|
East Team
Alphabetical order by Last Name |
|
|
|
Name |
Pos. |
Hgt. |
Wgt. |
B/T |
High School (HomeTown) |
|
Luke Bailey |
C/3B |
6-0 |
195 |
R/R |
Troup High School
(LaGrange, GA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Luke Bailey showed he is an extremely
athletic catcher with MLB arm strength and cat like quickness. He
showed pop times in the 1.7s and his best tools are his hitting ability
and big time power potential. Bailey is also a sub 7 second 60 runner.
He plays for the Georgia Roadrunners in the summer. Bailey has verbally
committed to attend Auburn.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Bailey showed his defensive talent
and outstanding hitting ability all week at the practices at Dedeaux
Field. He did go 0-4 in the game, but looked very good defensively.
There are scouts that rank Luke Bailey’s hitting potential with any high
school player in America. We have seen him a lot and he has special
talent. Bailey has verbally committed to Auburn and he has early round
draft potential.
Most recent national
rank on www.pgcrosschecker.com
#12
|
|
Ethan Carter |
RHP |
6-5 |
205 |
R/R |
Menchville High School
(Newport News, VA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Ethan Carter is extremely projectable
with a tall lean body and long limbs. Presently he tops out in the
90-91 range with good life, but there is much more coming soon. Carter
also possesses a quality breaking ball that he commands well and can
really mix things up on the mound. Carter plays for the Virginia
Hurricanes in the summer and has verbally committed to attend the U of
South Carolina.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Others threw harder at the Aflac
Game, but no one was more effective. Carter topped out at 90 mph but he
showed three quality pitches while striking out two in a perfect inning
of work. Carter projects to add velocity. He has verbally committed to
South Carolina, but could become an early draft pick by adding a little
velocity over the next 9 months.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #81
|
|
Scooter Gennett |
INF |
5-10 |
170 |
L/R |
Sarasota High School
(Sarasota, FL) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Scooter Gennett is not the biggest
athlete but he has true 5 tool ability. He runs a 6.6 – 6.7, 60 yard
dash, throws 91 mph across the infield, and shows professional middle
infield actions. He creates big time bat speed and shows serious pull
power potential from the left side. Gennett has verbally committed to
Florida State.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Gennett looked very impressive all
week during the practices at Dedeaux Field. He showed defensive skills
in the middle of the infield and he looked very good during BP
sessions. We saw that he has the ability to go the other way as well as
pull the ball with outstanding power. He went 0 for 3 in the game with a
walk, but he showed discipline and looked very good at the plate.
Actually, as replays revealed, he was rung up once on a ball that was
not close to a strike. Gennett has verbally committed to Florida State
and will create some early draft interest.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #20
|
|
Mychal Givens |
INF/RHP |
6-2 |
185 |
S/R |
Plant High School
(Tampa, FL) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Mychal Givens is a multi-talented SS/RHP
with serious tools. He has a lightning fast arm and has reached as high
as 97mph with excellent sinking life this summer. He also shows a nice
slider and change, all from a low arm angle. He's also a top prospect as
a shortstop and can be a human highlight film at times. Givens plays for
the All American Prospects in the summer. Finalist for Jackie Robinson
Award.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Given’s was the recipient of high
school baseballs most prestigious award at the Aflac Banquet, The Jackie
Robinson Award. He pitched briefly, coming in to record two outs on two
pitches, one clocked at 96 mph, the next one at 98 mph. He showed
outstanding ability at shortstop where he started the game. Givens went
0 for 2 in the Aflac Game at Dodger Stadium. He was hit by a pitch in
the 1st, stole a base, flied out in the 3rd, and
grounded out to 3B in the 6th. Given’s arguably has the best
arm in the 2009 class. He has not verbally committed yet and he could
certainly become an early pick in next year’s draft.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #4
|
|
Brian Goodwin |
OF |
6-0 |
170 |
L/R |
Rocky Mount High School
(Rocky Mount, FL) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Brian Goodwin is a very athletic
outfielder who has 5 tool potential. He runs a 6.5 60 yard dash and
shows a strong throwing arm. At the plate he creates good bat speed,
uises the whole field and has some power potential. He plays for the
North Carolina Dirtbags in the summer and has verbally committed to the
U of North Carolina.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Goodwin was named the MVP of the 2008
Aflac All American Game at Dodger Stadium in LA. He showed his all
around ability and tools all week during practice. He went 2 for 4 in
the game, he lined a double to CF in the 2nd, grounded out to
short in the 5th, flew out to LF in the 7th, And
drove in two runs including the game winner with a single in the 9th.
