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2010 WWBA 18u National Championship Blogs


Florida Bombers Win 2010 WWBA 18U Championship >>

7/5/2010 3:31:47 PM

C.T. Bradford singled home pinch runner Carlos Garmendia with 2 out in the bottom of the 7th inning to give the Florida Bombers a dramatic 4-3 victory over the East Cobb Braves 17's.  It was the Bombers unprecedented sixth WWBA 18U National Championship and avenged their 11-10 loss to the Braves in the 2009 championship game.

Both teams were visably nervous at the start of the game and a sloppy first inning ended with the score 1-1.  Each team's starting pitchers settled down nicely after that.  RHP Ben Lively of the Bombers pitched 6 innings, allowing DH Brandon Stephens' 2-run double in the third inning but otherwise controlling the game and only allowing 3 hits.  The Braves Kyle Burchfield matched Lively, though, giving up 3 hits and 3 runs over his five innings of work before giving the ball to reliever Alexander Cruz.

The Bombers 7th inning rally started with a strikeout but C/RHP Luke Guarnaccia laced a double deep to left centerfield with one out and was replaced by Garmendia.  3B Tyler Filliben flied out to right field for the second out before the Braves walked 2B Adam Frazier to put men at first and second.  That brought up the leadoff hitter, Bradford, who lined a hard single up the middle.  The throw from CF Michael Hodorowski beat Garmendia to the plate but was bobbled by catcher Garrett Boulware, allowing Garmendia to slide under the late tag.

Guarnaccia got the win with a scoreless inning of relief.

Bradford, a Mississippi State signee and the Bombers captain, was named the tournament Most Valuable Player.  The 5-10 left hander went 2-0 on the mound, including a complete win in the Bombers semifinal victory over the Orlando Scorpions.  Bradford batted leadoff and played centerfield when not on the mound and led the Bombers in runs scored in addition to his final game heroics.

Braves RHP John Magliozzi was named the tournament Most Valuable Pitcher.  The Massachusets native and Florida signee went 2-0 in 11 innings, allowing only 1 run while striking out 12.  He threw a complete game 1-hit shutout against the Texas SunDevils in the Braves 3-0 semifinal win.
Bottom of 7th Inning, 3-3 Tie >>

7/5/2010 2:52:10 PM

Alexander Cruz on the mound for East Cobb.

There is no tie-breaker in the Championship Game, the game will go to extra innings if the Bombers do not score.
Tie Game (3-3) Entering the 7th Inning >>

7/5/2010 2:47:38 PM

Championship Game Tied at 3 After 5 Innings >>

7/5/2010 2:25:27 PM

C.T. Bradford of the Bombers drove home a run with a sacrifice fly to centerfield to tie the game up 3-3 going into the top of the 6th inning.
East Cobb Up 4-1 After 4 Complete Innings >>

7/5/2010 2:08:51 PM

East Cobb Up 3-1 After 3 Innings >>

7/5/2010 1:53:51 PM

2009 Aflac C Brandon Stephens slammed a 2 run double up the left centerfield gap to score Dwight Smith and Javier Baez to put the Braves up 3-1 after 3  complete innings.
Championship Game 1-1, Top of 3rd Inning >>

7/5/2010 1:29:11 PM

Braves and Bombers Tied 1-1 >>

7/5/2010 1:15:58 PM

The Florida Bombers and East Cobb Braves are tied 1-1 after one inning of play in the Championship Game. 

RHP Ben Lively is on the mound for the Bombers, who are the home team.  RHP Kyle Burchfield is the starting pitcher for the visiting Braves.
Bradford Pitches/Hits Bombers Past Scorpions >>

7/5/2010 12:41:21 PM

2010 CF/LHP C.T. Bradford pitched and hit the Florida Bombers into the championship game as they defeated the Orlando Scorpions 5-2.

The Mississippi State signee threw a complete game, scattering 8 hits while striking out 8 Scorpion batters.  Bradford pitched in the 84-87  mph range with an effective 74 mph curveball.  Hitting in the leadoff spot, Bradford went 2-3 with a HBP and stolen base and scored the Bombers first run.

The Bombers scored 4 runs in the third inning, getting a run scoring single from LF Nolan Thomas and a 2 run double from 2B Adam Frazier.
Bombers Up 5-1 Going Into the 7th Inning >>

7/5/2010 12:03:28 PM

The Florida Bombers lead the Orlando Scorpions 5-1 going into the 7th inning of the second semifinal game.  LHP C.T. Bradford is on the mound looking to finish a complete game effort.
Magliozzi Advances East Cobb Braves to Finals >>

7/5/2010 12:00:30 PM

RHP John Magliozzi threw a 1-hit shutout, leading the defending champion East Cobb Braves 17's to a 3-0 win over the Texas SunDevils and a berth in the championship game. 

