Fort Myers, Fla. - There were quite a few hitters that stood out during batting practice on the second day of the 2011 Perfect Game National Showcase. Saugus, California's Trey Williams was one of those hitters, lacing line drives all over the field while sending a laser over the fence in deep left-center.
But it was one swing during the games played in the afternoon that really caught the attention of the crowd, fans and scouting personnel alike.
“That might be the single most impressive swing I've seen at an event like this,” said one long-time scout. “Most big-leaguers can't even drive that pitch like (Williams) did.”
That pitch was a high fastball that caught the outside corner of the plate, a pitch that Williams reached out and drilled deep to right-center. Even to an untrained eye, that home run was special, as displayed by the buzz that quickly took over City of Palms Park.
Even the outfielders on the field looked back towards the infield as if in disbelief.
Williams arrived at the event ranked as the third-best high school prospect eligible for the 2012 draft. Even with that lofty reputation, the son of former first-round pick Eddie Williams, who played 10 years in the big-leagues, remains humble.
“It's an honor,” Williams said of the opportunity to attend the National. “I feel really respected that I got invited to this. Every (Perfect Game) showcase I've been to has great competition and challenges me to my fullest.”
His bat speed is evident at the plate, and not just on the swing that created such a buzz. He looks like a natural in the batters box, clearly benefiting from the teachings from his big-league dad.
“I think my focus is my strong potential (at the plate),” Williams said of his own strengths. “I rarely get off-track, focusing on the (pitcher's) release point and where the ball is going to end up.”
You wouldn't know the soft-spoken Williams is 17 years old, with a mature, chiseled build that somewhat resembles an NFL running back. In addition to his hitting prowess, he looks fluid on the infield, with easy movements to both his left and right.
“Third base is my primary position,” Williams acknowledged despite playing shortstop primarily during his sophomore year. “I have great reflexes and my arm is really good.”
He showcased that arm strength by recording 87 on the radar gun on his throws from across the infield. While he's not shy about sharing his strengths, he is also quick to point out the things he has been working on.
“I've been working on my fielding the most (while) trying to get more legs into my swing path. I'm going to go out and play my hardest and see what happens.”
So far, so good.