10 MLB Draft Prospects in high school - 5. Braxton Davidson, Roberson (Asheville, N.C.) Davidson has consistently been listed as one of the top five players in every mock draft. An infielder in high school, he could move to the outfield at the next level. Davidson doesn't have great power, but scouts expect him to be a consistent hitter at the next level. He could go somewhere in the top 15. http://www.maxpreps.com/news/B41AzcsA90iOL5xwFL8T7Q/top-10-major-league-baseball-draft-high-school-prospects.htm

3-25-14 – TTF 10 college players on the rise — week 6  - Brandon Finnegan, LHP, TCU (18) - With 10 K/2 BB over seven shutout innings against Texas Tech on March 21, Finnegan now has double-digit strikeouts in five of his six starts this season. In the other one, he had nine strikeouts. With 65 K/9 BB over 43.2 innings, he has a 13.4 K/9 ratio to go along with a 1.44 ERA, 0.80 WHIP and .172 BAA. Arguably the best pitcher in college this season with a fastball that touches 100 mph to go along with a plus slider, he isn’t being considered for the top-five selections because of one thing — his size. At 5’-11” and 195 pounds, he is considered undersized to be an elite starter at the next level simply because of the track record for guys that size. There is always the anomaly, however, and if a team believes he can continue to dominate at the next level, there is no telling how high he could go. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-week-6/42071#MDUXGtxd7YCtKt0X.99

3-6-14 – Nats GM -  Grayson Greiner C University of South Carolina - The first thing you notice about Greiner is his physically imposing size, as he appears larger than his listed 6-5 220lbs; this immediately makes scouts question if Greiner will be able to remain a catcher in the professional ranks.  However, Greiner provides a big, quiet target for the pitcher, shows notable arm strength, and is fairly agile behind the plate, making him a surprisingly quality defensive catcher.  Offensively Greiner has a longish swing with quality bat speed, but has not shown the production or power one might expect from such a strong, talented prospect in his first two collegiate seasons. Greiner will be an interesting prospect this coming June, as some teams will be put off by his size and lack of power numbers in college, yet some team will fall in love with his present defensive skills and dream on the potential of his bat.  While I do not see him as a 1st round pick, polished collegiate catchers are always in demand on draft day, and I see Greiner being selected early in June. http://natsgm.com/2014/03/06/scouting-the-2014-mlb-draft-early-march-edition/

3-5-14 – TTF - 10 college players on the rise — week 3 - Jeff Hoffman, RHP, East Carolina (3) - It’s hard to say Hoffman is rising considering he is already projected as a top-three pick. With his latest outing, however, he could be challenging Carlos Rodon for the top spot by the end of the year. Against Western Kentucky on Friday, the 6’-4” right-hander was brilliant, striking out 14 to one walk over eight innings. He allowed one unearned run on five hits in the no-decision. He had been showing off his ridiculous repertoire all year, but this time the results matched the stuff. With four pitches that grade out to at least above-average, along with his size and effortless delivery, the Justin Verlander comps are looking legit. Hoffman now has 26 K/6 BB over 21.1 innings, allowing just 14 hits. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-week-3/41478#ilZqhEaASo2Kkjik.99

P - Branden Kelliher, RHP/SS, Sr., Lake Stevens (Wash.) - The biggest arm in the region belongs to a smaller right hander, and his development has continued to progress at a good pace ever since establishing himself as one of the top prospects in the northwest at a young age. Kelliher ran his fastball up to 94 at the WWBA World Championship in October and he pairs it with two good offspeed pitches, an upper 70s curveball with hard 12-6 break that has reached as high as 80 mph, and an advanced changeup. He's also a good shortstop at this level and is one of the best all around high school players in the region. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9561