He also stole a couple bases. Goodwin Has verbally committed to North
Carolina and will be followed closely as a possible early draft pick.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #15
|
|
Michael Heller |
RHP/INF |
6-2 |
180 |
R/R |
Sarasota Mooney High
School (Bradenton, FL) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Michael Heller was 92-94 and showed
an excellent curveball and changeup in Minneapolis at the Metrodome
earlier this year. He's also a very good athletic infielder who runs a
6.7 in the 60 and shows excellent hitting ability with some power
potential. Heller plays for the Akadema Florida Raiders in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Heller showed his all around ability
and magical arm all week in LA. He pinch hit, played 3B and went 0 for 2
in the Aflac Game, grounding out and popping out. He also pitched a
perfect 6th inning, topping out at 95 mph. He’s a possible
2-way guy in college, but could become an early draft pick on the
mound. He has verbally committed to the U of Florida.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #32
|
|
Chris Jenkins |
RHP |
6-7 |
235 |
R/R |
Westfield High School
(Westfield, NJ) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Chris Jenkins is a big tall power
pitcher. He has thrown as high as the mid 90s and shows a potential
power breaking ball. His mechanics are a bit raw but his potential is
unlimited. When he creates a downward plane on his pitches, he is tough
for hitters to deal with. Jenkins plays for the Tri-State Arsenal out
of New Jersey in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Jenkins looked very good at Dodger
Stadium. After walking the lead off hitter in the 3rd
inning, he got a ground ball out and over powered the next two hitters,
striking out both. His velocity was up to 94 mph and he showed some
good command of all his pitches and poise on the mound. Jenkin’s has
verbally committed to Stanford and it’s hard to tell just how good he
might become. Stanford = Early Round or go to school, in most cases.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #34
|
|
Ian Krol |
LHP |
6-1 |
170 |
L/L |
Neuqua Valley High
School (Naperville, IL) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Ian Krol is a pure finesse type lefty,
but still throws his very lively fastball in the high 80s to low 90s
and he can spot it where he wants. He throws an excellent curveball and
change up, as well, both with very good command and he competes. Krol
plays for the McHenry County Hurricanes out of Illinois in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Perhaps the highlight of the week was
watching Krol during the practice sessions at USC. On one long drive to
right center field he ran into the wall at full speed catching the
ball. Something about pitchers who do things like that. Some might
say… Not smart… I say… Hope he’s pitching for us. He pitched a scoreless
7th inning with a strike out. Krol showed three quality
pitches and his velocity reached 92 mph in Dodger Stadium. He has yet
to commit, but every top college in the country wants him. Arguably the
top pitching prospect in the entire Midwest he should get plenty of
early draft consideration.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #39
|
|
Braxton Lane |
OF |
5-11 |
170 |
S/R |
Sandy Creek High School
(Tyrone, GA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Braxton Lane is another outstanding
athlete and he runs a blazing 6.3 in the 60. He can go get the ball in
the outfield and is a prototypical contact type lead off hitter in
professional baseball. He is a strong athlete who can drive the gaps and
run like a deer. He plays for the Atlanta Blue Jays in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Lane showed off his outstanding speed
and athletic ability all week. The question scouts have involve his
bat. He went 0 for 2 in Dodger Stadium, but hit one hard flying out to
left field in the 2nd inning. He struck out in the 5th.
Lane is strong and athletic and if the bat comes he will be a prime
candidate to draw early round draft interest. We’ve seen him hit top
level pitching in the past. As of now, he hasn’t decided on a college,
but he is a football/baseball star.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #65
|
|
Austin Maddox |
C/RHP |
6-3 |
220 |
R/R |
Eagle's View Academy
(Jacksonville, FL) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Austin Maddox is a big powerful
athlete with one of the best arms in the nation. He has shown pop times
in the 1.7s with 90 mph velocity to secondbase. He has upper deck power
potential. He can also throw up to mid 90s from the mound. Maddox
plays for Team Mizuno in the summer and has verbally committed to the U
of Florida. He is also a member of the USA Junior National team.
Finalist for the Jackie Robinson Award.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Maddox showed his ability and
especially his arm from behind the plate. We have seen him look better
with the bat, but he displayed his power during the workouts at USC. He
went 0 for 2 in Dodger Stadium. He came in to face one hitter in the 8th
and retired the side in order in the 9th with two
strikeouts. He ended up getting the win and his velocity was up to 96
mph. Maddox has verbally committed to the U of Florida and could get
early draft interest as both a catcher or as a pitcher.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #6
|
|
Keyvius Sampson |
RHP/OF |
6-1 |
185 |
R/R |
Forest High School
(Ocala, FL) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Keyvius Sampson is a very athletic
pitcher who also plays centerfield and is a plus runner. He has been
clocked in the mid 90s and it looks very effortless. He also flashes a
good breaking ball and shows very good command. Sampson could easily be
projected as an upper 90s guy in the future. He plays for the West
Florida Young Guns in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Keyvius showed his athletic ability
all week and had two plate appearances in Dodger Stadium. In the big 9th
inning he walked. Sampson threw the 2nd inning and looked
outstanding, striking out two with a good sharp breaking ball and 94 mph
fastball. He also pitched in the scrimmage two days earlier at USC and
on this day he was flashing a potential plus change up. Sampson hasn’t
committed yet, but he could easily become an early draft pick next year.
