Michael Chavis, Gareth Morgan, Carson Sands, Michael Conforto, Nick Gordon

5-12-14  -  Michael Chavis, 3B, Sprayberry HS (GA) - Not many have improved their stock as much as Chavis has this year. He has continued to show his massive power potential, advanced hit tool and athletic abilities to stick in the infield. He hit four home runs in his last two games and hit .536/.632/1.143 over 30 games with seven doubles, 14 home runs and 17 stolen bases. He played shortstop and should be able to handle third base at the next level where the bat will more than play well. He looks like a good bet for the first round. Committed to Clemson. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-high-school-players-rise-final-edition/42853#cZ17mE5vsjiSvU18.99

3-14-14 – Prospect Insider - The Canadian Junior National Team has spent their spring training playing at the beautiful Al Lang Stadium in St. Petersburg, Florida. Outfielder Gareth Morgan is the top prospect on the squad and is one of the best high school prospects to come out of Canada in several years. Morgan has very quick hands that should generate solid pop. Although his swing may need to be toned down a bit in the future, as there is currently a lot of length in it. Morgan will be facing top flight competition, as the Canadian team will be facing local colleges as well as Pittsburgh Pirates’ and Detroit Tigers’ minor league squads. This might be the best look that scouts get at him before the draft, as when he returns to Canada he will be facing inferior competition. http://prospectinsider.com/category/2014-mlb-draft

3-26-14 – MaxiPreps – Carson Sands, North Florida Christian (Tallahassee, Fla.) - The senior left-hander is closing in on 40 career wins and 400 career strikeouts. He is off to a 4-1 start with a 0.57 ERA and 45 strikeouts in 24.2 innings pitched. He has a 35-9 career record with 398 strikeouts 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 - Michael Conforto, OF, Oregon State (24) - Over his last six games, Conforto is hitting .563/.720/.875 with three doubles, a triple, 11 RBI and has drawn nine walks to one strikeout. The 6’-3” left-handed hitter is proving to be one of the best bats available in the 2014 MLB draft and could go in the first half of the first round due to his ability to rake to all fields. He has yet to hit a home run this season, but with a .396/.570/.566 slash line over 17 games, including 21 BB/5 K, few have been better offensively. 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 – Nick Gordon, SS/RHP, Olympia HS (FL) - Gordon has been displaying more pop in his bat in the early going thanks to added muscle, as well as some extreme patience at the plate. Over 10 games, the left-handed hitter has gone 11-for-24 (.458) with three doubles, a triple, two home runs and six stolen bases. He has drawn nine walks to two strikeouts and has been hit by a pitch four times already. With a canon arm and smooth actions in the field, he should stick at shortstop and, if he continues to show increased power, should be a top-15 pick in the 2014 MLB draft. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise/41773#oFu0m6JRyhOHXIwD.99

Draft 14 – Carlos Rodon, Bradley Zimmer, Nick Gordon, Aaron Nola, Christian Martinek

3-7-14 – PG - It’s good to be the king, and right now Carlos Rodon holds that title in the 2014 MLB Draft class. He has and will continue to have others nipping at his heels, namely Jeff Hoffman at ECU, but at this moment he is the man to beat for the top spot. But, that perch does not come without its more negative aspects. Rodon has been a known commodity for many years now, and as much as he’s lauded for his ability, he’s also been placed squarely under the microscope, as any potential No. 1 overall selection should be. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9501

3-25-14 – TTF 10 college players on the rise — week 6  - Bradley Zimmer, OF, San Francisco (12)  - Zimmer just keeps crushing the baseball and running wild on the base paths. Over his last five games, he has gone 11-for-21 (.524) with a double, triple, home run and five stolen bases. For the season, he is now hitting .427/.474/.697 over 21 games with five doubles, two triples, five home runs and 11 stolen bases. He has the best power/speed combination in the 2014 MLB draft and, at 6’-5” and 200 pounds, the left-handed hitter also has a plus arm and has a chance to stick at center field, although both the bat and arm would play well in right. He is playing like a top-10 pick. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-week-6/42071#MDUXGtxd7YCtKt0X.99

2-3-14 – MaxPreps - Top 10 MLB Draft Prospects in high school - 9. Nick Gordon, Olympia (Orlando, Fla.) While his father Tom Gordon was a pitcher in the Major Leagues, Nick will likely be an everyday player thanks to his speed, fielding and hitting ability. The top middle infielder in the draft, according to some scouts, Gordon's arm is strong enough to hit 94 mph on the radar gun. http://www.maxpreps.com/news/B41AzcsA90iOL5xwFL8T7Q/top-10-major-league-baseball-draft-high-school-prospects.htm

2-27-14 – TTF - 10 college players on the rise - Aaron Nola, RHP, LSU (11) - I am still not sure which stands out more: The fact that Nola didn’t allow a hit over seven innings on Friday, or that he issued a walk. Against Virginia Tech on Friday, he had 8 K/1 BB over those seven no-hit innings and now has 14 K/1 BB over 13 shutout innings for the year. He now has 225 K/26 BB over 228.2 career innings with a 2.28 ERA. The 6’-1” right-hander features a low-90s fastball with heavy sing and a deceptive change-up that freezes hitters. One of the best pitchers in the 2014 MLB draft, he has a date with Tyler Beede and Vanderbilt on March 14. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-2/41299#ldBBF8hRKzmaiy5H.99

