Alex Verdugo, Tyler Beede, Michael Cederoth, Chad Sobotka, Mac James, Tyler Kolek

5-11-14  -  Alex Verdugo, LHP/OF, Sahuaro HS (AZ) - Like Destino, Verdugo is a terrific athlete and two-way player. His upside seems higher on the mound where the 6’-1”, 200 pound left-hander has one of the best curveballs in his class with late bite and power. His fastball sits 89-92 mph and he should add more velocity if he continues to work full time as a pitcher. He adds a solid change-up to round out a three-pitch mix. Offensively, he has an advanced approach at the plate and plus bat speed that generates a lot of power from the left side. Through 27 games, he is hitting .550/.608/.925 with 17 doubles, three home runs and 13 stolen bases. He has drawn 15 walks to just three strikeouts. On the mound, he has 86 K/25 BB over 48.1 innings, allowing 13 runs on 27 hits. Because of his upside, he could go on day one. Committed to Arizona State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-high-school-players-rise-final-edition/42853#cZ17mE5vsjiSvU18.99

3-20-14 – Cubs Insider - • Tyler Beede, Vanderbilt University right-hander: His relationship with minor-league pitching coordinator Derek Johnson, a former Commodores assistant coach, will be overstated, but his stock is rising with a fast start (4-1, 0.84 ERA). http://www.csnchicago.com/cubs/mlb-draft-cubs-identifying-targets-no-4-overall-pick

3-27-14 - Michael Cederoth Perfect Game profile - Position:  RHP  Height:  6-6  Weight:  215  Bats/Throws:  R-R  Birthdate: Nov. 25, 1992  College:  San Diego State  Hometown:  San Diego, Calif.  Previously Drafted:  Diamondbacks '11 (41)  Projected Draft Round:  1-3  Some of the earliest names we learn about in particular draft classes seem to be the hardest throwers. They are the easiest to spot and word seems to get around. At this time last year, Michael Cederoth was one of those names we knew about it. While a still very powerful and high upside arm, we’ve learned that while he can hit triple digits with his fastball, he’s also going to be somewhat of a project at the professional level. http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9625 

3-18-14 – Jonathan Mayo - 3-18-14 – Jonathan Mayo - Chad Sobotka, from the University of South Carolina-Upstate, will not pitch this season thanks to a fractured vertebra in his back. He'll make a full recovery, but not in time to pitch collegiate ball this spring. Upstate head coach Matt Fincher didn't sound like a guy who expected to have his ace back for another year. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?

ymd=20140318&content_id=69552214&notebook_id=69553420&vkey=notebook_mlb&c_id=mlb

3-19-14 – TTF – Mac James, C, Oklahoma (NR) - The biggest surprise this year in college baseball has been James. After getting just nine at-bats as a sophomore, the 6’-1”, 200 pound right-hander has been taking advantage of every one this year by absolutely mashing the baseball. Over 20 games, he is hitting .459/.512/.662 with nine doubles and two home runs, and he has struck out only twice. He is drawing rave reviews for his receiving skills and is another guy who should benefit from this year’s lack of catching prospects. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-week-5/41905#JeRjl1lAwHFUPJlv.99

3-22-14 - Dan Kirby ‏@DanMKirby  - Tyler Kolek with 13 K/0 BB last night. Now has 48 K/1 BB over 22.1 IP, allowing 2 hits

Matthew Railey, Max Pentecost, Ryan Castellani, Michael Chavis, Tyler Beede, Matt Imhof

5-11-14  -  Matthew Railey, OF, North Florida Christian HS (FL) - With his advanced approach, excellent bat speed and developing power, Railey has impressed scouts all spring. At 5’-11” and 200 pounds, he has the classic, sweet left-handed swing and can drive the ball to all fields. A very good athlete despite not having great speed, he has a chance to stick in center field but might end up in left field. His bat is what makes him special, however, and he could go on day one. Through 25 games, he is hitting .443/.532/.785 with 10 doubles, five home runs and just seven strikeouts. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-high-school-players-rise-final-edition/42853#cZ17mE5vsjiSvU18.99

3-16-14 – Cubs Den – Max Pentecost, C, Kennesaw State turned some heads early on with his performance to start the year but has since cooled off a bit, hitting .302/.374/.410 with 3 HR.  On the plus side, he has excelled against tougher competition this year, which is something scouts like to see.  Worthy of a top 4 pick, though?  Probably not, but if he can finish strong and stick at catcher, he will go at least in the top 10. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2014/03/mlb-draft-update-arms-ahead-of-bats-early-on-but-questions-remain-at-the-top/