There’s not many better arms, college or high school.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #10
|
|
Richie Shaffer |
INF/RHP |
6-3 |
190 |
R/R |
Providence High School
(Charlotte, NC) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Richie Shaffer has a very good
baseball frame and some big league tools. He shows a strong arm, nice
fielding actions and serious power potential at the plate. He's also
capable of throwing low 90s from the mound with very good secondary
stuff. He can run and projects large as an athlete. Shaffer plays for
the South Charlotte Panthers in the summer and has verbally committed to
Clemson.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Shaffer really opened some eyes all
week long in LA. He showed his easy power and athletic ability over and
over. He was one of the finalists in the Home Run Contest. He made the
defensive gem of the game in Dodger Stadium when playing shortstop he
ran out to left center field and made a diving catch with his back to
the infield. He didn’t pitch in the game but there is no questioning
his throwing ability. He went 0 for 2 and walked twice, scoring the game
winning run in the 9th inning rally. Shaffer verballed early
to Clemson, but he is very interesting in many ways and could easily
receive some early draft interest.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #27
|
|
Drew Steckenrider |
OF/RHP |
6-4 |
200 |
S/R |
Greater Atlanta
Christian HS (Lawrenceville, GA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Drew
Steckenrider is a multi-talented outfielder with all the tools including
a power bat from both sides of the plate. Every BP we have seen him, he
has hit balls out both right and left handed. He runs well, has a
cannon for an arm and he has a ready made Major League body. He profiles
as a Major League right fielder. Steckenrider plays for East Cobb in the
summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Unfortunately a sore arm kept
Steckenrider from showing off one of his best tools, in his arm, while
in LA. It’s always fun to set around scouts who see him for the first
time, especially during BP. He really looks the part and he continued a
streak where we’ve seen him take BP at least a dozen times and each time
he hits at least one out from both sides of the plate. This includes
two Major League Parks now. He went 0 for 2 in the game at Dodger
stadium. We only hope that all those scouts who liked what they saw,
get the chance to see him again when he’s 100% healthy. Steckenrider has
yet to commit and our guess is he will create big draft interest next
spring.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #16
|
|
Donovan Tate |
OF |
6-3 |
200 |
R/R |
Cartersville High
School (Cartersville, GA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Donavan Tate is perhaps the one player
that stands out the most in this class. A definite 5 tool guy with a
plus arm (95 mph) from the outfield and he runs a 6.3 60. He has
excellent hitting ability and huge power potential. He even has the
body and the look of a big league player and has thrown in the 90s from
the mound. He’s also a top football recruit. Tate plays for East Cobb
in the summer. Finalist for the Jackie Robinson Award.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Tate is arguably the #1 tools guy in
the 2009 class. An outstanding athlete who scouts glued in on in LA.
He didn’t disappoint, showing his all around ability all week long.
Most important he played hard. In the 9th inning he beat out
an infield hit to start the East winning rally. Earlier he flew out
deep on the warning track in left field. Tate also showed his defensive
ability when he ran down a fly ball deep in right center field earlier
in the game. With Donovan it’s all good, he passes the looks test and
the tools test with very high grades. If he keeps hitting he is a
likely very high pick in the 2009 draft. Baseball needs to have this
kid wrapped up before football gets him.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #2
|
|
Jason Thompson |
INF/OF |
6-0 |
185 |
S/R |
Germantown High School
(Germantown, TN) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Jason Thompson is an excellent
infielder with soft hands and an outstanding arm. He runs well and as a
switch hitter shows good hitting ability with power potential. He is
well built but still looks very young in the face. Thompson plays with
the Dulins Dodgers in the summer and has verbally committed to
Louisville.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Thompson was unable to play in the
Aflac Game at Dodger Stadium due to Tennessee State High School rules.
He did workout during the week and got the opportunity to shine. He
does everything well on a baseball field. He hit the ball all week
long, looked good on defense, and pretty much acted like a professional
rather than feeling sorry for himself. This kid has something special
about him. Thompson has verbally committed to Louisville and he could
easily draw a lot of draft interest for next year.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #42
|
|
Daniel Tuttle |
RHP/INF |
6-2 |
185 |
R/R |
Randleman High School
(Randleman, NC) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Daniel Tuttle has been up to 93 mph
this year and he throws three quality pitches including a very good
slider with a deceptive delivery. He has a quick arm and it works very
smoothly. He projects to throw with even more velocity in the future.