Magliozzi allowed only a 6th inning double to SunDevils 3B Jace Conrad while walking 4 and striking out 5.  The Florida signee pitched in the 88-93 mph range the entire game and consistently baffled the Texas hitters with an 80 mph change up with plus life. 

The Braves scored single runs in the 1st, 2nd and 5th innings to support Magliozzi.  RF Dwight Smith drove home the first run with a single and DH Sam Bragg picked up an Rbi double in the 5th. 
Ripple's Pitching Leaves Mississippi Bats Flat >>

Gm # 580 | 7/5/2010 | 9:00 AM Mississippi Bandits vs. East Cobb Braves 17's

7/5/2010 11:12:45 AM

RHP Ross Ripple of the East Cobb Braves 17's carried a no-hitter into the 7th inning as the Braves advanced to the semifinals with a 4-1 win over the Mississippi Bandits.

Ripple, a 2011 grad, wasn't overpowering as he worked in the low to mid 80's but showed outstanding command, walking no one through 6 innings while striking out 3 Bandits.  He walked the leadoff hitter in the 7th inning and after an infield error, allowed his only hit of the game to Bandits cleanup hitter RF Michael Manley to load the bases.  RHP Bret Marks relieved Ripple and worked out of the jam with 3 strikeouts sandwiched around a walk to pick up the save.

EH Javier Baez provided all the offense that Ripple and the Braves needed, going 3-4 with a triple and home run and driving home 2 runs.
Semi-Final Update >>

7/5/2010 11:04:59 AM

Field #1:   The East Cobb Braves 17's are leading the Texas SunDevils 2-0 while batting in the bottom of the 4th inning.  RHP John Magliozzi is on the mound for East Cobb and throwing very well.

Field #2:  The Florida Bombers lead the Orlando Scorpions 2-1 in the bottom of the 3rd inning and are threatening to score again.


If these scores hold up it would set up a repeat of last year's 18U National Championship game, which the Braves won 11-10.
Winger Leads Scorpions Over the Show >>

Gm # 584 | 7/5/2010 | 9:00 AM Orlando Scorpions 18U vs. San Diego Show

7/5/2010 11:01:38 AM

RHP Brett Winger threw 4 2/3 innings, allowing 2 hits and 2 runs and blasted a 2 run home run in the second inning, leading the Orlando Scorpions past the San Diego Show Monday morning at Kell HS.

Back to back doubles by Scorpions 1B Nick Gallipeau and RF Ben Overman and a single by LF Kyle Barrett accounted for 2 key Scorpion runs in 6th inning, as the scored single runs in the 4th, 5th and 6th innings to keep the game close.
SunDevils Rally Past ABD 7-6 >>

Gm # 583 | 7/5/2010 | 9:00 AM ABD Bulldogs vs. Texas Sundevils

7/5/2010 10:50:53 AM

In a finish that was very similar to the Florida Bombers quarterfinal win over Southeastern Athletics, the Texas SunDevils scored 4 runs in the bottom of the 5th inning to win a time limit shortened 7-6 game over the ABD Bulldogs.

PH Derrian James, CF Jace Statum and SS Gavin Cecchini all had hits in the final inning, leading to a 1st and 3rd/2 outs, down by 1 run scenario with C Jacob Felts at the plate for the SunDevils.  Felts singled solidly to right field off the ABD second baseman's glove  and the throw from the ABD right fielder trying to get the lead runner sailed over the third baseman's head, allowing Cecchini to score the winning run.

Cecchini, a 2012 grad who hits cleanup in the Texas lineup, also had a 2 run double in the first inning.

Bombers Score 3 in 7th to Reach Semifinals >>

Gm # 581 | 7/5/2010 | 9:00 AM Florida Bombers vs. Southeastern Athletics

7/5/2010 10:42:39 AM

The 5-time 18U National Champion Florida Bombers scored 3 times in the bottom of the 7th to pull out a 4-3 victory over the Southeastern Athletics and earn a spot in the championship semifinals.

The Bombers scored first in the 5th inning but the Athletics answered with a tying run in the 6th inning and 2 runs in the top of the 7th inning.  Southeastern C Eason Spivey had hits in both rallies.