3-26-14 – TTF – 10 high school players on the rise — third edition – Ryan Castellani, OF/RHP, Brophy Prep HS (AZ) - The 6’-4”, 200 pound right-hander has been heating up at the plate recently. Over his last four games, he has gone 7-for-11 with two doubles, a triple and two home runs. On the season, he is now up to .391/.500/.783 with six doubles, three triples and two home runs. He has upside as a power-hitting outfielder but he also has an advanced feel for the mound. He can dial his fastball up to 93 mph with late, downward life. He adds a mid-70s curve and a change-up that sits in the 79-83 mph range and both project to above-average pitches down the road. He has good command of his stuff, and there is still room for projection due to his size and easy mechanics. Over 27 innings this season, he has 30 K/10 BB. Committed to Arizona State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise-third-edition/42098#CmrUPUJfBWKiV2MO.99

Mi3-17-14 – TTF – 10 High School Players On The Rise – Michael Chavis, 3B, Sprayberry HS (GA) Chavis just continues to mash. The 5’-11”, 190 pound right-hander went 3-for-3 with two more home runs on March 14, upping his total to six over his first 11 games. He is also hitting .656/.738/1.344 with a 2.082 OPS, four doubles and nine stolen bases. He is playing shortstop now, but with his tremendous power, should make a move over to third base where his arm, glove and footwork will play well. Committed to Clemson. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise-second-edition/41810#OfV5L7GbWgi2Xqtf.99

3-19-14 – TTF – Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt (2) - Beede has been a regular on this list, and he just seems to keep getting better. In a highly anticipated match-up against Aaron Nola and LSU, Beede may have taken the loss, but he was brilliant in defeat. Over 7.1 innings, he allowed no earned runs on just three hits. He added seven strikeouts to one walk and wasn’t hit hard all night. He again showed his unique ability to miss bats with his four-pitch mix, and the command was once again on point. He now has a 0.84 ERA, 0.62 WHIP with 40 K/6 BB over 32.1 innings, holding opponents to a .128 batting average. Looking like a top-five pick. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-week-5/41905#JeRjl1lAwHFUPJlv.99

3-20-14 – Matt Imhof, LHP, Cal Poly - I really liked Imhof to the Cubs in the second round earlier in the year. The 6’-5”, 220 pound southpaw has the ideal size you want in a frontline starter. The way he has been pitching this season, however, he may not be around when they are on the board at 43. With 55 strikeouts over 35 innings, he leads the nation in K/9 at 14.1. Through his five starts, he has a 1.29 ERA and 0.91 WHIP. He features a low-90s fastball and has solid secondaries to go with a clean, easy delivery. He knows how to mix up his stuff and, at just 20 years old on draft day, will be one of the youngest college pitchers in the draft. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2014/03/mlb-draft-a-look-at-5-college-arms-for-the-2nd-round/

Foster Griffin, Chase Vallot,, Jacob Gatewood, Tyler Beede, Sean Reid-Foley

5-12-14  -  Foster Griffin, LHP, The First Academy (FL) - Foster is a 6’-5” southpaw with a three-pitch mix who can dial his fastball up to 95 mph. He adds a change-up and slider, both projecting to above-average offerings. He is polished on the mound and has good command of his stuff. Over 60 innings, he has 102 K/21 BB, allowing 13 runs on 32 hits. He should go in the top-40 picks. Committed to Ole Miss. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-high-school-players-rise-final-edition/42853#cZ17mE5vsjiSvU18.99

5-18-14 - Chase Vallot - C - Vallot finished his season hitting .550/.656/1.107 with 14 doubles, 13 home runs and 62 RBI over 36 games, leading his team to a state championship. With some of the best raw power in his class, he puts on shows in the batting cages and has won his share of home run derbys. The power also shows up in games, however, as you can see from the stat line. The 6’-0”, 205 pound right-hander has a plus arm, but scouts are split on his ability to remain behind the plate. Either way, his bat is his calling card and he is a tireless worker. He should be gone on day one and he is committed to Mississippi State.
t http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-five-high-school-players/42931#BrqM3BlCZROcRBlE.99

3-14-14 – Prospect Insider - Clovis High (CA) Shortstop Jacob Gatewood made headlines last week after launching a home run that was measured to have traveled just under 500 feet. Gatewood has long been known for that prestigious power, but his hit tool is still a pretty big question mark for him. He will have to improve his pitch-recognition skills if he wants to utilize that power. Scouts will be watching him closely this spring, and Gatewood will have two opportunities to showcase his skills this weekend, as his team will play on both Friday and Saturday. http://prospectinsider.com/category/2014-mlb-draft

