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2011 18u WWBA National Championship


Show Downs Yankees 10-1 to Become 18u Champs >>

7/8/2011 11:42:36 AM

The San Diego Show became the first team from California to ever win the 18u WWBA National Championship by knocking off the East Cobb Yankees 10-1 in the title game.

Mark Vasquez threw a complete game for the Show, giving up a Run on 4 hits. John Gamble's 3-Run Home Run in the 5th put the game out of reach. Jake Reed was named Most Valuable Pitcher, Phillip Evans earned tournament MVP honors.

The full story will be available shortly.
Norris Nails Down Save, Sends Yanks to Title Game >>

7/8/2011 9:58:54 AM

Toronto Blue Jays second round pick Daniel Norris (2011 Science Hills HS, Johnson City, TN) closed out a 5-4 East Cobb Yankees victory. The Yankees survived a scare after seeing the 5-0 lead shrink to a single run after the Dodgers cashed in on a pair of walks and an error to lead off the inning. Norris topped out at 93 with very good command.

Yankees starter Jake Burnette (2011 Buford HS, GA), a 7th round pick of the Pittsburgh Pirates, went 5 innings, allowing 2 runs (1 ER) with 7 strikeouts and 4 walks. Burnette worked 87-91 with his fastball and complimented it well with a 77 mph curveball. Tyler Gibson (2011 Stratford HS, Macon, GA) was the hitting star for the Yankees, going 2-for-3 with a triple and 2 Runs scored. Gibson, a Georgia Tech commit was selected in the 15th round by the Detroit Tigers.

The Yankees will take on the San Diego Show in the championship game.
Hayes Lifts Show to Semifinal Victory >>

7/8/2011 9:27:59 AM

Kyle Hayes put on a show in a 5-4 semifinal victory over the East Cobb Braves 17u. Hayes, put the finishing touches on a complete game victory with a 95 mph fastball to strike out the final batter of the game with the tying run on base.

Hayes sat 87-91 with his fastball for most of the game. Showing good command, he painted corners and save for a couple of mistakes, dominated a lineup that ranks amongst the best in the nation. Hayes showed advanced pitchability, pounding the zone and mixing all three pitches well. Hayes reached back for several 93 mph fastballs in the 7th before delivering the knockout blow with a well placed 95 mph heater to send the Braves home. Hayes also went 2-for-3 at the plate with a game winning 2-run Home Run.

Hayes also threw a complete game on Sunday, a 10 K, 4-hit shutout. Hayes did not issue a walk in his 14 innings of work, while striking out 14. Having graduated from high school as a 17 year old last year, Hayes played in 15 games for San Diego State this spring but plans to transfer to a junior college for the 2011-12 school year. With an advanced three pitch mix that includes low 90s fastballs with plus movement and good command, a hammer curve and a good changeup with feel, Hayes is a player who can help any college program next season. Hayes is a two way player who can also provide a power presence in the lineup as a left handed hitting 3B.

The Show will take on the winner of the East Cobb Yankees-Dulin Dodgers semifinal matchup. It is their first appearance in the title game in spite of being a staple in the playoffs over the past few seasons.
Semi-finals to begin at 9 AM EST Friday >>

7/7/2011 5:55:31 PM

The semi-final matchups are set to begin at 9:00 AM EST tomorrow morning at the East Cobb complex in Marietta, Georgia.

The East Cobb Yankees will face the Dulin Dodgers on Field 1.

The San Diego Show will face the East Cobb Braves 17U on Field 2.

The winners of these two games will face each other for the Championship scheduled to begin at 11:30 AM EST on Field 1.

To see the entire schedule and track the results of all of the game, be sure to visit the 2011 WWBA 2011 Grads or 18u National Championship Schedule page:

http://www.perfectgame.org/events/TournamentSchedule.aspx?event=1104
East Cobb Braves 17U advance to semi-finals >>

Gm # 573 | 7/7/2011 | 4:30 PM TGBA 17U vs. East Cobb Braves 17u

7/7/2011 5:49:59 PM

The East Cobb Braves 17U team defeated TGBA 17U 7-2 to advance to the semi-finals.

The Braves were carried by starter David Sosebee (2011, White County HS, Ga.), who went the full 7 innings, striking out 9 limiting TGBA 17U to 3 hits.  With a modest, athletic build, Sosebee showed good command to both sides of the plate with both his 86-88/89 fastball and his 69-71 curveball.  He throws on a downward plane with some riding life on his fastball, keeping the ball down in the zone while incorporating his lower half well.  His curve shows sharp 12-to-6 break.  Sosebee has committed to play for Georgia, although he was selected in the 48th round by the Red Sox in last month's draft.

Skye Bolt (Holy Innocents HS, Ga.) capped off a very productive day with a 2-for-4 performance.  Today alone he went 7-for-11, and now is 9-for-26 (.346) overall in the tournament.

The biggest performances at the plate in this game came from Matt Gonzalez (2012, Harrison HS, Ga.) and Kyle Carter (2012, Columbus HS, Ga.), both of whom had 2 hits, including a double.  Gonzalez drove in 3 while Carter drove in 2.  Dylan Dore (2012, Johns Creek HS, Ga.) reached base twice and scored 2 runs as the Braves' leadoff hitter.
San Diego Show advances to semi-finals >>

Gm # 574 | 7/7/2011 | 4:30 PM San Diego Show vs. Homeplate Chilidogs

7/7/2011 5:37:39 PM

For a team with such a prolific offense, it was ironic that the team advanced to the semi-finals behind a strong collective pitching performance in a 1-0 win over the Homeplate Chilidogs.

Bobby Zarubin (2012, Santa Fe Christian, Calif.), Ryan Peterson (2012, South Hills HS, Calif.) and Jake Reed (2011, Helix Charter HS, Calif.), who pitched each of the San Diego Show's previous 2 games today, combined on the 2-hit shutout.

Zarubin and Peterson, primarily positional players, worked at 84-87 and 82-84 respectively, while Reed showed his customary low-90s heat.

The San Diego Show hitters mustered only 3 hits of their own against the Chilidogs Jesse Copeland (2012, Northgate HS, Ga.).  Copeland went all 6 innings, striking out 4.  Working in the low-80s with very good fastball command, the only run that Copeland allowed came on a Kyle Hayes (2010, Santana HS, Calif.) single in the first inning.

Hayes has had a strong tournament at the plate, going 8-for-22 so far with 2 home runs.  His single in the 1st scored Nick Ruppert, who led the game off with a single and subsequently stole 2nd and 3rd.
East Cobb Yankees advance to semi-finals >>

Gm # 572 | 7/7/2011 | 4:30 PM East Cobb Yankees vs. Round Trip Baseball

7/7/2011 5:25:50 PM

Round Trip Baseball tried to pull off another fantastic finish, scoring 2 runs in both the bottom of the 6th and 7th innings, but the East Cobb Yankees held onto a 7-6 win.

Yankees starter RHP Blake Burkett (2012, West Forsyth HS, Ga.), currently ranked 213 in the 2012 class, struck out 4 in his 2.1 innings of work.  He started the game throwing strikes with an aggressive, competitive approach and a heavy 83-87 fastball that reached as high as 89 mph.  He also threw a sharp 73-75 curveball.  Burkett likes to work fast and is quick to the mound showing sound mechanics.

RHP Ben Lumsden (2011, Hillgrove HS, Ga.) worked the next 4.1 innings, running into some trouble in both the 6th and 7th innings as mentioned above.  While inconsistent, when on he was spotting his fastball well to both sides of the plate.  He kept his sinking 84-87/88 fastball down in the zone, and only threw a handful of offspeed offerings.

LHP/OF Daniel Norris, who may be turned upon tomorrow to pitch, went 1-for-2 with 3 RBI, including one of the bigger hits in the game, a 2-run double in the third.

1B Douglas Miller (2012, Darlngton HS, Ga.) had the other big hit for the Yankees, a 2-run home run in the sixth.

RHP Pete Nagel (2011, Metter HS, Ga.) started the game for Round Trip Baseball and threw the ball well.  The Georgia recruit's fastball sat in the 82-88 range mixing in a curveball, slider and changeup.  He struck out 6 in 5 innings, but did struggle with control, leading to 6 walks and an elevated pitch count while pitching from behind.
Dullin Dodgers advance to semi-finals >>

Gm # 571 | 7/7/2011 | 4:30 PM Dulin Dodgers vs. Excel Blue Wave

7/7/2011 5:08:57 PM

The Dulin Dodgers beat the Excel Blue Wave by a final score of 2-1 to advance to the semi-finals on Friday morning.

LHP Will Jamison (2011, Evangelical Chrsitian, Texas) got the start and was sharp over 5 innings, allowing only 3 hits while striking out 2.  He showed good command of the strike zone, using a 80-86 fastball that peaked at 87 and a handful of low-70s curveballs.  Jamison was selected by the Indians in the 45th round of the draft last month by the Indians, and has committed to play for Ole Miss.

IF/RHP Kyle Overstreet (2012, Boaz HS, Ala.), who pitched earlier in the day against the Ohio Warhawks, tossed the final 2 frames for the Dodgers, striking out a pair as he continued to pound the zone wiht 85-87 fastballs while dropping in 72-74 curveballs.

Cleanup hitter Shane Riley (2011, Houston HS, Tenn.) had the best performance at the plate for the Dulin Dodgers, going 2-for-3 with an RBI single in the 1st.

The Trio of Hunter Soleymani (2012, Pelham HS, Ala.), Cole Billingsley (2012, Pell City HS, Ala.) and Jordan Friday (2012, Prattville HS, Ala.) pitched well for the Excel Blue Wave, combining to give up only5 hits and 1 earned run with 7 strikeouts.

Soleymani, a South Alabama recruit, accounted for 6 of those punchouts, working the first 5 innings with a 82-85 fastball.

Billingsley, a LHP, pitched in a similar 84-86 mph range with his fastball, and is currently ranked the 341st best 2012 prospect.

Friday also sat in the mid-80s, recording the final 2 outs.
Junis fans 7 in 3 IP >>

7/7/2011 4:42:37 PM

FTB Louisville Slugger RHP/IF Jakob Junis (2011, Rock Falls HS, Ill.) was sharp in 3 innings of work, taking the start against Team Elite 17U Black.  He has a lean, wiry strong frame, and was consistently around the plate with his 3-pitch repertoire.  He threw mostly 85-88 fastballs that peaked at 90.  His changeup projects as a plus pitch, with the ability to throw it with the same arm speed and release as his fastball.  Junis was a 29th round draft pick by the Royals last month, and has committed to play for NC State.
LHP Trabanino sharp for the TX Trappers >>

Gm # 553 | 7/7/2011 | 2:00 PM Texas Trappers vs. Foundation Sports

7/7/2011 4:36:58 PM

Texas Trappers LHP Nolan Trabanino (2012, Clear Brook HS, Texas) has a crisp 3-inning performance in a 8-3 win over Foundation Sports.  Trabanino has good size and athleticism at 6-foot-3, 205-pounds, with long, strong limbs.  He showed very good command, throwing his 80-83 fastball easily.  He has the ability to add some run and cut to his fastball, keeping the ball down in the zone.  He didn't throw many in this game, but both his curveball and changeup show promise as well.
4 Explorers combine for shutout >>

Gm # 550 | 7/7/2011 | 2:00 PM MVP Expos vs. Columbus Explorers

7/7/2011 4:31:30 PM

Three right-handers and a lefty from the 2012 class combined to toss a shutout for the Columbus Explorers (of Christopher Columbus HS in Miami, Fla.) in a 4-0 win over the MVP Expos.

RHP Danny Dopico has an athletic and projectable 6-foot, 175-pound frame and showed good command of his 82-87 fastball.  He struck out 2 in 3 innings.

RHP Yency Almonte took the mound in the fourth and showed the best pure stuff to go along with a large, athletic 6-foot-4, 175-pound body.  He was consistently 89-91 and peaked at 92, striking out 3 in his inning of work.  His command needs attention, but his upside is evident, currently ranked 114th in the 2012 class.

LHP Luis Collazo fits the crafty mold, with good command of a 83-85 fastball that he shows the ability to cut.

RHP Mike Vinson shows good command and a large, athletic frame at 6-foot-4, 190-pounds.  He worked fast, throwing strikes with his 84-90 mph fastball.  Vinson was up to 91 at the Perfect Game National Showcase a few weeks ago, and is ranked 272 among the 2012 players.
Mercado blasts a pair >>

Gm # 542 | 7/7/2011 | 2:00 PM Cincinnati Riverbats vs. PR Giants 18U

7/7/2011 4:16:45 PM

PR Giants 18U OF Anthony Mercado (2010, UIA, PR) provided most of the offense with a pair of home runs in a 2-for-3, 4 RBI performance in a 10-1 win over the Cincinnati Riverbats.  The source of power may have come from the seemingly most unlikely source given Mercado's 5-foot-6, 180-pound frame.
Ben Holland caps off fine tourney with HR >>

Gm # 537 | 7/7/2011 | 12:30 PM Chattanooga Cherokees 18u vs. ABD MUSTANGS

7/7/2011 4:07:58 PM

Chattanooga Cherokees 18U 1B Ben Holland (2011, Siegel HS, Tenn.) capped off a fine tournament in which he went 7-for-14 with a 2-for-3 performance.  He yanked a 2-run shot in the first, showing good strength in his mature 6-foot-2, 225-pound frame.
Malcom Diaz touches 90 >>

Gm # 536 | 7/7/2011 | 12:30 PM MVP Baseball vs. IBAHS Knights

7/7/2011 4:01:34 PM

IBAHS Knights RHP Malcom Diaz (2012, Puerto Rico Baseball Academy) threw the final inning in a 5-4 win over MVP Baseball.  Diaz worked 84-88 touching 90.  The Alabama State recruit, currently ranked 124 among the 2012 class, was up to 93 a few weeks prior at the Perfect Game National.  At 6-foot-2, 177-pounds, Diaz has a wiry strong, projectable frame and should be throwing consistently harder in the next year or two.
Clint Wynn works in the upper-80s >>

Gm # 535 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM Team Elite 17U White vs. Texas Dukes

7/7/2011 3:56:42 PM

Team Elite 17U White RHP Clint Wynn (2012, Houston County HS, Ga.) only threw 1 inning starting a game that ended in a 3-3 tie against the Texas Dukes, but he showed easy arm strength sitting at 86-89.
Moore blasts grand slam >>

Gm # 534 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM Team Elite 18U vs. So Cal Elite

7/7/2011 3:52:08 PM

Team Elite 18U switch-hitting third baseman Nicky Moore (2011, Brockwood HS, Ga.) reached on each of his 4 plate appearances, with a grand slam easily standing out on a day he walked, was hit by a pitch twice and drove in 5 runs.  At 6-foot-3, 200 pounds, Moore has very good strength.  He has a fluid stroke with good bat speed and plate coverage, consistently driving the ball hard to all fields.  The home run was his second of the tournament, with 3 of his 4 hits going for extra bases.
2013 RHP Lawrence pitches well >>

Gm # 533 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM PBB 17U vs. Tucker Dodgers

7/7/2011 3:44:33 PM

PBB 17U RHP Nicholas Lawrence (2013, Weillington Community HS, Fla.) was sharp in his scoreless 4 inning stint, striking out 8 hitters and allowing only 3 hits and 1 walk.  With a lean and lanky 6-foot-2, 170-pound frame, it's easy to envision his current 82-86 fastball jumping up over the next year as he continues to mature and add strength.
LHP Kopenski with sharp CG effort >>

Gm # 532 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM Suncoast Select 18 vs. Texas Sports Red 18U

7/7/2011 3:39:53 PM

Suncoast Select 18 LHP Ryan Kopenski (2012, Wiregress Ranch HS, Fla.) struck out 8 in 7 full innings in a 5-1 victory over Texas Sports Red 18U.  He showed an effective 3-pitch mix, including a 73-77 fastball, a mid-60s slow curve and a changeup.

Teammate Jimmy Diven (2011, Springstead HS, Fla.), primarily a LHP, went 3-for-3 at the plate with a triple and 3 RBI.
3 South Florida Thunder Ps combine for 1 hitter >>

Gm # 531 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM PLAYGROUND ALLSTARS vs. South Florida Thunder

7/7/2011 3:35:23 PM

South Florida Thunder RHPs Richie Barbella (2012, Miami Christian, Fla.), Lance Elder (2011, South Dade HS, Fla.) and Eric Santamaria (2011, Sunset HS, Fla.) combined on a 1-hit shutout over the Playground All-Stars.  Elder showed the best stuff of the trio, throwing a 85-88 fastball and striking out 3 batters in 2 innings.
Carlos Ruiz looks sharp in win >>

Gm # 530 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM Atlanta Elite Giants vs. Bucky Dent Bandits UCLA

7/7/2011 3:30:34 PM

Bucky Dent Bandits UCLA RHP Carlos Ruiz (Panama City, PA) turned in a solid performance against the Atlanta Elite Giants, going the distance in a 5-inning, 13-1 victory.  It was easily Ruiz' best pitching performance during the tournament, striking out 6 and allowing only 4 hits.  He has an extra-large, athletic, 6-foot-4, 180-pound frame with broad shoulders and long, wiry strong limbs.  Ruiz pounded the strike zone, using his size well by pitching on a downhill plane to produce 83-87 heat, topping out at 89.  He set up hitters well, working fast and flashing potential with his 78-72 curveball.

Atlanta Elite Giants 1B Fred Williams (2012, Morgan County HS, Ga.) continued to hit the ball well in Marietta, recording 1 of the 4 hits and driving in the only run that Ruiz allowed.  Williams offers a large, mature, pro-style frame with exciting power potential as a left-handed hitter.
TGBA 17U wins in the bottom of the 7th to advance >>

Gm # 545 | 7/7/2011 | 2:00 PM TGBA 17U vs. Oklahoma Drillers

7/7/2011 3:19:49 PM

TGBA 17U IF Robert Currie (2012, Lovett HS, Ga.) walked, stole second base and scored on a Brock Maxwell (2013, Lambert HS, Ga.) single, all with 2 outs in the bottom of the 7th, to beat the Oklahoma Drillers.  TGBA 17U advances to the Quarterfinals where they will play the East Cobb Braves 17U team.

The focus on the game started with a matchup between two promising right-handed pitchers, Oklahoma Drillers' Chase Williams (Broken Arrow HS, Okla.) and TGBA 17U's Eric Nyquist (2011, Alpharetta HS, Ga.)

The pitching strength of the Broken Arrow program continued to be on display with Williams, who showed a loose arm while pitching downhill with a tall and projectable 6-foot-6, 205-pound frame.  He threw strikes, sitting in the 81-85 range while peaking at 88 mph.  While he threw mostly fastballs, he dropped in an occasional curveball.  Williams struck out 4 in 3 innings, allowing only 1 hit, but did give up 3 runs (only 1 earned).

2012 LHP Jacob Evans will continue to carry the pitching torch for Broken Arrow next season, with an athletic 6-foot-2, 205-pound build and plenty of room for added strength.  His arm works well, with deception to his delivery and some late life to his 80-84 mph fastball.  He also showed good depth on his 12-to-6 curveball that hovered around 70 mph.

Nyquist, a Mercer recruit, showed the ability to throw strikes with his 84-88 fastball.  His fastball had some late life to it, and was able to drop in an occasional curveball to keep the opposing hitters off balance.  Nyquist shows good moxie on the mound with a deceptive delivery and a fast-paced tempo, leading to 8 strikeouts in his 5 inning stint.
San Diego Show offense continues to click >>

Gm # 546 | 7/7/2011 | 2:00 PM San Diego Show vs. Syracuse Sports Zone Chiefs

7/7/2011 3:04:28 PM

The star-studded lineup of the San Diego Show continued to produce against the Syracuse Sports Zone Chiefs, taking this game 8-0 as the Show moves on to a Quarterfinal matchup against the Homeplate Chilidogs.

Leadoff hitter Nick Ruppert (2012, St. Augustine HS, Calif.) continues to do a good job atop the order, going 2-for-3 with a triple, a walk, 2 runs scored and 2 RBI.

3-hole hitter Corey Oswalt (2012, James Madison HS, Calif.) also continues to swing the bat well, going 1-for-2 with a walk and a run scored.

2010 Aflac All-American Phillip Evans (2011, LaCosta Canyon HS, Calif.) had a double and 4 RBI in a 2-for-3 day at the plate.

Jake Reed (2011, Helix Charter HS, Calif) started, and finished the game for the Show after pitching an inning earlier in the day.  His electric arm speed is evident, throwing strikes with an explosive fastball that sat in the upper-80s to low 90s, peaking at 92.  He continued to throw s sharp slider as well, giving him two legitimate swing-and-miss pitches.  He was particularly efficient in this game, striking out 2 batters and allowing only 2 hits during his 5 inning outing.

Syracuse Sports Zone Chiefs starter Kevin McAvoy (2011, Westhill HS, N.Y.) took the mound after tossing an inning yesterday, showing the same effortless delivery and mound presence.  He worked 85-89 as a starter over his 3 innings, striking out 4 batters.
Switch pitcher, hitter Aubrey McCarty comes up big >>

Gm # 544 | 7/7/2011 | 2:00 PM Homeplate Chilidogs vs. Next Level Baseball

7/7/2011 2:45:43 PM

Next Level Baseball LHP Thomas Watson (2012, Lincoln HS, Fla.) started, and finished, the playoff matchup against the Homeplate Chilidogs.  He struck out 5 in 6 innings of work, giving up 3 runs on 4 hits.  He did a nice job throwing strikes with a 75-80 mph fastball, but relied more on a sharp upper-60s curveball.

Homeplate Chilidogs Aubrey McCarty (2013, Colquitt County HS, Ga.) was a hair better than Watson is a 3-2 Chilidogs victory, also going the distance with 3 strikeouts in 7 innings.  McCarty has the rare ability to throw with both hands, and also is a switch-hitter.  His solo home run proved to be the difference in this game.  As a pitcher, he worked in the 75-82 range with an easy delivery.  He kept hitters off balance with an aggressive approach while changing speeds.

Chilidogs OF Jeremy Taylor (2012, Fayette HS, Ga.) makes an impact on the bases and can cover a lot of ground in the outfield.  His skill-set suits him perfectly to lead off, and went 1-for-3 in this game.  Taylor is 6-for-18 in the tournament, stealing 2 bases in as many attempts.  He's currently ranked 414th in the class of 2012.
Shelly shuts down the Warhawks >>

Gm # 543 | 7/7/2011 | 2:00 PM Dulin Dodgers vs. Ohio Warhawks

7/7/2011 2:35:14 PM

John Marc Shelly (2012, St. George HS, Tenn.) took the mound against the Ohio Warhawks for the Dulin Dodgers and pitched very well.  Throwing mostly 85-91 fastballs, he worked 6 scoreless innings with 3 strikeouts as the Dodgers moved on with a 5-1 victory.

Mike Maiello (2013, Desert Oasis HS, Nev.) started opposite Shelly for the Ohio Warhawks, and while he got roughed up early in this game, he showed good stuff.  His fastball sat at 86-88 with a low-70s curveball.  With a lean, projectable frame, he's a name to watch over the next 2 years.

Leadoff hitter Mookie Betts (2011, John Overton HS, Tenn.) continues to play well.  He had another hit in this game, and is now 9-for-21 in the tournament.  A good overall athlete, he makes the game look easy with natural instincts defensively, as a hitter and on the basepaths.  He has committed to play in-state for the Volunteers.

Alabama recruit and 2-way player Kyle Overstreet (2012, Boaz HS, Ala.) went 1-for-3 at the plate for the Dodgers with a run and 1 RBI, and also pitched the final inning of the game.  He threw his fastball at 86-88 with a clean, easy delivery.

Daniel Schneider with big day at plate, on mound >>

Gm # 527 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM North East Rays vs. East Cobb Cubs 18s

7/7/2011 2:23:03 PM

East Cobb Cubs 18s RHP/IF Daniel Schneider (2011, Mt. Pisgah HS, Ga.) contributed both at the plate and on the mound in a 11-10 loss to the North East Rays.  He went 2-for-3 with 2 runs and 3 RBI, including a home run while also flashing 90 heat on the mound in his inning of work.  The 6-foot-5, 200-pound 2-way talent has committed to play for Western Carolina.

North East Rays Connor Perry (2012, Central Catholic HS, Mass.), primarily a positional player, took the mound and threw 84-87 in his inning of work.
Kansas City RHP shows good size, stuff >>

Gm # 522 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM Florida Elite Sports vs. KC Select

7/7/2011 1:17:55 PM

KC Select RHP Jordan Witcig (2012, Staley HS, MO) offers promise at 6-foot-4, 190-pounds, built with long, strong limbs and broad shoulders, pointing to natural added strength with maturity.  He showed good command of a 83-86 mph fastball that peaked at 88, mixing in a promising low-70s curve.  He went the distance in a 8-1 victory over Florida Elite Sports, giving up only 3 hits and 1 run while striking out 4 in 7 innings.
EC Yankees RHP Will Carter sharp in victory >>

Gm # 518 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM Chain Black '12 vs. East Cobb Yankees

7/7/2011 1:09:07 PM

The East Cobb Yankees advanced past the Chain Black '12 squad, largely thanks to the pitching effort of primary positional player Will Carter (2011, Science Hill HS, Tenn.).  Carter offers an athletic and projectable 6-foot-3, 170-pound frame.  He exhibited very good command, throwing strikes with a 84-88/89 fastball and a big, slow curve.  He gave up only 3 hits and didn't allow a run while striking out a pair in his 7 innings of work as part of a 5-0 victory.
After shining on mound in AM, Buxton goes 2-3 >>

Gm # 517 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM Round Trip Baseball vs. Tampa Panthers

7/7/2011 1:02:54 PM

Round Trip Baseball's Byron Buxton (2012, Appling County HS, Ga.) certainly is having himself a very impressive tournament run.  After throwing a gem to oust the Florida Bombers this morning, he went 2-for-3 at the plate with a double, a triple, 1 RBI and 2 runs scored.  He quite simply is an exciting all-around talent that makes the game look easy with plus tools across the board.

And Buxton played a big part in this win aside from his base hits, getting hit by a pitch in the bottom of the 7th inning with 2 outs which kept the inning alive for Drew Kelley (2011, Bainbridge HS, Ga.), who drove in a pair with a double to beat the Tampa Panthers 6-5 in walk-off fashion.

RHP Tanner Anderson (2011, Plant HS, Fla.) was on the mound for that hit, but overall threw a fantastic game for the Panthers.  He went the distance, striking out out 4.  He showed good command and threw strikes, with an easy, loose arm and solid mechancis.  His fastball was 85-88 and up to 91, mixing in a very sharp mid-70s curveball.  He has committed to play for Harvard.
Bolt, Crownover lead EC Braves 17U to next round >>

Gm # 516 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM Showtime Baseball vs. East Cobb Braves 17u

7/7/2011 12:50:24 PM

Skye Bolt (2012, Holy Innocents, Ga.) continued his hot hitting on the day, going 2-for-3 with 2 RBI, standing out from a talented East Cobb Braves 17U lineup.

LHP Matthew Crownover (2012, Ringgold HS, Ga.) allowed only 1 hit while striking out 9 in 5 innings of work, leading to a 8-0 win over Showtime Baseball.  Crownover showed good command with all of his pitches, throwing strikes and pitching aggressively.  He has smooth mechanics and easy arm strength, working 86-90 touching 91 while also throwing a good curveball and changeup.  A Clemson recruit, Crownover is currently ranked the 46th best 2012 player.
Dylan Smith's 1st inning blast enough to win >>

Gm # 515 | 7/7/2011 | 11:30 AM Team Xtreme vs. Excel Blue Wave

7/7/2011 12:39:53 PM

Excel Blue Wave infielder Dylan Smith (2012, Clay-Chalkville HS, Ala.) hit a 2-run home run in the top of the 1st inning, which turned out to be all the runs his team would score in a 2-1 victory over Team Xtreme.  Smith is an Auburn recruit, and one of the top 2012 players.  He shows excellent bat speed with leverage and power to all fields. 

And those 2 runs were all that Smith's Clay-Chalkville and Excel Blue Wave teammate Trent Higginbotham (2011) would need.  He went the full 7 innings in this contest, giving up only 2 hits while striking out 9.  He shows outstanding arm speed and life on his 87-90 fastball that peaked at 91.  He threw mostly fastballs, but sprinkled in a few breaking pitches along the way.  Higginbotham was selected by the Twins in the 26th round of the draft last month, and has committed to play for Shelton State CC.

Eric Comstock (2011, Middleton HS, Fla.) started opposite Higginbotham for Team Xtreme, and also went the distance.  He allowed only 4 hits, striking out 6 in his 7 innings of work, and the only runs he allowed came on Smith's 1st-inning blast.  Comstock showed good command and the ability to change speeds with his 3-pitch repertoire that includes a 84-87 fastball, a mid-70s curve and a changeup that hovers around 80.
Ty Hensley, Cody Kukuk, Alex Massey throw heat >>

Gm # 511 | 7/7/2011 | 11:00 AM Texas Sun Devils vs. EJ Sports Warriors

7/7/2011 12:22:40 PM

A trio of Texas Sun Devils pitchers each tossed 2 innings in a consolation game against the EJ Sports Warriors.

RHP Ty Hensley (2012, Sana Fe HS, Okla.) is a talented 2-way star, and one of the top 2012 prospects overall.  He offers a strong, sturdy frame and a visible presence on the mound.  His arm is loose, and easily worked in the 89-92 range touching 94.  Hensley got knocked around a little in this outing, and struggled a little with control, but did manage to strike out a pair of batters.

LHP Cody Kukuk (2011, Lawrence Free State HS, Kan.) was up next, who didn't match the 94 peak velocity he reached his last time out, but did manage to hit 93 while sitting at 90-92.  He threw mostly fastballs in his outing, throwing strikes while striking out a pair.  He was drafted in the 7th round by the Red Sox last month, and has committed to play for Kansas.

RHP Alex Massey (2011, Catholic HS, La.) was also drafted by the Red Sox, going in the 27th round last month.  He is a Tulane recruit, and like Kukuk has been showing improving stuff.  Showing a projectable 6-foot-3, 180-pound frame and a loose arm, it's easy to project him throwing consistently harder than the 87-90/91 fastball he showed today.  Again, throwing mostly fastballs in a 2-inning stint, Massey struck out a batter showing good pitching savvy on the mound.

The Sun Devils' lineup also has several recognizable players, including Gavin Cecchini (2012, Barbe HS, La.) who went 2-for-3 with a double and a home run out of the leadoff spot.  He's a solid player across the board, with good overall athleticism, speed and a quick, line drive bat.  He's currently ranked 45th in the 2012 class, and has committed to play for Ole Miss.
2014 LHP shows reason for excitement >>

Gm # 510 | 7/7/2011 | 11:00 AM Bucky Dent Bandits Royal vs. East Cobb Cubs

7/7/2011 12:09:01 PM

Bucky Dent Bandits Royal 2014 LHP Edwin Nunez (Noestra Senora HS, Pa.) showed plenty of reason to be excited about this young man's future.  You start with his size, at 6-foot-4, 200-pounds, and you have a good foundation for added strength and velocity.  You move onto his velocity and see and easy 81-83 fastball.  Nunez also shows good command and composure on the, using his size well to throw on a downhill plane.  He threw mostly fastballs, as his secondary pitches not surprisingly still need work, but he shows the good foundation of both a curve and a changeup.
RHPs Delee, Henderson top 90 >>

Gm # 509 | 7/7/2011 | 10:00 AM Dulin Dodgers vs. Citius Bandits

7/7/2011 12:02:48 PM

Dulin Dodgers RHP Caleb Delee (2011, Collierville HS, Tenn.) tossed 5 strong innings in a 10-0 victory over the Citius Bandits, striking out 4.  The Ole Miss recruit had difficultly consistently finding the strike zone, but that did make him effectively wild thanks to a running 85-89 fastball that peaked at 91.  He worked quickly, throwing mostly fastballs, and has some projectability in his athletic 6-foot-1, 190-pound frame.