The Bombers came out swinging in the bottom of the 7th, though.  With 1 out, C Luke Guarnaccia, SS Chino Vega and CF C.T. Bradford all lashed hard singles to load the bases.  After a shallow fly to leftfield for the second out, RF Dale Carey hit a soft ground ball up the middle that ended up scoring 2 runs and tying the score.  DH Nolan Thomas then followed with a soft fly ball to shallow centerfield that was dropped after confusion between the centerfielder and second baseman, scoring Bradford with the winning run.

Bombers closer Adam Sargent picked up his second win of the playoffs with 2/3's of an inning of work.
Overbay Blasts Dulin Into 2nd Round >>

Gm # 463 | 7/4/2010 | 11:30 AM Dulin Dodgers 18u vs. St. Louis Gamers 18u

7/4/2010 4:18:24 PM

2010 3B Preston Overbay went 3-4 with 2 doubles and a home run, accounting for 5 Rbi's, to lead Dulins Dodgers to a 9-0 win over the St. Louis Gamers in the first round of the playoffs.

Overbay's 2 run home run in the first inning gave 2010 RHP Casey Greene all the runs he would need.  Overbay doubled in the 5th inning to drive in one run, then doubled again in the 6th to plate 2 more runners.

Greene wasn't dominant, allowing 5 hits and walking 3 versus only 1 strikeout but was at his best with men on base.  Greene pitched in the 86-88 mph range and did a good job varying the speed and location on his breaking ball to keep the Gamers off balance.
Hudgens Pitches/Hits Prepstars Over Yankees >>

Gm # 489 | 7/4/2010 | 2:00 PM GBC PREPSTARS vs. East Cobb Yankees

7/4/2010 3:50:40 PM

2010 RHP/OF Brock Hudgens pitched and hit the GBC Prepstars to a3-0 victory over the East Cobb Yankees in the first round of the playoffs Sunday afternoon at Lassiter HS.

The 6-0, 175 lb Hudgens threw a complete game 4 hit shutout, striking out 8 and never allowing more than 1 Yankee to reach base in any one inning.  He pitched between 88 and 91 mph on his fastball with good late life and mixed in a sharp and deceptive low 70's curveball.  Hudgens also batted cleanup for the Prepstars and doubled home a run in the first to give GBC the only run they needed.

The GBC win was even more impressive considering they beat LHP Daniel Norris, the top ranked prospect in the 2011 class.  Norris threw 6 innings, allowing 4 hits and 2 runs while striking out 11.  Norris pitched in the 88-92 mph range and showed plus depth/spin on his curveball at times.
Keller Pitches ABD to 9-1 Playoff Win >>

Gm # 485 | 7/4/2010 | 11:30 AM ABD Bulldogs vs. Kalamazoo Maroons

7/4/2010 1:46:47 PM

ABD 2011 RHP Ryan Keller threw a 5 hit complete game and his ABD Bulldog teammates scored 8 runs in the first 2 innings to lead the Bulldogs to a 9-1 win over the Kalamazoo Maroons in the first round of the playoffs.

Keller pitched in the 87-90 mph range with a 77 mph slider that he spotted effectively.

ABD knocked out 7 hits in the first 2 innings, with LF Travis Harrison clubbing a 2 run double to break the game open.  3B Quincy Quintero and 2B Andre Real, the last 2 hitters in the ABD order, combined for 4 hits and scored 3 runs between them.
Bombers Explode for 11 Runs in 6th Inning >>

Gm # 484 | 7/4/2010 | 11:30 AM Florida Bombers vs. Chain 18 Gold

7/4/2010 1:04:27 PM

The Florida Bombers exploded for 11 runs before Chain Gold could even record an out in the 6th inning of the first round playoff game Sunday, turning a 4-3 deficit into a 14-4 victory.  The Bombers had 9 hits in the inning and also took advantage of 2 walks and a couple of Chain errors.  1B Alex Santana and 3B Tyler Filllben both had 2 hits apiece in the inning.

RHP Adam Sargent threw 4 scoreless innings in relief to get the victory.  Sargent, who throws from a very deceptive low release point but still touches the upper 80's, allowed only 1 hit and struck out 6 hitters.
Friday Perfect Game for Banditos North >>

7/4/2010 12:28:32 PM

Two Houston Banditos North 2010 pitchers combined for a 6 inning perfect game Friday evening in a 8-0 win over the MGBA Braves at Campbell HS.

2010 LHP Ethan Carnes threw the first 3 innings, striking out 3.  He was 84-88 mph on his fastball and had a sharp breaking curveball in the mid 70's.
Carnes was followed by 2010 RHP, Blair Hashagen, who cruised through 9 more hitters, topping out at 84 mph. 
Upstate Mavericks Drop S. Florida Elite 4-0 >>

7/4/2010 12:16:07 PM

The Upstate Mavericks Black defeated the South Florida Elite 18U 4-0 in the first round of the playoffs at the East Cobb Complex Sunday morning.