3-16-14 – Cubs Den – Some feel that perhaps Tyler Beede has passed up Rodon as the best pitcher this season.  As we expected, he has improved his command this season and has gone 4-1 with a 0.84 ERA.  In 32.1 innings he has struck out 40 batters, but perhaps more importantly, has walked just 6. Beede was recently locked up in an excellent pitcher's matchup with LSU's Aaron Nola, who statistically has been the best player in this draft.  Beede went 7.1 IP without giving up an earned run (one unearned), walking just one and striking out 7.  Nola matched and perhaps even surpassed that performance with 12Ks and just 2 walks in 6.2 innings.  Both pitchers got a no decision. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2014/03/mlb-draft-update-arms-ahead-of-bats-early-on-but-questions-remain-at-the-top/

3-17-14 – TTF – 10 High School Players On The Rise – Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Sandalwood HS (FL) - Another start, another gem for Reid-Foley. The 6’-4” right-hander struck out 13 over six innings on March 14, allowing two runs on just one hit in a tough loss. He now has 50 K/5 BB over 22 innings, allowing just two runs on three hits. He features a four-pitch mix headlined by a fastball that touches 94 mph and a hammer, upper-70s curve that is one of the best in his class. His slider shows plus potential and his change-up is developing nicely. A ton of upside due to his size, easy delivery and four pitches. Committed to Florida State. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise-second-edition/41810#OfV5L7GbWgi2Xqtf.99

Forest Wall, Jakson Reetz, Marcus Wilson, Tyler Kolek, Tyler Beede, Jeremy Vasquez

5-12-14 - Forest Wall, 2B, Orangewood Christian HS (FL) - Wall has been getting a lot of first round buzz this year due to his great speed, advanced approach and excellent bat speed. At 6’-0” and 190 pounds, most believe more power will come as he matures and he is a quick-twitch athlete with a lot of upside. Over 18 games, he hit .531/.634/.877 with 12 extra-base hits and was a perfect 26-for-26 in stolen base attempts. He also drew 19 walks to just six strikeouts. Committed to North Carolina. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-high-school-players-rise-final-edition/42853#cZ17mE5vsjiSvU18.99

5-18-14  -  Jakson Reetz - Norris HS - Reetz has a .711 OBP through 25 games. Again, I don’t care who you are facing, that is extremely impressive. The 6’-1”, 200 pound right-hander has excellent bat speed and can drive the ball to all fields with his strength. He shows a patient approach and can wait on his pitch due to that bat speed. A very good athlete, he has the tools to stick behind the plate, but his strong, accurate arm would play well in a corner outfield spot where the bat would play well, too. Through 25 games, he is hitting .552/.711/1.172 with 13 doubles, seven home runs, 11 stolen bases and 25 walks to just six strikeouts. He is committed to Nebraska and could be a tough sign as he has strong family ties to the University.  http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-five-high-school-players/42931#BrqM3BlCZROcRBlE.99

3-26-14 – PG – Marcus Wilson - Position:  OF  Height:  6-3  Weight:  175  Bats/Throws:  R-R  Birthdate:  Aug. 15, 1996  High School:  Gardena Serra  City, State:  Los Angeles, Calif.  Travel Team:  SGV Arsenal  Commitment:  Arizona State  Projected Draft Round:  1-2 - When Marcus Wilson first arrived on the national scene he was a skinny 15 year old with a world of potential, and very little present skill. The transformation that has taken place in the 20 months since has been remarkable. Prior to joining the San Gabriel Valley Arsenal, Wilson's only exposure to competitive baseball was his experience at the Urban Youth Academy and in regional competition. When he attended his first Perfect Game event in September 2012, Wilson opened eyes with his impressive foot speed, ability to generate bat speed and arm strength, all with a long, lanky young body. He also showed vulnerability to breaking stuff and little use for the middle and opposite field offensively. http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9622

3-12-14 – 10 High School Players on the Rise – Tyler Kolek, RHP, Shepherd HS (TX) - The 6’-5”, 240 pound right-hander has been as dominant as you would imagine for a kid his size who can sling it 100 mph. Through his first two starts, he has 24 K/1 BB over 11 no-hit innings. This should continue for the rest of the year as he is clearly no match for his peers. As long as he stays healthy, he could be in consideration for the first overall pick. Committed to TCU. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise/41773#oFu0m6JRyhOHXIwD.99