P - Christian Martinek, LHP, Sr., Portland Jesuit (Ore.) - In a region with a severe lack of quality left handed pitching, Martinek is easily the top lefty. He's been on the radar for some time, which helps make up for the fact that he missed last season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He looked healthy over the summer and a big year from him could make Jesuit a contender with he and one of the top third basemen in the region, Evan Haberle, on the same team. Others considered include: left hander Andrew Summerville, pitchability lefty Ryan Mets, sidearmer Dakody Clemmer and junior two-way player Parker Kelly. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9561  

Draft 14 – Sean Newcomb, Mike Papi, Nick Gordon, Scott Hurst, Jeremy Vasquez

2-21-14 – Project Insider - Sean Newcomb, LHP — Hartford  -  Newcomb draws Georgetown to open his season. The southpaw will not face a lot of strong competition this year, but that’s generally not as much of a detriment for arms as it is bats, so it shouldn’t hurt his draft stock much. http://prospectinsider.com/draft-prospect-watch-hoffman-vs-fisher

3-25-14 – MLB Draft Insider Mock –  24. Mike Papi            OF/1B   Virginia   -  I feel like Papi has been a victim of his own statistics by some. No, he’s not going to be a guy who puts up massive numbers at the big-league level, but he sure isn’t Raph Rhymes either. - http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-board-2014-volume-ii/ 

2-23-14 - Bob Nightengale ‏@BNightengale  - Scouts are absolutely raving about Nicholas Gordon, son of Tom "Flash'' Gordon. projected to be high 1st round draft pick as a shortstop.

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 57. Kansas City Royals — Scott Hurst, OF, Bishop Amat HS (CA) - A burner who has been clocked at 6.49 in the 60, the 6′-0” right-hander projects to a top-of-the-order hitter with developing power. He also has one of the strongest arms in his class having been clocked at 99 mph from the outfield. Has a real chance to stick in center field, which would only help his draft stock. Committed to Cal State Fullerton. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

2-11-14 – PG/Florida HS Dream Team – 1B – Jeremy Vasquez, Sr. Martin County - Vasquez shows nice tools around the bag with soft hands and strong glove skills at first base. But what sets him apart from other first basemen are his skills in the box. A lefthanded hitter, Vasquez shows consistent hitting tools at every event he attends. Whether it is big-time velocity or quality breaking balls, the Florida commit uses loose, strong hands and an easy swing to barrel up the ball on a regular basis. http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9372

Draft 14 – Grant Holmes, Luke Weaver , Tyler Beede, Michael Conforto, Nick Gordon

2-20-14 - Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  - RHP Grant Holmes (SC) threw two innings in a scrimmage last night. 94-96, touched 97-98. Conway, SC definitely on my to do list

3-25-14 – MLB Draft Insider Mock –  13  Luke Weaver     RHP        Florida State  - Weaver has been very good to start the season, showing plus command and occasionally a plus change. There are many pitchers with more upside than Weaver, but few with higher floors. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-board-2014-volume-ii/

2-19 – TTF - 10 college players on the rise - Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt (2) - I’ve seen Beede ranked all over the place on draft boards. I have had him second to Carlos Rodon for a while now, and on Friday, he showed why. After a bit of a shaky start in the first, he settled down and retired the last 13 batters he faced, seven via strikeout. Over five innings, he allowed just one hit while striking out seven to no walks. He showed off his four-pitch mix headlined by a mid-90s fastball with life and a plus curveball that buckles hitters. His change-up was on and he had control of all of his stuff. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise/41224#Brkvtc4VfkP16udZ.99

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 26. Oakland Athletics — Michael Conforto, OF, Oregon State - One of the better bats available in the 2014 MLB draft, the 6’-2”, 215 pound right-hander uses the whole field and has a great approach at the plate. I got a chance to see him hit when the Collegiate National team played at Kane County, and I was extremely impressed by the way he handles himself at the plate — waiting for his pitch and driving it to the gaps with ease. He hit .328/.447/.526 over 65 games as a sophomore with 11 home runs and 41 walks. He’s not going to steal many bases, and he will most likely end up in left field. His bat is what will land him in the first round. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

2-11-14 – PG/Florida HS Dream Team – Best Defensive Infielder: Nick Gordon, Sr. Olympia - When you combine his plus athleticism, high baseball IQ, and cannon of an arm, he has the ability to make plays that shouldn’t be made. The added strength to his frame has done nothing to hinder him in the field, as he stills makes the play deep in the 5-6 hole. And while others may not have the arm strength to make the off-balance throw, Gordon has no problem firing an accurate strike to first base in such situations. He takes big, easy gliding steps to the ball with range to both sides and displays sound glove work. http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9372    

Draft 14 – Derek Fisher, Jacob Gatewood, Carson Cross, Nick Gordon, Braxton Davidson