Citius Bandits RHP Shane Henderson (2010, Grayson County College) also pitched in the 90s, working regularly in the 85-89 range.  Drafted in the 20th round by the Dodgers a year ago, he showed good command of both his heavy fastball and late-breaking upper-70s slider.
Stephen Gant goes distance vs. Gatorball Academy >>

Gm # 508 | 7/7/2011 | 10:00 AM Gatorball Baseball Academy vs. Ohio Warhawks

7/7/2011 11:49:30 AM

Ohio Warhawks RHP Stephen Gant (Riverside HS, Tenn.), currently ranked 186 among the 2012 class, went 7 strong innings in a 5-3 win over Gatorball Baseball Academy.  He struck out 12 and allowed 6 hits and only 1 walk, using a 86-89 fastball that touched 91.  He has a clean, effortless arm action with the ability to snap off a promising low-70s curve as well, and maintained his velocity well as he still touched 90-91 in his final inning of work.
2013 RHP David Ellingson shows promise >>

7/7/2011 11:41:01 AM

Bobby Valentine's All-American Team RHP David Ellingson (2013, College Park HS, Texas) shows an easy, quick arm that produced 84-88 fastballs.  He pounded the strike zone in 1.1 innings, striking out a pair in a 3-2 victory over CenTex Prospects.

Montana 2012 LHP Caleb Frare (Custer County District HS) took the mound again, and again showed easy 84-88 heat.
Chilidogs' Stuckey shuts down Team Gwinnett >>

Gm # 501 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM Team Gwinnett vs. Homeplate Chilidogs

7/7/2011 11:33:27 AM

The Homeplate Chilidogs scored 6 runs in the first 2 innings, more than enough for RHP Jerry Stuckey (2011, Home-schooled, Ga.) to work with.  The 6-foot-1, 165-pound Georgia State recruit used a 81-86 fastball and a slow curve to carve up Team Gwinnett, and leading the Chilidogs to a 6-0 victory.  Stuckey struck out 9 and gave up only 1 hit and a walk in 7 innings.
Oswalt's big hit in 8th leads to SD Show victory >>

Gm # 500 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM Bucky Dent Bandits Seminoles vs. San Diego Show

7/7/2011 11:28:56 AM

Top 2012 prospect Corey Oswalt (James Madison HS, Calif.) hit a bases clearing double in the top of the 8th, in a game that went to extra frames against Bucky Dent Bandits Seminoles, to secure a 6-2 win.

Show starter RHP John Gamble (2013, Santa Fe Christian School) used a 83-87 mph fastball and a mid-70s breaking ball to cruise through 7 innings, giving up only a pair of hits and striking out 7 along the way.

RHP Jake Reed came on in the bottom of the 8th to close things out, using a 88-91 fastball with late life and aggressive, bulldog approach to make quick work of the Seminoles.

Bucky Dent Bandits Seminoles RHP Chris Oakley (2013, St.. Augustine Prep, N.J.) is a name to watch over the next 1-2 years, with a super-sized 6-foot-8, 225-pound frame that makes it easy to dream of what his current 84-90 mph stuff could become.
Kentucky recruit C Greg Fettes with big hit >>

Gm # 498 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM South Oakland A's 18U vs. Next Level Baseball

7/7/2011 11:17:00 AM

South Oakland A's 18U C Greg Fettes (2011, Lamphere HS, Mich.) had a big day at the plate despite losing to Next Level Baseball 5-4.  Fettes, a Kentucky recruit that was drafted in the 43rd round by the Tigers, is a large, strong athlete at 6-foot-2, 210-pounds.  He has very strong forearms and wrists giving his good bat speed, and showed off his loft power by clubbing a 2-run home run in this game.
LHP Ogando shows good stuff >>

7/7/2011 11:10:35 AM

Ostingers Baseball Academy 17U LHP Emilio Ogondo (2011, Durant HS, Fla.) showed good command and stuff in his brief inning of work.  He has a loose arm easily producing heavy 86-87 heat.
Okla. Drillers duo pitches well >>

7/7/2011 11:06:44 AM

Oklahoma Drillers RHPs Jacob Kremers (2011, Union HS, Okla.) and Nick Pettus (Broken Arrow HS, Okla.), both of whom are primarily positional players, showed good stuff in a 7-6 win over South Florida Elite Squad 18U.

The 6-foot-4, 195-pound Kremers offers a perfectly projectable, tall athletic frame with plenty of room for added strength.  He threw the ball free and easy, pitching downhill with some arm-side run on his 85-88 mph fastball.  His sharp, late-breaking 70-71 curve also showed promise.

Pettus doesn't have Kremers' ideal size, but he is a strong overall athlete that showed good control to both sides of the plate.  He was up to 90, comfotably sitting at 87-89 in his 4 innings of work.  He also threw a sharp mid-70s curve, leading to 8 Ks during his outing.

Drillers catcher and Arizona State commit Dylan Delso (2011, Broken Arrow HS, Okla.) certainly has a history of catching high profile arms, and has continued to show plus defensive tools behind the plate.  He was 1-for-2 in this game with a walk and a solo home run.
Dixon continues to mash >>

Gm # 494 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM NJ Marlins vs. Batters Box Baseball 18U

7/7/2011 10:54:07 AM

Batters Box Baseball 18U OF Tyler Dixon (2011, Collerville HS, Tenn.) continues to hit the ball very well during the tournament.  He is now hitting 9-for-15 with a pair of home runs after a 2-for-3 performance today that included a 2-run home run.  He has a pro-style body built at 6-foot-4, 205-pounds, and still has room to add additional strength.  He shows good bat speed and intriguing power potential.
Puerto Rican IF shows easy velo >>

Gm # 493 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM Bullets Baseball vs. North East Mudhens

7/7/2011 10:48:35 AM

Bullets Baseball primary infielder Jacob Cordero (2013, Faith Baptist Christian School, Puerto Rico) took the mound for the final inning to close out the Bullets' 4-1 win over the North East Mudhens.  With a smaller, lithe frame, there is plenty of room for Cordero to fill out, and after seeing him throw easily in the 84-88 range, he may be asked to take the mound more frequently.  He also dropped in some promising low-70s curveballs, and overall needs to tighten up his command of both pitches.  Cordero did run into some trouble, giving up a pair of hits and a run, but also struck out 2 hitters.
Washington arms continue to impress >>

Gm # 492 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM RIPS Brewers vs. Syracuse Sports Zone Chiefs

7/7/2011 10:40:19 AM

While the duo of Syracuse Sports Zone Chiefs RHPs Mike Schwartz (2010, Ithaca HS, N.Y.) and Kevin McAvoy (2011, Westhill HS, N.Y.) had the edge in the Chiefs' 3-2 win over the RIPS Brewers, a pair of Washington hurlers continue a nice theme of talented arms from the Pacific Northwest.

Starter Ted Hammond (2012, Shorecrest HS, Wash.) pitched aggressively, pounding the strike zone with a heavy 84-86 mph fastball.  He has a quick arm and showed the ability to set up hitters with his fastball, using his late-breaking curve to put them away.

Lefty Andrew Summerville (2014, Lakeside HS, Wash.) came on to pitch the final 4 frames, allowing only 2 hits with 4 punchouts.  The 6-foot-2, 160-pound lefty is just starting to to realize his potential, with a perfectly projectable frame and outstanding arm speed.  He shows good command, and late life, on his 83-85 fastball, as well as good feel for a upper-70 curveball.  He does a good job pitching down in the strike zone, pitching with savvy beyond that of your typical 2014 grad.

Bryant commit Kevin McAvoy was the hardest thrower of the game, throwing 88-92 in his inning of work, leading to 2 strikeouts.  He was effectively wild, showing a loose, quick arm and somewhat of a max effort delivery.
Pitching stands out in Team Alabama/TGBA contest >>

Gm # 491 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM Team Alabama vs. TGBA 17U

7/7/2011 10:26:01 AM

TGBA 17U starter Dmitri Kourtis (2011, Alpharetta HS, Ga.) continued the trend of strong pitching performances in the playoffs, striking out 9 and allowing only 3 hits and 1 run in 7 innings.  The 6-foot-2, 190-pound RHP threw easily in the upper-80s, topping out at 89, with a loose arm and some late life to his fastball.  His sweeping low-70s curve has some promise, but didn't throw many relying predominantly on his fastball.

Team Alabama countered with RHP Jackson Stephens (2012, Oxford HS, Ala.), a projectable 6-foot-3, 185 soon-to-be junior who showed easy arm strength.  His fastball also sat in the 85-88 range touching 89, flashing good potential on his 71-74 curveball.  He struck out 5 in 5 innings, and is currently ranked 301 among the 2012 class.

Promising 2013 RHP Kevin Davis (T.R. Miller HS, Ala.), currently ranked 8th overall in the 2013 class, closed the game out for Team Alabama.  He showed easy arm strength from a three-quarters delivery, pumping his fastball at 91-92.  His upper-70s curve also showed promise, giving him an exciting power repertoire. 
Showtime advances thanks to Zach Carter's CG >>

Gm # 490 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM Showtime Baseball vs. East Cobb Braves 18u

7/7/2011 10:14:58 AM

Showtime Baseball RHP Zach Carter (2009, Camas HS, Wash.) went 7 full innings as Showtime beat the East Cobb Braves 18U, 3-2.  Carter scattered 7 hits, giving up only 2 runs while striking out 7.  His fastball was thrown at 80-85 with the ability to drop in an effective upper-60s slow curveball.
Robert Johnson goes distance for Team Xtreme >>

Gm # 489 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM All American Prospects 18U vs. Team Xtreme

7/7/2011 10:08:31 AM

RHP Robert Johnson (2011, Gaither HS, Fla.) went 7 strong innings to propel Team Xtreme to a victory over All American Prospects 18U.  Johnson was 78-83 showing good size and arm strength.

All American Prospects 18U LHP Eric Skoglund (2011, Sarasota HS, Fla.) wasn't as sharp as Johnson, but showed a power approach.  Skoglund ended up with 6 strikeouts in his 4.1 innings of work, using a 84-87 fastball that touched 88 and a decent 75-77 slider.  He showed an easy, loose arm and a projectable 6-foot-5, 195-pound frame.  He was selected in the 16t round by the Pirates, and has committed to play for Central Florida. 
Skye Bolt big at plate >>

Gm # 488 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM West End Baseball vs. East Cobb Braves 17u

7/7/2011 9:59:23 AM

East Cobb Braves 17U OF Skye Bolt (2012, Holy Innocents, Ga.) had a big day at the plate and on the basepaths, going 3-for-4 with 1 run, 2 RBI and a pair of stolen bases.  One of the top 2012 prospects, Bolt's athletic ability has been obvious out on the field, and today his production matched his tools.

Braves' pitchers Ryley MacEachern (2013, Austin Preparator, Mass.) and Brandon Peterson (2012, Daphne HS, Ala.) showed good stuff on the mound.  MacEachern showed that he knew how to pitching, with a competitive spirit on the mound.  He worked quickly using a smooth delivery to produce 83-88 mph fastballs.  Peterson was just a tick below at 81-86/87.

West End Baseball's Bo Thompson (J.L. Mann HS, S.C.) also enjoyed a big day at the plate, also going 3-for-4 hitting a pair of solo home runs.  The Citadel recruit has obvious physical strength, showing an aggressive approach, good bat speed and raw power potential.
Shelton goes distance as EC Yankees advance >>

7/7/2011 9:49:00 AM

East Cobb Yankees LHP Gregory Shelton (2013, Etowah HS, Ga.) was very impressive, striking out 7 and allowing only 5 hits, 1 walk and 1 run in 6 innings as the Yankees advanced.  Shelton threw mostly 83-86 fastballs, dropping in a promising low-70s curve.  At 6-foot-2, 186-pounds, Shelton offers plenty of projectability and reason to believe he's going to get bigger, stronger while throwing harder in the next 1-2 years.
Chain Black '12 rallies in 9th to advance >>

Gm # 482 | 7/7/2011 | 8:30 AM Chain Black '12 vs. Prospects Stars 2011

7/7/2011 9:43:53 AM

Chain Back '12 scored 6 runs in the bottom of the 7th inning to advance in the playoffs, knocking off Prospects Stars 2011 9-8.

They took advantage of a couple of errors, walks and wild pitches, but the big hit was a walk-off, bases clearing triple off of the bat of Ty Odom (2012, Warner Robins HS, Ga.).

Chain Black '12 IF/RHP Jordan Howard (2014, Eagles Landing HS, Ga.) threw the ball extremely well in his inning of relief.  His fastball sat 84-88 and was clocked as high as 90 mph.  He struggled with command, but was effectively wild.  His sweeping low-70s curveball also shows promise, as he may be getting more and more time on the mound as he enters his sophomore year in high school.

Prospects Stars 2011 RHP John Williams (2011, Battlefield HS, Va.) pitched well prior to the 7th.  The George Mason recruit looked as though he was cruising.  Overall the Prospects Stars 2011 team is loaded with promising D1 recruits, including J.J. White (Penn State, 2011, Stone Bridge HS, Va.), Lansing Veeder (St. Joseph's, 2011, Paul VI, Va.), Aaron Hoover (James Madison, 2011, Westfield HS, Va.), Michael Perez (Old Dominion, 2011, South County HS, Va.), Michael Katz (William & Mary, 2011, Bishop O'Connell HS, Va.), Luke Willis (Coastal Carolina, 2011, Oakton HS, Va.) and Josh Smith (William & Mary, 2011, St. Stephens HS, Va.).
Locke St. John solid in win for EC Astros 16U >>

Gm # 487 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM East Cobb Astros 16u vs. Excel Blue Wave

7/7/2011 9:31:07 AM

Excel Blue Wave LHP Locke St. John (2011, Pell City HS, Ala.) tossed a very good game knocking out the East Cobb Astros 16U to advance, striking out 8 and allowing only 1 hit in 6.2 innings.  The 6-foot-1, 180-pound lefty showed very good command of his running 83-86 fastball that was up to 87.  St. John also showed the ability to command both a curveball and changeup that have promise, and overall did a good job changing speeds to keep the Astros' hitters off balance.  He has committed to play for Southern Union State CC.

East Cobb Astros 16U RHP Hunter Swilling (2013, Smith Station, Ala.) is the 31st ranked player in the 2013 class, and showed a loose arm producing 82-88 mph heat.  He threw strikes and struck out a pair in his 3 innings to close out the game.
LHP Lance Gray and East Cobb Astros 18U advance >>

Gm # 485 | 7/7/2011 | 8:30 AM Tampa Panthers vs. East Cobb Astros 18u

7/7/2011 9:22:30 AM

The East Cobb Astros 18U team defeated the Tampa Panthers in the first round of the playoffs to advance.

LHP Lance Gray (2010, East Paulding HS, Ga.) got the start for East Cobb, striking out 4 in 5 innings of work, showing good command of his 76-82 mph fastball.

OF Jacob Bruce (2011, Woodstock HS, Ga.) continued to show off his tools, with a strong, athletic frame and fluid actions in the outfield with good speed.  He displays a balanced swing at the plate with good bat speed and extension.  Bruce went 1-for-3 with 3 runs scored and a stolen base.

Connor Gilbert (2011, Etowah HS, Ga.) went 2-for-4 with a double and a triple in this game.  He has a strong, mature build with a sturdy lower half, showing good bat speed and power potential, making consistent hard contact.  He has committed to play for Chattanooga State Technical CC.

Tampa starter Noah Dyals (2014, Plant HS, Fla.) is a player to watch over the next 2-3 years.  The young RHP threw in the 79-83 range touching 85, and showed good feel for his upper-60s curveball.  He offers a projectable, still-gorwing stature at 6-foot, 170-pounds and shows a loose arm and balanced delivery.

Buxtontwirls gem as Round Trip knocks out Bombers >>

Gm # 484 | 7/7/2011 | 8:30 AM Florida Bombers vs. Round Trip Baseball

7/7/2011 9:10:30 AM


OF/RHP Byron Buxton (2012, Appling County HS, Ga.), one of the top 2012 players, pitched a fantastic game against the defending champion Florida Bombers to advance to the next round of the playoffs.  Buxton went the distance, striking out 8 in 7 innings of work, limiting the powerful Bombers lineup to only 6 hits.  He threw strikes and showed good command of his lively 86-90 mph fastball that touched 92, maintaining the low-90s into the 5th inning.  He has very good arm speed, pitching downhill with an aggressive approach.  While he threw mostly fastballs, he also mixed in an occasional slider that also shows promise.  Th five-tool athlete also went 1-for-4 serving as Round Trip's cleanup hitter.

Bombers starter RHP Sean Hurley (2011, Sarasota HS, Fla.) has good size and strength at 6-foot-3, 215-pounds, and did a good job throwing strikes.  His fastball sat 82-86 touching 87 mixing in a solid slider, striking out 4 in 3.2 innings.

Bombers reliever Sam Bragg (2011, Wheeler HS, Ga.) threw a steady does of 87-89 fastballs and touched the 90 mph mark in his inning of work.
Projectable 2012 LHP throws mid-80s heat >>

Gm # 506 | 7/7/2011 | 9:00 AM Mississippi Majors vs. Houston Banditos Gold

7/7/2011 8:36:33 AM

Houston Banditos Gold LHP Robert Blalock (2012, Kingwood HS, Texas) showed promise in a consolation game against the Mississippi Majors, striking out 3 in 1.2 innings despite giving up 4 hits and 4 runs.  The 6-foot-5, 170-pound lefty shows plenty of projectability and potential for added strength and velocity.  He has a loose arm and commands the strike zone well with a running 82-85 mph fastball and a late-breaking 72-73 curveball.

Mississippi Majors catcher Garrett LaRosa (2012, Long Beach HS, Miss.) showed solid defensive tools, with good catch and throw skills and lateral quickness.  LaRosa went 1-for-2 with a home run and a walk in this contest, showing good plate coverage and loft power.

LaRosa's high school teammate and fellow 2012 grad Derek LaCoste also went deep in this game, a 3-run shot in the third.
Jacob Bruce shows exciting 2-way potential >>

Gm # 287 | 7/6/2011 | 7:00 PM East Cobb Astros 18u vs. Georgia Sox

7/7/2011 12:42:11 AM

East Cobb Astros 18U OF/LHP Jacob Bruce (2011, Woodstock HS, Ga.) starred at the plate and on the mound.  With a strong, compact and athletic 5-foot-11, 180-pound frame, Bruce showed the ability to keep his 84-86 fastball down in the zone in his inning of work, striking out a pair.  He also belted a home run in this game, a 7-1 victory over the Georgia Sox.
Diamond Devils 18U Black RHP touches 90-91 >>

Gm # 286 | 7/6/2011 | 7:00 PM Diamond Devils 18U Black vs. MS Prospects

7/7/2011 12:33:51 AM

Diamond Devils 18U Black RHP Tanner Petrey (2011, Brookland-Cayce HS, S.C.), a primary outfielder, threw the ball very well on the mound.  With an athletic, 6-foot-2, 170-pound frame, Petrey's fastball sat in the 86-90 range while touching 91.  He pitched aggressively with his fastball, and was quick to the plate.  His changeup shows the potential to be a plus pitch as well, thrown with the same arm action and release as his fastball with good tailing fade.  Petrey struck out 7 in his 4 innings of work.
East Cobb Braves 17U talent impresses, again >>

Gm # 285 | 7/6/2011 | 7:00 PM East Cobb Braves 17u vs. Miami Tigers

7/7/2011 12:26:14 AM

East Cobb Braves 17U RHP Matt Gonzalez (2012, Harrison HS, Ga.) struck out 2 of the 3 batters he faced in his inning of work.  The Primary infielder is ranked 101 in the 2012 class, and has committed to play for Georgia Tech.

5-tool outfielder Skye Bolt (2012, Holy Innocents HS, Ga.) continues to draw praise for his defensive skills in the outfield, showing the ability to cover a lot of ground with good good routes and plus speed.

OF/1B Nathan Mikolas (2012, Kenosha Bradford HS, Wis.) offers a strong, compact frame and a similar swing at the plate with a disciplined approach, going 2-for-2 with a walk in this game.

Miami Tigers C Alffredi Ramos (2013, Monsignor Edward Pace HS, Fla.) is a physically mature backstop, with strong, compact proportions.  He hits the ball consistently hard, going 2-for-2 with a home run, a walk, 2 runs scored and 2 RBI in this game.

Southern Poly RHP Jordan Cruz (2010, Ferguson HS, Fla.) showed a live arm with easy 88-91 heat.
2013 Columbus Explorers RHP shows promise >>

Gm # 480 | 7/6/2011 | 5:30 PM East Cobb Indians 17u vs. Columbus Explorers

7/7/2011 12:04:24 AM

2013 RHP Bryan Garcia (Christopher Columbus HS, Fla.) made pitching look easy for the Columbus Explorers in his inning of work.  The projectable, 6-foot-1, 190-pound soon-to-be high school junior threw his 84-87 fastball with a free and easy delivery showing good command of the strike zone with a strong presence on the mound.  He also threw a tight 72-75 slider that shows promise.  He struck out the side in his inning of work.
Chi-Town Cream pitching duo impresses >>

Gm # 478 | 7/6/2011 | 4:30 PM Miami Tigers vs. Chi-Town Cream

7/6/2011 11:40:47 PM

Iowa recruit Nicholas Hibbing (Lakes Community HS, Ill.) showed the need for improved control with 7 walks in 3.1 innings.  He also struck out 4, and didn't allow a hit.  The 6-foot-5, 195-pound right-hander was drafted by the Pirates in the 42nd round by the Pirates last month, and offers plenty of promise with a loose arm, well-balanced delivery and an aggressive approach.  His fastball was 85-88, and despite his control problems, he showed pretty good feel for his 73-76 breaking ball.

Ryan Perez (2012, Westminster Christian Academy, Ill.), who has the unique ability to throw with both hands, followed Hibbing for the Chi-Town Cream, striking out 4 in 3.2 innings of work.  Currently ranked #236 among the 2012 class, worked 84-88 and touched 89 on several occasions.  He works quickly and throws strikes, mixing in a solid low-70s breaking ball.
EC Yankees RHP has good stuff, performance >>

Gm # 477 | 7/6/2011 | 4:30 PM Upstate Mavericks Orange vs. East Cobb Yankees

7/6/2011 11:27:54 PM

Joshua Heddinger (2011, Buford HS, Ga.) of the East Cobb Yankees threw mostly fastballs in his 9 strikeout performance over 6.2 innings.  The 6-foot-5, 220-pound righty used his size well, throwing on a downward plane from a high three-quarters delivery, showing good presence on the mound. There is some deception to his long delivery, as well as some heavy life to his 87-90 mph fastball.

Left-handed hitting infielder Tyler Gibson (2011, Stratford HS, Ga.) has a solid tool-set across the board with a quiet hitting approach, gap power and some speed.  The Georgia Tech recruit was drafted in the 15th round by the Tigers last month, and went 1-for-2 with a double, a walk and 2 runs scored in this game.

Citius Bandits draftees Kimbell, Choplick impress >>

Gm # 468 | 7/6/2011 | 4:30 PM New York Gothams vs. Citius Bandits

7/6/2011 10:55:27 PM

Citius Bandits catcher BreShon Kimbell was selected in the 28th round by the Brewers, and has committed to play for Louisiana Tech.  He has a mature, pro-style body with good strength throughout.  He shows solid defensive tools behind the plate, although may be better suited to an infield or outfield corner down the road.  He employs a short, compact strong with very good bat speed to drive balls to all parts of the park.  His power was on display in this game, going 2-for-3 with a double and a home run and 4 RBI.

6-foot-9, 245-pound LHP Adam Choplick offers intriguing size, and the Oklahoma recruit was selected in the 17th round by the Diamondbacks in June.  His velocity has been improving, throwing his 83-86 fastball that was up to 87 in this game with a promising curveball.  He struck out 7 in 5 innings of work.

New York Gothams starter Willis Robbins' (2012, Rye HS, N.Y.) results didn't match his stuff, but he showed plus raw arm strength with plenty of room for improvement.  His free and easy delivery makes it easy to think there is a lot more velocity to come, and experience should help iron out his current control problems.  Robbins threw mostly 83-88 fastballs, touching 90-92 in the early innings.  That pitch showed good, natural late life, and he also mixed in a curveball that also shows the foundation for being a plus pitch.
East Cobb Braves 17U boast promising lineup, staff >>

Gm # 467 | 7/6/2011 | 4:30 PM Long Island Storm 17u vs. East Cobb Braves 17u

7/6/2011 10:40:02 PM

The East Cobb Braves trotted a pair of promising 2012 RHPs in Wesley Estrada (Arlington County Day HS, Fla.) and Casey Moody (Spalding County HS, Ga.) to the mound against Long Island Storm 17U.

Estrada showed very good command of his repertoire which includes a 83-87 fastball that touched 88, a low-70s breaking ball and a changeup.  He incorporated his lower half very well into his overall delivery, and showed easy arm strength in his 4+ innings of work.  He sat at 87-89 a couple of week ago at the Perfect Game National Showcase.

Moody pitched the final 2.1 innings of the game, and while he didn't show the same strong command, he sat consistently at 88-89 and touched 90 mph with his fastball.  Pitching on a downhill plane, too used his lower half well and showed a promising overall repertoire.  He is currently ranked 249th in the 2012 class.

The Braves' lineup is well represented with recognizable players, highlighted by supplemental first-round pick Dwight Smith (Blue Jays).  2012 players Jordan Ebert (#180, Harrison HS, Ga.), Glenn Sawyer (#352, Woodward Academy, Ga.), Brian De La Rosa (#168, Arlington Country Day HS, Fla.), Dylan Dore (#320, Johns Creek HS, Ga.), Skye Bolt (#74, Holy Innocents School, Ga.), and Kyle Carter (#112, Columbus HS, Ga.) are among some of the top ranked players for next year.

Ebert continues to hit the ball well, with a strong build and a balanced swing.  The Auburn commit hit a home run in this contest.

Sawyer offers a quick, line drive bat and good foot speed.

De La Rosa has cat-like quickness behind the plate, with soft, sure hands.  He blocks balls in the dirt well and shows very good arm strength.

Long Island Storm 17U starter Seth Martinez (2013, Sunrise Mountain HS, Az.) had a strong performance starting opposite Estrada.  The soon-to-be junior struck out 4 in his 5 innings, showing good pitching savvy for such a young player.  He changed speeds well, keeping the most established Braves' hitters off balance.  He has a loose arm, smooth delivery, sound mechanics and creates some deception out of his hand.  His fastball was 80-84 touching 85 with a sharp 68-71 curveball.  His 6-foot-3, 180-pound frame suggests he has plenty of growth opportunity as he matures.

Martinez' battery mate, catcher Elvin Soto (2011, Xaverian HS, N.Y.) is a strong overall defensive catcher that attended the 2010 Perfect Game National.  A Pittsburgh recruit, he offers promising bat speed at the plate as well.
Three 2012 bats provide offense >>

Gm # 466 | 7/6/2011 | 4:30 PM Team Cincinnati 17u vs. Excel Blue Wave

7/6/2011 10:09:22 PM

Infielders Dylan Smith (2012, Clay-Chalkville HS, Ala.) and Tanner Gardner (2012, Oxford HS, Ala.) provided the bulk of the offense for the Excel Blue Wave.  Smith is an Auburn recruit, currently ranked 354 among the 2012 class, and went 1-for-2 with a walk and a solo home run.  Gardner had a pair of doubles on a 2-for-3 performance with a stolen base.

Most of Team Cincinnati 17U's offense was provided by Mark Strempke (2012, IMG Academy, Iowa), who went 2-for-2 with a double, a home run, 4 RBI, 2 runs scored and a stolen base.  Strempke is an athletic 6-foot, 180-pound outfielder with lean, wiry strong proportions.  He has a short, compact swing with power to the alleys and good speed on the basepaths.
RHP David Gonzalez displays exciting arm strength >>

Gm # 465 | 7/6/2011 | 3:00 PM Team Gwinnett vs. Top Tier

7/6/2011 8:02:07 PM

Team Gwinnett RHP David Gonzalez (2012, Gainesville HS, Fla.) had some command issues, but overall threw the ball well on Wednesday.  With broad shoulders and a mature 6-foot-1, 200-pound frame, he showed very good arm speed.  He often overthrew, and struggled to command his fastball.  That pitch sat in the 88-91 range touching 92 and showed some life on it.  His late-breaking curveball also shows promise, but overall he needs to improve his control.  He competed very well and didn't give in, attacking hitters with his stuff that was difficult to catch up with.  Gonzalez currently is ranked 98th among the 2012 class.

Illinois State commit Jeremy Rhodes (2011, Wheaton Warren HS, Ill.) started opposite Gonzalez for Top Tier.  He offers a strong, 6-foot-2, 180-pound frame on the mound with plenty of room for added strength.  Rhodes showed good fastball command to both sides of the plate, and threw strikes with his entire 3-pitch repertoire.  His 83-86 mph fastball touched 88 and he showed some arm-side run with the pitch.  His slider is a potential out pitch sitting in the mid-70s with tight rotation.  His changeup has potential as well.  He struck out 4 and allowed 5 hits and 2 walks in his 6 innings of work.

Fellow Top Tier RHP Nick Bates (2011, Carl Sandburg HS, Ill.) came in relief of Rhodes in the 7th, also showing strikes with an upper-80s fastball with late life and a promising slider.
RHP Cody Bruder stands out on mound, at plate >>

Gm # 464 | 7/6/2011 | 3:00 PM Suncoast Select 18 vs. Ohio Warhawks

7/6/2011 7:49:28 PM

Ohio Warhawks RHP Cody Bruder (2012, Santiago HS, Calif.) tossed 3 scoreless innings against Suncoast Select 18, allowing only 1 hit while striking out 2.  A smaller, 5-foot-11, 160-pound athlete, Bruder threw strikes with a 83-84 fastball that touched 88 while mixing in a promising 12-to-6 curveball.  He also went 2-for-4 at the plate with a home run.
A pair of live arms on Blue Chip Bulls >>

Gm # 463 | 7/6/2011 | 2:00 PM South Florida Thunder vs. Blue Chip Bulls

7/6/2011 7:42:00 PM

Blue Chip Bulls RHP Wale Toney (2012, T.L. Hanna HS, S.C.) showed a very live arm, and started off his game against the South Florida Thunder, but started to lose his command and focus in the second inning.  The Clemson recruit, currently ranked as the 147th best 2012 player, used 13 pitches to get out of the first, and another 38 in the second, recording only 1 out.  He was throwing 88-90 consistently and was up to 91 with an effortless and easy arm action.  His frisbee slider shows good depth and overall promise as well.  He pitches aggressively and tries to work down in the zone.  He offers good size and projectability at 6-foot-3, 185-pounds.

Garrett Lovorn (2012, Pendleton HS, S.C.) came in the 2nd in relief of Toney.  He threw mostly 87-89 fastballs in his brief appearance, pitching downhill with some arm-side run to his fastball.
GW teammates Rodriguez', Sanchez' impressive tools >>

Gm # 462 | 7/6/2011 | 2:00 PM Chain White '12 vs. Team Citius

7/6/2011 7:29:40 PM

Team Citius George Washington HS, N.Y., teammates C Nelson Rodriguez and OF Fernelys Sanchez are among the most exciting players in the 2012 class, currently ranked 37 and 53 respectively.  Rodriguez has power to spare in his plus-size, mature frame, with strength spread throughout his body.  He went 1-for-3 in the 3-hole.  Sanchez offers excitement on the opposite side of the spectrum, with electric speed, running the 60 in 6.35 seconds at the PG National.  He continued to show patience at the plate, while taking good routes with a good first step in the outfield allowing him to cover a tremendous amount of ground.

Chain White '12 starter Cole Johnson (2012, Harris County HS, Ga.) was solid over his 6.2 innings, allowing 5 hits and 2 walks with 11 punchouts.  He used a 81-85 fastball that he spotted well down in the zone, while mixing in an effective 12-to-6 curveball.
Wash. RHP stands out for Bobby V's A-A Team >>

7/6/2011 7:07:03 PM

Reece Karalus (2012, Mt Si HS, Wash.) showed plenty of promise with an extra-large, 6-foot-4, 235-pound frame and easy 85-89 velo.  He threw all fastballs in his outing, throwing consistently on a downward plane, showing a good, physical presence on the mound.

Henry Gigeous (2012, Jacobs HS, Ill.), Nathan Bates (2012, Starrs Mill HS, Ga.) and Caleb Frare (Custer County District HS, Mont.) all worked an inning in relief for Bobby Valentine's All-American Team.

Gigeous threw 85-87, a few weeks removed from his 89-90 showing at the PG National.  He is currently ranked #121 among 2012's, and has committed to play for Oregon.

Bates was 81-85/86 with a slow 66-67 curve.  His 6-foot-7, 190-pound frame makes it easy to dream on his potential.