3-16-14 – BLF –  Tyler Beede was very strong in his start against LSU, going against a lineup which boasts one of the top position players in the country in Alex Bregman, being able to go 7.1IP with 7K and the ever crucial 1BB is a strong display of why he deserves his top10 recognition. This weekend really couldn’t have gotten much better in college baseball as Beede was facing the deceptive Aaron Nola, with the above mentioned matchup, in terms of draft hopefuls we might have just witnessed potentially 5 top10 picks in Rodon, Beede, Nola, Weaver and of course Turner. But back to the matchup, Nola came out even stronger notching 12K with 2BB and allowing 1ER. Beede had 2 unearned runs cross the plate. Nola coming into the year was probably one of my least favorite college pitchers in the class, at least in terms of the big names, and he has really given me a wakeup call because he’s done nothing but impress me since I had my initial doubts. Obviously, he’s been great in college, but with all the talent in this class, he just didn’t have that flare at first as some of the others did for me. As I said above, that’s completely changed now. It appeared as if Vandy would be able to ride the 1 run they got in the bottom of the 2nd along with Beede dominating to a victory, but a huge 4 run top of the 8th for LSU changed that line of thinking. Very exciting game to watch and what a strong pitching matchup. Along with Championship Week in College Basketball, great weekend of Collegiate sports  http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2014/03/16/luke-weaver-shines-against-rodon-and-wolfpack-beede-strong-as-dores-fall-to-nola-and-tigers/

3-17-14 – TTF – 10 High School Players On The Rise – Jeremy Vasquez, OF/1B, Martin County HS (FL) At 6’-0” and 200 pounds, Vasquez has one of the sweetest swings in his class. With power to all fields, and a patient approach due to his bat speed, there is a lot of potential on the offensive side. He is also a gifted defender at first base with soft hands and great footwork. Over 12 games this season, he is hitting .513/612/.795 with six doubles, a triple and a home run. He has also drawn 10 walks to just two strikeouts, showing his advanced approach at the plate. He is also one of the younger players in his class, giving him more room for projection. Committed to Florida. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-high-school-players-rise-second-edition/41810#OfV5L7GbWgi2Xqtf.99

Clay Casey, Cameron Varga, Matt Imhof, Tyler Beede, Michael Kopech, Luke Weaver

5-12-14  -  Clay Casey, OF, De Soto Central HS (MS) - Few got into a zone quite like Casey did this year — and he’s still in it. Over his last 11 games, he has gone 23-for-32 (.719) with a double, four triples, nine home runs and 27 RBI. On the season, he is now hitting .511/.587/1.136 over 30 games with six doubles, five triples, 13 home runs and exactly 100 total bases. A very good athlete who also stars in football, the 6’-3”, 205 pound right-hander has tremendous power potential to go along with a strong arm in the outfield. He has a patient approach at the plate and has a lot of upside once he focuses full time on baseball. Committed to Ole Miss. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-high-school-players-rise-final-edition/42853#cZ17mE5vsjiSvU18.99

5-18-14  -  Cameron Varga -  I know high school stats can be deceiving, and scouts don’t put a whole lot of stock into them. However, when you have struck out every batter you have faced over your last two starts like Varga has, you should take notice. The 6’-4”, 200 pound right-hander has 31 K/0 BB over his last 10 innings without allowing a hit. In fact, over his last five starts, he has tossed four no-hitters with 68 K/1 BB over 25 innings. With a fastball that sits 91-95 mph and one of the best curveballs in his class — an upper-70s knee buckler that he has great command of, he has been one of the most dominant prep pitchers this spring. His change-up is still developing, but with his athleticism, most believe it will become a quality offering. He is one of the older players in his class but he has a fresh arm as he was a shortstop his first two years of high school in Florida. For the season, he has 110 K/4 BB over 44 innings, allowing one run on 10 hits. Getting a lot of first-round buzz, he is committed to North Carolina.
Read more at http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-five-high-school-players/42931#BrqM3BlCZROcRBlE.99

3-26-14 - For the debut of the Big West Spotlight, I am in fact featuring the star of one of these power schools: Cal Poly pitcher Matt Imhof. Imhof — a 6’5”, 220 lb southpaw with a wicked arsenal—has been phenomenal this season, compiling a 4-1 record with a 1.29 ERA for the 16-3 Mustangs. The junior has also tallied 55 strikeouts in 35.0 IP, tied with TCU’s Brandon Finnegan for first in D1 baseball, and sports a 0.914 WHIP on the year.  His success hasn’t gone unnoticed on the national level, as he has received a National Player of the Week award on three different occasions this season in addition to his three Big West Conference Pitcher of the Week awards, all of them coming from performances in which he tallied 14 or more strikeouts in a game.  http://www.bestcoastbaseball.com/2014/03/big-west-spotlight-matt-imhof-shining.html

3-11-14 – TTF - Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt (2) - Beede has answered his critics through his first four starts. In his latest start against Winthrop on March 7, he struck out nine to no walks over seven innings, allowing one run on six hits. He is now 4-0 with a 1.08 ERA, 0.64 WHIP and 33 K/5 BB over 25 innings. He is holding opponents to a miniscule .129 batting average. As a sophomore, he had a 5.6 BB/9 ratio over 101 innings. This year, he has a 1.8 BB/9 ratio, showing incredible improvement in his command and responding to the only knock on him by scouts. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-week-4/41715#PjStmsQ7UB5h8BYU.99