2-17-14 - Virginia outfielder Derek Fisher has been named the first Atlantic Coast Conference Baseball Player of the Week of the 2014 season. Fisher hit .455 in three weekend games as Virginia posted two wins in the Hughes Brothers Challenge in Wilmington, N.C. Fisher had at least one hit in all three games to lead the top-ranked Cavaliers, who bounced back from an opening loss to Kentucky with wins over VMI and UNC Wilmington. The Rexmont, Pa., native had two hits in each of Virginia’s wins, including two that drove in runs in Sunday’s 7-2 victory over UNCW. Fisher scored five times in the three games to lead all ACC players in weekend play and had three RBIs. http://www.theacc.com/#!/news-detail/ACC-Baseball-Players-Of-The-Week-Announced_02-17-14_s5vjs3

3-25-14 – MLB Draft Insider Mock – 12   Jacob Gatewood  SS/3B                Clovis HS (Calif.)                  -  Several area guys told me that I shouldn’t have Gatewood on my top 25, and I get it, the hit-tool is going to take a lot of work to get to anywhere close to average. But I just can’t drop him out of the top 12. If I don’t like what I see in person in a couple of weeks, that will change. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-board-2014-volume-ii/

2-19-14 - University of Connecticut pitcher Carson Cross, who was the top local prospect for this year’s Major League Baseball draft, will have shoulder surgery and miss his entire college season, the school said earlier this month. UConn, which opens its season Friday against Ohio State in Port Charlotte, Fla., said Cross, a Brentwood native who starred at Exeter High School, would have surgery performed by specialist Dr. James Andrews. He will have one season of college eligibility remaining. The 6-foot-5 Cross was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 24th round last June but opted to return to UConn for his redshirt junior year. Last spring he was the staff ace, going 9-4 with a 2.44 ERA, 86 strikeouts and 24 walks. His 110.2 innings led the team. http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20140213-SPORTS-140219851

2-11-14 – PG/Florida HS Dream Team – Best Infield Arm: Nick Gordon, Sr. Olympia - As stated above, Gordon has top of the line arm strength, recently throwing 94 mph across the infield at the World Showcase. His throws are accurate and show plus carry, but what is most impressive is how easy and effortless the throws are out of his hand. http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9372

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 14. San Francisco Giants — Braxton Davidson, 1B/OF, TC Roberson HS (NC) - While he may end up at first base — putting extra pressure on his bat to produce — his power from the left side and approach at the plate are very enticing to scouts. At 6’-3” and 215 pounds, he is already a man but still has room for projection. His excellent bat speed allows him to wait on pitches and not get cheated. 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-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

Draft 14 – Michael Gettys, Aaron Nola, Alex Jackson, Derek Fisher, Nick Gordon

2-17-14 - Jim Callis ‏@jimcallisMLB  -  Michael Gettys, if he convinces scouts he'll hit. @NoToryousone1: of top 15 #mlbDraft Prospects, who can make biggest jump based on what they show

3-25-14 – MLB Draft Insider Mock –  11  Aaron Nola         RHP        LSU        -  Let me be clear; Nola is still fighting an uphill battle as a guy who doesn’t have an out-pitch and who throws from that low of slot, but his command and feel for pitching have been as good as any pitcher in baseball. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-board-2014-volume-ii/

2-14-14 - The No. 1 player from the Southern part of the state is Alex Jackson a catcher/outfielder from Rancho Bernardo (Calif.). Jackson is a physical player, standing in at 6-foot-1, 225-pounds and is headed off to Oregon, if he doesn’t sign after the draft. At the Area Code workout last summer, Jackson showed his defensive skills from behind the plate, but it was in the outfield where you got an appreciated for his arm strength. At the plate, he has a good swing and solid approach. - See more at: http://www.studentsports.com/baseball/2014/02/13/alex-jackson-socals-no-1/#sthash.ZE8Fg86C.dpuf

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 13. San Diego Padres — Derek Fisher, OF, Virginia - The Padres always seem to need some offense in their system, and Fisher is one of the best all-around college players available. 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. The 6’-3” right-hander is a great athlete with good speed on the base paths. Over 53 games as a sophomore, he hit .306 with 12 doubles, seven home runs, stole eight bases and had 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. I think a big year is coming. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

2-11-14 – PG/Florida HS Dream Team – UT – Nick Gordon, Sr. Olympia - Gordon has been in the national spotlight for some time and continues to show high level tools every time he steps on the field. The multi-position standout will stick at shortstop at the next level, thanks to his superb athleticism and smooth fielding actions, but he also has a strong feel with the bat from the left side. Gordon is also a top round talent on the mound, working comfortably with his fastball in the low-90s and also shows feel for a hammer breaking ball. He has the MLB bloodlines – his father is former big-league coser Tom “Flash” Gordon – but Gordon is his own player and has added noticeable muscle to his frame, helping to develop power and show all five tools at an elite level.  http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9372

Draft 14 – Touki Toussaint, Nick Gordon, Michael Gettys, Michael Chavis, Raphael Ramirez