Jeff Hoffman, Aramis Garcia, Skyler Ewing, Sean Reid-Foley, Alex Jackson

2-21-14 – Project Insider - Jeff Hoffman, RHP — East Carolina - Hoffman, who was solid yet unspectacular last Friday, will be tested versus a strong Virginia lineup that includes potential first-round pick Derek Fisher, as well as Day 2 and 3 prospects Mike Papi, Nick Howard, Branden Cogswell and Brandon Downes. Let’s see how well Fisher, a left-handed bat, can handle Hoffman, whose changeup needs work and is an offering he hasn’t used a lot just yet. Hoffman will use the fastball up in the zone to get swings and misses, however, so Fisher will need to lay off and force Hoffman to throw him strikes. This is a terrific test for Fisher, who is adept at using the left-center field gap. http://prospectinsider.com/draft-prospect-watch-hoffman-vs-fisher

3-25-14 – 5. Aramis Garcia, Florida International Height 6'2", Weight: 200 DOB: 1/12/1993 R/R - Big time riser, here is his bio, here is a riser article and here is BA raving.  He has plus arm strength, decent speed for a catcher, great intangible sixth tool, can communicate well with pitchers.  He might go pretty well.  The Cardinals drafted him before, and those guys are never wrong about anything.  And as the guy has great pop times that would stick in pro ball right now, they might just be right. http://www.yougottalikethesekids.com/2014/03/ten-catchers-in-2014-mlb-draft.html

2-27-14 – TTF - 10 college players on the rise - Skyler Ewing, 1B/C, Rice (NR) - The 6’-1”, 220 pound right-hander hit just .226/.347/.342 over 57 games as a sophomore. He did show a good approach at the plate, however, drawing 23 walks to 30 strikeouts. After making some adjustments to his swing, he was impressive at the Cape Cod League, hitting .287/.374/.496 over 34 games for Hyannis with 14 extra-base hits. He then led the team in nearly every offensive category this fall and was set for a big year. Through his first eight games, he has been a monster for the Owls. He has gone 16-for-33 (.485) with two doubles, three home runs and 17 RBI. He has drawn four walks to three strikeouts, showing a continued progression in his approach while being more aggressive at the plate. He is most likely relegated to first base, putting a lot of pressure on his bat to produce, although he can fill in at catcher if needed. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-2/41299#ldBBF8hRKzmaiy5H.99

2-11-14 – PG/Florida HS Dream Team – P – Sean Reid-Foley, Sr. Sandalwood - Reid-Foley had a strong summer, throwing well at most of the major events this year. Of the six events he threw at this summer, he touched at least 93 mph at five of them, topping at 95 at the East Coast Pro. On top of the big velocity, the fastball shows heavy arm-side run action, and it is his off-speed that sets him apart from some of the other power arms in this year's class. He works his slider into the mid-80s, a true slider with late bite, and he also owns a fading changeup which he can bring in on righthanded hitters, a devastating pitch against hitters at this level. When everything is working, Reid-Foley dominates the opposition and gets many empty swings. http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9372

3-2-14 - I saw [Alex] Jackson in person twice this summer and way more than that on TV/video. With the everlasting caveat that I’m not a scout, I walked away each time surprised — well, surprised the first time and more confused thereafter — that everybody had hyped up his bat while downplaying his glove. Not doing the Charlie Contrarian shtick, but I was more impressed with his glove than I thought and not really wowed by the bat. It’s still a really impressive, first round quality stick, especially since I think he could stick at catcher, but not the Bryce Harper (not a comparison, just mentioning him as the most recent high profile catcher to outfielder conversion) kind of hit/power/approach combination that makes you want to rush him to the big leagues as a right fielder. I’d draft him with high confidence as a mid-first round pick — could rise to top ten, easily — as a catcher, obviously a little bit lower as an outfielder (where there’s way more competition in this draft class, both prep and college). Lots of rumblings that he wants to move to the outfield ASAP to speed up his developmental timeline. That’s a fun twist on the usual team-first approach to that kind of thing. http://baseballdraftreport.com/2014/02/27/emails/

Draft 14 – Jeff Hoffman, Michael Chavis, Max Pentacost, Justin Smith, Kel Johnson