Tuttle plays with the Georgia Roadrunners in the summer and has verbally
committed to NC State.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: During Aflac week the practices can
get a bit boring for pitchers. However, once the game starts that all
changes in a big way. Tuttle gave up a couple hits and a run and things
weren’t looking good in the 4th inning. Then he stepped it
up several notches and dominated with two strike outs while flashing a
plus breaking ball and a fastball that reached 94 mph with good life.
It’s usually very easy for the top prospects, and it’s good to see how
these guys react when the going gets tough. Daniel Tuttle passed the
test with flying colors. He has verbally committed to North Carolina
State and he has a chance to create early draft interest.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #29
|
|
LeVon Washington |
OF/INF |
5-10 |
170 |
L/R |
Gainesville High School
(Gainesville, FL) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: LeVon Washington has tools that grade
out very high with his running speed in the 6.2s for the 60 and a strong
throwing arm. He can play the middle infield, but profiles best as a
center fielder at the next level. He's very much a lead off type hitter
with outstanding instincts and speed. Washington plays for the Florida
Hardballers in the summer and has verbally committed to the U of
Florida.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Not much to report on Washington at
the Aflac Game. He was there, but a broken bone in his hand kept him
from playing. He did visit the Children’s Hospital and participated in
all the activities showing great spirit and good attitude, he just
couldn’t play. We have seen him a lot and wish everyone else would have
had that same opportunity. Washington has verbally committed to the U
of Florida and will be scouted very heavy for next years draft.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #25
|
|
Zack Wheeler |
RHP |
6-4 |
180 |
R/R |
East Paulding High
School (Dallas, GA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Zach Wheeler is one of the top
pitching prospects in the country. He has been up to 94 mph on numerous
occasions this year. His fastball has excellent life and he also has a
very good breaking ball, both which he can fill the strike zone with. He
still has room to add strength and that’s scary. Wheeler plays with the
national power East Cobb program in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Wheeler gave up an unearned run in
the first inning, but he looked very good. He struck out 2 with one of
those Ks resulting in a third strike wild pitch/passed ball. That
runner later scored. Wheeler’s fast ball was up to 95 mph at Dodger
Stadium and his breaking ball was sharp. He proved that he is a
potential early draft pick for next June. Wheeler hasn’t committed yet,
but that’s just a formality. He might not end up in college anyway with
the kind of ability he shows every time out.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #9
|
|
Michael Zunino |
C/INF/OF |
6-2 |
185 |
R/R |
Mariner High
School(Cape Coral, FL) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Michael Zunino is a very athletic
player whether behind the plate or in the field. He runs a 6.7 60 and
has a plus quick arm. He is an outstanding hitter with big time power
potential and good makeup. Zunino plays with the Akadema Raiders in the
summer and has verbally committed to the U of Florida.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Zunino showed his skills all week in
LA. He is a very athletic catcher with the ability to play many
positions. We’ve seen him swing the bat better than what he showed in
LA, but he still flashed some easy power in BP sessions. In the game at
Dodger Stadium he beat out an infield hit to keep a 9th
inning rally going and later scored the tying run. He also did a great
job receiving in the game. Zunino is yet another who has verbally
committed to the U of Florida, but his dad is a scout and Michael has
professional baseball talent.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #46
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
West Team Alphabetical order by Last Name |
|
|
|
Name |
Pos. |
Hgt. |
Wgt. |
|
High School (HomeTown) |
|
Matt Davidson |
INF |
6-3 |
205 |
R/R |
Yucaipa High School
(Yucaipa, CA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Matt Davidson is a big strong third
baseman with a good arm and nice hands. His best tools are his hitting
ability and his outstanding power potential. He can hit a baseball a
long ways, upper deck power potential. Davidson plays with the ABD
Bulldogs in the summer and has verbally committed to Southern Cal.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: No player helped themselves more in
this year’s Aflac All American Game. All week long Davidson looked the
part of a Major League third baseman. He made all the plays, displayed
the arm strength and made things look easy. His bat drew the most
attention. Arguably the top power hitting infielder in the country at
this time. He won the first round of the Home Run Contest and hit balls
deep out of Dodger Stadium to win the finals as well. Then in the game
he made everything look smooth and easy at third. He hit a shot down
the left field line driving in a run in the 4th inning. He
was arguably the best performer during the 2008 Aflac week in LA. He
has verbally committed to play at the same field we worked out at with
Southern Cal. However, now Davidson’s name is going to be high on a lot
of draft lists.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #7
|
|
Matthew Graham |
RHP |
6-3 |
195 |
R/R |
Oak Ridge
High School (Spring, TX) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Matt Graham was topping out near the
mid 90s all of last summer. For some reason his velocity was down a bit
earlier this year, but he has the potential to be a big strong power
pitcher and a work horse on the mound. His velocity is starting to
return, so it should be interesting to see where he’s at by the Aflac
Game. Graham played with the Dirtbags out of North Carolina this summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Scouts often say, if you see it once
it’s there. Graham has had his share of ups and downs over the last
year, especially with the velocity on his fastball. The good news is
that Graham had an easy inning thowing a perfect 8th for the
West. His velocity was in the 90s up to 94. It looks like everything
we saw last year might be returning. If so he is going to create a lot
of draft interest.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #50
|
|
Scott Griggs |
RHP |
6-2 |
185 |
R/R |
San Ramon Valley High
School (Alamo, CA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Scott Griggs has three good pitches
and outstanding command of all three. He throws in the low 90s with good
life out of a modified drop and drive delivery with a high leg lift
which adds some deception. Griggs plays for national power NorCal in
the summer and has verbally committed to UCLA.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: We have seen Scott Griggs dominate
hitters before. He did walk a couple hitters in his inning of work, but
he also showed scouts one of the nation’s best breaking balls and the
best velocity we have ever seen from him at 95 mph. Guess he was a
little pumped in Dodger Stadium. Pitchers who can turn it up a notch in
these situations need to be recognized and that’s exactly what Griggs
did. Some may have thought he was a great college prospect, but now
with this performance they have to think pro prospect as well. Griggs
verbally committed to UCLA, but let’s not forget the draft. There’s
something special here!