2-11-14 – PG/Florida HS Dream Team – P – Touki Toussaint, Sr. Coral Springs Christian - Toussaint shows both big velocity and a plus secondary offering on the mound on a consistent basis. When you take into consideration how relatively new he is to the mound, scouts dream on what Toussaint may look like as a finished product. The first thing you notice when he delivers a pitch is how loose and quick his arm action is and how easy the ball leaves his hand. The 6-foot-2 Vanderbilt commit frequently touches the mid-90s, with a high of 97, and has one of the best curveballs in this year’s draft class. http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9372   

3-25-14 – MLB Draft Insider Mock –  08  Nick Gordon       SS           Olympia HS (Fla.) - Gordon has been outstanding all spring and has clearly separated himself from all the other shortstop prospects in the class; and he has a chance to be a dominating reliever if the whole hitting thing doesn’t work out for him. Which is nice. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-board-2014-volume-ii/

2-5-14 - Michael Gettys, OF, Gainesville HS (GA) - Maybe my favorite prep player in the 2014 MLB draft, Gettys, like Zimmer, shows every tool except present power. Although, I did see him launch one deep into the bleachers in center field at Wrigley Field, so it is definitely there. His arm was clocked at 100 mph from the outfield, and he can run a 6.4/60, showing plus speed that does show up on the base paths. He swiped 38 bases over 32 games as a junior last season and has the instincts to be a threat at the next level. I also saw him make a throw to third from center field that was right on the money without a hop. The 6’-2”, 200 pound right-hander still has some work to do at the plate, but with a full year concentrating more on hitting than pitching, I fully expect him to answer his critics. A ton of upside and a high character kid. Committed to Georgia. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-dark-horse-candidates-chicago-cubs-first-pick/41075#UeYBipV5rOuYd7xE.99

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 39. Kansas City Royals — Michael Chavis, 3B, Sprayberry HS (GA) - The 5’-11” right-hander is one of the better hitters in the 2014 MLB draft. He has also shown some incredible power and won the home run derby at the PG Classic — his last a bomb that ended up in the trees over the left field wall. He runs a 6.68/60 and has the hands, arm and instincts to to stick at third. Should hear his name a lot in the next year. Committed to Clemson. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 57 Raphael Ramirez OF L/L 5-10 176 Pace Academy, Atlanta North Carolina State http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

Draft 14 – Jacob Gatewood, Slade Heggen, Matt Chapman, Matthew Rainey, Nick Gordon

2-5-14 - Continuing our profiles of some of the top high school hitters available in the 2014 MLB Rule IV Draft brings a look at Jacob Gatewood, a Short Stop from Clovis High School in Clovis, CA. Do you like your up the middle players tall, lanky and wiry? Do you like them with plus raw power? Do you like them to wrists that would make Connor MacLeod envious? If you answered yes, you’ll probably like Gatewood. If you answered no to any of those three questions then I’ll remind you that Chuck Knoblauch ain’t coming through that door, and you really, really need to go watch Highlander. Gatewood works from a tall set-up, allowing his length and wiry strength to be used to his advantage. As I’ve discussed in regard to Joey Gallo, depth and distance from the plate in a hitter’s stance as well as angles through the zone become an ever-present concern for tall hitters with long limbs. Too much ‘hunch’ in their set-up will lead to an inability to get the bat head through the zone and anything less than an absolutely direct lines will lead to plenty of sad-faced calls to their bat supplier. http://projectprospect.com/article/2014/02/04/2014-mlb-draft-jacob-gatewood-hitter-profile

1-27-14 – BP - Positional Preview: High School Catchers - Slade Heggen | C/OF/3B | Loyola Sacred Heart (Missoula, MT) | Commit: Oregon  Height/Weight: 6-foot/195 pounds  B/T: R/R  Draft Day Age: 18y 6m  Heggen is an interesting blend of athleticism, raw ability, and now performance. The Treasure State standout utilizes a short swing path with lots of pitch-plane overlap to produce hard contact, and showed the ability to square quality arms at multiple stops along the showcase circuit. He has a tendency to pop the clutch when transitioning from load to swing, but it is not a long-term concern. Heggen moves well behind the plate, but regularly struggles with his catch-and-throw game due to inconsistencies in his transfer and release (leading to lots of bounces into the bag). Further, some question whether his frame and build will prove capable of handling the grind of a long pro season behind the dish. If he does have to shift out from behind the plate he moves well enough to hold down an outfield corner. http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=22662

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 40. Milwaukee Brewers — 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 and 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 swing. He wound up leading Team USA in RBI with 20 over 23 games and drew 14 walks for a .396 OBP. If the power comes this year, he could move up draft boards. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 42 Matthew Railey OF L/L 5-11* 195 North Florida Christian, Tallahassee, Fla. Florida State http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

3-20-14 – Cubs Insider - • Nick Gordon, Olympia High School (Orlando, Fla.) shortstop/pitcher: Good bloodlines as the son of Tom/“Flash,” who lasted 20-plus years in the big leagues, and younger brother of Dee, who plays for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Committed to Florida State University. http://www.csnchicago.com/cubs/mlb-draft-cubs-identifying-targets-no-4-overall-pick

