LATEST PG SHOWCASE REPORT
2006 National Showcase
Jonathan Candelier is a 2007 right hand hitting catcher from Clinton HS, residing in Bronx, NY. Candelier has a strong, durable, powerful build on his 6'0" 190 lb. frame that looks made for the catcher position. Candelier is a player that has the ability to draw a scout's eyes and was ranked #58 among PG National Top 100 position players. He appeared to have a love of playing and energy that really fits well at the catcher position. At the plate Candelier showed that he is going to hit for some power. He may not be a high average hitter, but his power potential rates well for the catcher position. He is an aggressive hitter and has an aggressive swing. Candelier's barrel is long in the zone and he gets his arms extended well. He has strong hands and showed power in the middle of the field. There is some swing and miss in his approach, but he is going to take his hacks each time up and is going to do his share of damage with the bat. Candelier is a catcher that has a chance to hit a run producing spot, say in the 5-7 hole, depending on the make-up of the line-up around him. Behind the plate he sits and receives well. Candelier has quick, agile feet and can spring to them quickly to throw or shift them laterally to block. Sometimes he goes a bit too quick in a catch/throw situation but will learn to be a bit more efficient as he gets coached at higher levels. Candelier has a chance to be a well above average thrower. His arm is strong and quick, though there is quite a bit of backward extension that creates length and inconsistent accuracy. That can be a bit tougher to get rid of than slowing down his footwork or getting his hands and feet to work together. However, it is likely that when his exchange is more efficient, he will have to, by default, shorten his arm stroke because his body will be in position to throw much sooner. Even with that long stroke, he flashes plus pop times on occasion. Candelier is a field general type with a strong bat and arm. He is a very high quality D1 prospect and likely will get some pro attention this spring, especially if he is hitting with the type of power he looks to have.