2-23-14 - Anyway, I want RHP Jeff Hoffman from East Carolina. He’s my current perfect world pick. Mid-90s heat, serious FB movement, above-average FB command, knockout CB that he spots wherever and whenever, circle-CU that tumbles like a split, lots of projection left in his frame (6-4, 185 pounds), solid or better results his first two college years, breakout summer on the Cape…yeah, he’s my guy. Instantly the top prospect in the system when he signs and should be a quick riser through the system. http://baseballdraftreport.com/2014/02/20/rodon-hoffman-and-2014-mlb-draft-college-pitching/

3-25-14 – MLB Draft Insider Mock –  19  Michael Chavis  3B           Sprayberry HS (Ga.)        Sprayberry HS (Ga.)  -  Chavis has seen his stock shoot up with a strong spring, showing plus power and it looks like he’s going to be able to stick at third-base as well. What you see is what you get from him, however. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-board-2014-volume-ii/

2-19 – TTF - 10 college players on the rise - Max Pentecost, C, Kennesaw State (13) The MVP of the Cape Cod League after hitting .346 over 35 games, Pentecost has been one of  the most talked about 2014 MLB draft prospects for awhile. Over his first three games, he has gone 8-for-13 with three doubles, two walks and no strikeouts. His offensive potential alone makes him a projected first-round pick. His ability to remain at catcher, along with developing power, could land him in the upper half of the first round. 

http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise/41224#Brkvtc4VfkP16udZ.99

 2-11-14 – PG/Florida HS Dream Team – OF – Justin Smith, Sr. Bartram Trail - Another University of Miami commit, Smith has shown all five tools throughout the past couple of years. At 6-foot-2, 210-pounds, Smith is a strong, athletic outfielder with the tools to match the frame. He has plenty of arm strength to stay in right field and has showed the ability to make the big throw in game settings. He flashes big power with the bat as well and runs a 6.67 60-yard dash. http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9372  

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 56. New York Yankees — Kel Johnson, OF, (Home School) (GA) - A 6’-4”, 210 pound right-hander who has been a fixture on Perfect Game tournaments, Johnson is home schooled by his parents and plays for the East Cobb Braves — one of the premiere youth baseball operations in the country. Power would be his best tool right now as he generates a ton of it with his strong wrists and bat speed. A player who you come to watch hit batting practice. Finished second to Gatewood in the home run derby at Citi Field, hitting 11 in total. Committed to Georgia Tech. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

Draft 14 – Jeff Hoffman, Luke Weaver, Michael Gettys, Joe Dunand

2-21-14 – Jim Callis - Where would East Carolina right-hander Jeff Hoffman slot into the MLB.com Top 100 Prospects list? - -- Roger D., San Francisco - Hoffman ranked No. 2 on our initial Draft Prospects list, behind only North Carolina State left-hander Carlos Rodon. Hoffman has the look of a frontline starter, as he can work in the mid-90s with his fastball and has two more future plus pitches in his curveball and changeup. Like most young pitchers, he can be inconsistent at times, and he also doesn't miss as many bat as his stuff would suggest he should http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article/pipeline-inbox-wholl-be-top-prospect-at-each-level?ymd=20140221&content_id=68046312

3-25-14 – MLB Draft Insider Mock –  14  Sean Newcomb                LHP        Hartford-  There have been positives in Newcomb’s first few outings this year, but the command hasn’t been one of them and the fact that he’s dominating severely inferior competition hasn’t impressed scouts either. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-board-2014-volume-ii/

2-19 – TTF - 10 college players on the rise - Luke Weaver, RHP, Florida State (17) The 6’-2”, 190 pound right-hander was unhittable Friday night — literally. Over six innings, Niagra failed to record a hit and Weaver added seven strikeouts to one walk. Projected as a mid-first rounder, he has the potential to go top-10 if he continues to show the stuff he had Friday night. His fastball sits in the low/mid 90s and he adds a change-up that flashes plus. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise/41224#Brkvtc4VfkP16udZ.99