3-14-14 – Prospect Insider - Mt. Pleasant’s Michael Kopech has been turning heads this spring and is quickly rising up draftboards. Kopech has a projectable frame and a lively fastball with heavy life. Last summer he flashed impressive stuff, but struggled to repeat his delivery. Although it still has a lot of moving parts, the delivery seems to be more rhythmic, and his curveball also shows enticing potential with sharp break and good depth. http://prospectinsider.com/category/2014-mlb-draft

3-16-14 – BLF –  Luke Weaver, Florida State Seminoles Ace, has seen his fair share of hype surrounding a prospect, Jameis Winston is after all, his teammate and not sure anyone in College sports has gotten the attention he did this year winning the Heisman and all. As a small side note, Jameis Winston came in for 3 IP and notched 7 K against NC State. Coming into this weekend series, Weaver has really run the board in terms of his projection for the draft, I’ve seen anywhere from the 20′s to the top10. Well, on Friday, he met with Rodon for a faceoff and while Rodon was solid, Weaver really took the show with 7K 2BB and only 1 ER over 6.1 IP. In comparison, Rodon had 12 K with 4 BB and 2 ER over 6.2IP. I think it must be my luck, but the past couple of times I’ve seen Rodon, I get excited, as any fan would, to see the top talent in the country and he ends up being just slightly less then his full dominant self. To be fair, This is probably the best performance I’ve got to see of Rodon live, hopefully that’ll change his next time out. But as some scouts have concerns about his command and control getting away from him, time to time, I’ve been unlucky enough to catch those games, it appears almost exclusively. While he has been absolutely dominant at times, and is every bit deserving of the hype he’s received recently, I certainly believe he has some work to do on his command and control. As I mentioned above, it has gotten away from him at times in the past and certainly this year so far, particularly against Notre Dame and FSU, he’s been a little less dominant then you would expect from him. Clearly, the 12 K game is going to catch some attention but I also look at the fact he had the 4 walks and gave up the 2 ER. Can’t be perfect no, but that’s a pretty big in conference game, you’re going to need your ace to have his absolute best stuff. Certainly, I’d take him over Gray and Appel right now, although Gray does put up quite the fight, Zimmer and Gausman for sure.  I’m by far, one of the biggest Appel detractors, placing him 13th in rankings at points last cycle, for Houston fans though, and fans of Appel, you have to get excited about the prospect of a rotation with Appel, Rodon, Cosart, and even Folty if you want to get into that line of thought. NC State 3B Andrew Knizner was one of the younger players on the field who really caught my attention, as a true freshman out of Glen Allen, Va., he showed some skill in the field and at the plate he’s been their best hitter to date, leading the team in batting average as well as RBI and tied for the lead in HR with 2. He’s got 2 errors so far, but with youth on his side I expect him to enjoy some success during his time in the Wolfpack lineup. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2014/03/16/luke-weaver-shines-against-rodon-and-wolfpack-beede-strong-as-dores-fall-to-nola-and-tigers/

Draft 14 – Michael Gettys, Kyle Freeland, Casey Turgeon, Tyler Beede, Gage Burland

2-3-14 – MaxPreps - Top 10 MLB Draft Prospects in high school - 6. Michael Gettys, Gainesville (Ga.) Gettys has been a steady riser and has even been listed as high as the No. 4 pick overall in one mock draft. He is seen as the high schooler with the most tools in the draft, as he possesses a great arm, great speed and outstanding ability at the plate. He could be the first true outfielder chosen. 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  - Kyle Freeland, LHP, Evansville (29) - After striking out 48 to four walks over 40 innings in the Cape Cod League, the 6’-4” southpaw has carried over his dominance into this season. With six strikeouts to no walks over eight innings against Indiana State on March 21, Freeland now has 34 K/2 BB over 32 innings with a 2.25 ERA and 1.06 WHIP. With a plus slider and low/mid-90s fastball, he has a lot of upside due to his size, present stuff from the left side and easy delivery. Looking more and more like a lock for the first round of the 2014 MLB draft.  http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-week-6/42071#MDUXGtxd7YCtKt0X.99

3-6-14 – Nats GM -   Casey Turgeon  2B University of Florida - A polished collegiate hitter with an excellent, compact left-handed swing, Turgeon has gap power and the ability to occasionally pull one over the fence.  Along with average or slightly above-average speed and excellent awareness of the strike zone, Turgeon’s aptitude for the game allows him to play above his tools.  Maxed out physically around 5-10 175lbs and likely limited to second base defensively, the team that selects him will be convinced his hit tool and intangibles will allow him to reach the majors.  In a class lacking many collegiate bats, Turgeon slots in nicely on Day 2 of the draft. http://natsgm.com/2014/03/06/scouting-the-2014-mlb-draft-early-march-edition/