Frare is a athletic, well-built lefty that sat 85-88 and is currently ranked 454 among 2012 high school players. 
Brandon Castro, Brandon Lawson shut down EC Reds >>

Gm # 456 | 7/6/2011 | 2:00 PM East Cobb Reds vs. FTB Pride

7/6/2011 6:47:05 PM

FTB Pride RHPs Brandon Castro (Timber Creek HS, Fla.) and Brandon Lawson (2013, Hernando HS, Fla.) combined to strike out 8 East Cobb Reds in 7 innings of 2 hit ball.

Castro is currently ranked 327 among 2012 players, and has committed to play for Bethune Cookman.  He sat at 86-89 with his fastball, and has a lean, projectable frame with a loose and live arm.  He also mixed in a sharp curveball, and it's easy to see more velocity to come in the next year or two.

Lawson will be entering his junior year, with even more upside for improvement with a long, wiry strong 6-foot-3, 190-pound frame.  He threw his fastball effortlessly in the 80-85 range with a loose, balanced delivery.
Roger Gonzalez with a 3-hit day >>

Gm # 455 | 7/6/2011 | 2:00 PM West End Baseball vs. TB Baseball

7/6/2011 6:33:29 PM

Switch-hitting C/3B Roger Gonzalez (2012, Florida Christian HS, Fla.) had 3 base hits and 2 RBI for TB Baseball.  At 5-foot-8, 180-pounds, he shows quick feet behind the plate with a very strong, accurate arm.

West End Baseball's Kyle Martin (2011, Wade Hampton HS, S.C.), who has committed to play for South Carolina, is primary a first baseman, but showed well on the mound today.  He didn't throw particularly hard (82-85), but showed a quick arm, good command and some riding life to his fastball.  He went the full 7 innings in this game striking out 9 batters. 
Michigan prep shows solid arm strength >>

Gm # 454 | 7/6/2011 | 2:00 PM Michigan Prep Stars vs. Bama Starz

7/6/2011 6:19:28 PM

Michigan Prep Stars RHP Spencer Cummings (2012, Grand Ledge HS, Mich.), a primary outfielder, showed easy arm strength and a balanced delivery producing 85-87 fastballs while throwing strikes in his inning of work.  At 6-foot, 180-pounds, he is a good overall athlete that could blossom with more time on the mound.
McLaughlin leads hit parade for EC Astros 17U >>

7/6/2011 6:08:53 PM

Georgia recruit Sean McLaughlin (2012, Northview HS, Ga.) had 2 hits, a walk and 3 runs atop the East Cobb Astros 17U lineup, currently ranked 198 among 2012 players.  He shows very good baseball aptitude in all phases of the game, with a heady approach to hitting, fielding and pitching.  A left-handed hitter, at the plate he shows good bat speed with strong hands and wrists.  Physically he is built long and lean with room to grow and add strength.  His throws from the outfield show good carry and accuracy, and his speed allows him to cover good ground while also making an impact on the basepaths.

Overall the East Cobb Astros 17U team pounded out 15 hits leading to 18 runs against L.I. Nationals White 18U.  Infielder Cole Watson (3-for-3, 3 RBI, 2012, Woodstock HS, Ga.), catcher Grant Wruble (2-for-2, 2012, Chattahoochee HS, Ga.) and outfielder Jonathan Pryor (2-for-3, 2013, Woodward Academy, Ga.) all had multi-hit games.  Wruble is currently ranked 366 in the class of 2012, and is a Georgia Tech recruit with a strong hitting base and promising bat speed.
RIPS Brewers duo combine for 8 Ks in 5 IP >>

Gm # 448 | 7/6/2011 | 2:00 PM Triple Threat Baseball 17u vs. RIPS Brewers

7/6/2011 5:47:58 PM

RIPS Brewers RHPs Quinn Eldridge (2012, Chimacum HS, Wash.) and Billy Sahlinger (2012, Newport HS, Wash.), both primary positional players, combined for 5 innings of 1-hit ball with 8 strikeouts.  Sahlinger accounted for most of that work, with 7 Ks in 4 innings, working in the 79-83 range with his fastball.  Eldridge was 82-84/85.

The RIPS Brewers also combined for 10 runs on 9 hits, led by multi-hit performances from Cabe Reiten (2012, Academy Northwest, Wash.) and Lucas Gatley (2012, Kentwood HS, Wash.).  Jonny Locher (2012, Highline HS, Wash.) and Skyler Genger (2012, Kentwood HS, Wash.) each drilled a home run.
2012 RHP Douglas Nobles strikes out 6 >>

Gm # 446 | 7/6/2011 | 2:00 PM CenTex Prospects vs. Chain Black '12

7/6/2011 5:39:27 PM

Chain Black '12 RHP Douglas Nobles (Baconton Charter HS, Ga.) pitched very well against CenTex Prospects, striking out 6 and scattering 4 hits in 6.1 innings.  He threw strikes with his 86-88 fastball, with good rhythm and balance to his delivery.  He threw downhill from a 6-foot-2, 195-pound frame, with long, strong limbs.  He is a Georgia Southern recruit.

Infielder Matt Creech (2012, Campbell HS, Ga.) went 2-for-2 with a pair of doubles.  He has hit the ball well during the tournament, and is now 5-for-12 and is 3-for-3 in stolen base attempts.
Nathan Harsh up to 90 for Team Elite 18U >>

Gm # 444 | 7/6/2011 | 2:00 PM Allen Baseball Club 18u Navy vs. Team Elite 18U

7/6/2011 5:30:18 PM

Team Elite 18U RHP Nathan Harsh (2011, Brunswick HS, Ga.) struck out 8 batters in his 4.2 innings of work, allowing only 1 hit.  At 6-foot-6, 220-pounds he offers a tall, sturdy frame with more room to add strength.  He was consistently 87-90 in this game, showing good command of his fastball and 74-77 curveball with an aggressive approach.  He was drafted in the 19th round by the Rangers and has committed to play for Kennesaw State.

Primarily a pitcher, Marc Frazier (2011, Newman HS, Ga.) showed well at the plate, displaying very good bat speed and good instincts on the basepaths.  Frazier went 3-for-4 with 2 doubles and a pair of runs scored in this game.  He was drafted in the 47th round by the Giants, and is a Chipola College recruit.

John Martin (2012, Johns Creek HS, Ga.) showed natural, fluid movement on the infield with a strong and accurate arm with carry.  He also showed promising bat speed at the plate, and went 2-for-4 in this game.

Allen Baseball Club 18U Navy's Greg Belton (2011, Conroe HS, Texas), primarily an infielder, had a good showing on the mound today.  The 5-foot-10, 185-pound Texarkana College recruit struck out 12 in 7.1 innings.  He showed a bulldog approach attacking hitters with his heavy 85-88 mph fastball that touched 89, while also dropping in a late-breaking low-70s curve.

Chris McFarland with strong day at the plate >>

Gm # 443 | 7/6/2011 | 2:00 PM Next Level Baseball vs. Houston Banditos Black

7/6/2011 5:15:47 PM

Houston Banditos Black infielder Chris McFarland (2011, Lufkin, Texas) had a strong day at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a double and a home run.  The Brewers 18th round draft pick, McFarland is a Rice commit that continues to show very strong fundamentals at the plate and on the infield.  He displayed excellent bat speed with a fluid, quick stroke, driving the ball consistently hard.

Banditos starter Spence Rahm (2012, Tomball HS, Texas) threw in the 79-84 range with his fastball, but offered a tall, projectable frame and pitched as a sharp, downhill plane.  He shows a good foundation for his curve, which needs to be tightened up, and there's plenty of reason to believe he will be throwing harder and consistently better as he matures.
Spanberger shows live arm in short stint >>

Gm # 441 | 7/6/2011 | 2:00 PM FTB CLUTCH vs. St. Louis Pirates National

7/6/2011 5:07:28 PM

Cody Spanberger (2011, Granite City HS, IL) threw only 4 pitches in relief for the St. Louis Pirates National team, all 4 of those pitches recording 88 mph.  While that isn't much of an outing to make an impression, his easy arm strength at 6-foot-3, 190-pound stature stood out with reason to believe he could show promise on the mound at the next level.  Primarily an outfielder, he has committed to play at Southeast Missouri State.
East Cobb Astros 16U route Brewer's Scout Team >>

Gm # 439 | 7/6/2011 | 2:00 PM Brewer's Scout Team vs. East Cobb Astros 16u

7/6/2011 5:00:50 PM

Morgan Bunting (2012, Woodward Academy, Ga.), Wesley Jones (2013, Redan HS, Ga.) and Hunter Swilling (2013, Smith Station, Ala.) all had multi-hit games for the East Cobb Astros 16U team against the Brewer's Scout Team.  Swilling, ranked 31st in the 2013 class, in particular stood out, with 3 hits, including a triple, 3 runs and 2 RBI in the contest.
Mokentin Ks 10 >>

Gm # 438 | 7/6/2011 | 12:30 PM Texas Sports Red 18U vs. Florida Bombers 17U

7/6/2011 3:56:51 PM

Florida Bombers 17U LHP Jake Mokentin (2012, Palmetto HS, Fla.) struck out 10 Texas Sports Red 18U batters in a complete-game effort.  He allowed only 3 hits, 2 walks and 1 unearned run in his 7 innings of work.  He doesn't throw particularly hard (77-80/82), but did show very good command of his 3-pitch (fastball, slow sweeping curveball, changeup) repertoire giving him the perfect profile of a prototypical crafty lefty.
John Norwood with big day at plate >>

Gm # 435 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM OTC BASEBALL vs. Syracuse Sports Zone Chiefs

7/6/2011 3:46:05 PM

Syracuse Sports Zone Chiefs OF John Norwood (2011, Vanderbilt HS, N.Y.) showed good offensive tools with a 2-for-3 day at the plate, including 2 runs, 2 RBI, 1 stolen base and a home run.  He showed good plate coverage with a quick and fluid stroke, hitting the ball hard each time he made contact.  He can run a little as well with good speed down the line and on the basepaths.
Weems, Bombers continue to score runs in bunches >>

Gm # 434 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM Batters Box Baseball 18U vs. Florida Bombers

7/6/2011 3:39:37 PM

The defending 2010 champion Florida Bombers have been well chronicled in these blogs, and they continued to pile on runs in bunches.

Jordan Weems (2011, Columbus HS, Ga.) had only 1 hit in 3 at-bats, but also walked and scored 3 runs.

Eric Myskowski (2012, IMG Academies, Fla.), Matthew Britton (2011, Cullman HS, Ala.), Thomas Pannone (2012, Bishop Hendricken, R.I.) and J.T. Phillips (2012, Columbus HS, Ga.) each had 2 hits.  Myskowski had a pair of doubles and 2 runs scored, Britton, like Weems, crossed homeplate 3 times, Pannone drove in 3 while Phillips and Jared Mededros (2011, Mater Academy, Fla.) each had 2 RBI.
Trio of San Diego Show bats impress >>

Gm # 433 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM Lowcountry Lightning vs. San Diego Show

7/6/2011 3:31:44 PM

San Diego Show's lineup certainly has some recognizable talent, led by former Aflac All-American and San Diego State recruit Phillip Evans (2011, LaCosta Canyon HS, Calif.), a 15th round pick by the Mets this past June.  Evans continues to show plus defensive tools and makes all the plays with easy, graceful actions and soft hands.  He went 2-for-3 against Lowcountry Lightning, and overall is 4-for-9 in the tournament.

Corey Oswalt (2012, James Madison HS, Calif.) looks like a pro hitter with a 6-foot-4, 200-pound frame that still has room for added strength.  He hits the ball with authority from a slightly open stance, getting very good extension while showing power to the alley.  He went 3-for-3 in this game with a double, a triple, 2 runs and 1 RBI.  Oswalt is currently ranked #41 in the nation among the 2012 draft-eligible players, and has committed to play for Oregon.

Outfielder Nick Ruppert (2012, St. Augustine HS, Calif.) had a double in 2 at-bats and a walk with 2 runs and 2 RBI.  He is currently ranked the 346th 2012 player in the nation, but has yet to commit.
Aker touches 92, 3 others sit in upper-80s >>

Gm # 432 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM Prospects Stars 17U Red vs. Homeplate Chilidogs

7/6/2011 3:20:34 PM

Prospects Stars 17U Red RHP Mitchell Aker (2012, Paul VI Catholic, Va.) struggled with command, but threw the ball hard in 2.1 innings of work in relief.  He showed good arm speed and extension, and has committed to play for William & Mary.

Teammate and fellow RHP Bryan Drager (2012, Westfield, Va.) started the game for the Stars, tossing the first 2 innings without giving up a run.  He worked 84-86/87.

LHP Justin Flores (2012, Union Grove HS, Ga.) and RHP Hayden Jones (2012, Tift County HS, Ga.) combined to strike out 11 batters in 7 innings.  Flores threw strikes, mostly with his 86-88 fastball and a 74-77 breaking ball.  Jones was 84-87 but didn't command the zone as well.
Sun Devils' Smith throws well, Green hits >>

Gm # 429 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM Chain 18u (Springfield) vs. Texas Sun Devils

7/6/2011 3:08:00 PM

Texas Sun Devils RHP Samuel Smith (2011, Barbe HS, La.) touched 91, pitching in the 85-89 range.  While he threw mostly fastballs, he mixed in a handful of low-70s curveballs.  He has very good size at 6-foot-5, 210-pounds with plenty of room to add strength, and velocity.  His delivery is somewhat max effort at this stage, and his command comes and goes, but he pitches aggressively and incorporates his lower half well.  He went the distance against Chain 18U (Springfield), giving up only 4 hits and one unearned run while striking out 5 in his 6 innings of work.

Chain 18U (Springfield) 2012 pitching mates Joey Brown (Columbus HS, Ga.) and Logan Robinson (Hardaway HS, Ga.) combined for 8 strikeouts in 7 shutout innings.  Both pitchers sat 83-86.

Sun Devils Infielder Zach Green (Jesuit HS, Calif.), the 85th ranked player in the 2012 class who has committed to play for Oregon State, went 2-for-3 in this game with a double.  He is now 6-for-11 with 3 doubles in the tournament.

Tall, projectable RHP Ks 8 >>

Gm # 427 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM Marucci Elite vs. En Fuego baseball

7/6/2011 2:50:51 PM

Marucci Elite starter Austin Robichaux (2011, Notre Dame HS, La.) threw the ball well today against En Fuego Baseball.  The 6-foot-6, 170-pound right-hander pounded the strike zone with a 87-90/91 fastball.  With a tall, projectable frame, Robichaux throws over the top on a downhill plane, with a loose, long arm and some diving life on his fastball.  He is quick to the plate, and also showed a good pickoff move.  He was taken by the Reds in the 50th round of this year's draft, and has committed to play for Louisiana-Lafayette.

Fellow Louisiana-Lafayette recruit Henri Faucheux (2011, Riverside Academy, La.) tossed the final inning that ended in a 4-4 tie.  He did give up the tieing run, but sat 85-88 throwing mostly fastballs.

En Fuego's Chase Domino (2012, Fairhope HS, Ala.) went 2-for-3 with 2 runs and a solo home run.  He showed strength, a sound approach and very good bat speed with promising power potential to all fields.
A. Cunningham, C. Davis touch 90 for Mavericks >>

Gm # 425 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM Team Xtreme vs. Upstate Mavericks Black

7/6/2011 2:35:08 PM

Upstate Mavericks Black teammates Chase Davis (2011, Alabama Christian Academy) and Alex Cunningham (2012, Byrnes HS, S.C.) both touched 90 in brief appearances against Team Xtreme.  Both pitchers sat in the upper-80s mixing in breaking balls.  Davis has committed to play for Alabama-Birmingham and Cunningham with Coastal Carolina.

South Florida recruit Jimmy Herget (2012, Jefferson HS, Fla.) of Team Xtreme didn't throw as hard (83-86/87) but went the distance, striking out 10 in his 7 innings of work.
Buxton shows gap power, speed >>

7/6/2011 2:07:28 PM

Coming into the game 2 for his previous 10 at-bats, Byron Buxton (Appling County HS, Ga.), the 8th ranked player for the 2012 class, entered the game late for Round Trip Baseball, hitting a double in his only at-bat.  He also stole a base in a 6-5 loss to Chattanooga Baseball Club 17U.  That was Buxton's 4th steal in as many attempts, as he continues to show his impact speed on the basepaths.
Mississippi Majors LHP Ks 8 >>

Gm # 421 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM Mississippi Majors vs. East Cobb Cubs 18s

7/6/2011 1:53:06 PM

LHP Jared Gates (2011, Harrison Central HS, Miss.) had a strong start for the Mississippi Majors, striking out 8 in 5 innings of work.  The Mississippi Gulf Coast CC commit shows promise, with a smooth, balanced delivery but the need for more mechanical polish.  With a 80-83 fastball that touched 85 and showed good arm-side run, he would be a prime candidate to be followed through the draft-and-follow process if still incorporated by MLB. 

Gates was out-pitched by the East Cobb Cubs 18s, who struck out 9 Majors and limited them to only 1 hit. 18s RHP K.J. Reid (2011, Woodstock, Ga.) tossed the first 5 innings, striking out 5.
Baxter fans 6 for East Cobb Cubs >>

Gm # 420 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM East Cobb Cubs vs. Florida Pokers 17u White

7/6/2011 1:35:57 PM

East Cobb Cubs RHP Cody Baxter (2011, Woodland HS, Ga.) sruck out 6 batters facing the Florida Pokers 17U White squad, going the full 7 innings of his start.  He allowed only 2 hits, 2 walks and 2 runs, throwing his fastball in the 80-85 range while touching 86.  Baxter showed good command and arm-side run on his fastball, and also showed good command on his sharp, 11-to-5 curveball.  At 5-foot-10, 165 pounds, he has a strong lower half but there is room for him to add strength as he matures.

One of the hits that Baxter did give up was a solo shot off the bat of 1B Francisco Rodriguez (2012, Coral Glades HS, Fla.).  At 6-foot, 185 pounds, Rodriguez has very good present-day strength with a large frame and room to get taller and stronger.  He showed very good bat speed and also showed soft hands at first base.
Kyler Timmerman blasts 2 against ABD Mustangs >>

Gm # 419 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM Best 9 Baseball vs. ABD MUSTANGS

7/6/2011 1:21:03 PM

Best 9 Baseball's Kyler Timmerman (2011, Greenbrier High, Ga.) had a big day at the plate against the ABD Mustangs in a 13-0 contest that lasted 4 innings.  Timmerman went 2-for-3, with both of his hits being home runs, a 3-run shot in the 1st and a 2-run shot in the 3rd.  At 6-foot-5, 215-pounds, Timmerman has a strong pro-style body with broad shoulders and room for added strength.

Teammate Tanner Hawley (2011, South Aiken HS, S.C.) also offers good size (6-2, 205) and he too enjoyed a big day at the plate, going 3-for-3 with a double, 3 runs and 3 RBI.  He also contributed on the mound, tossing an inning out of the bullpen.  Hawley struck out 2 batters, throwing strikes with a 81-83 fastball.
Clate Schmidt's power repertoire >>

Gm # 418 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM North East Mudhens vs. Team Elite 17U White

7/6/2011 1:10:00 PM

Clate Schmidt (2012, Allatoona HS, Ga.), currently ranked the 20th best prospect in the 2012 draft class, took the mound for Team Elite 17U White and continued to throw the ball well.  His lively fastball sat 89-92 and touched 93, while mixing in his nasty, hard low-80s hammer.  He threw strikes with both pitches showing a very loose and live arm, attacking hitters with his power arsenal.  He showed the ability to spot his fastball in the zone while dropping his breaking ball in for strikes while also getting batters fishing in the dirt.  He proved to be hittable in this game, as the North East Mudhens collected 4 base hits and scored 2 runs off of Schmidt in his 3 innings of work.

Catcher Christin Stewart (2012, Providence Christian HS, Ga.) also continued to play well, showing very good bat speed.  A left-handed hitter, he employs a patient approach yet will jump on good pitches to hit with the propensity to drive them hard to all parts of the park.  He also showed well at the PG National defensively, recording 82 mph from behind the plate with a 1.94 POP time.  Stewart has been one of the better hitters in the tournament, and is now 7 for 13 with 4 doubles and 2 home runs.  He is currently ranked as the 241st 2012 high school prospect.
2013 RHP Jeremy Panakos throws 6 strong >>

Gm # 416 | 7/6/2011 | 11:30 AM PBB 17U vs. NJ Marlins

7/6/2011 12:53:35 PM

PBB 17U RHP Jeremy Panakos (2013, Wellington HS, Fla.) pounded the strike zone against the NJ Marlins over 6 strong innings.  He finished the game allowing only 1 hit and 1 unearned run, with 9 strikeouts.  His fastball was 79-82 mixing in a 70 mph curveball.  He has a lean, projectable frame and his arm works well.  It's easy to see this young man throwing a lot harder in a year or two.
Zack Calvin shows bat with 3-hit day >>

Gm # 411 | 7/6/2011 | 10:00 AM Fungo Red Sox vs. Florida Baseball Academy Red

7/6/2011 12:02:12 PM

3B Zack Calvin (2012, Lake Wales HS, Fla.) showed good hitting mechanics at the plate as the 3-hole hitter for the Florida Baseball Academy Red team.  He had a 3-hit performance against the Fungo Red Sox, including a double, 2 runs and 2 RBI.  A left-handed hitter, he stays inside the ball well and shows good bat speed with the ability to turn on quality fastballs.  For the most part, he is a line drive hitter to the gaps, but there is some power potential in his swing, as he shows the ability to drive the ball consistently well.  He also tossed an inning in this contest, striking out a batter in his inning of work with a 80 mph fastball.
Bullets duo combine on 2-hitter >>

Gm # 409 | 7/6/2011 | 9:00 AM DCH Georgia Jayhawks 17's vs. Bullets Baseball

7/6/2011 11:51:07 AM

Bullets Baseball RHPs Marcus Crescentini (2011, Wesley Chapel, Fla.) and Robby Kalaf (Bloomingdale HS, Fla.) combined to throw 7 innings of 2-hit ball.

Crescentini, the more projectable of the 2 pitchers at 6-foot-5, 210-pounds, intends to play at Indian River State College next season.  His fastball sat in the 85-87 range and touched 90/91 on occasion, mixing in a low-70s slider and an occasional change.

The 5-foot-10 Kalaf, committed to play for Manatee-Sarasota, was consistently 86-89 and up to 89 with armside run on his fastball.  He showed easy arm strength and a smooth delivery.
Pair of 2013 EC Titans show well >>

Gm # 406 | 7/6/2011 | 9:00 AM KC Select vs. East Cobb Titans 16U

7/6/2011 11:40:01 AM

Two 2013 players from the East Cobb Titans 16U team showed well this morning, both primary infielders.

Sam Ayers (Cass HS, Ga.) showed good size for a high school junior, with good actions in the infield and a strong accurate arm.  He also shows a line-drive approach at the plate making good contact to all fields, leading to a 3-for-4 day, including 2 runs and 2 RBI.

David Mayo (Alchovy HS, Ga.) is currently ranked the 83rd best 2013 prospect.  He came in to close out the Titans' game against KC Select, showing a smooth delivery easy arm strength that produced 84-87 fastballs.
Bowers, Wolff pitch well for Diamond Devils >>

Gm # 403 | 7/6/2011 | 9:00 AM EC Patriots-17U vs. Diamond Devils 18U Black

7/6/2011 11:28:59 AM

Diamond Devils 18U RHPs Coley Bowers (2012, Lexington HS, S.C.) and Jake Wolff (2011, Walhalla HS, S.C.) both showed good velocity with their fastballs, sitting in the 86-88 range against the EC Patriots 17U.  Bowers offers a lean projectable frame and mixed in a handful of 71-74 curveballs.  Wolff, a Furman recruit and primary infielder, showed easy arm strength and good extension out front throwing primarily fastballs.
Bramlett, Overstreet bring heat for Dulin Dodgers >>

Gm # 402 | 7/6/2011 | 9:00 AM Jacksonville Warriors 18U vs. Dulin Dodgers

7/6/2011 11:20:45 AM

Ole Miss recruit, RHP Brady Bramlett (2012, Arlington HS, Tenn.), threw the ball very well for the Dulin Dodgers, sitting in the 87-92 range.  He has a large, XL frame at 6-foot-4, 220-pounds, with broad shoulders and a strong lower half.  His arm works well for his size, and employs a fearless approach, attaching hitters mainly his his fastball while occasionally mixing in both a slider and a changeup.  Both secondary offerings show a good base for improvement, and he didn't need either much on this day given how well, and hard, he was throwing his fastball.  He worked 6 innings, striking out 3.

Dodgers' teammate Kyle Overstreet (2012, Boaz, Ala.), primarily an infielder, came in to close the game out and pitched well, striking out a pair in his inning of work.  The Alabama recruit threw mostly mid-70s curveballs, a pitch that had sharp break that he showed very good feel for, but showed easy 86-89 velo with his fastball.

Tennessee recruit Mookie Betts (2011, John Overton HS, Tenn.) was 3-for-4 in this game with a double, 2 runs and 2 RBI.

Jacksonville Warriors 18U infielder Austin Slater, a 44th round pick by the Dodgers in the June draft and former Aflac All-American, went 1-3 in this game.

Warriors RHP Elliot Warford (2011, Pointe Vedra, Fla.) started opposite Bramlett, and threw the ball well.  The Furman recruit's fastball sat in the 86-89 range with a mid-70s curveball.
Mason Hope continues to pitch well >>

Gm # 399 | 7/6/2011 | 9:00 AM NBS 18's vs. Oklahoma Drillers

7/6/2011 10:59:16 AM

Oklahoma Drillers RHP Mason Hope (2011, Broken Arrow HS) took the mound for his second appearance of the tournament.  He appeared in relief for the final 1.2 innings of the Drillers 4-2 victory of NBS 18's.  Hope continued to show his composure and advanced knowledge of pitching on the mound, attacking hitters with a 89-92 fastball that peaked at 93.  He throws on a sharp downward plane, with an easy, repeatable delivery and some late life on his fastball.  Hope also snapped off several of his usually sharp 74-75 curveballs with a crisp inning that included 3 strikeouts.
Lakes Area Dodgers no-hit by South East Reds >>

Gm # 396 | 7/6/2011 | 9:00 AM South East Reds vs. Lakes Area Dodgers 18u

7/6/2011 10:42:44 AM

South East Reds 2011 RHPs Mitchell Davies (Mill Creek HS, Ga.) and Mitchell Wade (Hillgrove HS, Ga.) combined on a no-hitter over the Lakes Area Dodgers 18U.  Davies threw mostly 80-84 fastballs in his 5.1 innings of work while Wade relied predominantly on his breaking ball over the final 1.2 frames.

Lakes Area Dodgers RHP Ryan Lavoie (2011, Sterling Heights HS, Mich.) pitched well, throwing 86-89 while mixing in a low-70s curveball that showed promise and an occasional fading upper-70s change.  While inconsistent, he showed good command to both sides of the plate with a competitive approach.  His curveball has true 12-to-6 break and he throws his changeup with good fade and the same arm action/speed as his fastball.  He does not have a college commitment listed in the PG database.
Arod's nephew with big HR, Wash. pitchers show well >>

Gm # 398 | 7/6/2011 | 9:00 AM Showtime Baseball vs. Powerhouse Baseball

7/6/2011 10:20:15 AM

IF/RHPs Luke Heyer (2011, Battle Ground, Wash.) and Elijah Dickerson (2012, Vancouver, Wash.) both showed good velocity on the mound as part of Showtime Baseball.  The 6-foot-4, 235-pound Heyer and the 6-foot, 160-pound Dickerson both worked in the 84-88 range, particularly impressive since they are primary infielders.

Unfortunately the results didn't match the stuff, as Powerhouse Baseball scored 11 runs in the 5th against Heyer in a 17-5 win.  The Miami-based team was led by Julien Plana (Christopher Columbus HS), Daniel Sanchez (2012, Westminster Christian), and Luis Touron (2013, Doral HS) each of whom had 2 hits.

2014 shortstop Joe Dunand (Gulliver HS), the nephew of New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez, made the most of his only at-bat by drilling the biggest hit in the contest, a 3-run blast as part of that 11-run 5th.  At 6-foot-2, 195 pounds, Dunand already shows a pro-sized body and projects big over the next 3-4 years.
Marucci Florida Mustangs pound out 14 hits >>

7/6/2011 10:01:02 AM

The Marucci Florida Mustangs 17U team pounded out 14 hits on their way to a 13-5 win over Team Cincinnati 18U.  There were plenty of stars in their lineup.  A pair of Pace, Fla. outfielders Lederick Black and Patrick Ervin, both went 2-2 with 2 runs scored at the top of the lineup.  Shortstop Brandon Harigel (Pensacola, Fla.) and cleanup hitter Steven Jernigan (Pace, Fla.) also had a pair of hits, each with a double.  2013 RHP/1B Nicholas Junger had the loudest day for the Mustangs, going 3-for-4 with a double and 4 RBI.
James Madison recruit with 3-hit performance >>

7/6/2011 9:47:09 AM

James Madison recruit LHP/1B Aaron Hoover (2011, Centreville, Va.) had 3 hits for the Prospects Stars 2011 11-5 win over the South Florida Breakers 18U team.  Hoover, primarily a left-handed pitcher, showed a short, compact and fluid stroke with a line-drive swing.  He now has 5 hits in 10 ABs to go along with a solid start on day 1 of the tournament.
UNC recruit with big game >>

7/6/2011 9:37:04 AM

Diamond Devils 17U Blue C Korey Dunbar (2012, Charleston WV) went 2-for-4 with a double, a run scored and a run driven in against Buck Dent Bandits Seminoles as part of a 6-3 win.  Dunbar offer a strong and sturdy frame and has shown a quick release behind the plate.  He is the top ranked 2012 player in West Virginia, and has committed to play for the North Carolina Tar Heels.
Shaftner goes distance, shuts out Xcel Baseball >>

7/6/2011 9:19:48 AM

Kentucky Baseball Club starter Logan Shaftner (2011 RHP, Lexington, Ky.) tossed a complete game shutout against Xcel Baseball 18U, allowing only 3 hits.  He induced early contact with his low-80s fastball throwing on a downward plane thanks to a projectable 6-foot-4, 190-pound frame.  The Parkland College recruit hit 84 with his final 2 pitches of the contest, and mixed in an occasional curveball and changeup.

Xcel starter Mike Nessel (2011 RHP, Stuart, Fla.) also pitched well, showing easy arm strength and throwing strikes his 84-87 fastball.
Peppers, Davis shut down Texas Trappers >>

Gm # 385 | 7/6/2011 | 9:00 AM Team Elite 17U Black vs. Texas Trappers

7/6/2011 9:08:47 AM

Team Elite 17U Black jumped on the Texas Trappers early on Wednesday, scoring 4 runs in the 2nd and 4 more in the 5th for a 8-1 victory.

Team Elite Black starter RHP Dylan Peppers (2012, Madison, Ga.) was throwing strikes with his low-to-mid-80s fastball while mixing in a slider.  He struck out 8 in his 6 innings of work, allowing only 1 hit and 1 walk.

RHP Colton Davis (2012, Commerce, Ga.) struck out the side in the 7th, showing good command while attacking hitters with a 86-89 fastball.  His fastball profiles as a plus pitch with the potential for added velocity, showing outstanding arm speed, deception out of his hand and late life on his heater.

Team Elite's cleanup hitter, 1B/OF Alex Karriker, went 2-for-3 with a double, 2 runs and a pair of RBI.  Karriker has exciting power potential as a left-handed hitter, with a strong/mature frame and good bat speed.
Vail, Jusick go the distance >>

Gm # 401 | 7/6/2011 | 9:00 AM Gatorball Baseball Academy vs. Kalamazoo Maroons

7/6/2011 8:51:13 AM

LHP Kyle Jusick of the Kalamazoo Maroons (2011, Paw Paw Mich.) sat right at 80 mph with his fastball and mixed in a slider during his 6 innings of work.  He scattered 6 hits during his appearance and walked only 1 batter, leading to the 1 run he allowed as the hard-luck loser in this contest.

The lean, wiry-strong RHP Derek Vail (2012, Gainesville, Fla.) of Gatorball Academy tossed 7 shutout innings in the team's 1-0 win over Kalamazoo.  The 6-foot-1 right-hander allowed only 2 hits and a walk, recording outs by throwing strikes with his running upper-70s fastball.