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 8. Colorado Rockies — Michael Gettys, OF, Gainesville HS (GA) - The latest in a long line of studs out of the state of Georgia, Gettys is a 6’-2”, 200 pound right-hander who has silly talent. His arm has been clocked at 100 mph from the outfield, he can run a 6.4/60 and his plus/plus speed shows up on the base paths as he swiped 38 bases over 32 games as a junior. The power is also there, and I saw him hit a shot to dead center field that went halfway up the bleachers at Wrigley. Some have questioned his tool a bit as he didn’t have a great showing at summer events, but with him focusing more on hitting than pitching this season, I fully expect him to squash those doubts. Committed to Georgia. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

2-11-14 – PG/Florida HS Dream Team – 3B – Joe Dunand, Sr. Gulliver Schools - Although listed as a primary shortstop, the PG scouting staff has seen Dunand play at a very high level at third base for Marucci Elite on the travel ball circuit. A strong 6-foot-2, 210-pound athlete, Dunand has shown smooth actions around the third base bag with soft hands and enough arm strength across to make the deep throw. His bat steadily improved throughout last summer and into the fall, showing better fluidity in his swing. The strength and bat speed have always been there, consistently squaring up inside pitches to his pull side, creating hard and loud contact. http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9372

Draft 14 – Monte Harrison, Jeff Hoffman, Derek Fisher, Jack Flaherty, Lane Thomas

2-11-14 - Monte Harrison is the No. 1 guy out of the Midwest and he could very well be one of the top athletes in the class. He is a dual sport guy and had a great senior season on the football field this year when his team won the Class 5A State title in Missouri. He had 29 touchdowns this year and caught 60 passes. He is headed off to Nebraska in the fall and he has a bright future in both sports. - See more at: http://www.studentsports.com/baseball/2014/02/11/monte-harrison-leads-midwest-crop/#sthash.97Y8kxce.dpuf

3-25-14 – MLB Draft Insider Mock – 07   Jeff Hoffman     RHP        East Carolina  -  There’s still an awful lot of baseball to be played, but the fact of the matter is that Hoffman has been mediocre far too often this year to justify putting him in the top five, much less the top two. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-board-2014-volume-ii/  

2-5-14 - Derek Fisher, OF, Virginia - A very good athlete, and maybe the best overall college bat in the 2014 MLB draft, Fisher is a 6’-3”, 200 pound right-hander who should hit for more power this year. He made great strides last year in his approach at the plate dropping his strikeouts from 61 to 38 over roughly the same number of games. Over 53 games as a sophomore, he hit .306 with 12 doubles, seven home runs, eight stolen bases and a .420 OBP/.505 SLG. He hit .333 in the Cape Cod League and drew 25 walks to just 19 strikeouts, again showing his improvement in his approach. Along with his good speed, he also has a strong arm but there are questions about his throwing mechanics and he may be forced to left field. Many are expecting a big year, and if he does breakthrough with the power numbers, he could be in the mix at pick four. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-dark-horse-candidates-chicago-cubs-first-pick/41075#UeYBipV5rOuYd7xE.99

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 33. St. Louis Cardinals (Carlos Beltran) — Jack Flaherty, 3B/RHP, Harvard-Westlake HS (CA) - Flaherty is a 6’-4”, 200 pound right-hander with massive power potential. The ball jumps off his bat and his plus bat speed suggests he should hit for a high average, as well. His arm, instincts and power potential profile well at the hot corner. He has shown above-average speed but probably isn’t a guy who is going to steal many bases. Playing for a national powerhouse, he will get plenty of attention this year. He is a baseball player in every sense of the word. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 52 Lane Thomas OF R/R 6-0 170 Bearden HS, Knoxville, Tenn. “Tennessee” http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