2-27-14 – TTF - 10 college players on the rise - Tyler Beede, RHP, Vanderbilt (2) - Beede’s stock continued to rise as he put together another stellar performance. Like his first start, he got tagged early, then settled down and was untouchable the rest of the way. After giving up a first inning solo shot on Friday against UIC, he retired 15 straight batters, finishing with 11 K/1 BB over six innings with just one hit allowed. He is now 2-0 with 18 K/2 BB over 11 innings, allowing just two hits. He has shown three plus pitches with great mound presence and is looking like he will be off the board within the first three picks. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-2/41299#ldBBF8hRKzmaiy5H.99

P - Gage Burland, RHP/OF, Sr., East Valley (Wash.) - His hard spinning curveball is the highlight of his arsenal but his upper 80s/low 90s fastball and quality changeup are both good pitches in their own right. He gets good downhill plane on his pitches and has shown ability to command the ball within the lower half of the strike zone. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9561

Draft 14 – Derek Fisher, Riley Moore, Tyler Beede, A.J. Reed, Forest Griffin

3-4-14 - When I first laid eyes on Derek Fisher he was an awkwardly muscular, acne ridden high-schooler wearing a jersey that was two sizes too big. This past weekend, I saw a body-beautiful outfielder who’s as tooled-up as any position player in college baseball. The physically striking Fisher currently patrols left field for the Cavaliers, not because his skill set relegates him to a corner, but rather because Virginia has superior options at other positions. A pro club will at least give the 6-foot-3, 210 pounds. Fisher a look in center field as he has the requisite speed and arm strength for the position. The legs grade out just beneath plus-plus –- I had Fisher timed at 4.03 and 4-flat down the line from the left side, albeit with a little bit of a jailbreak –- more than enough to run down balls in the gaps, while his arm grades out around average. There’s room to solidify that throwing grade if Fisher’s sometimes-awkward throwing mechanics are made to be more efficient. Despite Fisher’s up-the-middle physical capabilities, there are serious questions about his feel for defense. His reads don’t always come instantaneously and his routes to balls are often circuitous and inefficient. http://prospectinsider.com/scouting-derek-fisher-uva-prospects

3-25-14 – 9.  Riley Moore, Arizona Height 6'2" Weight 180 DOB: ? L/R - California kid!  Lefty bat!  Moore got a lot of hype as a prep from some of the draft blogs I follow.  Wildcats Link The UA site isn't giving enough info for me.  I bet he's filled in from that weight, that's his HS info.  Moore of course won a national championship his freshman year.  Big watch on this guy. http://www.yougottalikethesekids.com/2014/03/ten-catchers-in-2014-mlb-draft.html

2-21-14 – Project Insider - Tyler Beede, RHP — Vanderbilt  Beede was among the more disappointing arms from last week and will have a good shot to show better command and more consistent stuff versus Illinois-Chicago. http://prospectinsider.com/draft-prospect-watch-hoffman-vs-fisher

2-27-14 – TTF - 10 college players on the rise - A.J. Reed, LHP/1B, Kentucky (NR) - I asked Kendall Rogers — National college baseball writer for Perfect Game — on Twitter if Reed was a pitcher or hitter at the next level. He said he placed a higher premium on left-handed pitching and I agreed. Let’s just hope he gets drafted by a National League team so we get to watch him smack a baseball around. Over his first seven games, the 6’-4”, 240 pound left-hander has a silly six home runs, 17 RBI and a .433/.500/1.133 slash line. On the mound, he is 2-0 and has allowed two runs on nine hits over 12 innings. His fastball can touch the mid-90s and he adds a good slider, but his change-up needs refining. Reed is the type of player a team can draft, send him out there as a hitter, and if all else fails, could become a power arm out of the bullpen. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-2/41299#ldBBF8hRKzmaiy5H.99

2-11-14 – PG/Florida HS Dream Team – P – Foster Griffin, Sr. The First Academy - The only lefty to crack this rotation, Griffin shows everything you’d want to see in a young pitcher: lefthanded, 6-foot-5 and projectable and a three-pitch mix. With a fastball topping out at 92 mph, Griffin is able to make that play up as he uses his long levers and creates excellent downhill plane. His curveball flashes potential and presently shows a very good changeup with fading action. Not only does he have a feel for three pitches, he knows how to use them with an advanced overall feel on the mound. http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9372

Draft 14 – Tyler Beede, Mark Zagunis, Brad Zimmer, James Farris, Keith Weisenberg