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #31
|
|
Slade Heathcott |
OF/LHP |
6-1 |
196 |
L/L |
Texas High School
(Texarkana, TX) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Slade Heathcott is a strong athlete
with excellent baseball tools. He throws from the left side in the 90s
from the mound and has a sharp curveball. He was clocked at 94 mph on
his throws from the outfield. He also runs a 6.7 60 yard dash and can
hit and hit with power. The ball explodes off his wood bat. Heathcott
plays with D-Bat out of Dallas in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: All week long our eyes were glued on
Heathcott. His talent is apperent and amazing at times. He simply does
everything exceptionally well and he is very strong and athletic. He
took the tough luck loss in this game after entering on the mound for
the 9th inning. But there’s no way this kid is a loser. Two
infield hits and an error did him in. He still looked outstanding
topping out at 94 mph from the left side and flashing a couple plus
breaking balls. He started the game in the outfield and drove in the
games first run with a line shot single. Baseball has strange turns,
Heathcott was penciled in as the games MVP before the 9th
inning began. He ended up being perhaps the toughest and most
disappointed player on the field at the end. Truth is, this kid is
very, very talented and I’d be surprised if he doesn’t have a long and
successful professional career ahead of him. LHP or OF, it could go
either way. We haven’t heard of any college commitment yet, but pro
scouts will be right on top of him until next June.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #21
|
|
Kyrell Hudson |
OF |
6-2 |
185 |
R/R |
Evergreen High School
(Vancouver, WA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Kyrell Hudson is a very athletic
outfielder with serious raw tools. He runs a 6.5 60 and throws 93 mph
from the outfield and shows good instincts. He has a smooth swing that
allows plenty of projection with the bat. The exit speeds off the wood
bat are a bit low right now showing limioted “now” power, but there’s an
awful lot to work with here. Hudson has verbally committed to Oregon
State.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Hudson showed his outstanding
athletic ability all week long at USC. His arm and plus running speed
are very obvious tools. The swing looks nice, but so far there’s no
juice in his bat. No doubt about his potential, but the bat is his
weakest tool at this point. Every once in awhile it shows up and he is
impressive. He had an infield hit in the game at Dodger Stadium. If he
shows scouts the hitting ability he could go very good in the draft.
Hudson has verbally committed to Oregon State.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #89
|
|
Tyler Matzek |
LHP |
6-3 |
185 |
L/L |
Capistrano Valley High
School (Mission Viejo, CA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Tyler Matzek is one of the top
pitching prospects available for the 2009 draft. He is a very athletic
lefty and has an extremely fast arm, throws his fastball in the 91-94
mph range with good life and he throws four quality pitches all for
strikes with excellent mechanics and poise. Along with Purke, he's one
of the better high school lefties over the past five years. Matzek plays
for Trombley Baseball in the summer. Finalist for the Jackie Robinson
Award.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Matzek was as good a prospect as any
one in the 2008 Aflac Game. The smooth lefty mowed down the side and
just dominated with at least three excellent pitches, command, life and
a low 90s fastball that reached 93 mph. Outside of a little more
velocity, not sure what more he could have done to impress the many
highest level scouts in attendance. The Aflac Game and Dodger Stadium
was good to Tyler Matzek. Of course, we knew he was one of the top
pitching prospects before hand. What we didn’t know was how good an
athlete he is. In fact, Matzek ended up being one of the finalists in
the Home Run contest and hot a couple out of Dodger Stadium. We haven’t
heard of an early commitment yet, but everyone will want Matzek. So
will 30 MLB ball clubs. Should be interesting!