Draft 14 – JD Davis, Devon Fisher, Nick Gordon, Carl Chester, Brandon Finnegan

1-30-14 - Number 25 on our countdown is Cal State Fullerton junior first baseman and RHP JD Davis. The Elk Grove High School native was a four-year letter winner at Elk Grove High School. He was a two time All-American selection in his junior and senior year with outstanding campaigns which he hit .486 batting average with 8 homers, 60 RBI, 1.80 ERA, 91 strikeouts as a junior and a .505 batting average, 9 homers, 45 RBI, 1.56 ERA, 70 strikeouts. He was selected in the fifth round of the 2011 MLB Draft. As a freshman, he appeared in 41 games while making five pitching appearances as he hit .229 with 20 RBIs and a team high four home runs. On the mound, he had a 3.52 ERA with three walks and nine strikeouts in 23 innings. He played the summer with the Wisconsin Woodchucks of the Northwoods League as he batted .344 with three home runs and 26 RBIs while posting a 4-0 record with a 2.10 ERA on the mound. His summer was cut short after getting into an auto accident which broken his clavicle and sprained an ankle. http://ht.ly/2DnG2Y

1-27-14 – BP - Positional Preview: High School Catchers - Devon Fisher | C/3B/RHP | Western Branch (Chesapeake, VA) | Commit: Virginia  Height/Weight: 6-foot-1/200 pounds  B/T: R/R  Draft Day Age: 18y 1m  Fisher is solidly built, particularly in the trunk, already showing some in-game pop to the gaps and an ability to really put a charge into the ball when he loads up in BP. He put together an impressive series of offensive showings in Cary during the Tournament of Stars last June before fading some in August at East Coast Pro and then coming back strong in October down in Jupiter. The Virginia commit shows quick hands and a fairly compact swing despite a slight wrap. He is a solid athlete, with a projectable build that should be able the weather the strain of the long pro season behind the plate. He can get choppy in his transfer, but there’s enough arm strength for the catch-and-throw game to play at the next level. http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=22662

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 21. Tampa Bay Rays — Nick Gordon, SS/RHP, Olympia HS (FL) - A two-way talent with great bloodlines (Tom “Flash“ Gordon is his dad and Dee Gordon is his brother), the 6’-2” right-hander may have a brighter future at short where his strong arm, instincts and athleticism could allow him to stick at a premium position. Offensively, he hits from the left side and projects to a top-of-the-order hitter with speed and a very good approach at the plate. Over 30 games as a junior, he hit .505 with 15 doubles, six triples and 12 stolen bases. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 69 Carl Chester OF R/R 5-11 167 Lake Brantley, Longwood, Fla. Miami http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

3-20-14 – Cubs Insider - • Brandon Finnegan, Texas Christian University left-hander: Opening eyes by putting up 55 strikeouts against seven walks through his first five starts this season. The Cubs are on the clock. http://www.csnchicago.com/cubs/mlb-draft-cubs-identifying-targets-no-4-overall-pick

Draft 14 – Alex Jackson, Nick Gordon, Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber, Gareth Morgan

1-27-14 – BP - Positional Preview: High School Catchers - Alex Jackson | C/OF | Rancho Bernardo (San Diego, CA) | Commit: Oregon  Height/Weight: 6-foot-2/210 pounds  B/T: R/R  Draft Day Age: 18y 5m  Jackson boasts one of the best blends of offensive and defensive upside in the draft class, with a chance to hit for average and power while providing solid defense behind the dish and a strong catch-and-throw game. The Oregon commit routinely impressed in batting practice throughout the summer showcase circuit, with big pull side power generated through a leveraged swing. In-game the load can get a little deep, with the swing length causing some issues with velocity, but the bat-to-ball ability and bat speed give hope that the Oregon commit will figure things out as he continues to log reps against quality arms. Behind the plate Jackson moves well side-to-side with and shows an ability to impact the game with his arm, clocking pops as low as 1.77 for me over the summer and routinely sitting in the 1.85 to 1.95 range with low, level lines on his throws. There’s work to be done, no doubt, but the San Diego prepster has the body and athleticism to grow into a solid receiver and defender. Should a team desire to shift him to a corner to expedite offensive development, he is athletic enough to handle right field and possesses more than enough arm. Jackson was a worthy recipient of the first annual Baseball Prospectus Prospect of the Year Award last August as an impressive athlete with a chance to grow into an impact bat at a premium defensive position. He currently profiles as a solid top half of the first round talent. http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=22662

1-24-14 - Nick Gordon, son of former ballplayer Tom and brother of Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Dee, is one of the most exciting prospects in the upcoming draft largely because he is considered a top-15 prospect as both a pitcher and a position player. Like his brother Dee, Nick has a slight frame—standing at 6’2” and 170 pounds—but he projects to fill out more than his older brother. Also like his brother, Nick has outstanding speed, which helps him both on the bases and in the field. Currently, Nick is a shortstop as a position player, and there’s little reason to think he would have to move off the position. He has great range and an absolute cannon to go along with great hands. http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1934895-4-prospects-the-new-york-mets-could-target-in-the-2014-mlb-draft/page/2

1-26-14 - Jim Callis ‏@jimcallisMLB  - Turner overall, Bregman better bat. Bregman a pro 2B. @dhb38: diff classes but who's better Trea Turner or Alex Bregman? Both ss?

