LATEST PG SHOWCASE REPORT
2007 National Showcase
Matthew Skipper is a 2008 RHP/1B with a 6'9'', 220 lb. frame from Arvada, CO who attends Ralston Valley HS. Skipper is one of the taller baseball prospects on record, with a 6-9 long and rangy Richie Sexson type build. He gets a severe downhill angle to the plate from an overhand release point with a quick arm and good extension out front. Skipper's fastball was pretty straight and topped out at 88 mph. He showed a good ability to throw strikes with his fastball and spot the pitch. His mid 60's curveball had fair tumbling action and not much power. He didn't throw a change up. Skipper's athleticism also enables him to show prospect ability at the plate. He has a quiet approach at the plate with a balanced and fluid swing. He likes the ball low in the zone where he can extend to it and he shows some bat speed and leverage at contact. Overall, Skipper's athletic ability and size are very intriguing. There is no precedent for a 6-9 hitter in the Major Leagues but Skipper's raw stuff and feel for pitching show lots of potential.