Gatorball's 3-hole hitter, Tyler Humphreys (2012, Crystal River, Fla.) continued his hot hitting by going 2-for-2 with a walk and scored the only run in the game.  He now has 9 hits in 16 at-bats during the tournament.
RHP Cole Pitts, Middle Georgia Titans >>

Gm # 367 | 7/5/2011 | 3:00 PM St Johns Heat vs. Middle GA Titans

7/6/2011 7:22:51 AM

RHP Cole Pitts (6-6/220, Moultrie, GA, signed with Georgia Tech) of the Middle Georgia Titans threw a gem Tuesday, shutting out the St. Johns Heat on 2 hits while striking out 11 hitters.  Pitts, who the Cleveland Indians drafted in the 32nd round in June, pitched between 87 and 91 mph.  His best off speed pitch was a very nice change up in the 76-78 mph range, although he'll have to tighten up his curveball for the next level.  Based on the pitchers we've seen at this event, Georgia Tech is going to have a very nice pitching staff over the next 3-4 years!
Team Alabama Moves to 4-0 as Pitcher's Shine >>

Gm # 362 | 7/5/2011 | 2:00 PM Bullets Baseball vs. Team Alabama

7/6/2011 7:14:26 AM

The talented Team Alabama team moved its record to 4-0 Tuesday with a 3-1 win over Bullets Baseball, scoring all their runs in the final two innings of the game.

2012 LHP Jamie Carroll (5-11/190, Hueytown HS, AL) threw 5 solid innings to get Team Alabama off on the right foot, allowing 5 hits and the single Bullet run while striking out 4.  Carroll worked in the 84-88 mph range with his fastball and had a 75 mph curveball with some bite to keep hitters off balance.  He was efficient with his pitches and didn't walk a hitter.

Carroll was relieved by 2013 RHP Kevin Davis (6-1/190, Brewton, AL), who lit up the radar guns to the tune of 91-94  mph, with lots of 94's in that grouping.  He also threw a 77-80 mph hammer.  Davis throws with some effort and didn't have Carroll's command but his stuff was pretty much unhittable, as he walked 3 and struck out 5 in his 2 innings of work.

1B Clayton Palicki (2011, Huntsville, AL) continued his hot hitting, going 3-3.  Palicki now has 7 consecutive hits over the past 3 games and is 8-10 on the tournament with 5 runs scored.
Final Blast Allows Cannon to Tie >>

Gm # 355 | 7/5/2011 | 2:00 PM Cannons Baseball vs. San Diego Show

7/5/2011 8:27:50 PM

Ryan Huston of Cannons Baseball hit a 2-strike, 2 out home run in the bottom of the 7th inning to give his team a 4-4 tie with the San Diego Show Tuesday.  Huston fouled off a couple of two-strike pitches from Show reliever Mark Vazquez, who had retired the previous 11 hitters in a row, before driving the ball over the left field fence.
2B Pat Kelly, Ohio Warhawks >>

7/5/2011 8:17:32 PM

Pat Kelly of the Warhawks is having an outstanding tournament, something his future coaches at University of Nebraska are surely appreciating.  Kelly has helped the Warhawks to a 4-0 record thus far, including a 5-2 win over the Southeastern Roadwarriors on Tuesday.  Kelly is now 8-14 with 6 runs scored hitting in the #3 slot for the Warhawks.  He's also earning rave reviews from the Perfect Game scouts for his defensive work in the middle of the field.
Dan Lynch, 2-Way Talent for Columbus Explorers >>

Gm # 353 | 7/5/2011 | 2:00 PM Columbus Explorers vs. BigStix Gamers 17U

7/5/2011 7:57:49 PM

Dan Lynch is a 2012 1B/RHP from Columbus HS in Miami.  He showed his two-way talents well in the Columbus Explorers 1-0 win over the Big Stix Gamers 17U on Tuesday.  Lynch, a 6-0/200 lb left handed hitter, was 2-3 at the plate and drove in the only run of the game.  He's 6-11 with 4 doubles and 4 Rbi's in the tournament.  He also came into the game in the 6th inning and pitched 2 innings for the save, throwing 86-89 mph with hard sinking and running life on his fastball.  He also threw a curveball and change up.
Trey Wingenter, Part 2 >>

7/5/2011 7:33:42 PM

We blogged about Trey Wingenter on Saturday after the 6-7, 190 2012 righthander from Madison threw 2 1/3 innings to get a save in the Atlanta Blue Jays victory that day.  The Blue Jays didn't figure as well on Tuesday, allowing 5 unearned runs in the 1st inning in a 6-2 loss to Team Connecticut Baseball, but Wingenter virtually duplicated his performance and definitely needs to be recognized for it.  He was again 88-90 mph on his fastball from a loose and easy delivery and showed even better spin on his mid 70's curveball for 2 near perfect innings. 
Syracuse Brings Out the Big Arms >>

7/5/2011 7:00:40 PM

The Syracuse Zone Chiefs brought out their big arms...and bodies...the defeat the Houston Banditos Gold 3-1 Tuesday afternoon and move their record to 3-1.  One of the big arms/bodies was very well known to the baseball community, the other...much less so.

The well known right handed pitcher was 2011 RHP Rookie Davis from Sneeds Ferry, NC.  The East Carolina signee was the 14th round pick of the New York Yankees last month and was reportedly up to 95 mph this spring.  He threw 4 innings on Tuesday, allowing 4 hits and 1 run while striking out 7 Banditos hitters.  Davis was 90-93 mph on his fastball with hard sink at the plate and threw a 76 mph curveball.

The other pitcher was 6-2/220 lb 2011 RHP Joey Mahar from East Syracuse, NY.  Mahar wasn't in the PG database before this event and we have no college commitment for him, but he threw 89-92 mph for three innings, allowing 1 hit and striking out 2.  Mahar also threw a 76 mph curveball and 81 mph change up.  We'd certainly like to know more about his background!

SS/RHP Joe Cronin, Northeast Rays >>

Gm # 338 | 7/5/2011 | 11:30 AM L.E.A.D. Ambassadors vs. North East Rays

7/5/2011 5:24:08 PM

We have no idea of whether Northeast Rays 2012 SS/RHP Joe Cronin (Scarborough, Maine) is a relative of the great Red Sox Hall of Famer.  But he can play in his own right.  Cronin had a solo home run in the Northeast Rays 5-5 tie with the L.E.A.D. Ambassadors on Tuesday and drew effusive praise from the PG scouts for his defensive ability in the middle of the field.  Cronin is also a mid to upper 80's pitcher on the mound.  He has a verbal commitment to Boston College.
LHP Christian Trent, Marucci Elite >>

Gm # 335 | 7/5/2011 | 11:30 AM PBB 17U vs. Marucci Elite

7/5/2011 5:03:06 PM

2011 LHP Christian Trent (6-0/185, Madisonville, LA) threw 4 1 hit shutout innings with 6 strikeouts, not that Marucci Elite needed that kind of effort in pounding out 12 hits and 3 home runs in four innings of a 13-0 run rule win over PBB 17U.  Trent, who is not listed as having a college commitment in the PG database, was 85-87 mph on his fastball with some sharpness to a 74 mph curveball.

SS Cord Cockrell continued his hot hitting for Marucci, going 2-2 with 2 Rbi's and 2 runs scored.  The Louisiana Lafayette signee is now 8-13 with 8 Rbi's in 4 games. 

Marucci is 3-1 in Pool Play.
Patton, McCarthy Power Northeast Mudhens >>

Gm # 332 | 7/5/2011 | 11:30 AM Chain White '12 vs. North East Mudhens

7/5/2011 4:49:35 PM

Gavin Patton (2011, 6-1/210, IMG Academy, FL) hit a 3 run home run in the top of the 7th inning to give the Northeast Mudhens a 10-9 win over the Chain White '12 and boost the Mudhens' record to 3-0-1.

Mudhens catcher Buck McCarthy (2012, 5-10/180, Everett, MA) hit 2 home runs and drove home 5 runs and now has 3. home runs on the tournament.  His 4 total hits have accounted for 9 Rbi's
RHP E.K. Everett, Gators Baseball Conkle >>

Gm # 311 | 7/5/2011 | 9:00 AM Georgia Seminoles vs. Mississippi Majors

7/5/2011 4:40:19 PM

RHP E.K. Everett (2012, 6-3/175, Hurst, TX) threw a complete game 3 hitter in Gators Baseball - Conkle's 4-1 victory over Batter's Box Baseball 18U Tuesday.  The projectable young right hander threw 91 pitches in the win, sitting between 84 and 86 mph on his fastball with a nice sharp 76-79 mph slider.
Shouse Excels on Both Sides of the Ball >>

Gm # 330 | 7/5/2011 | 11:30 AM Chain Black vs. KC Select

7/5/2011 4:32:52 PM

SS/RHP Blake Shouse (2011, 6-2, 190, Macon, GA, signed with Middle Georgia CC) has excelled on both sides of the ball for Chain Black and did so again in their 9-1 victory over KC Select on Tuesday.  After 2 brief relief appearances earlier in the tournament, Shouse threw 5 innings of 2 hit ball in the run rule shortened game.  He was 86-90 mph with his fastball with explosive life at times and mixed in a mid 70's curveball.  At the plate, Shouse was 2-2 with a walk and had a double, triple and 3 Rbi's.  He's now 5-11 in the tournament with 7 Rbi's.
Reynoso Sharp for the Dawg Pound >>

Gm # 327 | 7/5/2011 | 11:30 AM Dawg Pound vs. East Cobb Astros 17u

7/5/2011 4:10:34 PM

LHP/OF Javier Reynoso (2011, 6-0/190, Odessa, FL, signed with Coastal Carolina) is one of the more accomplished two-way prospects in the 2011 class and was drafted in the 39th round by the Chicago White Sox in June.  He was on his game for the Dawg Pound Tuesday, throwing 6 innings of 1-hit shutout ball against the East Cobb Astros in a game that ended up in a 2-2 tie.  Reynoso was 88-91 mph with his fastball and threw a sharp 77-81 mph slider while working to spots consistently with both pitches.
RHP/2B Austin Fox, Fungo Red Sox >>

Gm # 325 | 7/5/2011 | 11:30 AM South East Reds vs. Fungo Red Sox

7/5/2011 3:47:27 PM

Austin Fox is a 2014 who stands 5-7 and weighs 130 lbs.  But the Concord, NC native is showing that he belongs with the older players at the 18U Championships.  He threw a 105 pitch complete game for Fungo Red Sox in a 5-2 win over the South East Reds early Tuesday afternoon, topping out at 80 mph, and went 3-4 at the plate as well.  Fox is now 5-11 with 3 Rbi's on the tournament.  He now has at least 3 more 18U National Championships to participate in and PG hopes he's at all of them!
MVP Baseball Upsets Norris/EC Yankees >>

Gm # 318 | 7/5/2011 | 11:30 AM MVP Expos vs. East Cobb Yankees

7/5/2011 3:02:58 PM

MVP Baseball pulled off a notable upset early Tuesday afternoon, defeating the East Cobb Yankees and Blue Jays second round draft pick LHP Daniel Norris by a 2-1 score.

Technically, MVP didn't defeat Norris, who threw 5 innings, allowing 4 hits, a single run and striking out 10 and left the game with the score tied 1-1.  He showed solid stuff, although he went almost exclusively with his fastball, throwing the heater for 71 of his 79 pitches and living between 89 and 93 mph on the radar gun and hitting 93 with his final pitch of the day.

SS Adam Smith (2012 Grissom HS, Huntsville, AL) was the hero for MVP, singling in the winning run in the bottom of the 7th inning.
Different Day, Same Story For the Bombers >>

Gm # 317 | 7/5/2011 | 11:30 AM East Cobb Titans 16U vs. Florida Bombers

7/5/2011 2:40:09 PM

The Florida Bombers moved their record to 4-0 with a 7-5 win over the East Cobb Titans 16U on Tuesday in a game that featured more of the same thing that has been driving the team thus far  in the tournament, the bats of 3B Sean Hurley and C Jordan Weems. 

Hurley was coming off a 2 home run game on Monday and was just as dominant, going 3-3 with a walk, a double and 2 Rbi's.  The Miami signee is now 6-8 with 6 Rbi's and 7 runs scored in 4 games.  Weems, who hits right after Hurley in the Bombers line up, went 3-4 himself and his now hitting .667 (8-12) with 5 Rbi's in 4 games.

Bombers starter Callahan Brown (2012, 6-3/200, Jupiter, FL) showed good stuff through innings but was victimized by 2 Titan home runs and allowed 5 runs total.  Brown topped out at 89 mph on his fastball and threw a 72 mph curveball and 79 mph change up.

The Bombers then brought in RHP Sam Bragg to close and he ended the game quickly throwing almost all fastballs.  Bragg, who is a 2011 from nearby Wheeler HS in Marietta and is signed with Georgia Perimeter CC, pounded the zone with 90-92 mph fastballs with explosive life to close out the game.
East Cobb Astros 16U Bats Continue to Rumble >>

7/5/2011 2:24:00 PM

The young hitters on the East Cobb Astros 16U team continue to disrespect their elders as they outscored the Florida Baseball Academy Red 11-4 to move their record to 4-0.  The Astros have now scored 35 runs over the past 3 games.

While the Astros have had an incredible history of success under coach Guerry Baldwin, this might be their most physically gifted group of position players ever, at least in the opinion of this evaluator.  They are playing like it, too.

3B/RHP Travis Demeritte (2013, Statham, GA) went 2-2 with 3 runs scored to lead the offense on Tuesday.  Demeritte, who also throws in the low 90's off the mound, is now 6-8 with 4 walks and 8 Rbi's in the tournament.  1B Morgan Bunting (2012, Atlanta, GA) went 1-2 with 4 Rbi's and C Handsome Monica (2014, Mandeville, LA) was 2-3 with 3 Rbi's.

One of the older and more experienced players on the team, RHP Duane Underwood (2012, Marietta, GA, verbal commitment to Georgia), also left his mark on the game and the scouts watching.  Underwood went 5 innings, allowing 3 hits and sitting between 91 and 94 mph on his fastball to go with a 74 mph curveball and 84 mph change up.
Taylor Continues to Rake for Chain Black '12 >>

Gm # 307 | 7/5/2011 | 11:30 AM ABD MUSTANGS vs. Chain Black '12

7/5/2011 2:07:13 PM

Chain Black '12 moved its record to 4-0 and their offensive output to 35 runs in 4 games, defeating the ABD 11-1 on Tuesday.  2012 SS Matt Taylor also continued his impressive offensive performance, going 4-4 with a double, 3 runs scored and 2 Rbi's.  We blogged about Taylor earlier in the tournament and the 6-3, 175 lb Georgia native is now 8-13 with 4 doubles thus far in the tournament.

But perhaps the most interesting part of the game from a scouting perspective was the final two innings of a combined no-hitter thrown by RHP Avery Seckinger (3 innings) and RHP Jordan Howard (2 innings).

Howard is a 6-3, 200 lb 2014 prospect from Eagle Landing HS in Atlanta.  He threw almost exclusively fastballs in his 2 no-hit innings and was 88-91 mph, very impressive velocity for a rising sophomore pitcher.

Seckinger (2012, 5-10/170, Columbus, GA) was solid in his own right, throwing 83-86 mph with a nice sharp 76 mph slider.

Stevens Helps Kalamzoo Move to 3-0 >>

Gm # 313 | 7/5/2011 | 9:00 AM Kalamazoo Maroons vs. Chattanooga Cherokees 18u

7/5/2011 1:48:40 PM

LHP Bryan Stevens (2011, 5-8/155, Portage, MI, signed with Kellogg CC) helped the Kalamazoo Maroons move to 3-0, at least temporarily, Tuesday morning, throwing 3 1/3 no-hit innings of relief in the Maroons 8-5 win over the Chattanooga Cherokees 18U.  Stevens struck out 7 hitters, mostly with an 86 mph fastball, and now has 14 strikeouts in two games covering 6 innings.

Kalamazoo had their game with the East Cobb Orioles suspended on Monday while down 4-3 in the 7th inning.
West End Baseball SS Glen Batson >>

Gm # 312 | 7/5/2011 | 9:00 AM Team Citius vs. West End Baseball

7/5/2011 12:54:47 PM

West End Baseball has a very interesting young shortstop by the name of Glen Batson, which is a great name for a baseball prospect.  Batson is a 2012 from Greenville, South Carolina and is 6-3, 190 lbs with a nice athletic frame and build.  He went 2-3 with a home run and 2 Rbi's in West End's 7-7 tie Tuesday with Team Citius.  Batson has a nice short, aggressive swing for his size, with good bat speed; the ball jumps off his bat hard and fast.

Team Citius RHP James Norwood (2011, 6-2, 190, New York City, signed with St. Louis U.) threw well over 4 innings but was victimized by 4 unearned run.  Norwood pitched in the 88-91 mph range with good cutting life on his fastball and mixed in a mid 70's curveball and change up from a quick, compact arm action.  The story about going to school in New York City and attending school at St. Louis is probably an interesting one.
Angus Rides Heard on Chattanooga >>

7/5/2011 12:28:22 PM

2011 1B Cody Angus (6-1, 205, LHH'er, Louisville, KY, signed with Wabash Valley CC), hitting in the #3 spot in the Kentucky Baseball Club line up, went 2-3 with a home run and 5 Rbi's to lead KBC to a 12-0 win over the Chattanooga Cherokees in a 4 inning run rule shortened game Tuesday.  Angus showed a powerful left handed swing and also throws  in the mid 80's from the left side off the mound.
Excel Blue Wave Pitching Continues to Dominate >>

Gm # 308 | 7/5/2011 | 9:00 AM Baseball Mentoring Program vs. Excel Blue Wave

7/5/2011 12:18:34 PM

Excel Blue Wave defeated Baseball Mentoring Program 5-1 Tuesday morning, running their Pool Play record to a perfect 4-0.  The Blue Wave have only allowed 2 runs in 14 games.

RHP's Parker Curry (2012, 5-11/165, Pelham, AL, verbal commitment to Samford) and Will Brown (2012, 6-2/180, Vestavia Hills, AL) did the honors against Baseball Mentoring Program.  Curry went the first 4 innings, allowing 2 hits, an unearned run and striking out 8 hitters.  A primary shortstop, Curry was 85-88 on his fastball and did a very good job mixing in an 80 mph slider and 79 mph change up with his strong fastball.  Brown worked a hitless final 3 innings, striking out 6 hitters while topping out at 83 mph.
Citius Bandits Take Texas Trappers Deep >>

Gm # 305 | 7/5/2011 | 9:00 AM Texas Trappers vs. Citius Bandits

7/5/2011 12:04:42 PM

The #3 thru #6 hitters in the Citius Bandits line up went a combined 10-13 with 3 home runs, 7 runs scored and 10 Rbi's, leading the team to a 13-6 win over the Texas Trappers.

6-7, 255 lb primary RHP Max Beerman (2012, Tampa, FL) did the primary damage, lifting 2 home runs while going 3-3 with 4 Rbi's.  C BreShon Kimball (2011, Mesquite, TX, signed with Louisiana Tech), the 28th round pick of the Brewers, hit his second home run of the tournament and finished 3-4 with 4 Rbi's as well.  C Jake Rogers (2011, Massapequa, NY) went 3-3 hitting out of the #6 hole.

In addition to Beerman, the Bandits can certainly bring some size to the field.  6-9, 245 lb LHP Adam Choplick threw an inning yesterday, while 6-8, 250 lb RHP Shane Henderson is also on the roster.
Dulin Dodgers Continue to Dominate >>

Gm # 301 | 7/5/2011 | 9:00 AM Dulin Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Reds

7/5/2011 11:20:33 AM

Dulin Dodgers continued to play impressive baseball Tuesday morning, shutting out the Philadelphia Reds 5-0 and move their record to 3-0 with a scoring margin of 27-5.  The Dodgers game with the East Cobb Blue Jays was suspended by the rain yesterday and has yet to be completed.

The Dodgers feature a regular line up with players such as infielders Mookie Betts (2011, signed with Tennessee), Jake Overbay (2011, signed with Mississippi) and  Kyle Overstreet (2012, verbal to Alabama), along with catchers Nate Irving (2011, signed with Virginia) and Daniel Garner (2012, verbal to Mississippi State).  They also have four primary pitchers committed to SEC schools.

RHP Cole Evans (2011, Collierville, TN, signed with Kentucky) was the leader against the Reds, throwing 5 1/3 innings of 1 hit ball while striking out 8.  Evans was a steady 85-88 mph on his fastball, showing plus life at times from a cross body release point and mixing in a 71 mph curveball and 79 mph change up.

Walden's Bat Paces Chattanooga to 11-1 Win >>

Gm # 299 | 7/5/2011 | 9:00 AM NJ Marlins vs. Chattanooga Baseball Club 17U

7/5/2011 10:54:24 AM

2012 OF Reed Walden (6-0/190, LHH'er, Ringgold, GA) fell a home run short of the cycle, going 4-5 with a double and a triple as the Chattanooga Baseball Club 17U rapped out 14 hits and defeated the New Jersey Marlins 11-1 on Tuesday morning.  Walden has a simple, sound hitting approach from a narrow hitting stance, with a line drive swing and good present bat speed.

2013 LHP Kevin Dupree (6-3/195, Chattanooga, TN) threw a complete game 2-hitter for Chattanooga.  Dupree has an easy, long arm action and a projectable build.  He was steady between 81 and 83 mph the entire game, showing command to both sides of the plate while striking out 8 hitters and allowing only 2 hits.
Pool G All Tied Up >>

Gm # 297 | 7/5/2011 | 9:00 AM Diamond-Simcox 17U vs. New York Gothams

7/5/2011 10:39:10 AM

Diamond-Simcox 17U and New York Gothams played to a 1-1 tie Tuesday morning, putting Pool G in an interesting position pending the outcome of games the rest of the day.  Diamond-Simcox now has a 1-0-3 record after 4 games and is the only team in the pool without a loss.  As a tie counts as a 1/2 win and 1/2 loss, it can create some interesting and sometimes confusing scenarios in determining Pool Play champions.

Both teams received outstanding efforts from their starting pitchers, who were very similar in their raw stuff and abilities.  Diamond Simcox starter RHP Dalton Curtis (2012, 6-0/175, Maryville, TN) went 6 2/3 innings, allowing 7 hits and striking out 5.  The Gothams RHP Luis Hilardo  (2011, 5-10, 170, New York City) threw a complete game 4 hitter, walking no one with 4 K's.  Both pitchers threw in the 83-86 mph range and showed advanced pitchability to go with easy deliveries and were aggressive with their fastballs.
Prospects Stars 17U Red Moves to 3-0-1 >>

7/5/2011 10:07:37 AM

RHP's Wade Arduini (2012, Clifton, VA) and Mitchell Aker (2012, Vienna, VA) combined on a 3 hit shutout to lead Prospect Stars 17U Red to a 1-0 win over Action Baseball Club 18U and raise their Pool Play record to 3-0-1.

Arduini threw the first 5 innings and played the role of the crafty right hander, topping out at 81 mph but throwing a variety of different pitches at different speeds while striking out 6 hitters.  Aker, who has a verbal commitment to William and Mary, came in as the power closer, throwing 88 mph in retiring 6 straight hitters.

OF Josh Kuzbel (2012, Ashburn, VA) gave the Stars all the runs they would need when he opened up the game with a triple and later came around to score.
Burnette Moves Yankees to 3-0 >>

7/5/2011 7:05:42 AM

2011 RHP Jake Burnette threw a 2-hit shutout with 8 K's to lead the East Cobb Yankees to an 8-0 win over Ostingers Baseball Academy late Monday afternoon.  The game was one of only 3 games to be completed in the 4:30 and 7:00 pm time slots as storms moved through the north Atlanta area.

The 6-5, 185 lb Burnette was steady in the 88-91 mph range for 6 innings and threw an effective 76 mph curveball.  The Georgia Tech signee is very polished in both his delivery mechanics and his command and is the type of pitching prospect who should be able to contribute immediately for Georgia Tech as a freshman.

2011 C Clint Clark (signed with Georgia Southern) led the Yankees offense with a 2-4, 3 Rbi performance that included a home run.
Maxwell Continues to Impress with the Bat >>

Gm # 272 | 7/4/2011 | 3:00 PM TGBA 17U vs. North East Rays

7/5/2011 6:49:52 AM

TGBA 17's ran their record to 3-0 Monday with a 4-2 comeback with over the North East Rays.  TGBA (Team Georgia Baseball Academy) scored 3 runs in the bottom of the 6th inning to pull it out.

2013 OF Brock Maxwell (Suwanee, GA)  continued his impressive performance at the plate against his elders, hitting a solo home run.

2012 RHP Trevor Sams (6-4, 210, Cummings, GA) picked up the victory with two scoreless innings of relief.  Sams topped out at 87 mph with a loose and easy arm action and threw a short and sharp 72 mph curveball.
Hurley Powers Florida Bombers Win >>

Gm # 270 | 7/4/2011 | 2:00 PM Florida Bombers vs. Chain Black

7/5/2011 6:37:17 AM

It was blogged after the first day of the 18U's that the key to the Florida Bombers ability to win an unprecedented 7th national championship looked like it hinged on their big and powerful middle of the lineup hitters.  That proved true on Monday as #3 hitter Sean Hurley hit two solo home runs to lead the Bombers to a 4-1 win over Chain Black and raise their record to 3-0 in Pool Play.

Hurley, Jordan Weems and Matt Suchy, the middle of the Bombers order, combined to go 5-8 with 3 runs scored and 3 Rbi's.

The Bombers received a route going performance from LHP Will Solomon (2011, 6-2/190, Columbus, GA, signed with Northwest Florida CC).  Solomon only allowed 2 hits and an unearned run while striking out 3.  He pitched in the 86-89 mph range with a 72 mph curveball and 74 mph change up.

Hurley's first home run was the only run the Bombers scored in 4 innings off Chain starter JB Wendelken (2011, 6-1/205, Guyton, GA, signed with Middle Georgia JC).  Wendelken was up to 92 mph on his fastball and averaged 90 mph to go along with a 75 mph curveball.

FTB Pride Sluggers Row All Hit in 7-2 Win >>

Gm # 268 | 7/4/2011 | 2:00 PM FTB Pride vs. Tucker Dodgers

7/4/2011 6:17:35 PM

The all prospect middle of the FTB Pride line up dominated the Tucker Dodgers, leading the team to a 7-2 win Monday afternoon.  The trio of 2013 1B Eugene Vazquez (Orlando, FL, verbal commitment to Central Florida), 2012 3B Edwin Rios (Kissimmee, FL, verbal commitment to Florida International) and 2012 C Wilfredo Rodriguez (Puerto Rico Baseball Academy) went a combined 7-8 at the plate with 6 runs scored and 5 Rbi's, including 4 extra base hits.  All are top level hitting prospects and will get plenty of pro scouting attention as well before their respective drafts.

The Pride also ran out two solid 2012 right handed pitchers in Frank Grandinette (Olrando, FL, verbal commitment to Miami) and Joey Pantoja (Lehigh Acres, FL).  Grandinette struck out 8 hitters in 4 innings, mixing his 84-86 mph fastball and mid 70's slider almost 50/50.  Pantoja is a very projectable 6-4, 190 lb righty who pitched aggressively with an 84-87 mph fastball.
Blue Wave Pitching Continues to Dominate >>

Gm # 264 | 7/4/2011 | 2:00 PM Excel Blue Wave vs. FTB CLUTCH

7/4/2011 5:57:28 PM

The Excel Blue Wave pitching staff allowed their first run of the tournament but finally got their offense untracked just enough to register a 3-1 win over FTB Clutch.  The Blue Wave are now 3-0 and have outscored their opponents by an 8-1 margin.

2011 RHP Alex Luna (6-4, 180, Huntsville, AL, signed with UA-Birmingham) threw the first 6 1/3 innings for the Blue Wave, allowing 5 hits and striking out 9 without allowing a walk.  Luna showed three very solid pitches and an advanced idea how to mix things up and hit spots.  He topped out at 90 mph and threw a 78 mph tight slider and an 80 mph change up that he could afford to throw more often.  With 1 out in the 7th, Todd Wilkerson (2011, 5-10, 170, Huntsville, AL) came in from shortstop to get the last 2 outs, throwing 88-90 mph with good cutting action.

The Blue Wave scored all three of their runs in the 6th inning, keyed by back to back triples by OF Matt Goodson (2012, verbal commitment to Alabama) and 2012 C Kyler Dreese.
Nine the Magic Number for West End Baseball >>

7/4/2011 5:26:04 PM

In what was probably not coincidently Game #259, all 9 hitters in the West End Baseball line collected hits in the team's 9-1 win over Team Ellite 17U White.  West End scored all 9 of their runs in the top of the 4th inning.  West End  now moves to 2-0-1 in Pool Play and have outscored their opponents by a margin of 23 to 14 in the 3 games, a 9 run total margin.

West End also knocked around a very well regarded pitching prospect, 2012 LHP Sam Clay (6-2, 190, Buford, GA, verbal commitment to Georgia Tech).  Clay cruised through the first three innings without allowing a run while topping out at 90 mph (there's that 9 again), then was chased by the barrage of hits in the 4th.

RHP Taylor Vetzel (2012, 5-11, 175, Greenville, SC) was impressively efficient for West End, only needing 49 pitches to navigate the 5 inning run rule contest.  Vetzel threw a heavy sinking fastball in the 81-84 mph range and let the hitter's get themselves out, as he didn't strike out a batter and only walked 1.
NBS 18U Continue Hot Hitting, Win 10-1 >>

Gm # 258 | 7/4/2011 | 2:00 PM East Cobb Astros 17u vs. NBS 18's

7/4/2011 5:14:58 PM

NBS 18U continued their hot hitting, defeating the East Cobb Astros 17U 10-1 to run their record to 3-0.  They've scored 25 runs in 3 games.  A duo of age eligible 2010 graduates playing college baseball led the way on Monday.  C Ryan Wojciechowski (Butler) went 2-3 with 3 runs scored, 3 Rbi's and 2 doubles.  SS Michael Massi (Volunteer State CC) went a perfect 3-3 with 4 Rbi's.

From a scouting perspective, the most impressive player of the game was 2012 OF/RHP Sean McLaughlin of East Cobb.  McLaughlin (5-11, 180, Johns Creek, GA, verbal commitment to the U. Georgia) started the game in the outfield but came into pitch in the 4th inning with his team already down 8-1.  Although he allowed 2 runs, McLaughlin was 90-93 mph with his fastball and flashed a potential plus 74 mph curveball, although he was inconsistent  in his mechanics and curveball release.


Harris Makes Early Lead Stand Up for Braves >>

Gm # 248 | 7/4/2011 | 2:00 PM East Cobb Braves 18u vs. St Johns Heat

7/4/2011 3:59:15 PM

2012 RHP Robert Harris (6-1, 180, Woodland HS, Marietta, GA) was staked to a 3-0 lead in the first inning and made those runs easily stand up, giving the East Cobb Braves 18U a 3-0 win over the St. John's Heat.  The victory gives the Braves a 3-0 mark in Pool Play.

Harris pitched between 86 and 88 mph on his fastball for most the game and occasionally mixed in a 74 mph curveball while allowing 4 hits and striking out 5.  He showed excellent mound presence and maturity in establishing his fastball early in counts and only threw 80 pitches over 7 innings.

The Braves got back to back to back doubles from Nelson Ward, Clay Ardeeser and Jakob Nixon in the bottom of the first inning to plate the three runs.
Buxton Continues to Impress for Round Trip >>

Gm # 234 | 7/4/2011 | 11:30 AM Round Trip Baseball vs. PBB 17U

7/4/2011 3:48:04 PM

OF/RHP Byron Buxton (2012, 6-2/170, Baxley, GA, verbal commitment to U. Georgia) isn't quite a household name in the prospect community despite being the #32 prospect on the PG 2012 Top Prospect List but that is likely to change quickly.  Yesterday Buxton was 92-94 mph coming in from the outfield to close a Round Trip win over Marucci Elite.  Today he closed again in a 6-5 Round Trip win over  PBB 17U that moved his team's record to 3-0 in Pool Play.

More impressively, Buxton showed 80 speed on the scout's 20-80 scale, running 3.9 to first base and 3.2 while letting up on a steal of second base.  He shows plus speed from the right side of the plate as well, making him a potential 5 tool impact player.

If you haven't heard of Baxley, Georgia, don't be disappointed in yourself.  It is a small town in rural southeast Georgia between Macon and Savannah that plays at the 2A level of Georgia high school sports, the second smallest level.
Infielders Bring the Heat >>

7/4/2011 3:38:08 PM

A couple of primary infielders brought the heat in Southeastern Baseball's 6-0 win over Gatorball Baseball Academy.