Draft 14 – Jeff Hoffman, Kodi Medeiros, Braxton Davidson, Milton Ramos

1-20-14 – PG Preseason College All-Americans - Starting Pitcher - Jeff Hoffman, East Carolina - 2013 Stats: 3.20 ERA, 109 2/3 IP, 84 K, 39 BB, .243 OPP BA - Though it remains a long shot in the eyes of many, Hoffman is one pitcher who could unseat Rodon as the top overall pick in next summer’s MLB draft. Hoffman, a 6-foot-4, 192-pounder, has elite stuff, and coach Billy Godwin feels like he has a chance to put all the puzzle pieces together once and for all this spring. Hoffman has a fastball anywhere from 94-97, with the ability to touch 98, while he possesses a good low-80s curveball and developing low-80s changeup. Perhaps no pitcher includes as much intrigue entering the spring as Hoffman. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9294

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 35. Houston Astros (From Orioles) — Kodi Medeiros, LHP, Waiakea HS (HI) - With two plus pitches already in his back pocket, the southpaw who throws from a low-three quarters slot has some of the filthiest stuff in the country — just ask anyone who faced him this year. His fastball can touch 96 mph with late movement and life and his slider is nasty and wipes out lefties. You don’t see many sidearm starters in the majors so it will be interesting to watch his development. Also, at 6’-0” and 185 pounds, his projection is limited. Still, he has established himself as one of best arms available in the 2014 MLB draft. Committed to Pepperdine. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  31- 1B Braxton Davidson T.C Roberson HS (UNC Commit) 6/18/96- the powerfully built LH swinger has a bit of a Justin Morneau comp in my opinion. He has a very good arm that will be wasted at 1B as he probably is not fleet enough to play RF. The top LH power hitter in his class. (Braves @ 29) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 25 Milton Ramos SS R/R 5-11 160 American Heritage, Hialeah Gardens, Fla. Florida Atlantic http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

Draft 14 – Jeff Hoffman, Grant Holmes, Alex Verdugo, Jackson Reetz, Josh Ockimey

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/


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/


10-29-13 – Jim Callis – Top 10 World Wood Bat Association World Championship (WWBA) Jupiter, Fla - 10. Alex Verdugo, OF/LHP, Texas Scout Team Yankees (Sahuaro High, Tucson, Ariz.) -  Scouts are split on his future because he has a sweet left-handed swing and a strong arm. http://ht.ly/qi5No


10-15-13 – Baseball America - 49. Jackson Reetz, c/of/rhp, Hickman (Neb.) HS: An offensive star of the 18U USA Baseball squad that won a gold medal this summer, Reetz has shown the ability to hit in games, as well as the tools and athleticism to stick behind the plate. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/


9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 98. Josh Ockimey – 1B, Neumann-Goretti (PA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

Draft 14 – Erick Fedde, Cobi Johnson, Austin Byler, Jeff Hoffman, NickNaquet

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/

 

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/


10-14-13 – Top ’14 College Hitters - 10. Austin Byler / 3B-OF / Nevada — It’s not the prettiest swing you’ll see this year, but Byler has plus power from the left side and the bat should profile at either corner outfield position. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/10/top-14-for-14-college-hitters/


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


9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 84. Nick Raquet – LHP, State College (PA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

Draft 14 – Casey Gillespie, Ti’Quan Forbes,Devin Smeltzer, Brandon Murray, Jeff Hoffman

10-14-13 – Top ’14 College Hitters - 11. Casey Gillespie / 1B / Wichita State — There’s no doubt that the switch hitting Gillespie can get on base (.447 on-base percentage, 62 walks in 2012), but there are concerns about his size (6-5, 240) and whether or not he’ll hit for enough power to play everyday at first. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/10/top-14-for-14-college-hitters/