3-4-14 - Okay, now that I got that out of my system, a lot remains to be seen on Tyler Beede. The tools are there and if you're willing to take the risk that his Command never fully develops you could get rewarded with one of the best Starters in baseball. I'll probably do a post late in the College season to talk about guys who might be available at 7 and maybe Beede has elevated himself out of that discussion by then, but if he hasn't we'll take a look at his chances and the Phillies chances of gettin ghim and fixing whatever delivery glitches remain. http://www.thegoodphight.com/2014/2/27/5449712/phillies-2014-draft-preview-tyler-beede-rhp

3-25-14 – 6.  Mark Zagunis, Virginia Tech Height 6'1", Weight: 200 DOB: 2/5/1993 R/R - Back to Virginia Tech again after watching Horan and his boy Chad Pinder the A's drafted.  Zagunis is a Jersey Boy with a bat first rep.  Here is his link to VT.  Zagunis has a lot of power, and is a very good athlete.  The knock is he might not be able to stick behind the plate but the good news is he's athletic enough for a corner spot. http://www.yougottalikethesekids.com/2014/03/ten-catchers-in-2014-mlb-draft.html

2-21-14 – Project Insider - Bradley Zimmer, OF — San Francisco - Zimmer and his Dons teammates are at No. 2 Cal State Fullerton where the outfielder will face the likes of right-handers Matt Chapman and J.D. Davis. Scouts wants to see Zimmer explode in the power department, which would assure him of a top-15 selection. He has three doubles early, but no long balls and he’s whiffed four times versus less-than-stellar pitching. http://prospectinsider.com/draft-prospect-watch-hoffman-vs-fisher

2-27-14 – TTF - 10 college players on the rise - James Farris, RHP, Arizona (NR) - The 6’-2”, 215 pound right-hander isn’t a power guy. His fastball sits in the 88-91 mph range and he isn’t going to blow anyone away with it. What he does, however, is mix his pitches well and keeps hitters off balanced. With his five-hit shutout against Alcorn State on Friday in which he had 10 K/1 BB, he now has allowed just one run over 16.2 innings with 19 K/2 BB. He adds a slider and change-up and has great command of his stuff. Much like former Wildcat, Kurt Heyer, he is a workhorse pitcher with an advanced feel for pitching despite not having a plus pitch. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-10-college-players-rise-2/41299#ldBBF8hRKzmaiy5H.99

2-11-14 – PG/Florida HS Dream Team – P – Keith Weisenberg, Sr. Osceola - Each time he takes the ball at a Perfect Game event it is as though Weisenberg takes another step forward. The Stanford commit regularly sits in the low-90s and uses his 6-foot-4 frame and high three-quarters arm slot to get on top of the ball and generate very sharp downhill plane. Velocity comes easy for Weisenberg, and one shouldn’t be surprised when he continues adding to his fastball, which also has plenty of sink and run down in the zone. He already throws an above average slider in the mid-80s and shows a feel for a changeup, a pitch that shows big potential in the future. 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 – A.J. Vanegas, Tyler Beede, Kyle Freeland, Josh Morgan, Jeren Kendall

2-10-14 - Stanford righthander A.J. Vanegas, may be the most-talented player in this year’s senior class—and actually enrolled in college with more acclaim than Appel did a year earlier after turning down a seventh-round offer from the San Diego Padres that approached $2 million. But Vanegas’ career at Stanford has been wracked by inconsistency and injury. He worked in only nine innings as a junior while battling back from off-season back surgery and also contracting mononucleosis. Predictably, he slipped to the 19th round of last year’s draft and never seriously entertained signing with the Oakland A’s. http://perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9404

3-25-14 – MLB Draft Insider Mock – 05   Tyler Beede        RHP        Vanderbil  -  Beede continues to dominate even in conference play, and the command continues to be impressive, especially when you consider how poor it was last year. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-board-2014-volume-ii/ 

2-5-14 - Kyle Freeland, LHP, Evansville - The southpaw was extremely impressive at the Cape Cod League, posting a 2.25 ERA and 48 K/4 BB over 40 innings. He seemed to get better as the season went on, and his last start was his best outing — he allowed three hits over seven shutout innings while striking out 10 to no walks. His slider is already a plus pitch, and his fastball can touch 96 mph and sits in the 91-94 mph range. His change-up is still developing, and there is some effort in his delivery, but with his size (6’-4”, 185 pounds) and athleticism, there is a lot to like as a possible number-two starter. Projected as a mid-to-late first-round pick, he would have to show a lot this year to be considered at four. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-dark-horse-candidates-chicago-cubs-first-pick/41075#UeYBipV5rOuYd7xE.99

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 68. Boston Red Sox — Josh Morgan, SS, Orange Lutheran HS (CA) - A quick-twitch athlete, Morgan is a 6′-0″, 185 pound right-hander with great actions at shortstop. he has worked extremely hard to remain at the premium position, including dropping 10 pounds to become more fluid in the field. He also gained more speed in doing so. At the plate, he makes consistent, hard contact to all fields. One of those kids who just gets better every time out. Committed to UCLA. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 34 Jeren Kendall OF L/R 5-9 171 Holmen (Wisc.) HS Vanderbilt http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

Draft 14 – Max Pentecost, Tyler Beede, Sean Newcomb, Milton Ramos, Todd Issacs Jr.