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 24. Detroit Tigers — Kyle Schwarber, C/1B, Indiana - The 6’-0”, 230 pound right-hander has tremendous power and is also one of the better hitters available in the 2014 MLB draft. His ability to remain behind the plate is still up for debate, but he wants to stay there and has been working hard on his defense. Over 61 games as a sophomore, he hit .366/.456/.647 with 10 doubles, 18 home runs and drew 42 walks to just 37 strikeouts. He then hit .308/.396/.436 over 21 games for the Collegiate National Team with 11 walks. We all saw the premium put on college bats in last year’s draft, and Schwarber should benefit from that this year. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 45 Gareth Morgan OF R/R 6-4 231 North Toronto (Ont.) Collegiate Uncommitted http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

Draft 14 – Brandon Finnegan, Michael Gettys, Nick Gordon, Bradley Zimmer

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 20. Cincinnati Reds — Brandon Finnegan, LHP, TCU - A power lefty who can touch 97 mph with his fastball, Finnegan’s size (5’-11”, 185 pounds) has some questioning his ability to remain a starter. His fastball sists in the mid 90s with a lot of life and his slider has plus potential. Posted a 3.18 ERA, 1.37 WHIP with 86 K/35 BB over 79.1 innings as a sophomore. Starring for the Collegiate National Team, he had a team-high 23 K over 23.2 innings, allowing just 11 hits. He did issue 10 walks, however, and his command can get him in trouble at times. A strong junior season is expected. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99  

1-20-14 – Michael Gettys is a 6'2", 195 pound physical specimen. He is a tightly wound, quick twitch athlete with amazing speed and phenomenal arm. If he couldn't hit at all, he would be a top 100 prospect as a pitcher, but I don't see any chance he steps on a mound because of the loud tools as a position player. He has a 92-94 MPH fastball and a very good mid 70's to low 80's breaking ball that both have potential. He covers a ton of ground with his speed and can throw the ball 100 MPH from the outfield, although it came with a lot of effort. He has the potential to be a great defender in centerfield. http://www.minorleagueball.com/2014/1/20/5320530/2014-mlb-draft-profile-michael-gettys-of-gainsville-ga-high-school  

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 9 Nick Gordon SS/RHP L/R 6-0 170 Olympia HS, Orlando, Fla. Florida State http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

1-20-14 – PG Preseason College All-Americans – Outfield - Bradley Zimmer, San Francisco - 2013 Stats: .320 AVG, 12 2B, 3 3B, 7 HR, 37 RBI, 29 BB, 31 SO, 19 SB - Bradley’s brother, righthanded pitcher Kyle Zimmer, was a first-round pick in the MLB draft two summers ago. Bradley could be the next Zimmer to receive that honor should he put together a strong spring, which by the way, is expected. Zimmer has a very lengthy frame at 6-foot-5, 205-pounds and impressed scouts this past summer on the Cape Cod League with his ability to consistently put the bat on the ball. Zimmer has good instincts in the outfield, and also possesses above average speed. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9294    

Draft 14 – Keaton McKinney, Nick Gordon, Scott Hurst, Trace Loehr

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

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  18- SS/RHP Nick Gordon Olympia HS (Florida State Commit) 10/24/95- He is another talented 2-way guy. He has already grown 3-5 inches past his dad, the former big leaguer Tom. I think he sticks at SS even though the arm is pretty effortless sitting in the low 90’s with a solid curve (although not the elite curve his dad possessed) Offensively he can fly like his brother Dee and as a LH hitter that is a big advantage for his overall game. Obviously, he has plenty of arm to be a potentially super SS prospect. I have seen him twice and I actually like him as a pitcher better but I could see why he projects as a top 20 pick with the upside he has at SS and the power he already has shown. (Royals @ 19) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

12-10-13 – TTF – Top 50 HS Players - 29. Scott Hurst, OF, Bishop Amat HS (CA) - A burner who has been clocked at 6.49 in the 60, the 6′-0″ right-hander projects to a top-of-the-order hitter with developing power. He also has one of the strongest arms in his class having been clocked at 99 mph from the outfield. Has a real chance to stick in center field, which would only help his draft stock. Committed to Cal State Fullerton. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50/40532#zz88YJZTOG8iEa1Z.99

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 50 Trace Loehr 2B L/R 5-10 176 Putnam HS, Milwaukie, Ore. Oregon State http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

Draft 14 – Touki Toussaint, Michael Cederoth, Tyler Beede, AlexBlandino, Nick Gordon

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


11-4-13 – MLB Draft Insider - Top 14 for ’14: College Pitchers - 8. Michael Cederoth / RHP / San Diego State — Cederoth’s fastball has hit 100 on scouts guns and features a slider that will flash above-average. He looks more like a high-leverage reliever at this point with a somewhat violent arm action and a lack of a quality third offering. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/11/top-14-for-14-college-pitchers/