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #3
|
|
Jiovanni Mier |
INF/RHP |
6-2 |
170 |
R/R |
Bonita High School
(Pomona, CA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Jiovanni Mier is one of the top middle
infield prospects in the West. He also pitches in the low 90s. He runs
a 6.7 60, shows excellent hitting ability and has great actions, good
feet, and soft hands. He also has a great feel for the game. He is a
true baseball player! Mier plays with the ABD Bulldogs in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Mier performed well all week in the
workouts and played an outstanding shortstop in the game at Dodger
Stadium. He is an unassuming type athlete that just gets the job done
and does things easily. He has plus arm strength, but it kind of goes
unnoticed at times due to his ability to feel the game. As a hitter he
doesn’t have a lot of present day power, but he can square up and hit
the ball hard to all fields. He does project in a big way because of
his baseball instincts and the obvious strength gains he will be
seeing. Mier is one of those kids who if he goes the college route he
could come out as a first round pick. He has verbally committed to
Southern Cal. There could be a club or two that has noticed this kid
has a great feel for the game and simply plays it better than most
everyone else. Kind of reminds us of a JJ Hardy at the same age.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #37
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Jacob Morris |
OF |
6-3 |
195 |
S/R |
Coppell High School
(Coppell, TX) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Jacob Morris has serious 5 tool
potential. An outstanding athlete who runs the 60 in the 6.3s, throws
91 from the outfield and shows big power potential at the plate. A
switch hitter, he is especially good from the right side. He drives the
ball with power and covers the entire K zone from the right side. The
left side still needs to develop. Morris plays for the Dallas Tigers in
the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Morris is one of the most talented
athletes in the country. He really has potential for all 5 tools, but
right now the biggest question mark is his bat. That’s not the tool you
want to be lacking at. There is no question about his ability to hit.
He has become a switch hitter and he was a much better hitter right
handed. In LA he started showing signs of coming around from the left
side. He stroked some balls hard. Switch hitting is great, but you
have to stand out from the left side because that’s where you will get
the most at bats. Morris shows both power and hitting ability from the
right side. Sometimes all those left handed at bats take away from the
natural right handed repetitions and both suffer. This will be very
interesting because there is no debate over the rest of his tools. If
the switch hitting thing works he is a potential early draft pick and it
does show potential as of late. If it doesn’t work out, he will either
have to give up switch hitting or continue to progress in college.
Either way Jacob Morris is a very interesting and extremely talented
athlete.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #49
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|
David Nick |
INF |
6-2 |
175 |
|
Cypress High School
(Cypress, CA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: David Nick is an outstanding all
around player and one of the best pure hitters in the country. He runs
a 6.55 60 and shows great baseball instincts. He plays shortstop, but
profiles very well as a Major League second baseman. He compares
favorably to former Aflac 1st round pick Nick Noonan. Nick plays for
the ABD Bulldogs in the summer and has verbally committed to UCLA.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Nick is another prospect that can go
overlooked if not paying close attention. He has some power and the
potential there is extreme. He is a very polished hitter who squares
the ball up as well as any high school player in the country. He is a
very good defensive player and he’s a plus runner and a smart runner
with great instincts. He compares to former Aflac All American Nick
Noonan, a first round pick who was also from Southern California. Above
all, David Nick is a pure baseball player and those kind are getting to
the big leagues quickly these days. He didn’t have a great day at the
Aflac Game, but he showed that ability when he flied out hard to left
field on an inside 96 mph fastball. He also scored the games first run
after reaching 1B on a strike 3 pitch that got past the catcher. Some
consider Nick the best pure hitter in his class. He has verbally
committed to UCLA. It will be interesting to see if scouts like him
early in the draft now or after college.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #18
|
|
Brooks Pounders |
RHP/INF |
6-5 |
220 |
R/R |
Temecula Valley High
School (Temecula, CA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Brooks Pounders is a big country
strong RHP who is also an outstanding power hitter and player. He was
up to 94 with his fastball at the PG National at the Metrodome in June
and showed three potential plus pitches. He is a corner guy who has a
nice easy power swing that produces some big long balls. Pounders plays
for the ABD Bulldogs in the summer and has verbally committed to
Southern Cal.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Pounders was impressive all week in
LA. He hit some rockets out of Dedeaux Field to straight away
centerfield showing serious power with the wood. He’s a big guy who we
like as a pitcher first, but that power is very interesting (Big Mac).
He is agile enough to play 3B but his home if not on the mound will end
up being 1B. He went 0 for 2, flying out very deep to centerfield and
popping up to short. He is a big strong power guy who doesn’t miss the
ball very often. He pitched the 3rd inning and retired the
East in order showing a 94 mph fastball while commanding a very good
curve ball. He’s very talented and has good bloodlines.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #22
|
|
Matthew Purke |
LHP |
6-3 |
170 |
L/L |
Klein
High School (Spring, TX) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Matt Purke is ranked the #1 prospect
in High School baseball. A lefty who has thrown up into mid 90s with
command and life. His secondary pitches all work very well and he
competes. He projects in a large way because of his body type, arm speed
and ability to pitch. Along with Matzek among the very best high school
lefties in years. Purke plays for the Houston Heat in the summer.