3B Tyler Bashlor was the most  impressive, throwing a complete game shutout, allowing 4 hits and striking out 5 batters.  Bashlor (2011, 5-10, 170, Richmond Hill, GA) pitched in the 87-91 mph range for most of the game and flashed a hard breaking curveball at times.  The right handed hitter also batted fifth in the Southeastern line up and went 2-2 with a walk and an Rbi.  The PG database doesn't show Bashlor as having a college commitment for this fall.

SS Ryan Labrador (2012, 6-3, 180, Inverness, FL) came out of the bullpen for the last 1 2/3 innings for Gatorball and threw a very heavy 86-90 mph fastball.  He has a large frame that should fill out nicely and a long and loose arm action.
SS Swoope Impresses for Xcel Baseball 18U >>

Gm # 237 | 7/4/2011 | 11:30 AM New Level Cardinal vs. Xcel Baseball 18u

7/4/2011 2:58:29 PM

Things were quickly taken care of for Xcel Baseball 18U Monday when the scored 11 runs in the top of the first inning and coasted to a 12-1 win over New Level Cardinal.  The win moves their record to 3-0 in Pool Play, with an impressive 34-4 margin of victory.

Xcel leadoff hitter SS Alvin Swoope (2012, 5-8, 170, Treasure Coast HS, Port St. Lucie, FL) continues to be impressive in every aspect of the game.  He went 1-3 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 3 Rbi's this game but the most notable thing is how well rounded his tools are.  He's a plus speed type athlete with middle infield tools and surprising power and bat speed at the plate despite his size.  Swoope has been impressive at a series of WWBA and BSC tournaments over the last year and he's bound to get lots of attention from scouts and coaches over the next couple of weeks in Georgia as he shows his 5-tool ability.
Young Pitcher Stands Out in Warhawks Romp >>

Gm # 235 | 7/4/2011 | 11:30 AM Ohio Warhawks vs. East Cobb Indians 17u

7/4/2011 2:44:14 PM

Usually the hitters are the big story in a 16-0 run rule victory and as a team that was the big deal in the Ohio Warhawks 3 inning victory over the East Cobb Indians.  8 different players drove in runs, including 4 off the bat of C Kevin White, a Michigan signee.  The Warhawks scored 14 runs in the 3rd inning to quickly end the contest by run rule.

But probably the most notable performance of the game came from 2013 RHP Casey Meisner of the Warhawks.  Meisner is 6-7, 165 lb drink of water from Cy-Woods HS in the Houston area.  He threw 3 quick innings, allowing one hit and striking out 5 hitters.  Meisner had an easy smooth delivery, a loose arm and an extreme downhill angle to the plate on his 87-90 mph fastball.  It should be interesting to watch him develop over the next few years as he gets stronger.
Much Improved RHP Jordan Hilyer >>

Gm # 233 | 7/4/2011 | 11:30 AM Diamond-Simcox 17U vs. Team Elite 17U Black

7/4/2011 2:19:13 PM

One of the most valuable and interesting uses of scouting information on the Perfect Game web site is the ability to track the improvement young pitchers show from year to year.  Scouts and college coaches definitely note when a pitcher is gaining velocity from year to year instead of peaking early and staying static in his raw stuff.

A case in point is Team Elite 17U Black RHP Jordan Hilyer (2012, Hebron Christian Academy, Monroe, GA), who pitched 5 innings in Team Elite's 4-4 tie with Diamond Simcox 17U.  Hilyer pitched for Team Elite in last summer's WWBA 16U National Championship, where he was listed at 6-2, 170 and pitched in the 79-82 mph range with a 71 mph curveball.  A year later, Hilyer is listed at 6-2, 195 and was topping out at  to 89 mph on Monday with a curveball that topped out at 77-78 mph.  With another year of high school to go, that's a big difference and one that stands out to evaluators.
Home Runs Power Next Level to 3-0 Record >>

Gm # 230 | 7/4/2011 | 11:30 AM Atlanta Blue Jays vs. Next Level Baseball

7/4/2011 2:06:30 PM

Four of Next Level's 5 runs in the team's 5-2 win over the Atlanta Blue Jays came via the home run as the they moved their Pool Play record to a perfect 3-0.

2012 1B Ty Clark (6-1, 190, Lincoln HS, Tallahassee, FL) provided the big blow, a 3 run blast in the top of the 4th inning of what was then a scoreless ball game.  Clark is a high energy player who plays an excellent defensive first base and has a nice compact swing with good bat speed.

C/RHP Mario Amaral also helped the Next Level cause with a solo home run of his own.  Amaral was the 17th round draft pick of the Milwaukee Brewers out of Reagan HS in Hialeah, FL and finished the 2011 season as the 95th ranked player in Perfect Game's 2011 Top Prospect listing.  He has signed with Florida State.  Amaral also picked up the save in the game, pitching a scoreless 7th inning in relief of starting pitcher Sawyer Betts, topping out at 88 mph.
Valentine Calls in 2 Solid 2012 Pitching Prospects >>

7/4/2011 2:04:21 PM

Two very interesting 2012 pitching prospects made their tournament debuts during Bobby Valentine All American Team's 4-1 win Monday over Team Xtreme.  Bobby Valentine had come into the game with an 0-2 record in Pool Play, while Team Xtreme was 2-0.

RHP Matthew Tulley (6-1, 200 lbs, Lowell, Mass.) started the game for Bobby Valentine and lasted 2 1/3 innings, allowing the only Team Xtreme run.  Tulley was wild, throwing only 29 of 63 pitches for strikes and walking 5 hitters but was able to work out of a couple of jams.  His fastball was in the 86-89 mph range and he threw both a curveball and a slider.

RHP Trey Ruggiero (6-6, 190 lbs, Chandler, AZ) pitched the final 1 1/3 innings for the save and was very  impressive considering his size.  He had a sound delivery and threw with a severe downhill angle from a high 3/4's release point.  Ruggiero topped out at 87 mph but there's much more velocity in his arm as he gets stronger.
LHP Jean Acevedo Spins Shutout >>

Gm # 228 | 7/4/2011 | 11:30 AM All American Prospects 18U vs. Georgia Seminoles

7/4/2011 1:31:53 PM

LHP Jean Acevedo (2011, 5-10, 170, Doral Academy, Miami, FL) threw a complete game 6 inning shutout in All American Prospects 8-0 win over the Georgia Seminoles.  Acevedo allowed 2 hits and didn't walk a hitter while striking out 9 Seminoles hitters.  He worked between 83 and 87 mph on his fastball but only threw about 60 fastballs, mixing in a slider, curveball and change up in roughly equal amounts and with effectiveness.  Acevedo was especially good at busting fastballs inside to hitters after getting them leaning with off speed pitches.  The PG database doesn't have Acevedo as having a school commitment yet for this fall.
RHP Garrett Lovorn, Blue Chip Bulls >>

Gm # 227 | 7/4/2011 | 11:30 AM Blue Chip Bulls vs. DCH Georgia Jayhawks 17's

7/4/2011 1:22:37 PM

Evaluating RHP Garrett Lovorn (2012, 6-2, 180, Pendleton, SC) will present an interesting quandary for college coaches and scouts if Monday's outing is any indication.  The Perfect Game scout notes indicate that Lovorn was 85-89 mph with his fastball, with a sound delivery and long and smooth arm action that projects well.  Looking at the box score paints a different story.  Lovorn, who started for the Blue Chip Bulls in their come from behind 9-8 win over the DCH Georgia Jayhawks, lasted only 1 inning, allowing no hits but 5 walks and 5 runs.  He threw only 11 strikes in 38 pitches.  The young man obviously has a very nice arm and seems to have solid mechanics as well.  Hopefully we'll get to seem him in action later in the week to get a fuller evaluation.

Blue Chip scored 4 runs in the bottom of the 6th and final inning to pull off the victory and move their record to 2-1 in Pool Play.
Culver Leads Showtime Baseball to 3-0 Record >>

Gm # 226 | 7/4/2011 | 11:30 AM Chain Select vs. Showtime Baseball

7/4/2011 1:11:38 PM

2012 1B Nate Culver (6-1, 180, Camas HS, Heisson, WA) doubled twice and drove home 2 runs, leading Showtime Baseball to a 7-3 win over Chain Select, upping their record to 3-0.  Culver is now 6-10 in 3 games with 4 doubles and 4 Rbi's hitting in the 3rd spot in the Showtime line up.

Culver's Camas HS teammate 2B John Welbourne (2011, 6-0, 170) shared the offensive player of the game, going 2-3 from the leadoff spot with a double and home run.  Welbourne runs very well in addition to showing some power with the bat.
Winston Makes an Impact on the Mound >>

Gm # 224 | 7/4/2011 | 11:30 AM Team Alabama vs. South Florida Thunder

7/4/2011 12:54:12 PM

Top Prospect OF'er Jameis Winston of Team Alabama showcased his overall skills, throwing a complete game 4-hitter to lead undefeated Team Alabama to a 4-1 win over the South Florida Thunder.  Winston threw 90 pitches over 7 innings, pitching in the 86-89 mph range and mixing in a 73 mph curveball. 

Thunder RHP David Elder threw a complete game himself, allowing 8 hits, including 3 to Alabama clean up hitter Clayton Palicki.  Elder (2011, 6-3, 185, South Dade HS, Miami) worked almost exclusively with his fastball, sitting between 84-87 mph with good sinking action and mixing in an occasional 73 mph curveball.  The PG database doesn't show Elder as having a college commitment, although he certainly appears to have the fastball and projectable build to pitch at the next level.
Team Elite 18U Cruises to 7-0 Win >>

Gm # 222 | 7/4/2011 | 11:30 AM Team Elite 18U vs. Bucky Dent Bandits UNC

7/4/2011 12:42:00 PM

Team Elite 18U cruised to a 7-0 win Monday over Bucky Dent Academy Bandits UNC, raising their record to 2-1 in Pool Play.

2011 RHP Marc Frazier threw 4 shutout innings to establish the tone of the game for Team Elite.  Frazier (Newman, GA) was the 47th round pick of the San Francisco Giants and is signed to attend Chipola JC in Florida.  He relied primarly on a fastball that was between 84 and 88 mph and mixed in an occasional curveball and change up.  He's been up to 91 mph at PG events in the past.

2011 RHP Alan Skinner pitched the 7th inning for Team Elite and was especially interesting, as PG has no record of his having a college commitment.  Skinner, who attended Providence Christian Academy in Snellville, GA, is 6-4, 180 lbs and threw 86-88 mph with a 72 mph curveball in the short outing.
Gossett Shows 2-Way Tools >>

Gm # 216 | 7/4/2011 | 9:00 AM Upstate Mavericks Black vs. East Cobb Cubs

7/4/2011 12:02:57 PM

Upstate Mavericks Black defeated the East Cobb Cubs 5-0 Monday morning to bring their Pool Play record to 3-0 and are showing they might have the type of depth to make an impact in the playoffs should they keep winning.

Part of that depth is the 2-way talent of RHP/IF Daniel Gossett.  Gossett showed the mound talents that caused the Red Sox to draft him in the 16th round on Saturday, touching 94 mph in a dominant 6 inning effort.  The South Carolina native took charge of the Mavericks offense on Monday, going 2-3, driving in 2 runs and hitting a home run.

LHP Kevin Cornell (2011, 6-3, 215, Gray, Tennessee, signed with The Citadel) was solid on the mound for the Mavericks, throwing 5 1-hit innings.  Cornell worked in the 84-86 mph range with his fastball and threw a nice 76 mph slider as his breaking ball.

Florida Pokers 18U White Move to 3-0 >>

7/4/2011 11:51:16 AM

The Florida Pokers 18U White moved their Pool Play record to 3-0 with a 6-3 win over the Pony Express 17 White Monday morning.  The Pokers have now scored 25 runs in three games.

With their powerful offense, the Pokers benefited from a strong outing on the mound from 2011 RHP Tim Stoops (6-3, 215, Delray Beach, FL, signed with U. Mass).  Stoops has a very fluid and easy delivery and maintained a 84-86 mph fastball for six innings of work.  He also did a good job of throwing both his curveball and change up for strikes and working ahead in counts.

1B/C Omar Williams (2011, Boynton Beach, FL) paced the Pokers offense from his cleanup spot, going 3-3 with 3 Rbi's and collecting a home run and a double.
En Fuego Stays Hot with 13-5 Win >>

7/4/2011 11:37:59 AM

En Fuego Baseball upped their record to 2-0-1 Monday morning with a 13-5 win over Chattanooga Baseball Club 17U.

On a day where runs are being scored in bunches at most of the fields, En Fuego OF'er Chase Domino (6-2, 190, RHH, Fairhope, AL) put on one of the more outstanding displays of what has already been an excellent tournament.  The team's cleanup hitter went 3-3 with 2 doubles and a home run, driving in 5 runs.  Domino is now 6-9 in 3 games with 9 Rbi's and has a 2 doubles, a triple and 2 home runs.
Quartet of Pitchers Twirls Shutout >>

Gm # 207 | 7/4/2011 | 9:00 AM Texas Sun Devils vs. NBS 17's

7/4/2011 11:23:43 AM

The Texas Sun Devils went to the staff approach Monday morning in defeating the NBS 17's 3-0.  RHP Jack Lemoine (2 innings), LHP Chaz Hebert (2 innings), LHP Matt Denny (2 innings) and RHP Trey Lewis (1 innings).  All but Hebert, who is signed with Louisiana-Lafayette, are 2012 prospects.

Lemoine (Bridge City, TX) is a projectable 6-4, 185 lb righty who relies on a very heavy fastball in the 86-88 mph range that he keeps at the bottom of the strike zone well.  He mixed in a couple of sliders and that pitch should develop  into a solid second offering.

Denny, a 6-1 southpaw from Jackson, Mississippi, also relied almost exclusively on a fastball that reached 86 mph.

Lewis (Geismer, LA) is a primary 3B/SS with very good bat speed who also could be a 2-way prospect at the college level.  He closed the game throwing 88-89 with a very sharp and effective slider.

Hebert intrigued scouts this spring when he was up to 92 mph early, but settled down into the upper 80's and is still developing his off speed pitches.  He pitched in the 86-88 range on Monday.
Shunk Single Handedly Lifts Team Cincinnati >>

7/4/2011 10:59:22 AM

2011 OF Jay Shunk (6-2, 190, RHH, Hamilton, OH) single handedly led Team Cincinnati to a 8-4 win over the Syracuse Sports Zone Chiefs Monday morning.  The Cincinnati clean up hitter went 2-3 with 5 Rbi's, including a 3 run home run and a 2 run double, and also scored twice.

2011 Syracuse SS Zach Lauricella (5-10, 200, RHH, Clarence Center, NY, signed with St. John's) actually topped Shunk but didn't have the benefit of as many hitters on base.  Lauricella had two doubles and a home run but only drove in two runs.

2011 RHP Ryan Atkinson threw a complete game for Team Cincinnati, pitching between 83-87 with his fastball and using a low 70's curveball as his out pitch.  The 6-3, 185 lb Atkinson has signed with the University of Cincinnati.
South Florida Elite Moves to 3-0 Behind Knapp >>

7/4/2011 10:39:56 AM

The South Florida Elite Squad 18U moved their Pool Play record to 3-0 Monday morning with a 5-1 win over Chain 18U (Springfield).  The Elite have outscored their opponents 19-4 in their 3 wins.

IF Kevin Knapp had the big blow for the Elite, a 3 run home run in the bottom of the 5th inning that broke open a 2-1 ball game.  Knapp had earlier singled in a run and finished 2-3 with 4 Rbi's on the day.  He's a 5-9, 170 lb. right handed hitter from Coral Springs, Florida with a quick, compact swing that is signed with South Alabama.  Knapp runs a 6.61 in the 60 and even came into to finish off the game in the 7th inning, topping out at 84 mph with his fastball.
Taylor Jones Throws 6 Solid Innings for RIPS >>

Gm # 203 | 7/4/2011 | 9:00 AM RIPS Brewers vs. Atlanta Blue Jays 16u

7/4/2011 10:31:04 AM

RHP Taylor Jones threw 6 solid innings, giving the RIPS Brewers bats time to get going in a 7-3 win over the Atlanta Blue Jays 16U.   The Brewers were down 2-1 going into the bottom of the 5th inning but dropped a 5 spot on the board to take the lead.

Jones, a 6-6, 180 lb 2012 righty from Kent, Washington, scattered 7 hits while striking out 7 hitters.  He pitched in the 84-87 mph range with outstanding downhill angle from a high 3/4's arm slot.  He showed good command and use of a 72 mph curveball and mixed in a few change ups as well.  He's currently ranked #363 nationally in the PG 2012 class rankings.
Chuck Robinson Slam Leads Chi-Town >>

Gm # 201 | 7/4/2011 | 9:00 AM Chi-Town Cream vs. Michigan Prep Stars

7/4/2011 10:17:22 AM

2013 C Chuck Robinson hit a 3rd inning Grand Slam to lead the Ch-Town Cream to a 9-2 win over the Michigan Prep Stars Monday morning.  Robinson walked his other two times up, finishing 1-1 with 4 Rbi's and 2 runs scored on the game.  He is coming off a very impressive performance last month at the PG Junior National Showcase and the right handed hitter from Danville, Illinois has established himself as one of the top young hitters in the 2013 class.

RHP Nick Martin (6-0, 190, Lake in the Hills, IL) threw a complete game for the Cream, scattering 8 hits.  Martin pitched in the 83-86 mph range with his fastball and got lots of outs with a hard breaking 73-75 mph curveball.
Almonte Impressive for Columbus Explorers >>

7/4/2011 10:03:15 AM

RHP Yency Almonte started and threw the first 4 innings for the Columbus Explorers, allowing 2 runs while striking out 6 in what eventually was a 8-8 tie with the Southeastern Roadwarriors. 

The 6-4, 175 lb Almonte (Columbus HS, Miami, FL) game into the game ranked #113 on the Perfect Game 2012 class rankings.  He has a loose and very projectable body with a smooth arm action and very good arm speed from a high 3/4's release point.  He pitched primarily with his fastball Sunday morning, sitting at 87-90 mph and throwing the ball effectively to spots.  His curveball will need further development but Almonte is definitely a high ceiling type talent with tons of projection.

Columbus led the game 8-3 going into the 7th inning but the Roadwarriors took advantage of wildness on the part of the Columbus relief pitchers to score 5 runs in the top of the 7th to pull out the tie.
Brooks Throws a Gem for the Canes >>

Gm # 197 | 7/4/2011 | 9:00 AM SBA Canes 17u Black vs. IBAHS Knights

7/4/2011 9:50:53 AM

2012 RHP Gray Brooks (New Hanover HS, Wilmington, NC) threw a gem for the SBA Canes 17U Black Monday morning, tossing 7 no-hit innings in a 6-0 win over the IBAHS Knights.

Brooks pounded the strike zone with an upper 70's fastball and effectively mixed in a 67 mph curveball and 70 mph change up while consistently pitching ahead in the count.  He has a slender 6-0, 150 lb build that projects well and has been up to 82 mph at PG events in the past.

OF Griffin Gum, a 2011 right handed hitter from Charlotte, NC, had a double, triple and a walk, along with 2 Rbi's, hitting leadoff for the Canes to lead the team's offense.
Tyler Howe Shuts Out Houston Elite 2012 >>

Gm # 196 | 7/4/2011 | 9:00 AM FTB Louisville Slugger vs. Houston Elite 2012

7/4/2011 9:38:57 AM

FTB Louisville Slugger RHP Tyler Howe (2012, Lakeland HS, FL) threw a 5 inning complete game shutout, allowing 2 hits and striking out 7 hitters in a 11-0 shutout of the Houston Elite 2012 Monday morning.  Howe worked consistently in the 83-86 mph range and complimented his fastball with a 73 mph curveball.

OF Miguel Frias, who had a 3 run home in FTB's first game, continued his hot hitting by going 2-2 with 2 Rbi's.
South Oakland A's Move to 3-0 in Pool Play >>

Gm # 195 | 7/4/2011 | 9:00 AM South Oakland A's 18U vs. Windward Braves White

7/4/2011 9:30:30 AM

RHP's Dan Pochmara and Jake Baldwin combined on a 1-hit shutout as the South Oakland A's moved their record to a perfect 3-0 in Pool Play with a 6-0 shutout of the Windward Braves White Monday morning.

Pochmara, a 5-10, 170 2010 graduate, threw 5 no-hit innings, striking out 11 hitters.  He topped out at 82 mph on his fastball but threw 65-70% sliders in the mid 70's and overmatched the Braves hitters with that pitch.  Baldwin, a primary infielder, closed out the final two innings, topping out at 86 mph and relying almost exclusively on his fastball.

C Greg Fettes, a talented 2011 catcher from Madison Heights, Michigan, who is signed with Kentucky was very impressive on both sides of the ball for the A's.  He went 2-3 with 2 Rbi's and a triple hitting out of the cleanup spot but was even more impressive behind the plate, showing soft hands and very good athletic quickness on defense.

3B Ben Matigan hit a home run for South Oakland.
Rucker, Cockrell Lead Marucci Elite Route >>

Gm # 193 | 7/4/2011 | 9:00 AM NJ Marlins vs. Marucci Elite

7/4/2011 9:15:01 AM

LHP/1B Rock Rucker and SS/RHP Cord Cockrell led the way both on the mound and at the plate in Marucci Elite's 13-2 route of the New Jersey Marlins Monday morning.

Rucker, whose 6-5, 225 frame and two-way tools really intrigue scouts, went three innings on the mound, topping out at 91 mph on his fastball.  He was wild, walking 5 hitters, leading the way for Cockrell to come in and shut out the Marlins over the final two innings of the run rule shortened game, striking out 3.  Cockrell topped out at 87 mph with a sharp breaking curveball.

The two combined to go 4-6 at the plate with 5 Rbi's, with Rucker knocking a triple and Cockrell a double.

OF Connor Smith added a home run and 2 Rbi's for the Elite, who moved their pool play record to 2-1.
Tampa ousts MS Prospects >>

Gm # 153 | 7/3/2011 | 2:00 PM Tampa Panthers vs. MS Prospects

7/4/2011 9:04:52 PM

The Tampa Panthers beat the Mississippi handily on Sunday afternoon. 

Brad Hencke (2012, Land O' Lakes HS) started for the Panthers and got the complete game, 5-inning shutout. He showed pinpoint command of his fastball, can sink fastball, loose easy delivery, good feel for curveball, stuff projects.

Mack Menendez (2012, Plant HS) Had two hits and 3 RBI in the game. He showed good batspeed from a quiet hitting approach and is aggressive in the zone.
Rahm, Banditos Knock Off TCB 7-1 >>

7/4/2011 8:49:50 PM

Houston Banditos Black starter Spence Rahm (2012 Tomball, Magnolia, TX) held Team Connecticut Baseball to one run over 5 1/3 innings to earn the W in a 7-1 victory. Rahm is a massive framed righty who throws from a sharp downhill angle with solid fastball command and arm side run.

Travis Walker (2011 Klein Oak HS, Spring, TX) went 2-for-2 for the Banditos with a pair of Runs scores, an RBI and a walk.
Chain (Springfield) Rolls Mass Pride >>

Gm # 150 | 7/3/2011 | 2:00 PM Mass Pride Baseball vs. Chain 18u (Springfield)

7/4/2011 8:26:34 PM

Chain cruised to an 8-0, 5-inning victory Sunday afternoon over Mass Pride.

Brawn was the star of the show as he was the winning pitcher and had 2 hits at the plate. He struck out 8 in 4 scoreless innings and also scored 2 runs and added an RBI. His arm works well on the mound and he is aggressive with his fastball and shows good line drive pop.
Suncoast-Roadwarriors Play to 2-2 Tie >>

7/4/2011 4:04:37 PM

Zach Slagle (2012 Grace Christian Academy, Powell, TN) had a good outing that resulted in a no-decision after striking out 10 over 5 innings and limiting Suncoast Select to 2 runs (1 ER). Lefty Drue Brooks (2013 Springstead HS, Spring Hill, FL) tossed 5 shutout innings in relief for Suncoast Select to preserve the tie.

Chukie Robinson's 2-Run HR Proves to be Difference >>

Gm # 141 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Chi-Town Cream vs. Bama Starz

7/4/2011 3:57:53 PM

C Chuckie Robinson (2013 Danville HS, IL) hit a 2-run homer in the first inning to give the Chi-Town Cream a 2-0 lead that SP Ryan Perez (2012 Westminster Christian HS, Hampshire, IL) made stand up with a CG effort. Robinson showed good power at the plate and projects for more as he matures.

Perez scattered 2 hits and allowed a Run, striking out 10 to earn the W. Perez was up to 89 with his fastball and showed good command with a low effort delivery and a very good mid 70s curveball.
Copeland's Homer Lifts Drillers Past Dawg Pound >>

Gm # 140 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Oklahoma Drillers vs. Dawg Pound

7/4/2011 3:49:17 PM

Alex Copeland's (2012 Broken Arrow HS, OK) solo Home Run helped the Oklahoma Drillers knock off the Dawg Pound 4-2. Each team traded a pair of runs in the first inning before back to back tallies in the 3rd and 4th by the Drillers proved to be the difference.

Chase Williams (2011 Broken Arrow HS, OK) earned the win, going 5 innings, allowing 2 Runs on 2 hits while striking out 10. Williams topped out at 89 mph and overpowered hitters with a four pitch mix and projectable stuff.
Citius Bandits Pull Out Wild Win in Slugfest >>

Gm # 139 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Citius Bandits vs. Team Elite 17U Black

7/4/2011 3:39:49 PM

The Citius Bandits and Team Elite 17u Black had a thrilling back and forth slugfest in the late innings. Team Elite cut the Bandits 2-0 lead in half in the 5th inning before giving up 4 to fall behind 6-1. In the top of the 6th they rallied for 5 of their own to pull even at 6-6 heading into the bottom of the 6th before finally seeing all that work to battle back go for not as the Bandits walked off with a 7-6 win in the bottom of the inning.

BreShon Kimbell (2011 Mesquitte, TX) went 2-for-3 with a Home Run for the Bandits. Kimbell is a big strong right handed hitting Catcher who will be playing his college ball at Louisiana Tech if he does not sign with the Milwaukee Brewers, who selected him in the 28th round of the draft. Max Beerman (2012 Tampa Jesuit HS, FL) also homered for the Bandits as part of a 1-for-2 day that also included a walk.

Gregory Preston (2012 Morgan County HS, Greensboro, GA) went 3-for-3 for Team Elite in a losing effort and continues to have a strong showing during the tournament.
Amos Deals in Chillidogs Victory >>

Gm # 138 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Homeplate Chilidogs vs. Midwest Dodgers Nationals

7/4/2011 3:25:44 PM

Daniel Amos (2012 Whitewater HS, Fayetteville, GA) limited the Midwest Dodgers Nationals to just a run on 4 hits over 5 innings while striking out 10 as the Homeplate Chillidogs rolled to a 5-1 victory. Amos worked in the mid-upper 80s with his fastball, topping out at 88 and complimented it well with a quality changeup at 81 mph. Amos is currently ranked 307th in the nation and has been up to 90 in the past.

En Fuego and NJ Marlins Trade Big Innings in Tie >>

Gm # 131 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM NJ Marlins vs. En Fuego baseball

7/4/2011 3:20:17 PM

After giving up 7 runs in the bottom of the first inning En Fuego Baseball had its work cut out for it to get back into the game against the NJ Marlins. A 6-run 4th brought them all the way back to even the game at 8 a piece before the bullpens finally settled in and put an end to the slugfest.

En Fuego picked up 12 hits in the game, with multi-hit efforts from their leadoff, #3 and #4 hitters. Colin Brey (2011 Vancleave HS, MS), Toby Thomas (2012 Fairhope HS, Eight Mile, AL) and Chase Domino (2012 Fairhope HS, AL) each went 2-for-4 with Brey scoring twice and Thomas and Domino driving in a pair. Domino also hit a Home Run.

Justin Maggio (2012 Hillsborough HS, Freehold. NJ) and Tyler Ferretti (2012 Hillsborough HS, Freehold, NJ) each had multi-hit games for the NJ Marlins.
O's-A's Play to 3-3 Tie >>

Gm # 129 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Southeastern Athletics vs. East Cobb Orioles 18U

7/4/2011 3:07:30 PM

The East Cobb Orioles and Southeastern A's traded one run innings with one team pushing a run across in each inning except the 4th. Ricky Schattauer (2011 Sprayberry HS, Marietta, GA) had the only multi-hit effort of the the game out of the leadoff spot for the O's, going 2-for-4.
FBA Red Blanks Dodgers >>

7/4/2011 2:53:17 PM

Bradley Paramoonya dominated the Lakes Area Dodgers in Florida Baseballl Academy Red's 6-0 win. Paramoonya threw 6 innings of 3 hit ball, issuing just one walk while striking out 8. Tyler Pogue (2013 Branden River HS, Bradenton, FL) got the final 3 outs in relief.

FBA's offense cashed in on 8 free passes to push across 6 runs on just 2 hits as the Dodgers pitchers struggled to find the zone.
Team DeMarini's Late Rally Falls Short >>

Gm # 190 | 7/3/2011 | 7:00 PM Team Demarini vs. Team Xtreme

7/4/2011 1:43:54 PM

Team DeMarini scored three runs in the bottom of the 6th but it was not enough as they fell to Team Xtreme 8-5. Team Xtreme starter RHP Cristiannel Cosme (2011, PRBAHS, Tampa, FL) topped at 87 with good extension while showing a 74 mph curveball and 76 mph changeup RHP Gabriel Selochan (2013, Jefferson HS, Tampa, FL) relieved him at was up to 85 with a 12/6 curveball at 66. 2B Einar Muniz (2011, Jefferson HS, Tampa, FL) made all the plays on the infield and also showed a short, balanced stroke at the plate. He is committed to Alabama State.


Behind Howard, Braves Get Win >>

Gm # 189 | 7/3/2011 | 7:00 PM East Cobb Braves 18u vs. Middle GA Titans

7/4/2011 1:36:20 PM

LHP Sam Howard (2011, Cartersville, GA HS), a Georgia Southern commit draft in the 48th round of the 2011 Draft by the Chicago Cubs touched 87 with easy arm action and threw a 74 mph curveball and 78 mph changeup as he led the East Cobb Braves 18U to a 7-3 win over the Middle GA Titans. The Braves got two hits from #3 hitter C Michael Adkins (Hillgrove HS, Powder Springs, GA) a Middle Tennessee State commit and a pair from OF Chris Vermilya (2011, Etowah HS, Woodstock, GA). Other Braves standouts were OF Michael Hodorowski (2011, Harrison HS, Acworth, GA), a Georgia Tech commit and Nelson Ward (2011, Lassiter HS, Marietta, GA) a Georgia commit.

Middle GA starter RHP Brock Turner (2012, Madison County HS, Colbert, GA) topped out at 84, with his curveball at 74. RHP Tyler Payne (2013, Stratford Academy, Macon, GA) was up to 85, with a 70 mph curveball.
Jackson, Blue Chip Get by Bullets >>

Gm # 191 | 7/3/2011 | 7:00 PM Blue Chip Bulls vs. Bullets Baseball

7/4/2011 1:15:49 PM

The Blue Chip Bulls behind South Carolina commit RHP Tyler Jackson (2012, Wren HS, Piedmont, SC) beat Bullets Baseball 5-3 in the nightcap at the East Cobb Complex. Jackson has a long, very projectable build and topped his fastball out at 86. He also showed good break on an 11/5 curveball that sat 73-75. Jordan Mitchell (2011, TL Hanna, Anderson, SC) hit a fourth inning grand slam to get the Blue Chip offense going, showing strength and a live bat with power potential. Clemson commit C Garrett Boulware (2011, TL Hanna, Anderson, SC) moved well behind the plate, showing a quick transfer and arm strength. Blue Chip reliever RHP Daniel Nations (2012, Daniel HS, Central, SC) topped out at 84 during his inning plus of relief.

Bullets C Andrew Widell (2011, Cambridge HS, Valrico, FL) blocked well behind the plate and has a fluid stroke at the plate with big-time power. He went 2-3 and drove in a run. He is committed to Manatee-Sarasota.
Johnson Tames Tigers Bats in LI Storm Victory >>

Gm # 125 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Long Island Storm 17u vs. Miami Tigers

7/4/2011 1:08:53 PM

Cody Johnson (2012 North Shore HS, Sea Cliff, NY) shutout the Miami Tigers over 5 innings as the Long Island Storm 17u cruised to a 7-1 victory. Johnson allowed just one hit while striking out 3. Johnson's fastball sat in the mid 80's, topping at 86 mph. His curveball topped at 76 and flashed potential, with clean arm action and a good downhill plane Johnson was very effective in the win. Johnson has not yet made a college commitment that we are aware of.