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


10-15-13 – Baseball America - 44. Alex Blandino, 3b, Stanford: Two-time Cape Cod League all-star struggled last spring but has the bat speed and athleticism to stay on the infield. 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 – 15.Nicholas Gordon – SS/RHP, Olympia (FL) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

Draft 14 – Nick Gordon, Alex Jackson, Sam Coonrod, Joey Pankake, JustinTwine

11-11-13 – PG HS Rankings – 2  -   Nicholas Gordon SS RHP 6-2 170 L R Olympia Windermere FL  Florida State FTB Chandler Team  -  Good athlete, really projects both ways, outstanding defensive SS stood out at WWBA, BCS and PG Nat., great bloodlines, up to 94 @ PG World, Very good at PG All American Game  http://www.perfectgame.org/Rankings/Players/Default.aspx?gyear=2014&num=500


11-6-13 – Todd Gold – WWBA World Championship – Alex Jackson (2014 C/OF Cardinals Scout Team/FTB Chandler, 2014 SS), Jacob Gatewood (Toronto Blue Jays Scout Team) - Jackson and Gatewood are the type of alluring high ceiling prospects that cause some scouts to dream on their upside, and others to dwell on their present flaws. Their big reward potential comes with big risk, but both are the type of draft day gambles that can change the fortunes of a franchise. If either reaches their ceiling, they have a chance to become cornerstone players for whichever organization selects them. Despite being below average straight away runners, both are good athletes. Gatewood has good present defensive actions at shortstop and an above average arm, Jackson's plus-plus present arm is a weapon behind the plate and is also well suited for right field. The raw power for both players is tremendous and if all goes right they each have a chance to hit 30-plus home runs a year while manning premium defensive positions. Both strike out a lot even at this level and make infrequent contact, causing a lot of scouts to hesitate despite their gamechanging ceiling. These are the types of prospects that put a lot of pressure on scouting directors holding picks between fifth and fifteenth overall. They will be fun players to follow not only leading up to draft day, but throughout their development as professionals. Work ethic and desire to learn and improve will go a long way to determining whether these two will fail to overcome the challenges of pro ball, or go on to achieve superstardom and leave their mark in the Major Leagues. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9157


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


10-15-13 – Baseball America - 48. Joey Pankake, ss/3b/rhp, South Carolina: Powerfully built infielder controls the strike zone and has plus raw power to fit the profile at third base. 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 – 85.Justin Twine – SS, Hemphill (TX) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

Draft 14 – Kodi Medeiros, Gabe Gonzalez, Aaron Nola, Nick Gordon, ColeTucker

11-11-13 – PG HS Rankings – 5  -   Kodi Medeiros LHP OF, 1B 6-0 185 L L Waiakea Hilo HI  Pepperdine Big League  -  Can flat out pitch! Unhittable and up to 95 at PG AA. Excellent breaking ball. Impressed at WWBA World Championship http://www.perfectgame.org/Rankings/Players/Default.aspx?gyear=2014&num=500


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


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


10-15-13 – Baseball America - 11. Nick Gordon, ss/rhp, Olympia HS, Orlando, Fla.: The son of former big leaguer Tom and brother of Dodgers infielder Dee has a chance to stick at short with a plus arm, good actions and a solid lefthanded swing. 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 – 18.Cole Tucker – SS, Mountain Pointe (AZ) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

Draft 14 – Evan Skoug, Nick Gordon, Kyle Schwarber, Alex Jackson, Slade Heggen

10-30-13 - Clint Longenecker/BA – WWBA World Championship - Although he was not a part of the championship squad, Reds Scout Team catcher Evan Skoug won the tournament’s most valuable player award by hitting .636/.800/1.000 with a double and a home run. The lefthanded-hitting Texas Christian commit from Libertyville (Ill.) High had eight walks against one strikeout. Skoug is a physical beast with a powerful lower half, sloped shoulders and strength throughout his large frame at 5-foot-11, 200 pounds. He is a hard-nosed, high-intensity player with above-average raw power. 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 - 4. Nick Gordon, SS/RHP, Cardinals Scout Team/FTB Chandler (Olympia High, Orlando, Fla./Florida State)  Son of former All-Star Tom offers defensive ability, above-average speed and a low-90s fastball. http://ht.ly/qi5No


10-15-13 – Baseball America - 17. Kyle Schwarber, c/1b, Indiana: Physical lefthanded swing helps him hit for power and average; his best position is clearly the batter’s box. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/


10-29-13 – Jim Callis – Top 10 World Wood Bat Association World Championship (WWBA) Jupiter, Fla - 1. Alex Jackson, C, Cardinals Scout Team/FTB Chandler (Rancho Bernardo High, San Diego/Oregon) -  Plus right-handed power and arm strength are his two best tools; no reason he can't stay behind the plate. http://ht.ly/qi5No


9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 100. Slade Heggen – C, Loyala Sacred Heart (MT) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