Finalist for the Jackie Robinson Award.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: After Purke’s performance at Dodger
Stadium most scouts we taked to say he will be the first high school
player picked next June. We would agree with that and that’s why we
have him ranked #1 in the class. He dominated in the 5th
inning with two ks and a ground ball out. His velocity was up to 95 mph
and when he discovered the umpire had a generous outside zone, he
pounded it. His other pitches were equally impressive and he left
little doubt as to the #1 prospect in Dodger Stadium on this day. He
shows a certain calm competitiveness and confidence that stands out.
Purke hasn’t committed as far as we know, but I doubt it makes much
difference. He has early first round written all over him. All he has
to do is keep working, stay healthy and stay level headed.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #1
|
|
Jonathan Singleton |
1B/OF |
6-2 |
218 |
L/L |
Millikan High School
(Lakewood, CA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Jonathan Singleton is a big strong
athlete with the best raw power in the high school class of 2009. He
hit four balls into the upper deck at the Metrodome in June while
winning the Rawlings homerun contest, but he also showed an excellent
approach and outstanding overall hitting ability. He is light on his
feet and a good first baseman. Singleton plays for the San Gabriel
Valley Arsenal in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: For some reason there was a report
released in the Aflac Program (it didn’t come from us) that Singleton’s
power is still raw as is his approach at the plate and his ability in
the field. Singleton didn’t have a great Aflac Game, but he does have a
good approach at the plate, his power is very real, and he’s a good
defensive first baseman with light feet around the bag. He hit some
monster shots out of Dedeaux Field during BP and as usual made the
finals of the Home Run contest that was won by Davidson this time. The
only raw aspect to Singleton is the fact he hasn’t got a long history of
facing the top pitchers in the country. That has been changing fast and
everyone will soon figure out that this guy has a chance to hit many
major league home runs for many years. We haven’t heard of any college
commitment yet, but this kid might impress people enough to become an
early draft pick.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #47
|
|
Max Stassi |
C/INF |
5-10 |
187 |
R/R |
Yuba City High School
(Yuba City, CA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Max Stassi is one of the top catching
prospects in the 2009 draft. He has amazing catching tools, popping a
1.76. He also ran a very good 6.8 in the 60. Best of all Stassi can
hit and flashes power to all fields with an easy fluid swing. Stassi is
another one with an amazing feel for the game. Stassi has verbally
committed to UCLA.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Stassi stood out all week in practice
at USC. He really does everything very well, even run. His power is
surprising and he carries himself like a 10 year MLB veteran. He
doubled at Dodger Stadium and scored the games first run. There’s
something very special about this kid. He walks on the field and no one
glues in on him. Then boom he’s in the middle of everything and you
can’t take your eyes off of him. He’s an outstanding all around
receiver with a quick strong arm who can hit and hit for power. Stassi
early committed to UCLA. Being a catcher it might be best if he goes
there and becomes a first rounder in three years. Then again he is very
hard to ignore as a potential early pick next June.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #8
|
|
Andrew Susac |
C |
6-1 |
190 |
R/R |
Jesuit High School
(Roseville, CA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Andrew Susac may not be one of the
most well known prospects in America, but he certainly is one of the
very best defensive catchers. He has popped a 1.75 and shows excellent
arm strength with accuracy and quickness. He even runs and hits well
with power potential. Susac plays for the EDH Vipers in the summer and
he has verbally committed to Oregon State.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Susac could easily become the biggest
sleeper of this Aflac Class. We’ve seen him a lot and once again he
looked good all week at USC practices. His catch and throw ability
ranks up there with most any catcher we’ve seen in the past 10 years.
He has a very strong, quick and accurate arm while releasing with cat
like quickness. He might be the best receiver in a very unusually
strong year for catchers. Susac can hit, too and showed it to an extent
in LA. He has HR power. If he shows enough bat between now and the
draft he might go early. If he doesn’t, it looks like Oregon State
where he is verbally committed will be very strong behind the plate.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #35
|
|
Chad Thompson |
RHP |
6-8 |
215 |
R/R |
El Toro High School
(Trabuco Canyon, CA) |
|
Chad Thompson is a very tall RHP with a smooth delivery and he has
thrown his fastball up to 94 this year. Very coordinated for his size he
throws a bit cross body with excellent life. He also shows a potential
big league out pitch with his splitter. Thompson plays for the ABD
Bulldogs in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Thompson is a bit difficult to figure
out. Is he ready for pro ball? Should he go to college and develop
farther? Those were the questions as Thompson had some inconsistencies
with his velocity over the year. Well, he was 94 in the Metrodome in
June and topped out at 93 in Dodger Stadium in August. Guess he just
likes Major League Mounds! He threw a perfect inning for the West with
a strike out. Most important he looked very good while doing it. There
might be more polished pitchers in high school baseball, but this kid
might end up being the prize of the class when it’s all said and done.