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 19. Kansas City Royals — Ti’Quan Forbes, SS, Columbia HS (MS) At 6’-4” and 180 pounds, the right-hander oozes potential due to his defensive abilities, strong arm, plus speed (6.4/60) and developing raw power. He has shown a patient approach at the plate, driving the ball to all fields, and his size suggests more power will come. He hit .391/.447/.758 as a junior with only seven strikeouts over 103 plate appearances. If teams believe he can stick at shortstop, he could shoot up draft boards. 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 – 62.Devin Smeltzer – LHP, Bishop Eustace Prep (NJ) 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/

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/

Draft 14 – Brett Austin, Jack Flaherty, Brady Aiken, Aaron Nola, Jeff Hoffman

10-14-13 – Top ’14 College Hitters - 14. Brett Austin / C / NC State — Austin has done nothing over his first two seasons to remind anyone that he was a day-one pick in 2011, but a switch-hitting catcher with raw offensive ability is someone you have to keep an eye on. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/10/top-14-for-14-college-hitters/

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 22. Tampa Bay Rays — Jack Flaherty, 3B/RHP, Harvard-Westlake HS (CA)  Like Gatewood, Flaherty is a 6’-4”, 200-pound right-hander with massive power potential. The ball jumps off his bat and his plus bat speed suggests he should hit for a high average, as well. He doesn’t have quite the arm of Gatewood, but he should be able to stick at third due to his range and instincts. He has shown above-average speed but probably isn’t a guy who is going to steal many bases. Playing for a national powerhouse, he will get plenty of attention this year. He is a baseball player in every sense of the word. Committed to North Carolina. 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 – 26.Brady Aiken – LHP, Cathedral Catholic (CA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

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/

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/

Draft 14 – Christian Ibarra, Kyle Schwarber, Chase Vallot, Mac Marshall, Jeff Hoffman

10-17-13 - 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 89 with LSU’s third baseman Christian Ibarra. Before transferring to LSU for his junior season, Ibarra was a shortstop at Rio Hondo and earned All-State and All-Pacific Division Team recognition last season after batting .396 with 20 doubles, 6 HR, 40 runs and 50 RBIs in 45 games. The Marauders were 40-5 and made it to the California Final Four, the junior-college equivalent of a Super Regional. http://ht.ly/2AMUWG

10-14-13 – Top ’14 College Hitters - 5. Kyle Schwarber / C-1B / Indiana — The industry is higher on Schwarber than I am right now, with many believing the left-handed hitting backstop possesses 70 power and can stick behind the plate. I think his defensive position is more in question, however, and as a first baseman I don’t see a good enough bat to justify being a top ten pick. There’s plenty of time to prove me wrong, however. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/10/top-14-for-14-college-hitters/

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 34. Cleveland Indians — Chase Vallot, C, St. Thomas More HS (LA) One of the youngest players in the draft, the 6’-0”, 205-pound right-hander generates a ton of raw power due to his bat speed and strong wrists. His strong arm, size and footwork should allow him to stick at a premium position and he also has pretty good speed. Another player I got to see at Wrigley, he hit a couple bombs out of the park with ease and showed a polished approach at the plate during the game. Committed to Mississippi State. 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 – 25.Mac Marshall – LHP, Parkview (GA) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

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/

Draft 14 - A Quick Look At - RHP - Jeff Hoffman - East Carolina

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

Draft 14 – Grant Holmes, Derek Fisher, Michael Cederoth, Brian Gonzalez, Jeff Hoffman

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/

10-14-13 – Top ’14 College Hitters - 1. Derek Fisher / OF / Virginia — Fischer is going to have to hit — he doesn’t have the arm strength or instincts to be anything but a left fielder — to earn this ranking, but he certainly has the offensive tools to justify it. The left-handed hitting outfielder has above-average bat speed and a linear swing that should lead to above-average power numbers, though we haven’t seen that translate into games as much as one would hope. Consistency has been a problem for Fischer, but with a strong junior season you could see him go very early, as he’s one of the few middle of the order type bats in this class. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/10/top-14-for-14-college-hitters/

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

9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 92.Brian Gonzalez – LHP/1B, Archbishop McCarthy (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

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