Draft 14 – Sean Newcomb, Carlos Rodon, Shaun Vetrovec, Nick Gordon, Joe Gatto

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 8. Colorado Rockies — Sean Newcomb, LHP, Hartford  The 6’-5”, 240-pound southpaw was among the leaders in K/9 with a 11.5 mark this season thanks to a fastball that can touch 95 mph. Over 13 starts, he had a 3.75 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 92 K/37 BB over 72 innings while holding hitters to a .213 batting average. With increased improvement of his command, as well as secondary stuff, he should be a big name to watch next year. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 1.) LHP, Carlos Rodon, N C State, 6'3 230, L/L, everyone can't stop talking about him since his days in Apex and he should have never got the chance to go to college in my opinion and next spring if not this late summer, he would have made his ML Debut, but that's just me I reckon, Carlos has steadily added velo since his soph year in Apex going from 84-88 then to 93-98 now from upper 3/4 to 3/4 slot, most are 93-94 early and can sustain the velo and reach back for a lil extra on occ, hard slide piece is a 70 pitch, that's 84-88 and also will flash a show me straight change tease, he competes like a bulldog and he throws strikes, he will on occ rush himself, he will give you max effort and sustain his strength deep into games. Best lefty to come into the collegiate ranks in my opinion since Craig Swindell who pitched at Texas back in the day. This is your top 1-3 guy for the first round in 2014 people!  http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/

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

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 6 – Giants – SS Nick Gordon – Olympia (FL) HS – I’ve got Gordon as the first high school shortstop to be drafted. The lefty projects as a leadoff hitter and plays a very good defensive game. Did not have a great summer, but I still have him as one of the top 10 players in the draft

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

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 - Michael Cederoth, Nick Gordon, Marcus Wilson, Grant Holmes, Chris Oliver

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

8-15-13 - Under Armour All-Star Game – Nicholas Gordon: SS/RHP:  The son of former pitcher Tom Gordon, Nick also has a very good arm and can bring it at up to 92 mph but he's also a SS, where he may stand out more as a speedy top of the order hitter with great range, arm, and instincts in the field. 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 – 48. Marcus Wilson, OF, Serra HS (CA) - At 6’-3” and 180 pounds, the right-hander is raw in areas but has a lot of upside based on his plus speed and ability to drive the ball to all fields. His size implies more power will come. He also has a plus arm and is one of those players that gets better every time out. One of the youngest players in the 2014 MLB draft and one of those quick-twitch athletes that scouts love. Committed to Arizona State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 14 – RHP Grant Holmes – Conway (SC) HS – The last of the ‘big 4’ high school right handers. Holmes  sits 93-95 and has an above average chamge-up. He’s only 6-1 which could lead him in the direction of the pen someday.

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

Draft 14 – Jack Flaherty, Michael Gettys, Nick Gordon, Cobi Johnson, Josh Pennington

8-23-13 - Player:  Jack Flaherty   Primary Position:  SS Secondary Position(s):  3B/RHP Height/Weight:  6’4/205 Bats/Throws:  R/R  Home Town:  Burbank, CA   School:  Harvard-Westlake Travel Team(s):  SGV Arsenal  Class of:  2014  Committed To:  North Carolina - Scouting Notes: 2013 Tournament of Stars Notes from Don Olsen: Jack has the ideal slightly thick athletic frame with proportional development.  He looks to fill into 225 pound athlete, when fully matured in a Scott Rolen type mold. Jack showed a little more fluidity in the hips with solid arm strength and carry, improved charge and little more agility. He maintains the soft hands, ability to pick anything, traits for plus defensive ability. Squares up with very good velocity, quick bat and drops the bat head in the zone, solid blend of contact and power, drives the ball well gap to gap.  Good velocity on the bump. Jack shows the ability with three average pitches, good two way prospect.

8-16-13 - 11th All-American Classic - Michael Gettys | OF/RHP | Gainesville HS (Gainesville, GA)  Height/Weight: 6-foot-2, 205 pounds  B/T: R/R  Draft Day Age: 18 years, 7 months  Commitment: Georgia  Scouting Notes: Physical and athletic; built like a free safety, with a strong upper body; clearly has raw physical tools; run is easy plus; clocked a 4.03 to first in game action; gets out of the box fast and reaches top speed very quickly; arm is a hose—looks like a 7 (plus-plus); batting practice performance stood out; loud contact from easy swing; barreling up everything; game swing was still impressive, but didn’t find the same contact; not sure about the recognition; don’t see impact bat but red ass player with tools and a chance to hit.  http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=21537

 

8-13-13 - The Perfect Game All-American Classic in San Diego - *Nick Gordon (Olympia High School; Fla.) certainly can play shortstop, and obviously has the arm strength to stick at shortstop, but I’m not in love with the swing. He has a tendency to glide, and I’m not sure he’s going to be more than a gap hitter at the next level. With a 94 mile per hour fastball and a potentially plus curveball, I think I prefer Gordon on the mound at this point. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/08/thoughts-on-perfect-game-all-american-classic/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

 

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

 

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