Jose Cruz (2011 Walton School, Bronx, NY) and Nico Darras (2012 JSerra HS, Laguna Beach, CA) each went 2-for-3 with a Run and an RBI for the Lightning.

Pledger's CG Gives Allen BB Club Navy Win >>

7/4/2011 12:59:02 PM

Allen Baseball Club 18U Navy RHP Trey Pledger (2011, Sterling HS, Baytown, TX) threw a complete game allowing one run while striking out seven and walking one as he beat Bucky Dent Bandits UNC 4-1. Pledger worked quickly and topped his fastball out at 84 while showing solid break on an 11/5 curveball at 72. He is committed to Hill College. 1B Sam Gee (2011, Kingwood Park HS, Kingwood, TX), an Abilene Christian commit, is a strong athlete with a fluid stroke from the right side and the ball jumps off his bat.

Bucky Dent starter RHP Dylan Arnold (2012, American Heritage, Pompano Beach, FL) has a lean frame with lots of room to fill and showed present arm strength, topping out at 85 while showing a 74 mph curveball and 76 mph changeup.
South Oakland A's Move to 2-0 >>

Gm # 188 | 7/3/2011 | 5:30 PM South Oakland A's 18U vs. Florida Elite Sports

7/4/2011 12:48:05 PM

A 7-3 win over Florida Elite Sports moves the South Oakland A's to 2-0 taking an early lead in Pool V. A's OF Greg Fettes (2011, Lampere HS, Madison Heights, MI), a Kentucky commit who has shown very well at PG showcases in the past, had a hit and two RBI showing excellent bat speed and big power potential. C Sean Bennett (2011, Hartland, MI HS) has a quick, smooth transfer behind the plate and and an accurate arm with strength. RHP Shane Armstrong (2011, Marysville, MI HS) has a quick arm, throws downhill with some deception, running his fastball up to 86 and showing a good 11/5 curveball with late break at 73 mph.

Florida Elite Sports C Dayan Cubas (2012, Coral Gables, FL HS) showed quick movements behind the plate with good feet along with a quick release and good arm strength. At the plate, he has a quiet approach with a live bat and power potential.
Warriors Provide Plenty of Support for VanSickle >>

Gm # 123 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Philadelphia Reds vs. Jacksonville Warriors 18U

7/4/2011 12:36:02 PM

Dan VanSickle (2011 Stanton Prep, Jacksonville, FL) didn't need much run support, but he got plenty of it in the Jacksonville Warriors 10-1 win over the Philadelphia Reds. VanSickle settled down after giving up a run in the first and finished with an impressive line of: 6 IP, 6 H, 1 R (0 ER), 0 BB, 6 K to cruise to the W. VanSickle topped out at 84 and worked in a curveball that flashes good potential. He will play his college ball at Doane College next season.

Kenneth Byram (2011 Ponte Verde HS, FL) sparked the Warrior offense, going 2-for-3 with a Run, an RBI and 2 Stolen Bases from the #2 spot in the order. Leadoff hitter Brett Mueller (2010 Nease HS, FL) also had a big game, going 1-for-2 with a pair of walks, a Double, a Run, 2 RBIs and 2 steals.
Baseball Mentoring Sneaks by STL Pirates 3-2 >>

7/4/2011 12:35:51 PM

STL Pirates RHP Cody Spanberger (2011, Granite City, IL HS) allowed only three hits in his complete game effort, but took the loss as Baseball Mentoring won 3-2, helped by three Pirates errors. Spanberger struck out nine while walking seven, and topped at 88 with his fastball. He has a big, projectable frame and throws downhill from a high 3/4 slot. His curveball sat 72-74, topping at 76.

OF Khalfani Mar'Na (2011, Lafayette HS, Wildwood, MO) is a strong, athlete who can run and also has a power approach at the plate with bat speed. C Logan Boyher (2012, Parkway Central HS, Chesterfield, MO) has solid catch and throw potential and blocks well, showing good arm strength with online carry.
West End and Mudhens Battle to 10-10 Tie >>

Gm # 116 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM North East Mudhens vs. West End Baseball

7/4/2011 12:16:59 PM

The Northeast Mudhens rallied for 4 runs in the bottom of the 7th to earn a 10-10 tie with Team West End. After falling behind 5-0 in the top of the 1st inning the Mudhens chipped away at the lead, cutting it to just a run after 3. But West End answered back with 2 more in the 4th and an insurance run that proved to be very important in the 6th.

Gavin Patton (2010 IMG Academy, South Charleston, WV) went 3-for-4 with a Run and an RBI and Tyler McViccar (2010 Malden Catholic HS, Melrose, MA) hit a 3-Run Home Run for the Mudhens.

Jay Lizanich (2011 Riverside HS, SC) went 2-for-4 with 2 Runs out of the leadoff spot for West End and Kyle Martin (2011 Hampton HS, Simpsonville, SC) went 2-for-4 with 3 Runs from the third spot in the order. Lizanich is committed to Presbetyrian College, Martin is headed to the 2-time defending National Champion, South Carolina.
Krueger, Showtime Take Down FTB Pride >>

Gm # 170 | 7/3/2011 | 4:30 PM FTB Pride vs. Showtime Baseball

7/4/2011 12:11:23 PM

Showtime Baseball RHP Colton Krueger (2011, Union HS, Heisson, WA) threw a complete game, helping Showtime beat FTB Pride 4-2. Krueger struck out seven and topped out at 88 with his fastball, while also showing a curveball, slider, and change. 3B Luke Heyer (2011, Battle Ground, Heisson, WA) has a strong, projectable frame and showed quick feet and solid tools on the infield. His arm works well and has accuracy and he has big raw power at the plate. IF Elijah Dickerson (2012, Ft. Vancouver, Vancouver, WA) is a lean, wiry athlete with good fielding actions and loose, easy arm action and a quick release. He can run as well and shows a quick first step. 1B Nate Culver (2012, Camas, Heisson, WA) is a projectable hitter with bat speed and lots of power potential.

FTB Pride CF Omar Garcia (2011, Lake Howell HS, Oviedo, FL) showed first step quickness and top of the line defensive tools in the outfield. LHP Nate Brecklin (2012, Eustis, FL HS) topped out at 86 with his fastball, showing the ability to throw strikes and repeat his mechanics. He has loose arm action and his stuff projects to get better.
Gatorball Survives Kosinski's Grand Slam >>

7/4/2011 11:55:52 AM

After scoring in each of the first four innings Gatorball Academy took an 8-2 lead into the 5th inning. The Chattanooga Cherokees 18u cut the lead to 1 with a 5-run rally capped off by a grand slam by David Kosinski (2011 Siegel HS, Murfreesboro, TN).

But Gatorball Academy's own Home Run heroics were too much to overcome as Tyler Humphreys (2012 Crystal River HS, FL), Hayden Kelley (2012 Citrus HS, Inverness, FL), Jay Nessler (2012 Bishop Kenny HS, Jacksonville, FL) and R Labrador each homered. Humphreys went 3-for-4 on the day with 2 Runs and 4 RBIs.
Upstate Black Takes Down Pokers 8-3 >>

7/4/2011 11:53:33 AM

Upstate Mavericks Black RHP Taylor Simpson (2011, Lakeview Academy, Cumming, GA) was up to 89 with his fastball during his 5 2/3 inning stint, picking up the win as the Mavericks beat the Florida Pokers 17U White 8-3. A Furman commit, Simpson was online with his delivery and showed arm side run on his fastball. 
Mauntner Slugs Chiefs Past Mustangs >>

7/4/2011 11:41:21 AM

Tyler Mauntner (2011 Vernon-Verona HS, Sherill, NY) had a big day at the plate to help the Syracuse Sports Zone Chiefs knock off the Marucci Florida Mustangs 7-4. Mauntner went 2-for-2 with a walk, a Home Run, 2 Runs and 3 RBIs. Mauntner showed good bat speed with leverage in his swing and good extension.

The win moves the Chiefs to 2-0 in pool play.
Two Hurlers Up to 89 >>

Gm # 182 | 7/3/2011 | 4:30 PM Citius Bandits vs. Diamond-Simcox 17U

7/4/2011 11:41:12 AM

Diamond-Simcox 17U beat Team Citius 4-1 Sunday with LHP Xander Taylor (2012, Farragut HS, Knoxville, TN) picking up the win by pitching five innings of one-hit ball, striking out six. Taylor topped at 89 while sitting 84-87 and showed easy arm action, and a curveball with good 1/7 break and bite at 74. Taylor went after hitters and competed on the mound, something he did all HS season as Farragut took home another Tennessee state title.

Citius RHP Max Beerman (2012, Jesuit HS, Tampa, FL) also was up to 89. He as an XL build with lots of strength and gets good extension with loose arm action. He sat 84-87 with his fastball and should good potential on a 76 mph curveball, also flashing a 80 mph changeup. Beerman also plays for one of the top high school teams in the country. Jesuit was runners up to PG High School National Champion Archbishop McCarty in Florida 4A and look to be one of the best teams in the nation next year.
Foundation Outslugs Blue Jays 9-4 >>

Gm # 104 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM Atlanta Blue Jays vs. Foundation Sports

7/4/2011 11:33:07 AM

While both teams picked up 7 hits a piece, Foundation Sports converted on more of its opportunities in their 9-4 win over the Atlanta Blue Jays.

Rodney Smith (2014 Mundy's Mill HS, Jonesboro, GA) had a very productive day at the plate, going 2-for-2 with a pair of doubles, a walk, a Run and 5 RBIs. Artie Mullins (2012 Lovejoy, GA) also had a multi-hit game in the winning effort, going 2-for-3 with a walk, 2 Runs and an RBI. Ramil Alexander (2012 Faith Academy, Fayetteville, GA) earned the win with a complete game, allowing 4 Runs (3 ER).

Greg Keel (2012 Pope HS, Marietta, GA) and Enrique Finol (2012 St. Thomas Aquinas, Ft. Lauderdale, FL) each had multi-hit efforts for the Blue Jays.
Seminoles Giant Tie at 4 >>

Gm # 181 | 7/3/2011 | 4:30 PM PR Giants 18U vs. Bucky Dent Bandits Seminoles

7/4/2011 11:25:18 AM

Bucky Dent Bandits Seminoles and PR Giants 18U tied at 4 in their second pool play game Sunday afternoon at Marietta HS. Seminoles starter LHP Jake Merhige (2013, Hauppauge, NY HS) started the game and topped out at 82 while showing a 69 mph curveball. He was relieved by LHP Matthew Crohan (2013, Riverhead HS, Jamesport, NY) was up to 85 and showed a solid slider at 72.

Giants starter RHP Jean Rosario (2011, Col. Providencia, San Juan, PR) has a long, projectable frame and attacks hitters with an 85 mph fastball, 69 mph curve and 73 mph changeup. He has loose, easy arm action and solid slurvy break on his breaking ball. 
Centex Wins Behind Boes Gem >>

Gm # 171 | 7/3/2011 | 4:30 PM CenTex Prospects vs. Bucky Dent Bandits A's

7/4/2011 11:15:43 AM

CenTex Prospects RHP Andrew Boes (2011, Austin, TX HS) threw a complete game, striking out 11 while walking two in the Prospects 6-2 win over Bucky Dent Bandits A's. Boes fastball topped out at 90, while sitting 85-88. He also showed a 79 mph slider and 78 mph changeup. Boes is committed to Texas State.
Batters Box 17U Takes Down EC Patriots 17U >>

Gm # 168 | 7/3/2011 | 4:30 PM Batters Box Baseball 17U vs. EC Patriots-17U

7/4/2011 11:09:44 AM

Batters Box 17U RHP Chad Bradford (2012, Germantown, TN HS) and EC Patriots 17U LHP Brett Polston (Decatur, GA HS) each threw complete games as Batters Box edged the Patriots 3-1. Bradford topped out at 84 and showed good depth on a 75 mph curveball. He allowed three hits, no earned runs, while walking two and striking out five. His counterpart, Polston, threw on a sharp downhill angle and his best fastball was at 83, with a 69 mph curveball and 75 mph changeup.

Prospects Rally Falls Short vs. MS Majors >>

7/4/2011 10:13:01 AM

The All-American Prospects 18U put up two run in the 5th and 6th innings but the Mississippi Majors held on for a 5-4 victory to move to 1-0-1 on the young tournament. Majors C Will Tomes (2012, Pascagoula, MS HS) has a strong, athletic frame and moved well behind the plate with a very playable arm. At the plate, he was aggressive with excellent bat speed and power potential. 3B Michael Gilbert (2011, Harrison Central HS, Saucier, MS), a Miss. Gulf Coast CC commit, has a quick bat and leverage in his swing, leading to very good power potential, as well.

Prospects OF Kevin Wortman (2011, Lakeland, FL HS), a Florida Tech commit, showed a fluid stroke with the ability to hit the ball to all fields and solid defensive tools in the outfield. RHP Gabe Llanes (2011, Killian HS, Miami, FL) was up to 88 with his fastball, also showing a curveball at 74. C Garrett Kennedy (2011, Archbishop McCarthy HS, Davie, FL) is a very good receiver with easy, fluid defensive actions and a quick release on an accurate arm with carry.
Six-Run 6th Gives Red Sox 10-8 Win >>

Gm # 166 | 7/3/2011 | 3:00 PM So Cal Elite vs. ECB 17u Red Sox

7/4/2011 9:50:15 AM

So Cal Elite RHP Neil White (2010, Lancaster, CA HS) was up to 88 in a losing effort, as Elite dropped a 10-9 contest to the East Cobb 17U Red Sox, who scored six runs in the top of the 6th inning and held on for the win. White sat 83-85 and also showed a quick bat and line drive contact at the plate.
Seven Run 5th Gives Gamers 8-6 Win >>

Gm # 167 | 7/3/2011 | 3:00 PM St. Louis Gamers 18u vs. ABD MUSTANGS

7/4/2011 9:42:11 AM

The St. Louis Gamers 18U picked up an 8-6 victory over the ABD Mustangs, helped by a seven-run fifth inning that saw ten men go to the plate. OF Dominic Faron (2011, Francis Howell, St. Peters, MO) went 2-2 with an RBI and showed a short, compact swing with bat speed and power potential.

Mustangs starter RHP Dallas Waller (2012, Claremont, CA HS) is a good athlete who topped out at 82 with his fastball, throwing from a high 3/4 slot.
Miami Knights Pick Up 5-3 Victory >>

Gm # 145 | 7/3/2011 | 2:00 PM RIPS Brewers vs. Miami Knights

7/4/2011 9:26:25 AM

The Miami Knights picked up a 5-3 win over RIPS Brewers to move to 1-1 early in the tournament. SS Alex DeGoti (2012, Belen Jesuit, Miami, FL) who was recently impressive at Perfect Game Sunshine East Showcase, was very good again, homering and driving in two runs, showing a fluid stroke and good bat speed with hard line drive contact. OF and leadoff hitter Gaby Matias (2012, Somerset HS, Miami, FL) had a double and two hits, showing a live bat with a smooth swing and bat speed.

Brewers RHP Ted Hammond (2012, Shorecrest HS, Lake Forest Park, WA) uses his lower half well and throws easy. His fastball topped out at 88, showing good command while also throwing a 75 mph curveball. OF Tyler Watkins (2011, Tahoma HS, Maple Valley, WA) homered and drove in two runs out of the 10 spot in the lineup, and C Joe Wainhouse (2014, Kentridge HS, Kent, WA) has a big 6'5 230 pound frame and has a balanced swing with a lot of power potential.
Two Mid 80s Arms for Maroons >>

Gm # 152 | 7/3/2011 | 2:00 PM Kalamazoo Maroons vs. MVP Baseball

7/4/2011 9:10:42 AM

LHP Bryan Stevens (2011, Portage Central HS, Portage, MI) and RHP Sam Shutes (2013, Three Rivers, MI HS) both touched 85 with their fastballs as they lead the Kalamazoo Maroons to a 10-6 win over MVP Baseball. Stevens, a Kellogg CC commit, has short arm action and deception and his fastball showed arm side run. Shutes is a very projectable pitcher, whose arm works well and also showed a curveball at 66-68. 
Windward Braves Hang 18 on FL Bombers 17u >>

Gm # 100 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM 6-4-3 DP Cougars 18U vs. Windward Braves Red

7/4/2011 9:10:00 AM

The Windward Braves Blue got the fireworks started a day early on July 3rd, scoring 18 Runs on 16 hits. There were too many offensive standout performances to detail each one individually as every hitter in the lineup picked up a hit, including five multi-hit efforts.

Tyler Krieger (2012 Johns Creek HS, Krieger, GA) led the team with 3 hits in a 3-for-5 effort with a pair of RBIs. Hunter Thomas (2011 Chatahoochie HS, Alpharetta, GA) had a game high 3 Runs scored in a 2-for-4 day and also drove in 2 out of the leadoff spot. Luke Ewing (2011 Milton HS, Alpharetta, GA) reached base every time up, going 2-for-2 with a pair of walks, a pair of Runs and stole a base.

Krieger is a switch hitting MIF committed to Clemson, Thomas will be playing his college ball at Georgia Southern while Ewing is still available according to the PG database.
Martin Leads Devils to 4-1 Win >>

7/4/2011 8:58:10 AM

Brandon Martin (2011 Laurens Academy, Gray Court, SC) went 2-for-3 with a Run and a pair of RBIs in the Diamond Devils 18u Black's 4-1 win over the South Florida Breakers.

Martin continues to impress with his ability to keep his hands inside on tough pitches and showed off good contact skills from the left side to go with good speed. CJ Edwards (2011 Mid-Carolina HS, Newberry, SC) earned the Win, allowing just an unearned run over 5 innings while striking out 8 and touched 90 on the radar gun. Martin is commited to Presbyterian and Edwards will be playing his college ball at Charleston Southern.
Top 2012 Lance McCullers On Mound for FTB >>

7/4/2011 8:44:52 AM

RHP Lance McCullers (2012, Jesuit HS, Tampa, FL), the #1 player in Perfect Game's 2012 rankings pitched Sunday for FTB Louisville Slugger in their 2-1 loss to Prospect Stars 2011. McCullers was 98 across the infield at the Perfect Game National Showcase a few weeks ago, as well as topping at 97 on the mound. McCullers threw 5 innings Sunday, allowing three hits, and one earned run, walking two and striking out five. He sat 92-94 with his fastball, topping out at 96 with his usual electric arm speed. His curveball was 80-82. He is committed to Florida, and will be a very high pick in the 2012 Draft.

Prospects Stars hurlers LHP Joseph Vanderplas (2011, Fairfax, VA HS) and RHP Robbie Kidd (2011, Paul VI, Fairfax Station, VA) didn't match McCullers velocity, but shut down FTB's offense to the tune of four hits and one earned run, striking out 8. Vanderplas, a Tennessee commit, showed a smooth, repeatable delivery and good extension, running his fastball up to 88 with a curveball at 71 and changeup at 80. Kidd, a Fullerton commit, also topped at 88, mixing in an 11/5 curveball at 74. 
Playground All-Stars Tee Off on Sox >>

Gm # 99 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM PLAYGROUND ALLSTARS vs. Georgia Sox

7/4/2011 8:44:16 AM

The Playground All-Stars got plenty of help with 7 errors committed by the Georgia Sox in a 13-1 rout. But they likely didn't need it, as they piled up 10 hits in 4 innings.

Dionte Riley (2012 Withrow Uni HS, Cincinnati, OH) and Mike Smith (2011 Princeton HS, Cincinnati, OH) each had huge days at the plate, going 3-for-3 with 3 Runs and 2-for-2 with a pair of Runs and 3 RBIs respectively. They each also stole a base, accounting for 2 of the team's 6 SBs in the game.
Big Sixth Leads to Trappers Win >>

Gm # 158 | 7/3/2011 | 2:00 PM Texas Trappers vs. EC Patriots-18U

7/4/2011 8:32:38 AM

The Texas Trappers used a four-run rally in the bottom of the 6th to best the EC Patriots 18U 5-3 Sunday afternoon at Marietta HS. LHP Michael Martinez (2012, Goose Creek Memorial, Baytown, TX) started the game for the Trappers and was up to 78 with his fastball, while reliever RHP Bradley Armstrong (2011, Baytown Christian, Houston, TX) threw 80 in relief.

Patiots starter amd M.I.T. commit LHP Phil Reiser (2011, Chattahoochee HS, Alpharetta, GA) topped at 77 and flashed a changeup at 68, while reliever RHP Nick Biumi (2011, Lambert HS, Cumming, GA) was up to 79, and LHP Wright McCraney (Centennial HS, Roswell, GA) ran his fastball up to 82 Both are Washington and Lee University commits.
EC Braves 17U Get Run-Rule Win >>

Gm # 144 | 7/3/2011 | 2:00 PM East Cobb Braves 17u vs. Michigan Prep Stars

7/4/2011 8:19:31 AM

One of the favorites in the tournament is the East Cobb Braves 17U, who were runners-up last year and have one of the most talented rosters of the week. They moved to 2-0 with an easy 10-2 win over the Michigan Prep Stars.

2011 First round pick Dwight Smith (2011, McIntosh HS, Peachtree City, GA) has been a star at PG events over the past four years and, in what will be his last PG event, is hitting a ton again. He went 2-2 with 3 RBI to lead the offense. The Braves star-studded lineup also includes Dylan Dore (2012, Johns Creek HS, Alpharetta, GA), North Carolina commit Skye Bolt (2012, Holy Innocents, Woodstock, GA), Georgia Tech commit Matt Gonzalez (2012, Harrison HS, Acworth, GA), and Kyle Carter (2012, Columbus HS, Midland, GA).

Red Sox 48th round pick and Georgia commit RHP David Sosebee (2011, White County HS, Cleveland, GA) topped at 87 and showed a good feel for a 74 mph curveball, striking out nine in four innings. LHP Mason Felt (2012, Hebron Christian, Hoschton, GA), an Oregon State commit, was up to 87 in relief with a change at 69 and curveball at 75.
Xcel Pounds Cherokees 13-1 >>

Gm # 160 | 7/3/2011 | 2:00 PM Chattanooga Cherokees 17u vs. Xcel Baseball 18u

7/4/2011 8:02:33 AM

Xcel Baseball 18U had no trouble Sunday, dispatching the Chattanooga Cherokees 17U 13-1. LHP Steven Fleming (2012, Martin County HS, Palm City, FL) showed a quick arm over the first two innings, topping out at 83 and throwing a curveball at 69. Reliever RHP Greg Husnander (2011, Martin County HS, Stuart, FL) was up to 85 in relief, and RHP Cody Darley (2011, Treasure Cost HS, Port St, Lucie, FL) was up to 88 in his three innings, he also threw a curve and changeup, both at 72. OF Bradon Houle (2011, Ft. Pierce Central HS, Fort Pierce, FL) went 2-4 with a home run and two RBI, He is a strong, projectable athlete and has big raw power to all fields.
Canes Edge Lumberjacks >>

Gm # 159 | 7/3/2011 | 2:00 PM North East Lumberjacks vs. Cape Coast Canes

7/4/2011 7:53:58 AM

The Cape Coast Canes picked up a win Sunday, earning a 3-1 victory over the Northeast Lumberjacks as RHP Eric Steel (2012, Cocoa Beach, FL HS) pitched a complete game, allowing only three hits and striking out four. The Canes offense was led by 3B Ryan Kennedy (2011, Merritt Island, FL HS) who picked up a pair of hits including a double and drove in a run. 
EC Cubs Crush Valentine's All-American 10-1 >>

7/4/2011 7:45:34 AM

The East Cobb Cubs rolled to a 10-1 victory for Bobby Valentine's All-American Team Sunday. RHP Cody Baxter (2011, Woodland HS, Cartersville, GA) topped out at 86 in three innings of relief, showing a quick arm and also showing a 68 mph curveball.

RHP Henry Gigeous (2012, Jacobs HS, Algonquin, IL) an Oregon commit, started for Bobby Valentine's topping out at 88, and also flashing a curvebal and changeup at 68 and 73. RHP David Ellingson (2013, College Park HS, The Woodlands, TX) was up to 87 in his relief appearance, complimenting it with a 75 mph breaking ball. LHP Caleb Frare (2012, Custer County District, Miles City, MT) was very impressive in his less than an inning of work. He topped out at 88 with his fastball and showed a curveball with depth and late break. He is a Montana prospect to watch over the summer and next spring.

Chain Black and Batters Box Play to 6-6 Tie >>

Gm # 147 | 7/3/2011 | 2:00 PM Batters Box Baseball 18U vs. Chain Black

7/3/2011 10:21:28 PM

Chain Black had a trio hard-throwing hurlers on the mound as they played Batters Box Baseball 18U to a 6-6 tie Sunday afternoon at Kell HS. RHP Mikel Belcher (2011, Niceville HS, Fort Walton Beach, FL), a Chipola CC commit, started the game and topped out at 86 mph, complimenting it with a 71 mph curveball. RHP Austin Denny (2011, Effingham County, Springfield, GA) entered the game in the fourth inning and ran his heater up to 87 and also showing a 72 mph breaking ball. RHP Blake Shouse (2011, Rutland HS, Macon, GA) pitched the final inning, touching 89 and throwing a curveball at 71 and a slider at 75. Shouse is a Middle Georgia College commit.
Texas Sundevils Cruise to Easy Win >>

Gm # 146 | 7/3/2011 | 2:00 PM Texas Sun Devils vs. ABD Tigers

7/3/2011 10:11:17 PM

The ABD Mustangs were no match for the Texas Sundevils Sunday, as the Sundevils scored in every inning in an easy 9-0, five-inning win. RHP Taylor Butler (2012, Barbe HS, Lake Charles, LA) started and pitched the first three innings giving up just a single hit. He showed effortless arm arm action and good command of a fastball that reached 88. He had very good feel for a 12/6 curveball that topped at 73 and also flashed a 78 mph changeup. RHP Alex Massey (2011, Catholic HS, Baton Rouge, LA) a Tulane commit who was draft in the 27th round by the Red Sox in the 2011 Draft, is a long, projectable pitcher who topped at 91 with his fastball. His arm is loose and works well and he showed a good curveball at 73 mph.

The Sundevils offense is supremely talented led by SS and leadoff hitter Gavin Cecchini (2012, Barbe HS, Lake Charles, LA). He went hitless this game, something that is unlikely to happen again based on his prowess at PG tournaments and showcases over the last four years. Stryker Trahan (2012, Acadiana HS, Scott, LA) is one of the best athletes in the country and showed quick feet and outstanding arm strength behind the plate. At the plate, he is very aggressive and has lots of raw power potential.  Both players have verbally committed to play their college ball at Ole Miss and both could hear their name called early in next June's Draft.
6-4-3 Hangs on For Win >>

Gm # 149 | 7/3/2011 | 2:00 PM 6-4-3 DP Cougars 17U vs. Team Cincinnati 18u

7/3/2011 9:57:13 PM

The 6-4-3 DP Cougars 17U struck early with three runs in each of the first two innings and withstood a late Team Cincinnati rally to take home a 9-6 win. RHP Graham Officer (2012, Milton HS, Alpharetta, GA) threw the first four frames for the Cougars. He showed long, loose arm action and worked in the low 80s with his fastball, topping at 83. His 11/5 curveball sat at 74 and showed good depth. His battery mate C Zach Bowers (2012, Harrison HS, Acworth, GA) showed good catch and throw skills and quick feet. His arm had strength and accuracy and he was aggressive at the plate with a clean, line drive strokes. Another impressive catcher for the Cougars was C Jake Maziar (2012, Holly Innocents', Atlanta, GA). He is a strong, solid athlete with projection and showed great tools behind the plate and bat speed and raw power at the plate. Bowers and Maziar each homered to lead the offense.

Team Cincinnati IF Cory Werner (2011, Batesville, IN HS), a Wright State commit, showed an all fields approach and a quick bat with leverage and gap power. 3B Jeff Smith (2011, Badin HS, Hamilton, OH) has a live bat and a thick, fluid stroke, and C Nate Snellgrove (2011, Badin HS, Hamilton, OH) showed good bat speed and extension that should equate to power.
Team Elite 18U Rolls Windward Braves White >>

Gm # 142 | 7/3/2011 | 12:30 PM Team Elite 18U vs. Windward Braves White

7/3/2011 9:26:21 PM

RHP Kevin Burgee (2011, Hebron Christian, Lawrencville, GA) threw five innings for Team Elite 18U, giving up two runs and striking out six. His fastball topped at 84, while his curveball sat at 68 and his slider at 73. He is a Gordon CC commit.

OF Trey Martin (2011, Brookwood HS, Snellville, GA) stood out at the plate for Team Elite. He is a great athlete with length and room to fill, can go get it in CF with good routes and jumps, and also has a fluid stroke and loose, strong wrists with flick. He was drafted in the 13th round of the 2011 Draft by the Cubs, and is has verbally committed to Kennesaw State.
FBH Angels Gold Shuts Out Action 18U >>

7/3/2011 9:18:50 PM

RHP Evan Bowles (2011, Plant City, FL HS) pitched 6 2/3 innings of three hit ball and RHP Jose Hernandez (2012, Bartow, FL HS) came in for the final out as FBH Angels Gold shut out Action Baseball Club 18U in a 3-0 victory. Bowles has a wiry build with room to fill and was up to 85 with his fastball, complimenting it with a 70 mph curveball and 73 mph changeup. Hernandez touched 89 during his batter after showing his tools at the plate as a switch-hitter earlier in the game. 
Big Sixth Gives Gwinnett Second Win >>

Gm # 120 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Texas Sports Red 18U vs. Team Gwinnett

7/3/2011 9:09:56 PM

Team Gwinnett moved to 2-0 on the tournament as a 6-run 5th inning propelled them to a 10-5 win over Texas Sports Red. LHP Troy Heterick (LHP, Buford HS, Dacula, GA) threw all six innings, striking out the same number. He is a crafty lefty with deception in his delivery and topped out at 81 with his fastball. He also threw a curveball at 66, and changeup at 70.

OF Chase Hulsey (2012, Flowery Branch, GA HS) showed a sound hitting approach and a fluid swing with bat speed, picking up two hits and two RBI. OF Brian Clark (2011, Buford, HS, Jefferson, GA) is a strong athlete who showed big power potential at the plate.
Big 6th Give Top Tier Win >>

Gm # 124 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Top Tier vs. PBB 18U

7/3/2011 8:57:41 PM

Top Tier scored five runs in the bottom of the 6th inning en route to a 7-3 victory over PBB 18U. Stetson commit RHP Isaac Greenspon (2011, Stevenson HS, Long Grove, IL) topped at 87 during his 5 innings of work. He has a strong, athletic build, gets extension and is online with his mechanics. He also threw an 11/5 curveball at 71 and a changeup at 74 with good arm action. RHP Jeremy Rhodes (2011, Warrenville South, Wheaton, IL), an Illinois State commit, was up to 89 in relief, showing outstanding arm speed, good command and loose, quick arm action.

Standout hitters for Top Tier were 1B Brian Rodemoyer (2011, Lyons Township, LaGrange, IL), also an ISU commit, who showed excellent bat speed and huge raw power, Nick Bates (2011, Carl Sandburg HS, Orland Park, IL) who ran well, showed an aggressive approach with bat speed at the plate, OF Michael Martin, a Harvard commit, (2011, Stevenson HS, Buffalo Grove, IL) with a quick bat and short, compact swing, and 3B Paul DeJong (2011, Antioch, IL HS), another ISU commit, an aggressive hitter with a live bat and good plate coverage.

PBB OF Justin Bryant (2011, Royal Palm Beach, FL HS), a Palm Beach State commit,  has power potential and the ball flies off his bat. He picked up a pair of hits and RBI. Jacob O'Keefe, committed to UMass-Lowell, (2011, American Heritage, Wellington, FL) showed excellent bat speed and power potential, getting good extension and lift on his swing.

LHP Parker Danciu (2012, Palm Beach Central, Wellington, FL), a Florida commit who PG has seen multiple times, was up to 89, showing the same very good command and also feel for a late-breaking 1/7 curveball that he has in the past.