2-10-14 - Number 10 on our countdown is Kennesaw State junior catcher Max Pentecost. The Winder, Georgia native attended Winder-Barrow High School. He batted .295 with three home runs, eight doubles and 16 runs during an abbreviated senior campaign which led to him being drafted in the 7th round of the MLB Draft. He headed to Kennesaw State where he played in 56 games with 52 starts while accumulating a batting average of .277 with 16 doubles (tied for 2nd on team) and three triples, 23 runs and 23 RBI. He spent the summer of 2012 with the Holyoke Blue Sox of the NECBL where he appeared in 37 games hitting .303 with a 424 slugging percentage including 3 homers and 24 runs scored. http://ht.ly/2DJ3KA

3-25-14 – MLB Draft Insider Mock – 05   Tyler Beede        RHP        Vanderbil  -  Beede continues to dominate even in conference play, and the command continues to be impressive, especially when you consider how poor it was last year. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2014/03/the-board-2014-volume-ii/

2-5-14 - Sean Newcomb, LHP, Hartford - He has the size and power arm you want in a frontline starter. At 6’-5” and 240 pounds, the southpaw can dial his fastball up to 95 mph. His secondary stuff stills needs some refining, although his slider shows plus potential. His change-up is still developing and continued progress this year could shoot him up draft boards. 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. There is a lot to like about a pitcher of his size, arm strength and possible four-pitch mix from the left side. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-dark-horse-candidates-chicago-cubs-first-pick/41075#UeYBipV5rOuYd7xE.99

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 52. San Francisco Giants — Milton Ramos, SS, American Heritage HS (FL) - A defensive whiz who should stick at shortstop, the 6’-1”, 160 pound right-hander showed great improvements at the plate during the tournament circuit. He has been clocked at 6.53 in the 60, showing above-average speed, as well. If he continues to improve offensively, he could be a first-round pick. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 70 Todd Isaacs Jr. OF R/R 6-1* 175 American Heritage, Hialeah Gardens, Fla. Uncommitted http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-high-school-top-100-with-commitments/

Draft 14 – Tyler Beede, Sean Newcomb, Michael Gettys, Josh Morgan

1-20-14 – PG Preseason College All-Americans - Starting Pitcher - Tyler Beede, Vanderbilt - 2013 Stats: 2.32 ERA, 101 IP, 103 K , 63 BB, .187 OPP BA - The former Blue Jays first-round pick out of high school should emulate that selection next summer in the MLB draft, and for good reason. Beede is already one of the nation’s elite pitchers, and most would say he hasn't reached his full potential. Beede has a fastball anywhere from 90-95, along with a good 80-83 curveball. However, the biggest difference for Beede this season could be the development of his low-80s changeup and potentially improved command. Beede is ranked the nation’s No. 5 college prospect. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9294

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 10. New York Mets — 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-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  8-OF/RHP Michael Gettys Gainesville HS (Georgia Commit) 10/22/95- He is probably the most exciting player in this draft with his 5 tool potential as an OF and his powerful arm off the mound. I like him, as a position player personally as his tool set is game changing. He has plus speed with a plus arm (throwing 100 from RF in a showcase) but with his aggressive approach he still lacks the elite status because of his swing and miss potential. (Phillies @ 7) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

11-21-13 – BA Top 100 High School Players - 27 Josh Morgan SS R/R 5-10 185 Orange County Lutheran, Corona, Calif. UCLA 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 – Grant Holmes, Tyler Beede, Trea Turner, Michael Cederoth,,Ti’Quan Forbes

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


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


10-15-13 – Baseball America - 4. Trea Turner, ss, North Carolina State: Ankle issue hampered him in 2013, but he offers bat speed, athleticism and top-of-the-scale speed when healthy. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/


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


9-11-13 - Sully’s 2014 Top 100 MLB HS Draft Prospects – 40.Ti’Quan Forbes – SS, Columbia (MS) HS http://www.ninebaseball.org/Wordpress/sullys-2014-top-100-mlb-hs-draft-prospects/

Draft 14 - A Quick Look At - RHP - Tyler Beede

Tyler Beede 

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mack – Class act!

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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