He has sky is the limit possibilities. We haven’t heard if he has
committed anywhere yet. He is sure to see a lot of radar guns over the
next 9 months. There is upper 90s possibilities here. If that happens,
he’s an early pick.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #26
|
|
Jacob Turner |
RHP |
6-4 |
205 |
R/R |
Westminster Christian
Academy (St. Charles, MO) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Jacob Turner is the top RHP in high
school baseball at this time, along with Zach Wheeler (GA). He throws
up to mid 90s fastballs with exceptional life and good command. His off
speed stuff is good and he throws very effortlessly. The sky is the
limit with his frame and lightning fast arm. Turner plays for the
Rawlings Prospects in the summer. Finalist for the Jackie Robinson
Award.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Turner looks like your typical work
horse MLB pitcher and he looked that way again at Dodger Stadium. He was
94 in June and 93 in August at Dodger Stadium. He was the starter for
the West and the only pitcher to go 2 complete innings. After a
somewhat bad start, hitting the first batter and walking the next, he
settled down to strike out the side. Then he struck out the first two
hitters in the 2nd inning. He struck out 5 and gave up one
hit without giving up a run. Turner showed all his pitches and looked
like he could have gone nine innings. This performance might have
cemented his place as the top high school right hander in the country.
It did as far as were concerned anyway. Turner has verbally committed
to North Carolina, but he will also be the object of much early pick
talk.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #5
|
|
Jonathan Walsh |
C/OF |
6-3 |
211 |
S/R |
Coppell High School
(Coppell, TX) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Jonathan Walsh is an outstanding big
strong athlete who can play several positions in addition to being a
high draft caliber catcher. He runs an outstanding 6.5-6.6 60 and pops
a 1.8 from behind the plate. He shows outstanding hitting ability with
big power potential from both sides of the plate as well. Walsh plays
for the Dallas Tigers in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Our biggest reservation about the
extremely athletic Walsh is what position he is best suited for. He did
a nice job and looked good behind the plate during Aflac workouts and he
even caught some in the game. Walsh is a very interesting athlete who
does everything well and we were more impressed than ever by his hitting
ability. He is a hitter first, a power hitter second, just as it should
be at kids his age. It was only a hard groundout in Dodger Stadium to
the pull side, but Walsh did that against a 98 mph fastball. Think
about that for a while. He turned hard on a first pitch 98 mph
fastball. It wasn’t a lucky accident!
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #23
|
|
Everett Williams |
OF |
5-10 |
165 |
L/R |
McCallum High School
(Austin, TX) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Everett Williams doesn't look all that
big until he swings the bat. He has a strong lower half and can really
hit and with easy power from the left side. He also runs very well, has
a strong arm and possesses the entire package. There’s not much he can’t
do on a baseball field. Williams plays with the Austin Wings in the
summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Williams might have been the most
impressive prospect during the practice week at Southern Cal. He showed
running speed, a plus arm from the outfield, outstanding quick bat from
the left side with serious power. He hit some balls that left the park
at warp speed. One thing that became apparent early on, Everett weighs
more than 165 pounds. He is strong and very athletic. In the game at
Dodger Stadium he flew out in the 1st, walked to lead off the
3rd, stole 2B, Kd on a great change up in the 5th,
popped up to short in the 7th. Not a great game, but he
looked good all the same. He is a kid you just expect to hit the ball
hard every at bat and no surprise if you see a long one. It won’t be a
surprise to see him go good in next year’s draft either.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #17
|
|
Beau Wright |
LHP |
6-2 |
205 |
L/L |
Los Alamitos High
School(Los Alamitos, CA) |
|
Pre Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Beau Wright is a big strong lefty who
can throw in the low 90s and carve hitters up with his secondary stuff.
Good curveball, good changeup, very deceptive and excellent command of
all three pitches. Wright plays with HB Nitro in the summer.
Post Aflac Report by Perfect Game: Wright was unable to pitch in Dodger
Stadium. He was injured in a game the previous day. Not an arm injury,
but enough that doctors told him to stay off the field for a couple
weeks. The talented lefty was still present at every practice and
activity including the game. It would have been good with Beau being
from LA and all. Luckily we have seen him before and there is no doubt
about his ability or his make up. We haven’t heard of any commitment
yet, but he can pitch at any college in America and be a big winner.
The next 9 months will determine his draft status which could get pretty
interesting.
Most recent national
rank on
www.pgcrosschecker.com #45
|