A player to watch in the future is SS Daniel Hernandez (2015, Palm Beach Central, Wellington, FL), who, despite being four years younger than most of the players on the field, showed great athleticism and all five tools, making all the plays at SS and showing a live bat with power at the plate.
Triple Threat Nips Houston Elite >>

Gm # 127 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Houston Elite vs. Triple Threat Baseball 17u

7/3/2011 6:49:09 PM

The two teams scored a combined ten runs in a wild first innings, but Triple Threat Baseball 17U scored two runs in the top of the 5th and held on to beat Houston Elite 8-7. RHP Ben Richardson (2012, Bishop Moore, Winter Park, FL) got the start for Triple Threat, his fastball topped at 82. RHP Billy Dunn (2011, East Ridge HS, Clermont, FL) came in and pitched 3 2/3 innings showing good arm speed and a fastball that reached 84.

Elite hurler LHP Logan Boyd (2012, Atoscocita HS, Humble, TX) topped at 82, RHP Stephen Brister (2012, League City, Humlbe, TX) topped at 77, and RHP Brandon Wright (2012, Atoscocita HS, Humble, TX) best fastball was 79.
EC Astros 16 Pound Fungo Red Sox >>

Gm # 119 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM East Cobb Astros 16u vs. Fungo Red Sox

7/3/2011 6:32:43 PM

One of the most talented teams in this 18U tournament is the 16U East Cobb Astros who pounded the Fungo Red Sox 13-0 to move to 2-0 on the tournament.

The Astros pounded 8 hits in three innings and were helped by three Red Sox errors. Astros RHP Jackson Smith (2013, Hartselle, AL HS) struck out six over four innings topping out at 86 with his fastball, showing good arm speed and command, flashing both a slider and a changeup.

3B Travis Demeritte (2013, Winder Barrow HS, Statham, GA) doubled and homered, driving in six runs, and is one of the top bats in his class. Other standouts performers were OF Stephen Wrenn (2013, Walton HS, Marietta, GA), OF Josh Hart (2013, Parkview HS, Lilburn, GA), and Keenan Innis (2013, Blessed Trinity HS, Cumming, GA).
Soleymani/Brown Combine on No-No >>

Gm # 137 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Excel Blue Wave vs. East Cobb Renegades

7/3/2011 6:16:42 PM

Excel Blue Wave RHPs Hunter Soleymani (2012, Pelham, AL HS) and Will Brown (2012, Briarwood HS, Vestavia Hills, AL) combined on a no-hitter as the Blue Wave beat East Cobb Renegades 3-0.

Soleymani showed a quick arm, working his fastball up to 86 mph and a slider at 76. He is committed to South Alabama. Brown has solid mechanics and a balance delivery working his fastball up to 82 and showing a curveball at 70.

Excel's offense only managed three hits but is full of high D1 commits. 3B Dylan Smith (2012, Clay-Chalkville, Pinson, AL) is committed to Auburn, OF Matthew Goodson (2012, Oxford, AL HS) is committed to Alabama, as is OF Georgie Salem (2012, Vestavia Hills, AL HS.
Chattanooga Baseball Club Bests PBB >>

Gm # 121 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Chattanooga Baseball Club 17U vs. PBB 17U

7/3/2011 5:47:10 PM

Chattanooga Baseball Club 17U picked up a 7-6 victory over Palm Beach Baseball 17U at the East Cobb Complex Sunday afternoon.

RHP Brandon Roberston (2012, Baylor School, Soddy Daisy, TN) showed consistent low 80s velocity, topping out at 85, also showing a curveball at 74.  He have up just three hits over four innings of work. He was relieved by RHP Jordan Whitmire (2012, Bradley Central HS, Cleveland, TN) who topped out at 82.

RHP Corey Cohen (2012, American Heritage, Boca Raton, FL) pitched three innings of relief, allowing only an unearned run. His fastball topped at 84 and his curveball at 73.
Cannons Edge Chiefs in Pitcher's Duel >>

Gm # 122 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Hammond Chiefs vs. Cannons Baseball

7/3/2011 3:28:19 PM

Cannons Baseball RHP Justin Gubelman (2011, Mariner HS, Cape Coral, FL) out dueled Hammond Chiefs starter LHP Mike Hanchar (2011, Andrean HS, Highland, IN) as Cannons Baseball took home a 1-0 victory. Gubleman allowed only three hits, striking out eight, topping at 88 with his fastball and mixing in a slider at 78. He is committed to Bethune-Cookman.

Hanchar struck out ten in 5 innings of work. His fastball was up to 89, complimenting it with a curveball at 72 mph.
Sparks Shuts Out BL Bombers >>

Gm # 135 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM BL Bombers 17u vs. East Cobb Blue Jays

7/3/2011 3:15:57 PM

LHP Cody Sparks (2011, McEachern HS, Powder Springs, GA) scattered four hits, walking none, and striking out six in a complete game shutout as the East Cobb Blue Jays beat the BL Bombers 17U 4-0. Sparks is a craft lefty who topped out at 78, showing good command of a changeup and curveball as well.

1B Justus Wilder (2012, Lincoln HS, Tallahassee, FL) led the Blue Jays offense with two doubles, showing a easy, fluid stroke, driving the ball with hard contact.

Bombers reliever RHP Wilson Jamison (2012, Mountain Brook HS, Birmingham, AL) topped at 84, showing good command of his fastball.
Kaplow Shuts Down Giants >>

Gm # 136 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Prospects Stars 17U Red vs. Atlanta Elite Giants

7/3/2011 3:04:04 PM

Prospects Stars 17U Red LHP Max Kaplow (2012, George Mason HS, Falls Church, VA) threw a complete game allowing three hits and an unearned run as the Stars beat the Atlanta Elite Giants 7-1. Kaplow topped at 83 with his fastball and showed smooth mechanics and easy arm action, also flashing a curveball and changeup, both at 71 mph.

LHP Demarkus Green (2012, Hillgrove HS, Marietta, GA) started and pitched five innings for the Giants. He has a smooth and balanced delivery and his arm works well, topping out at 81 with his fastball and showing feel for a 71 mph curveball.
EC Titans 16U Shut Down Gators Baseball >>

Gm # 117 | 7/3/2011 | 10:00 AM Gators Baseball-Conkle vs. East Cobb Titans 16U

7/3/2011 2:52:23 PM

One of the youngest teams in this week's 18U tournament is the East Cobb Titans 16U, a team made up entirely of 2012 and 2013 grads. After tying yesterday, the Titans picked up a victory Sunday besting Gators Baseball-Conkle 4-1.

LHP Brian Kehner (2013, Blessed Trinity, Marietta, GA), RHP Kenneth Sinclair (2013, Lassiter HS, Marietta, GA), and RHP CJ Brazil (2013, Blessed Trinity, Marietta, GA) combined to hold Gators Baseball to just six hits. Kehner topped out at 76 on his fastball, while Sinclair was up to 78, and Brazil touched 82.

OF Nick High (2012, Marietta, GA HS) showed good tools and potential across the board with range in CF with arm strength and hard contact to all fields at the plate. He stays inside the ball well and it jumps off his bat.

LHP Adam Meyer (2012, Azle, TX HS) started for Gators Baseball topping out 84 and showing arm side run on a fastball. RHP Jacob Shuman (2012, Sanger, TX HS) topped at 82 in relief work, and MIF Patrick Ryan (2011, Cistercian Prep, Arlington, TX) showed a live bat, going 3-3 at the top of the order.
Four Run Rally Gives Diamond Devils Walk-Off Win >>

Gm # 118 | 7/3/2011 | 10:00 AM Diamond Devils 17U Blue vs. Xplosion 18u

7/3/2011 2:22:11 PM

Diamond Devils 17U Blue scored four runs in the bottom of the 7th for a thrilling, 7-6 come from behind victory over Xplosion 18U. C Korey Dunbar (2012, Nitro HS, Charleston, WV) is an interesting prospect. He has a athletic build with strength and is good defensively showing quick actions, a smooth transfer, and arm strength that plays. At the plate he has a short compact swing with bat speed.

Xplosion RHP Thomas Carroll (2010, Shelton, CT HS) topped out at 86 with sink, complimenting it with a 76 mph slider. OF Daniel McCormock (2012, Shelton, CT HS) is a scrappy, athletic player whose swing stays inside the ball well and has a solid line-drive swing plane.
Congratulations to Daniel Aldrich >>

7/3/2011 2:09:52 PM

Congratulations to OF Daniel Aldrich, the winner of the College Home Run Derby Saturday night at TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha.  Aldrich, the 2011 College Baseball Writers Freshman of the Year at College of Charleston (.343-22-73) defeated Georgia Southern's Victor Roache in the finals.

Aldrich had a long and storied career at Perfect Game events, including winning the Most Valuable Player award at the 2008 WWBA 17U National Championships as a member of the champion Diamond Devils team.  If memory serves correctly, Aldrich slammed 5 home runs in the playoffs during that championship after going homerless during pool play, so home runs were part of his game even back then.

DR
Richman, TGBA 17U Roll to Win >>

Gm # 96 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM TGBA 17U vs. Top Prospects Nationals

7/3/2011 2:03:55 PM

TGBA 17U beat Top Prospect Nationals 9-1 in 5 innings as LHP Jason Richman (2012, Milton HS, Alpharetta, GA) threw all 5 innings. Richman is a crafty lefty who topped out at 84, showing control to both sides of the plate and deception in his delivery. He also threw a 71 mph curveball and flashed a changeup at 74. 1B Jordan Dwyer (2012, Kell HS, Woodstock, GA) stood out at the plate for TGBA showing a sound hitting approach with a live bat and power potential.

Nationals RHP DJ Christiano (2012, Satellite HS, Satellite Beach, FL) topped out at 81, showing good feel and the ability to change speeds.


Owenby, Dodgers Dominate TCB >>

Gm # 134 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM Dulin Dodgers vs. Team Connecticut Baseball

7/3/2011 1:58:38 PM

Dulin Dodgers lefy Drake Owenby (2012 Powell HS, Powell, TN) allowed just one run on one hit while striking out 4 over 4 innings to earn the win as the Dodgers breezed past Team Connecticut 9-1. Owenby's fastball sat 85-88 with good command. The 6-2 200 pound lefty showed a good aggressive mound approach, controlling the inner half of the zone well while utilizing a solid 75 mph slider with late break.

Owenby was able to leave with a big league after just 4 innings thanks to a lot of run support. Will Jamison (2011 Evangelical Christian HS, Eads, TN), Daniel Garner (2012 Sparkman HS, Madison, AL) and Kyle Overstreet (2012 Boaz HS, AL) each collected multiple hits.
Hayes Throws CG Shutout for SD Show >>

Gm # 133 | 7/3/2011 | 11:30 AM San Diego Show vs. East Cobb Saints

7/3/2011 1:46:28 PM

San Diego Show RHP Kyle Hayes (2010 Santana HS, Santee, CA) threw a complete game shutout of the East Cobb Saints, scattering 4 hits and walking none while striking out 10 as the Show moved to 2-0 with an 4-0 win. Hayes sat 88-91 and touched 92 with his fastball, with a plus slider at 80 with late tilt with command of both.

Hayes, who graduated high school as a 17 year old last year pitched 3 innings as a freshman for San Diego State this spring, allowing just one hit while striking out 3 for the Aztecs. He also appeared in 19 games as an infielder (5 starts), Hayes has left the program however and is not currently committed to a school.
Thunder Score Late, Hold off Stars >>

7/3/2011 1:43:30 PM

The South Florida Thunder scored a run in the 5th and two in the 6th and held off the Northern Baseball 18U Stars to earn a 3-2 win Sunday morning at Marietta HS. 2B Eric Santamaria (2011, Sunset HS, Miami, FL) is an aggressive hitter with a quick bat. He picked up two hits and drove in a run. RHP Hansel Lazo (2011, Hialeah Gardens, Miami, FL) pitched the first 4 1/3 innings touching 80 with his fastball and throwing a 66-68 mph curveball. RHP JC Hernandez (2011, Westwood HS, Miami, FL) topped at 82 in relief.

Northern Baseball RHP Bryan Chenoweth, a Cincinnati commit, (2011, McCuthcheon HS, Lafayette, IN) topped at 83, also showing a late breaking slider at 68. LHP Corey Aper (2011, McCuthcheon HS, Lafayette, IN) touched 82 during his 1 1/3 innings of relief.
Garcia CG Lifts Dukes over L.E.A.D >>

Gm # 95 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM Texas Dukes vs. L.E.A.D. Ambassadors

7/3/2011 1:26:27 PM

RHP Justin Garcia (2011, Rowlett, TX HS) threw a complete game, allowing two runs while walking two and striking out 8 as the Texas Dukes took down L.E.A.D Ambassadors 5-2. Garcia sat in the low 80s with his fastball, topping out at 84 and mixing in a 75 mph slider. He is committed to Weatherford College. Dukes OF Earl Burl (2011, Sachse HS, Rowlett, TX) has an athletic frame with strength and lots of bat speed.

RHP Mendez Elder (2012, Grady HS, Atlanta, GA) threw all six innings for the Ambassadors throwing strikes and showing a quick arm, running his fastball up 84 while showing a 71 mph curveball.
George Iskendarian, Bucky Dent Royal >>

7/3/2011 1:04:13 PM

SS George Iskendarian (2012, Don Bosco Prep, Englewood Cliffs, NJ) impressed today with his ability both at the plate and in the infield. Iskendarian looks the part at 6' 2" 190 lbs and moves well defensively with good range and a quick release. Iskendarian drove in a Run and scored another with a quick bat and a short swing path with good balance at the plate in addition to stealing a base.

Bucky Dent Royal knocked off the Atlanta Blue Jays 4-3. LHP Christian Colleti (2012 Southside HS, Rockville Centre, NY) earned the win with 4 shutout innings, allowing just 2 hits and a walk while striking out 5. Colleti is an interesting pitching prospect who sat 86-88 with his fastball today with good arm side run. He showed a good 75 mph curveball with feel that he was confident in throwing in any count.
FTB Clutch Pounds Team Cincinnati >>

Gm # 112 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM Team Cincinnati 17u vs. FTB CLUTCH

7/3/2011 12:58:52 PM

FTB Clutch scored 8 runs in the top of the 5th inning as they cruised to a 16-5 win over Team Cincinnati 17U. LHP Timmy Farrell (2012, Okeechobee, FL HS) started and topped out at 80 with his fastball. RHP Wilfredo Hernandez (2013, Lake Nona HS, Winter Garden, FL) followed by topping at 81, and RHP Trevor Grabhorn (2012, Boone HS, Orlando, FL) closed and ran his fastball to 76.

C Christopher Blanton (2012, Timber Creek HS, Orlando, FL) received and blocked well, showing arm strength as well.

Big Arms Power Round Trip Past Marucci >>

Gm # 130 | 7/3/2011 | 12:00 PM Pony Express 17White vs. St Johns Heat

7/3/2011 12:34:43 PM

Marucci Elite features an impressive lineup with D1 hitters up and down their lineup, but in spite of all that talent they weren't able to generate much offense against Round Trip Baseball in their 7-3 loss today.

RHP Pete Nagel (2011, Metter HS, GA) allowed 2 unearned runs over 5 2/3 innings to earn the win for Round Trip. Nagel struck out 12 and walked 1. His fastball topped out at 91 mph, which he mixed well with a solid 82 mph slider and 12-6 hammer curve that was up to 81. Nagel is committed to the University of Georgia.

OF/RHP Byron Buxton (2012 Appling County HS, Baxley, GA) closed out the game with overpowering stuff. Buxton struck out two and allowed one hit while working with a 92-94 mph fastball. Buxton, the 32nd ranked player in the class of 2012 (#3 in Georgia) also plans to play his college ball in Athens.
Wilson's CG Leads EJ to One-Run Victory >>

Gm # 97 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM EJ Sports Warriors vs. North East Rays

7/3/2011 12:23:46 PM

RHP Joey Wilson (2011, Dougherty Valley HS, San Ramon, CA) threw a complete game as EJ Sports Warriors scored a walk-off win, scoring on a North East Rays error to take home a 7-6 victory. Wilson topped his fastball at 81, also mixing in a 70 mph curveball and 73 mph changeup.

Rays RHP Joe Cronin (2012, Scarborough, ME HS), a Boston College commit, was up to 86 with his fastball, also showing a 78 mph curveball.

RHP Soren Hanson (2012, Belmont Hill HS, Belmont, MA) has a projectable frame and loose arm action, topping his fastball at 86, his curveball at 72, and changeup at 75.
EC Cubs Right-Hander Up to 89 in Loss >>

Gm # 110 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM WY Clippers American vs. East Cobb Cubs 18s

7/3/2011 12:06:17 PM

RHP Daniel Schneider (2011, Mt. Pisgah HS, Roswell, GA) is a long, projectable athlete and ran his fastball up to 89, while sitting 85-88 over his three innings of work in the East Cobb Cubs 18s 6-4 loss to WY Clippers American. Schneider throws downhill with good extension and showed developing feel for a 71-73 mph curveball. Schneider is committed to Western Carolina.

Cubs C Jared Cheek (2011, Morgan County HS, Buckhead, GA) is a very interesting prospect. A switch-hitter, Cheek shows athleticism and arm strength behind the plate. His Catcher velo was clocked at 84 mph with a 1.84 pop at the 2010 Perfect Game Southeast Top Prospect Showcase. According to the PG database, Cheek is uncommitted.
Chain Select Rallies Late to Salvage Tie >>

Gm # 111 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM Chain Select vs. Powerhouse Baseball

7/3/2011 11:51:49 AM

Down 7-0 in the bottom of the 6th inning, Chain Select scored three in the 6th and four more in the bottom of the 7th to tie Powerhouse Baseball Sunday morning at Peachtree Ridge HS. DH Connor Alford (2012, Tatnall Square Academy, Warner Robins, GA) had the key hit in the 7th, a two-run triple to make it 7-5. He later scored on an 1B Emery Longan (2012, Stratford Academy, Warner Robins, GA) double to make it 7-6. Longan later came around to score and tie the game. Alford has good bat speed and power potential from gap to gap.

RHP Marc Sanchez (2012, Westminster Christian HS, Miami, FL) started the game for Powerhouse Baseball, showing a quick arm that ran a fastball up to 85 mph. Reliever RHP Jimmy Moore (2011, Westminster Christian HS, Miami, FL) showed a projectable body and smooth mechanics with fastball top velo of 86 mph. 1B Anthony Duran (2011, Miami Southwest HS, Miami, FL) doubled in four at-bats, showing a live bat and big raw power. He is committed to Miami-Dade College.
Schmit, Astros 18U Roll to Win >>

Gm # 98 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM East Cobb Astros 18u vs. Brookhaven Jays

7/3/2011 11:21:04 AM

LHP Conner Schmit (http:// 2012, Blessed Trinity HS, Rowell, GA) scatted four hits in a six-inning complete game effort as the East Cobb Astros 18U rolled to an 8-0 run-rule win over the Brookhaven Jays. Schmit is a crafty lefty who showed command to both sides of the plate with a fastball that topped at 76. He also flashed a 67 mph slider and 69 mph changeup.

Three Jays pitched on the day with starter RHP Jake Winston (2012, Trinity Episcopal HS, Vidalia, LA) up to 84 and showed a slider at 73. Reliever LHP Ryan Goddard (2011, Adams County Christian School, Natchez, MS) topped at 81 and RHP Zach Smith (2012, Parklane Academy, Summit, MS) was up to 79.
Lowcountry Lightning Strikes Early and Often >>

Gm # 105 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM Lowcountry Lightning vs. Bucky Dent Bandits UCLA

7/3/2011 11:01:24 AM

The Lowcountry Lightning ran laps around the bases in today's 13-0 route of the Bucky Dent Bandits UCLA in 4 innings. Every Lightning starter reached base, with Jordan Eysen (2011 Wando HS, Mt. Pleasant, SC) and Taylor Forcier (2011 Wando HS, Mt. Pleasant, SC) each collecting multi-hit games. Eysen and his younger brother John each drove in three runs.
Wild 6th Inning at Cass HS >>

Gm # 103 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM Brewer's Scout Team vs. South East Reds

7/3/2011 10:51:15 AM

The South East Reds leading 2-1, tacked on three insurance runs in the top of the 6th innings only to see Brewer's Scout Team come back with four runs of their own to end the game in a 5-5 tie.

RHP Jake Yanessa (2012, Springfield Township HS, Erdenheim, PA) went the distance for Brewer's Scout Team, topping at 80 with his fastball, while mixing in a 64-66 mph curveball. He also collected two hits at the plate with a patient approach and short, compact swing.

Reds 1B Jamie McKnight (2011, South Paulding HS, Hiram, GA) had a pair of hits showing a strong, power approach and a fluid stroke. Four pitchers threw for the Reds: RHP Jamey Barnes (2011, Adairsville, HS, Rome, GA) topped at 85, LHP Anthony Paesano (2012, Creekview HS, Canton, GA) was up to 75, RHP Matthew Shorter (2011, Apalachee HS, Auburn, GA) at 70, and RHP Mitchell Wade (2011, Hillgrove HS, Powder Springs, GA), Mercer commit, ran his FB to 78.
Matt Taylor, Chain Black >>

7/3/2011 10:30:40 AM

SS Matt Taylor (2012 Fitzgerald HS, Kathleen, GA) continued to impress today. After going 2-for-3 with a pair of doubles yesterday in the tourney opener Taylor went went 2-for-3 again today, with a Double, a Run and an RBI. Taylor has impressed with his combination of power and speed for a 6' 3" MIF.

This is the first PG event Taylor has played at. We are not aware of a college commitment at this point.
Canady, Crumley Impressive Again >>

7/3/2011 10:16:20 AM

RHP Luke Crumley (2011, White County HS, Cleveland, GA) who was impressive on the mound, topping at 92 mph in yesterday's 6-4-3 DP Cougars 18U win, was very good at the plate, DH'ing today in the Cougars and Windward Braves Red 2-2 at Aviation Sports Complex. Crumley, a Georgia commit, showed a sound hitting approach at the plate with a balance and bat speed.

His teammate, RHP/SS Will Canady (2011, West Forsyth HS, Cumming, GA), followed up a strong performance at the plate Saturday with 7 strikeouts in four innings of work on the mound. The Gardner-Webb topped topped at 84 with his fastball while reliever LHP Taylor Hall (2011, Alpharetta, GA HS), a Georgia College and State commit, was up to 77.

Wes Bancroft (2011, Dunwoody, GA HS) collected two of the Braves three hits from the leadoff hole, showing a live bat with power to all fields as well as soft, sure hands and good fielding actions on the infield.


Team Elite Outslugs Gothams 8-4 >>

Gm # 114 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM Team Elite 17U Black vs. New York Gothams

7/3/2011 10:14:38 AM

Team Elite 17u Black used a pair of big innings in the 4th and 5th to pull away from the NY Gothams 8-4 at Sprayberry HS. A pair of uncommited 2012 prospects stood out at the plate for Team Elite.

Alex Karricker (2012 North Forsyth HS, Gainesville, GA) hit a 3-run Home Run for Team Elite, with a strong build he has good present power from the left side. Gregory Preston (2012 Morgan County HS, Greensboro, GA) went 2-for-2 with a pair of Runs, an RBI and a Walk out of the cleanup spot. Preston impressed with his bat speed and ability to drive the ball hard to all fields.
Team Citius Looks Serious in 8-0 Route >>

Gm # 108 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM TB Baseball vs. Team Citius

7/3/2011 10:00:26 AM

An absolutely loaded Team Citius lineup feasted on TB Baseball with an 8-0 run rule victory on day 2. C Wyatt Mathiesen (2012, Calallen HS, Corpus Christi, TX) and SS Trey Rodriguez (2012, CC Carroll HS, Corpus Christi, TX) each homered for Citius. 2B Andrew Velazquez (2012, Fordham Prep, Bronx, NY) went 2-for-3 with a pair of Runs out of the leadoff spot while Mathiesen and OF Tyler Neslony (2012 Calallen HS, Corpus Christi, TX) also had multi-hit games.

According to the PG database only Mathieson has made a college commitment (Texas) of the highly talented group of players listed above.

2014 C/RHP Michael Cantu (CC Carroll HS, Corpus Christi, TX) threw 5 shutout innings, pounding the strike zone with 70% strikes with a fastball that sat 80-84 with a deceptive delivery, mixing in a low 70s curveball and changeup. Cantu's body projects well and he is likely to grow into a strong physical player with a very good arm.
Viera, Bombers Improve to 2-0 >>

Gm # 107 | 7/3/2011 | 9:00 AM Florida Bombers vs. KC Select

7/3/2011 9:31:47 AM

The Florida Bombers continue to look strong in the early going of their title defense. RHP Alex Viera (2011, Barron Collier HS, Naples, FL) allowed just one hit over 5 shutout innings while striking out 6 to earn the win. Viera sat 87-90 with his fastball and complimented it with a four pitch mix. The 6' 2" 195 lb righty is headed to Miami Dade College in the fall to play for what was one of the better Juco teams in the nation this year.

Robert Steven Negron (2011 Jeferson HS, Tampa, FL), a South Florida commit sparked the Bomber offense, going 2-for-3 with a pair of Runs scored out of the leadoff spot. Jordan Weems (2011 Columbus HS, Columbus, GA) went 1-for-3 with a Run and an RBI out of the cleanup spot to continue his hot hitting early in the tournament.
Starz Come Back Strong for Win >>

Gm # 14 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM Bama Starz vs. Miami Tigers

7/4/2011 5:11:02 PM

Down 5-0 heading into the bottom of the 6th the Bama Starz came back strong with seven runs in the top of the 5th and two more in the sixth to beat the Miami Tigers 9-5. Starz LHP Janiel Lister (2011, Southside Gadsden HS, Pleasant Grove, AL) went all six innings striking out six and topping out at 81 with his fastball. Matt Oliver (2011, Redan HS, Fayetteville, GA) led the offense with a pair of hits and three RBI.

Tigers RHP Jordan Cruz (2010, Ferguson HS, Miami, FL) topped out at 89, striking out a pair in two innings.
Shamrock Wins Behind Gaspard's CG >>

7/4/2011 4:57:49 PM

Shamrock Baseball 17/18U RHP Matt Gaspard (2011, Trinity Chapel Academy, Powder Springs, GA) threw a complete game, allowing three hits an no earned runs, walking none, and striking out seven as he earned a 4-3 victory over  Chattanooga Cherokees 17U. Gaspard has a big, projectable frame topping out at 82. His breaking ball was a 10/4 curveball at 66-69.

Cherokees OF Jared Goswick (2013, North Murray HS, Chatsworth, GA) showed easy fluid actions in the outfield with athleticism and good arm strength with carry.
Wood and Viciedo Hook Up in Pitcher's Duel >>

Gm # 12 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM Miami Knights vs. Triple Threat Baseball 17u

7/4/2011 4:30:03 PM

Triple Threat RHP David Wood (2012, Southlake HS, Clermont, FL) and Miami Knights RHP Amaury Viciedo (2012, Sunset HS, Miami, FL) each threw a complete game with Wood striking out 10 and Viciedo 11, as Triple Threat beat the Knights 2-1. Wood topped out at 83, showing control to both sides of the plate and loose arm action. He gave up three hits and no earned runs, while walking nobody. Viciedo ran his fastball up to 81 and showed depth on a 11/5 curveball. He allowed five hits and walked six.

Triple Threat SS Kristopher Hodges (2012, East Ridge HS, Clermont, FL) showed easy, fluid defensive actions and a short, compact swing picking up two hits from the leadoff spot. Knights SS Alex DeGoti (2012, Belen Jesuit, Miami, FL) was also impressive, showing good fielding actions, soft, sure hands and arm strength, as well as speed on the bases
Duran Starts Tournament Hot >>

Gm # 8 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM Powerhouse Baseball vs. Tucker Dodgers

7/4/2011 4:09:50 PM

Powerhouse 1B Anthony Duran (2011, Southwest HS, Miami, FL) a Miami-Dade College commit went 3-3 and drove in two runs and showed a sound approach with lots of pop in his bat as Powerhouse Baseball beat Tucker Dodgers 5-4. LHP Reny Rodriguez (2011, Southwest HS, Miami, FL) was up to 85 and showed a smooth delivery that was sound mechanically. He showed outstanding arm action and command with a curveball and a changeup at 73 and 78 respectively. RHP Nick Neitzel(2009, Ransom Everglades, Miami, FL) was up to 85 with good extension and downhill plane, his curveball had 11/5 break at 72 mph.

Dodgers starter RHP Vince Ochoa (2010, Lakeside HS, Tucker, GA) topped out at 86 with good extension and arm speed, he also flashed a 73 mph curveball. C Jonny Stevenson (2013, Morse Park HS, Tucker, GA) showed good receiving skills with quick feet and sure hands. His arm was accurate with good strength and carry. 
Trappers and Diamond Start Tourney With 8-8 Tie >>

Gm # 7 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM Diamond-Simcox 17U vs. Texas Trappers

7/4/2011 3:48:57 PM

The Texas Trappers and Diamond-Simcox 17U played to an 8-8 tie to start their 18U WWBA Tournament. SS Michael Bernay (2012, Clear Lake HS, Baytown, TX) has an aggressive hitting approach, and drives the ball with regular contact. He collected a hit and drove in two runs on the day. Trappers started RHP Jacob French (2011, Kingwood, TX HS) worked his fastball 81-83, topping at 85 with a 70 mph curveball and deception in his delivery. RHP Mike Gomez (2012, Lee HS, Baytown, TX) pitched the 5th inning topping out at 86 and throwing his curveball 73-75.

Diamond starter RHP Heath Loyd (2012, Science Hill HS, Johnson City, TN) topped out at 83, showing a sweeping curveball at 72. He also picked up two hits at the plate
Cape Coast Starts Tournament With Win >>

Gm # 5 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM Cape Coast Canes vs. Georgia Sox

7/4/2011 3:29:18 PM

The Cape Coast Canes got their 2011 18U tournament started with a 6-4 win over the Georgia Sox. IF Jason Broussard (2010, Holy Trinity, Melbourne, FL) picked up a hit and RBI, showing a short, compact swing and gap to gap power. 2B Cody White (2011, Cocoa, FL HS) is an aggressive hitter who showed a line-drive swing and good instincts running the bases.
East Cobb Yankees LHP/OF Daniel Norris >>

Gm # 86 | 7/2/2011 | 4:30 PM East Cobb Yankees vs. SBA Canes 17u Black

7/2/2011 7:02:50 PM

The East Cobb Yankees overcame a 6-2 deficit by scoring 4 runs in the bottom of the 6th inning and another in the bottom of the 7th to defeat the SBU Canes 17U Black 8-7 on Saturday.  For serious baseball fans, and especially those in Toronto, the most interesting aspect of the game was the Yankees #6 hole hitter, LHP/OF Daniel Norris, who went 0-3 on the day.

Norris was widely considered a first round caliber talent going into the 2011 draft but slipped a bit amidst speculation that he'd driven some teams off with a high signability number.  The Blue Jays nonetheless picked him in the second round and could pull off a coup by getting the Tennessee native signed at that spot in the draft.  Norris has played for the Yankees for the last three years and frequently plays the outfield or DH's for the team.  It isn't known whether he plans on making a trip to the mound during this tournament, but if he does, it will be fully reported here.
Diaz Outstanding In IBAHS Win >>

Gm # 81 | 7/2/2011 | 4:30 PM IBAHS Knights vs. Upstate Mavericks Orange

7/2/2011 6:45:11 PM

2012 RHP Malcom Diaz (6-2, 175, San Juan, Puerto Rico) topped out at 93 mph during the recent PG National Showcase but relied almost entirely on his fastball during his two innings of work, making one wonder what he would be like in a game situation.  Diaz answered that on Saturday, throwing a complete game 4 hitter, leading the IBAHS Knights to a 3-2 win over the Upstate Mavericks while carrying a shutout into the final inning.

Diaz "only" topped out at 91 mph but his last two pitches, numbers 107 and 108, were both 90 mph.  He mixed in a number of curveballs, sliders and change ups and while none were especially exciting pitches, they did show that he was working on being more than a one-pitch hurler.
Team Alabama Wins Opener 5-1 >>

Gm # 80 | 7/2/2011 | 4:30 PM Team Alabama vs. Blue Chip Bulls

7/2/2011 6:35:34 PM

It was mentioned earlier that the 2012 class is something special in the state of Alabama and a number of those top prospects play for Team Alabama, which defeated a very good pitcher Saturday for the Blue Chip Bulls to start the tournament off with a 5-0 win.

The top two 2012 prospects on the roster are outfielders Jameis Winston (6-4, 205, Hueytown, AL) and David Dahl (6-2, 190, Birmingham, AL), which means that there isn't another travel team in the country with two more athletic outfielders, although Dahl is currently out with mono.  Winston started off his tournament going 2-2 with a walk and stolen base batting leadoff.  If you are in Atlanta and have a chance to see Team Alabama play, make the effort just to see Winston play, as he is a special athlete who is also one of the top, if not the top, dual threat quarterback recruit in the country.  We all hope his baseball career lasts another 20 years or so, but you never know when a young man might like the glamor of football better.

2011 RHP Jake Hubbard (6-2, 195, Birmingham, AL, signed with Alabama) was outstanding in pitching a complete game shutout.  Hubbard's best pitch is a very heavy sinking fastball that is in the 86-89 mph range and he compliments it with a nice change up, although his curveball will need tightening in the future and he might end up with a slider.

Team Alabama surprisingly knocked out 2012 RHP Wales Toney (6-3, 185, Anderson, SC) of Blue Chip after 4 innings and 4 runs.  Toney was coming off a very strong performance at the PG National Showcase and topped out at 92 on Saturday while flashing occasional plus life on his fastball.  Like Hubbard, Toney lacks a present curveball that will worry hitters and that was his undoing.
Higgenbothem Almost Matches Tillery >>

7/2/2011 6:19:30 PM

While Zach Tillery was on East Cobb Field #1 blasting 2 home runs and driving in 5 runs (see below), over on EC Field #2 that feat was almost duplicated by Next Level 3B Trey Higgenbothem (2011, 5-11, 190, Pace, FL, signed with Tallahassee CC).  Higgenbothem blasted a 3 run home run in the first inning that gave Next Level a lead they would never relinquish in a 13-3 romp over Team Connecticut Baseball Blue Jays.  Higgenbothem later drove in 2 more runs with a single, enabling him to match Tillery's tournament leading 5 Rbi game.
Tillery Leads All American Prospects Route >>

7/2/2011 6:09:14 PM

2011 SS Zach Tillery (6-4, 190, Naples, FL, signed with Florida Gulf Coast) was one of the most talked about players in South Florida among scouts leading up to the draft, as there was a variety of opinions, some very good, some more the "wait 3 years", about where Tillery's talents should fall.  The "wait 3 years" group won, as Tillery went undrafted and is likely headed to nearby Florida Gulf Coast, but he certainly put on a show in All American Prospects 15-3 route over World Yacht Clippers American.  Tillery lauched two home runs, the first multiple home run game of the tournament, and drove home 5 runs.  The first home run was a first inning grand slam, part of the Prospects 10 run inning.

2B Alex Fernandez, a Miami signee, supported Tillery with 2 doubles and 3 Rbi's of his own.  2B Artur Cary also had a home run for All American.
Pepperdine Signee Rescues Cal Elite >>

Gm # 75 | 7/2/2011 | 2:00 PM So Cal Elite vs. Prospects Stars 2011

7/2/2011 5:55:50 PM

When 2011 3B Andrew Alvarez (6-3, 190, Riverside, CA), signed with Pepperdine) stepped to the plate with 2 out and 2 on in the bottom of the 6th inning down 1-0 to the Prospect Stars, he may have figured that it was Cal Elite's last chance.  He and his teammates had managed just one hit up to that point.  Alvarez answered the call, though, lining a double that scored two runs and enabled Cal Elite to pull out a 2-1 victory.

RHP Dan Schlarmann threw a complete game for Cal Elite.  He wasn't overpowering, pitching in the 82-85 mph range with a heavy sinking fastball, but didn't walk a single hitter while striking out 2.
Alpharetta HS Teammates Pitch TBGA to Victory >>

Gm # 72 | 7/2/2011 | 2:00 PM EJ Sports Warriors vs. TGBA 17U

7/2/2011 5:39:14 PM

2011 RHP's Dmitri Koustis (6-2, 190, uncommitted) and Eric Nyquist (6-4, 215, signed with Mercer) worked around 8 walks to pitch TBGA 17U's to a 5-1 victory over the EJ Sports Warriors.  Both showed solid stuff, with Koustis topping out at 87 mph and maintaining his velocity very well, while Nyquist topped out at 88 mph.  Koustis is not signed with a school according to the PG database and with his fastball velocity and life and mid 70's curveball looks like there should be plenty of college slots for him.

OF Brock Maxwell, a 2013 right handed hitter from Suwanee, Georgia, did the damage offensively for TBGA, going 2-3 with a double and 2 Rbi's hitting out of the #3 hole.
Kozlowski, Dolloff Lead South Oakland Romp >>

Gm # 70 | 7/2/2011 | 2:00 PM Team Elite 18U vs. South Oakland A's 18U

7/2/2011 5:07:44 PM

Leadoff hitter OF Mitch Kozlowski (2011, 5-10, 150, Madison Heights, MI) hit a 3 run home run and a double, driving in a total of 5 runs and starting RHP Mike Dolloff (2011, 6-0, 185, Davison, MI, signed with Michigan) added a 2-run home run of his own in addition to 4 shutout innings, leading the South Oakland A's 18U to a 8-1 win over what was probably a surprised Team Elite 18U team.

Dolloff cruised through 4 easy innings, allowing only one baserunner, while pitching between 86 and 89 mph with a 75 slider.

Both Kozlowski and Dollhoff hit their home runs off Team Elite RHP Jason Harsh, making them all the more impressive.  The 6-6, 220 lb Harsh was the Rangers 19th round draft choice in June and is signed with Kennesaw State.  His stuff was solid, topping out at 90 mph with a big sweeping frisbee slider, but obviously much to the A's liking as well.
Reed Opens Strong for the Show >>

Gm # 67 | 7/2/2011 | 2:00 PM San Diego Show vs. Hammond Chiefs

7/2/2011 4:47:43 PM

The San Diego Show are on the short list of teams contending for the 18U National Championship, although teams that have to travel through 3 time zones can run into trouble early in an event.  2011 RHP Jake Reed (6-2, 175, La Mesa, CA) made sure that didn't happen on Saturday, throwing 6 strong innings, allowing 4 hits and a single run in the 6th innings, as the Show defeated the Hammond Chiefs 5-1.  Reed, who the White Sox picked in the 40th round, throws a hard sinking fastball in the 87-92 mph range and off sets it with a sweeping curveball.  He threw a total of 87 pitches in his 6 innings, 62 fastballs and 25 curveballs, and started off 17 of the 23 hitters he faced with strikes.
McAvoy Leads Chiefs to 5-2 Win >>

7/2/2011 4:08:03 PM

2011 RHP Kevin McAvoy (6-1, 175, Syracuse, NY, signed with Bryant) threw 6 innings, striking out 10 hitters, to lead the Syracuse Sports Zone Chiefs to a 5-2 win over the 6-4-3 Double Play 17U.  McAvory rarely dipped under 88 mph with his fastball and topped out at 91 mph.  He has a large enough frame to add some strength in the future and his arm is very fast and loose.

The Perfect Game scouts were very impressed with 6-4-3 catcher Jake Mazier (2012, 6-1, 215, Holy Innocents HS, Atlanta, GA) even though he went 0-3 from his clean up spot.  Mazier has very good bat speed from the left side of the plate and might be an even better prospect defensively, where he is quick and loose despite his big frame.  Pay close attention to him as the tournament continues.
Byers Powers Louisiana Knights >>

7/2/2011 3:54:40 PM

2012 2B Ryan Byers (5-10, 170, Ponchatoula, LA), batting leadoff for the Louisiana Knights, performed the role of a clean up hitter, blasting a home run and a double to lead the Knights to a 5-2 come from behind win over the Long Island Nationals White.  Byers showed very good right handed bat speed, especially for a smaller player, and the ball jumped off his bat hard.
Slater Makes Presence Felt For Jacksonville >>

7/2/2011 3:46:16 PM

SS Austin Slater had high hopes for 2011.  Coming off being recognized as an Aflac All-American and signing to play baseball at Stanford, the 6-3, 190 lb shortstop from Jacksonville was looking forward to testing his draft stock during the spring.  That didn't happen, even though the Dodgers took a flier on him in the 44th round, as Slater broke his ankle throwing a frisbee prior to the season (that injury doesn't happen in Iowa before the season, by the way) and missed most of his senior year.  He made his presence felt on the field for the Jacksonville Warriors on Saturday, though, slamming a 2 run double and scoring another run in the Warriors 4-0 win over Team Connecticut Baseball.

Jacksonville 2011 RHP Jarrod Widdows threw 6 1/3 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and striking out 6.  Widdows is a long and loose 6-8, 210 righty with a very sound delivery and good arm action who should keep improving with more strength.  He topped out at 86 mph with a good feel for a curveball and change up.  He'll be attending Daytona CC.
Another Red Sox Draftee Touches 94 mph >>

7/2/2011 3:30:06 PM

The second pitcher of the day touched 94 mph in the Upstate Mavericks 4-1 win over the Bobby Valentine All-American Team.  The was good news for the Boston Red Sox and any scouts they have in North Atlanta today, although it wasn't good news for the Bobby Valentine team.

RHP Daniel Gossett, the Red Sox 16th round draft pick out of Lyman, South Carolina, went 6 innings, allowing 4 hits and striking out 8 hitters.  Gossett pitched in the 89-94 mph range, consistent with what reports had him throwing this spring, and showed flashes of a plus curveball in the upper 70's.  He has a very slender and young build (6-1, 155 lbs) and some effort to his delivery but had no problem throwing the ball where he wanted to, starting 17 out of 25 hitters off with a strike.  Gossett has signed to attend Clemson unless the Red Sox make a strong run at him.

Earlier in the day, Red Sox 7th rounder Cody Kukuk also topped out at 94 mph.

The two Bobby Valentine pitchers, 2013 RHP Andrew Zapata and 2012 LHP Calab Frare were both impressive, although they could hardly come from two more different backgrounds.  Zapata, the starter who went 5 1/3 innings, pitched in the mid 80's, topping out at 87 mph, from a low 3/4's arm slot and showed a very mature ability to change speeds with a slider and nice change up.  He's a slender 6-0, 175 youngster from Staten Island, New York.  Frare, on  the other hand, is a strong 6-2, 190 lb southpaw from Miles City, Montana.  He has a compact arm action and deceptive delivery and was up to 88 mph with his fastball, although he didn't show a breaking ball in his short outing.
2013 Slugger Leads North East Rays >>

7/2/2011 2:54:32 PM

2013 3B Ryan Sullivan (6-2, 190, Hopkinton, MA), batting clean up in the North East Rays order, went 3-3 with a home run and 3 Rbi's in the Rays 9-1 win over the Texas Dukes.  Sullivan has a big, strong body for his age and a powerful swing that generates plenty of power.

Another underclassman, 2012 RHP Terry Dugdale, was also noteworthy for the Rays.  The 5-11, 180 lb native of Amheast, NH went the first 4 innings of the run rule shortened game, allowing only 1 hit while working in the 84-88 mph range with his fastball and attacking the strike zone aggressively.
Chain Black '12's Overcome 7-1 Deficit >>

Gm # 44 | 7/2/2011 | 11:30 AM Chain Black '12 vs. St. Louis Gamers 18u

7/2/2011 2:46:13 PM

Chain Baseball has been known to score lots of runs at WWBA events and their Chain Black '12 team looks like they will hold up the reputation, as they overcame an early 7-1 deficit to the St. Louis Gamers 18U by scoring 4 runs in the 4th inning and 5 more in the 5th to take a 10-7 victory.

2012 SS Matt Taylor (6-3, 175, Kathleen, GA) and 2B Nathan Dempsey (5-9, 160, Warner Robbins, GA) led the way on offense.  Dempsey went 3-3 in the #2 hole, scoring three runs.  Taylor hitting right after Dempsey, crushed two doubles, driving in a pair of runs.  Taylor's size and bat speed were especially impressive for a potential middle infielder and it looks like he can run really well, too.
Boatright Lights Up the Guns for Best 9 >>

Gm # 42 | 7/2/2011 | 11:30 AM Best 9 Baseball vs. CenTex Prospects

7/2/2011 2:28:36 PM

2011 Joseph Boatright of Best 9 Baseball shutout the Cen Tex Prospects on 1 hit for 4 innings before leaving the game, only to see Cen Tex come back to take a 3-2 victory.  The 6-4, 210 Boatright (Groveton, GA), who went undrafted in June, undoubtedly left the scouts and college coaches at the game with something to think about, as he sat between 89-92 mph with his fastball, touching 92 a half-dozen times among the 40 fastballs he threw (out of 52 total) pitches.  He also threw an upper 70's slider and a couple of change ups.  Boatright is signed with Middle Georgia JC.
Vialet Saves Day for NBS >>

Gm # 41 | 7/2/2011 | 11:30 AM Dawg Pound vs. NBS 18's

7/2/2011 2:18:31 PM

The highest scoring game of the day thus far also somehow went a full 7 innings, uninterrupted by the 2 hour time limit, as NBS 18's defeated the Dawg Pound 9-8.  Another irony is that all but 2/3's of an inning in the game were thrown by pitchers throwing in the mid to upper 80's and topping out at 88 and 90 mph.

The hero of the game OF Marquise Vialet (2011, 5-10, 170, Douglasville, GA), the NBS leadoff hitter, who came in from the outfield in the bottom of the 6th inning to get a key strikeout, then struck out the side in the 7th inning as well.  Vialet was 88-90 mph with explosive late life on his fastball and mixed in a few good 77 mph curveballs.

NBS starter Colton Cross (2011, 6-1, 190, Ringgold, GA, signed with Kennesaw State) also showed prospect stuff, throwing the first 5 innings, allowing only 1 earned run while striking out 8 hitters.  Cross also topped out at 90 mph, with a 78-80 mph breaking ball and a 78 mph change up that showed some promise.
Frias Home Run Leads FTB Louisville Slugger >>

7/2/2011 2:06:01 PM

OF Miguel Frias hit a 3-run home run in the 3rd inning to give FBT Louisville Slugger all the runs they would need in a 5-1 opening day win over the South Florida Breakers 18U.

Frias is fresh off a solid performance at the recent Perfect Game National Showcase in Fort Myers.  The 5-10, 175 lb left handed hitter from Lake Mary HS in Longwood, Florida, isn't the type of player who is going to wow you with huge tools but plays hard and has very nice baseball skills and instincts.  And obviously some power in his bat as well.
Strange Happenings in Florida Pokers Win >>

Gm # 39 | 7/2/2011 | 11:30 AM Florida Pokers 18u White vs. St Johns Heat

7/2/2011 1:59:42 PM

It's a good lesson for young players to not give up when the start of a game doesn't go as you hope it would.  Florida Pokers RHP Corey Tufts would be a good teacher for that lesson.

Tufts, a 6-4, 225 lb Emery-Riddle signee, gave up a leadoff home run to St. John's Heat 2B Brandon Day (2012, St. Augustine, FL), then 4 more consecutive hits and an Rbi groundout that made the score 4-0 in the top of the first inning before he had a chance to break a real sweat.  But Tufts quickly settled down, throwing 5 innings and allowing only 1 more hit.   Two no-hit innings by teammate RHP Connor Fiasco finished the Poker's 6-4 come from behind win.
Florida Bombers Open with 10-0 Win >>

Gm # 38 | 7/2/2011 | 11:30 AM Florida Bombers vs. Gators Baseball-Conkle

7/2/2011 1:45:44 PM

To say that the Florida Bombers "own" the WWBA 18U National Championship wouldn't be an exaggeration, as they win the championship more often than they don't, 6 times in all dating back to their first title in 2002.  Usually they win with a group of speedy, hustling middle of the field players who play great defense, along with a staff of polished pitchers who throw strikes and get quick outs.

This year's version of the Bombers, who won their first game on Saturday 10-0 over Gators Baseball Conkle in 5 innings, appears to be a different group at first glance.  In fact, if that glance is at the middle of the batting order you'll see the immediate difference.  2011 C Jordan Weems (6-4, 190, Columbus, GA, signed with Georgia State), 2011 3B Sean Hurley (6-3, 215, Sarasota, FL, signed with Miami) and 2011 3B/RHP Michael Suchy (6-4, 225, Bradenton, FL) combined to go 3-6 with 3 walks and 5 Rbi's in the Bomber's win.  It looks like the team might be looking to pummel some teams with size and power this year.

Suchy is an interesting player to look at closer.  In addition to having big time bat speed and power, he threw 89-91 mph out of the bullpen during the final inning today.  The PG records do not show that he's signed with a school for this fall, despite having outstanding academic credentials (4.0+ GPA, high ACT score).  Our apologies to Suchy and the school who he has committed to if he has indeed signed, but if he is still looking for a place to play and study, there are tons of schools who should want him!
RHP Trey Wingenter - Atlanta Blue Jays >>

Gm # 37 | 7/2/2011 | 11:30 AM Atlanta Blue Jays vs. Houston Banditos Black

7/2/2011 1:29:21 PM

2012 is shaping up to be an outstanding year for high school prospects in the state of Alabama, maybe one of the best ever for that state, with players like OF David Dahl, OF-RHP Jameis Winston, SS Mikey White and OF/LHP Colton Freeman leading a very deep list. 

Add to that list another prospect, RHP Trey Wingenter of Bob Jones HS in Madison, AL.  Wingenter threw 2 1/3 perfect innings to get the save in the Atlanta Blue Jays 5-2 win over the Houston Banditos Black.  He's a long and loose 6-7, 190 lbs with a tall delivery and smooth and easy arm action.  Wingenter challenged mostly with fastballs and was 88-90 mph with an effortless release.  His mid 70's curveball showed some promise as well.
RHP Tim Holmes Strikes Out 10 >>

Gm # 36 | 7/2/2011 | 11:30 AM FTB Pride vs. Chain Select

7/2/2011 1:15:04 PM

2012 RHP Tim Holmes from the FTB Pride struck out 10 hitters over 6 shutout innings in the Pride's 1-0 win over Chain Select.  The 6-1, 185 mph Holmes, who lives in Jacksonville, Florida, and is home schooled, pitched in the mid 80's but his out pitch was a hard mid 70's curveball with excellent biting action at times.  Holmes was up to 90 mph at the BCS Memorial Day Classic last month, so we know more velocity is in there.  But his curveball is his top pitch and he does a very good job of throwing it for strikes and only threw 73 pitches in 6 innings, a very economical amount for a pitcher with double figure strikeouts.
South Florida Elite Upset Texas Sun Devils >>

7/2/2011 12:59:33 PM

In the first notable upset of the tournament's first day, the South Florida Elite 18U defeated the Texas Sun Devils 4-1. 

The most impressive thing about the win for South Florida wasn't that they defeated a line up full of recent participants in the Perfect Game National Showcase, it's that they defeated two graduated pitchers who were recently drafted in the 2011 draft and seemed to be on their games.  RHP Dustin Kellogg, the Astros 34th round pick, started the game for the Sun Devils and pitched well, striking out 7 in 3 innings while allowing a single run.  Kellogg, a Navarro JC signee, was 88-91 mph with excellent fastball life.

Where the Elite did their damage was against the Red Sox 7th round pick, LHP Cody Kukuk, knocking the Kansas signee around for 3 runs.  Kukuk had lights out stuff, topping out at 94 mph with a sharp upper 70's curveball.

Elite starter, LHP Zach Fraley (2011, Weston, FL) took a different track, holding the Sun Devils to 4 hits in 5 innings, working off a low 80's fastball with a slow deep curveball and deceptive change up and outstanding control.  Fraley will continue his baseball career next year at Francis Marion College.
Gant Lead Ohio Warhawks to 7-1 Victory >>

Gm # 28 | 7/2/2011 | 11:30 AM BigStix Gamers 17U vs. Ohio Warhawks

7/2/2011 12:35:36 PM

The Ohio Warhawks are often one of the most talented teams at WWBA events but have a track record over the years of struggling early in pool play.  RHP Stephen Gant (2012, Jackson, TN, 6-1, 180) made sure that didn't happen, pitching the Warhawks to a 7-1 win over the BigStix Gamers 17U Saturday.  Gant threw 6 shutout innings, striking out 7 hitters, while pitching between 87 and 91 mph on his fastball, with a hard 78 mph curveball.

2011 2B Pat Kelly from Minnesota, a Nebraska signee, and 2012 primary RHP Cody Bruder (Corona, CA) led the Warhawks offense.  Kelly went 3-4 with a pair of doubles and 2 Rbi's.  Bruder also went 3-4, with one of hits being a solo home run.
East Cobb Astros 16U Start with 4-2 Win >>

Gm # 27 | 7/2/2011 | 11:30 AM East Cobb Astros 16u vs. Lakes Area Dodgers 18u

7/2/2011 12:25:22 PM

The East Cobb Astros 16U team is one of the youngest in the field.  While that puts them at a big disadvantage, their overall physical talent could take them a long way as well.

They opened the tournament with a 4-2 win over over the Lakes Area Dodgers 18U.  2012 1B Morgan Bunting (6-4, 180 lbs, Atlanta, GA), one of the top first base prospects in the 2012 class, provided the key blow with a 2 out, 2 run single in the bottom of the 5th inning to give the Astros a 3-1 lead they never relinquished.

Two 2013 right handers, Tyler Graham (6-2, 205, Powder Springs, GA) and Austin Parrish (6-1, 190, Ringgold, GA) threw for East Cobb, both throwing in the mid 80's and topping out at 86-87 mph.

College coaches might want to pay attention to the Lake Area starter, RHP Ryan Lavoie, who threw 5 strong innings.  Lavoie is a 6-2, 215 lb'er in the 2011 class who PG doesn't have as having a college commitment for next fall.  The Walled Lake, Michigan native was 85-88 mph with a heavy fastball, threw a sharp curveball in the mid 70's and had a feel for a change up.  The only thing that held him back was his curveball command, but it was a solid pitch when around the plate.
South Florida Thunder No-Hit But Still Win 2-1 >>

Gm # 24 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM Bullets Baseball vs. South Florida Thunder

7/2/2011 11:49:52 AM

Bullets Baseball had the best prospects and four pitchers who combined on a no-hitter, but they couldn't win the baseball game, dropping a 2-1 decision to the South Florida Thunder.  The Thunder took advantage of walks (7 in all) and fielding errors to score single runs in the 5th and 6th inning.  RHP Eric Santa Maria made the runs stand up in a complete game 3-hitter.

A couple of 2011 junior college signees stood out on the mound for Bullets Baseball.  Starter RHP Robby Kalaf (5-10.195, Brandon, FL) cruised threw 4 easy innings, allowing one hit and striking out 7 hitters.  The Manatee-Sarasota CC commit worked in the 85-88 mph range with a sharp 76 mph slider from a smooth, low effort delivery.  6-5, 210 RHP Marcus Crescentini threw (Wesley Chapel, FL)the last 1 2/3 innings, touching 90 mph on his fastball with a 74 mph curveball.  Crescentini will be attending Indian River CC next year.
LA-Lafayette Signees Lead Marucci Elite >>

7/2/2011 11:35:42 AM

Two prospects who will be starting their college careers in the fall with Louisiana-Lafayette, LHP Henri Faucheux (LaPlace, LA) and SS/RHP Cord Cockrell (Dusan, LA), paired up to lead Marucci Elite to an 8-0 run rule victory over Chattanooga Baseball Academy 17U.

Faucheux threw 4 2/3's scoreless innings, allowing 2 hits and 4 walks to go with 11 strikeouts.  He topped out at 86 mph on his fastball, after being in the upper 80's at several PG events in the past, and flashed a plus hard curveball.  The southpaw struggled with his command, as he opened only 7 out of 21 hitters with strikes, but proved unhittable when in the strikezone.

Cockrell went 2-4 with 4 Rbi's from the #2 hole in the Marucci line up.  He's a very projectable athlete who is a 6.6 runner with smooth infield actions and will undoubtedly see some time on the mound later in the tournament for the talented Marucci team.

Comstock Pitches Team Extreme to 6-0 Victory >>

Gm # 19 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM Florida Pokers 17u White vs. Team Xtreme

7/2/2011 11:12:23 AM

2011 RHP Eric Comstock (5-11, 170, Tampa, FL) pitched Team Extreme to a deceptively difficult 6-0 win over the Florida Pokers 17U White Saturday morning.  Comstock threw a complete game 3-hitter with 7 strikeouts, but didn't have any breathing room until his teammates scored 5 runs in the top of the 7th inning to break the game open.  Comstock, who has signed with Eastern Michigan, was very consistent at 87-88 mph the entire game and mixed in an effective mid 70's curveball.

St. Petersburg CC signee Jordan Keys had 2 hits and 2 Rbi's for Team Extreme.
Diamondbacks Draft Shows Arm Strength >>

Gm # 18 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM En Fuego baseball vs. PBB 17U

7/2/2011 11:01:17 AM

Tucker Ward didn't pick up the win in En Fuego Baseball's 5-4 win over PBB 17U Saturday morning but he did throw 5 innings, leaving in a 4-4 tie before his teammates picked up the final run in the bottom of the 6th inning.  The Arizona Diamondbacks 47th round pick from Sarasland, Alabama was pretty much his own undoing, walking 7 hitters and only throwing 49 of 94 pitches for strikes.

The 6-6, 230 lb Ward did show the tools that interested pro scouts, however, along with the size and easy arm action.  He pitched in the upper 80's, topping out at 89 mph, and flashed some bite on an upper 70's slurve type breaking ball.  Ward has committed to Faulkner State CC in his home state should he not sign by the end of the summer.
RHP Cody Kremer Marks 5th Year at WWBA Champs. >>

7/2/2011 10:47:04 AM

South East Reds RHP Cody Kremer probably knows his way around the myriad of fields used at the 18U WWBA National Championships as well as anyone, including the scouts and coaches.  The 2012 prospect from Adairsville, GA, is competing for the 5th year in the annual summer tournaments, having toed the mound for the first time in 2007 as a member of the East Cobb Astros 14U. 

Kremer led the Reds to a 4-2 win Saturday morning over the Florida Baseball Academy Red at Kennessaw Mountain HS, allowing 3 hits and 2 runs over 5 1/3 innings of work.  The 6-0, 205 lb right hander topped out at 91 mph on his fastball and pretty much stuck with that pitch the entire game, as 72 of his 86 pitches were fastballs.  Kremer has obviously added velocity to his primary pitch over the past 5 years, as the Perfect Game database shows that he was throwing 79-83 mph back in 2007, still pretty impressive velo for someone who was just coming out of the 7th grade at that point.
Houston Elite Shuts Out Atlanta Blue Jays 16U >>

Gm # 11 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM Atlanta Blue Jays 16u vs. Houston Elite

7/2/2011 10:28:47 AM

The Houston Elite rode strong performances by three graduated seniors from the northeast Houston area to a 3-0 opening game win over the Atlanta Blue Jays 16U Saturday morning.

RHP Thomas Hartwell (Atascasita HS) threw a complete game 1 hit shutout while striking out 6 hitters.  He worked in the 80-83 mph range while showing very good command of both sides of the plate and some life to his fastball.  He also mixed in a 74 mph slider that had good bite at times.

The Elite got all their runs from two swings of the bat.  1B/RHP Scooter Farr put his team up 2-0 in the second inning with a 2-run home run.  Hartwell's former high school teammate, SS Brian DeYoung, gave the Elite an insurance run with a solo home run in the 6th inning.
Bogetto Stands Out for Midwest Dodgers >>

7/2/2011 10:19:42 AM

2012 shortstop Brandon Bogetto (6-0, 165, Providence HS, Chicago, IL) stood out on both sides of the ball for the Midwest Dodgers National in their 3-3 tie Saturday morning with the Prospect Stars 17U Red.

Batting third in the Dodgers line up, Bogetto went 2-3 with a double, a run scored and an Rbi.  More importantly, he stood out on defense, making all the plays while showing quick feet and very soft hands, along with plenty of arm strength for the middle of the field and the abilityto throw from all arm angles.

Double Shutout Between Pony and Middle Georgia >>

Gm # 9 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM Middle GA Titans vs. Pony Express 17White

7/2/2011 10:09:48 AM

Pony Express 17U White and the Middle Georgia Titans played to a 0-0 tie Saturday morning, with both teams getting complete game shutout efforts from their pitchers.  Scoreless ties are not an uncommon outcome in WWBA national tournaments, especially when pitchers are throwing strikes and their fielders are executing well.

Pony LHP Jordan Gard (2012, 6-4, 190 lbs, Mishawaka, IN) only allowed 1 hit in his shutout.  He didn't overpower the hitters, striking out only 3 Titan hitters, but only threw 68 pitches and pounded the strike zone with a low 80's fastball and a very effective change up he used aggressively. 

2012 Titans RHP Aaron Westbury (6-2, 170 lbs, Barnesville, GA) allowed only 2 hits and struck out 6 hitters.  He also pitched with a low 80's fastball, while his out pitch was a sharp breaking curveball than he commanded very well.
Hard Throwing Starters Highlight Game 2 Action >>

Gm # 2 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM Marucci Florida Mustangs 17u vs. OTC BASEBALL

7/2/2011 9:49:41 AM

Neither of the starting pitchers in OTC Baseball's 6-5 win over the Marucci Florida Mustangs figured in the final decision but both impressed with their arm strength and stuff.

2011 RHP Seth Lucio of OTC (Locust Grove, GA) threw 4 2/3 innings, allowing 3 runs while striking out 6 hitters.  He topped out at 92 mph with a hard spinning 75 mph curveball.  The 5-10, 175 lb Lucio has signed with Tennessee Tech. 

Mustangs RHP William "Bucky" Locke left the game after 4 innings down 2-1 before the Mustangs scored 4 runs in the 5th inning to take a brief lead.  The 2012 prospect from Baker, Florida, pitched in the 87-90 mph range with a nice 74 mph curveball and some feel for a 77 mph change up.

OTC's Paul Banard had the big hit in the game, a bases loaded double in the top of the 6th inning that plated 3 runs.
Earle Leads New Level Cardinals to 7-4 Win >>

7/2/2011 9:38:06 AM

2011 RHP Spencer Earle, a 6-3, 210 lb athlete from Logansville, Georgia, led the New Level Cardinals to a 7-4 win over Kentucky Baseball Club 18U's at the Aviation Sports Complex, Saturday morning.   Earle threw a 6 inning complete game in the time limit contest and had Kentucky held to 1 run until the 6th inning when he tired a bit and gave up a 3 spot.  Earle topped  out at 85 mph on his fastball while striking out 6 hitters.  He also had 2 hits, including a double, and scored a run at the plate.

2013 3B Hunter Rice (Jersey, Georgia) led the New Level offense by going 3-3 with an Rbi and a run scored.  Rice has a strong 6-1, 190 lb frame and looks as good on defense as he looked on offense this game.
Martin Leads West End Baseball to 4-3 Victory >>

Gm # 4 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM West End Baseball vs. Chain White '12

7/2/2011 9:22:22 AM

1B Kyle Martin, a 6-2, 210 slugger from Simpsonville, South Carolina, led West End Baseball to a 4-3 win over the Chain Baseball '12's Saturday morning.  Martin, who is verbally committed to the two-time NCAA champion South Carolina Gamecocks, went 3-4 with a double and a run scored.

The game was pretty much over in a way shortly after it started, as Chain Baseball scored 3 runs in the top of the first inning and West End answered with all four of their runs in the bottom of the first, then made the 4-3 margin stand up the last 6 innings.

RHP's Steve Wohlrab (5 innings) and Aaron Lesiak (2 innings) held Chain baseball to 4 hits overall.
RHP Mason Hope Dominates EC Astros 17U >>

Gm # 1 | 7/2/2011 | 9:00 AM East Cobb Astros 17u vs. Oklahoma Drillers

7/2/2011 9:08:40 AM

Oklahoma Drillers RHP Mason Hope, a 5th round draft of the Florida Marlins in the 2011 draft, threw 6 shutout innings on Field 1 at the East Cobb Complex in Game 1 of the 18U National Championship, leading the Drillers to a 6-3 win over the East Cobb Astros 17U.

Hope, who pitched behind 1st rounder RHP Archie Bradley at Broken Arrow HS but is a legit top prospect in his own right, allowed only 3 hits and 1 walk while striking out 11 hitters.  He topped out at 92 mph on his fastball while averaging 89-90 over the 6 innings of work.  Many of his strikeouts came with his sharp 78 mph curveball.

East Cobb made the game interesting in the bottom of the 7th inning after Hope had been removed from the game after 84 pitches when cleanup hitter Jared Martin blasted a 3 run homer.
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