The Mavericks scored 4 runs in top of the 5th inning despite only 1 hit to account for all the scoring.  CF Blake Ross led off the inning with a walk off SF Elite pitcher Andrew Archer, then two attempts to sacrifice bunt resulted in two errors, the second scoring the first run.  A single by LF Heath Burton scored another run and a sacrifice fly and ground out scored the last 2 runs.

RHP Taylor Britain threw a complete game shutout, allowing 5 hits while striking out 7 Elite hitters.  Britain wasn't overpowering, pitching in the 81-84 mph range, but he had excellent sink on his fastball at times and mixed in a solid change up and curveball.
San Diego Show Advance to Round of 16 >>

Gm # 482 | 7/4/2010 | 11:30 AM San Diego Show vs. Team Elite 17u

7/4/2010 11:57:25 AM

The San Diego Show defeated Team Elite 7-1 in the first round of the playoffs on Field 1 at the East Cobb Complex Sunday afternoon.  They will advance to the round of 16 and face off against the Diamond Devils 18U Black.

The game was a scoreless affair through 4 innings before the Show broke through for 4 runs in the 5th and 3 more in the 6th.  3B Corey Oswalt and SS Corey Black both had run scoring singles in the 5th inning before 2B Hector Lorrenzana delivered a 2-run double.  RF Frank Salas had the big hit in the 6th inning, a run scoring double, and later scored on a single by 1B Andres Enriquez.

RHP Miguel Silva relieved starter RHP Trevor Bayless with 2 on and 2 out in the fourth innings and went on to pitch 2 1/3 scoreless innings to get the win.
6-5 Illinois LHP a Prospect to Watch >>

7/3/2010 6:02:15 PM

Here are the PG scout notes on 6-5, 180 lb St. Louis Pirates LHP Bryant Holtmann, a 2011 grad from Breese Central HS in New Braden, Illinois.
Holtmann threw 2 innings in the Gamers 10-1 win over Gamers Baseball Saturday afternoon.

"FB 85-89, CB 70, Chg 80-82.  Slender body, pretty loose, H 3/4's, on line delivery, extended release, fast arm, some head tilt on release, straight FB with downhill angle, uses straight change alot, around the zone but not spotting, 1/7 CB with good spin and late action, everything is there, could really develop, Hi level D1 or pro prospect."
Follow Up on Nate Irving, Dulins Dodgers 17U >>

7/3/2010 5:40:14 PM

We blogged about Dulins Dodgers C Nate Irving earlier in the day.  Irving played this morning at Walton HS and went 2-4 with an Rbi and more impressively threw out a runner from his knees with a 1.97 pop time.
Taylor Poole Breaks Up No-Hitter >>

7/3/2010 5:36:20 PM

CF Taylor Poole of the Orlando Baseball Academy broke up the Florida Bombers attempt for a third no-hitter of the tournament in the best way possible.  Bombers RHP Shawn Zabriske had thrown 5 no-hit innings to open the game and held a 4-0 lead entering the 6th inning.  After LF Brandon Acquivaina walked leading off the inning, Poole launched a 2 run home run that not only broke up the no-hitter but chased Zabriske as well.

Zabriske and relievers Corey Tufts and Adam Sargent finished with a combined 1-hitter.  The Bombers staff threw no-hitters in the first 2 games of pool play earlier in the week.
White Sox 4th Round Pick Throws for Team Elite >>

7/3/2010 5:21:37 PM

RHP Matthew Grimes, the Chicago White Sox 4th round pick in the June draft, threw 4 innings today for Team Elite in a 2-1 loss to the GBC Prepstars. 

The 6-5, 185 lb Grimes allowed 3 hits and one run in getting a no decision.  He pitched in the 88-90 mph range and topped out at 91.  Both his 74 mph curveball and 77 mph change up were solid secondary pitches, although inconsistent mechanics affected his overall command.

2011 RHP Zac Joyce of the Prepstars overshadowed Grimes in throwing a 2 hit complete game.  The 5-6 Joyce has a deceptively easy delivery that produces a mid 80's fastball and he mixes things up with both a curveball and a true slider.
Ganus Throws 6 1/3 Inning No-Hitter >>

7/3/2010 4:29:29 PM

Florida Surge RHP Josh Ganus (2010) threw a 6 1/3 inning no-hitter against the East Cobb Braves 17's Friday afternoon.  Unfortunately, he started the effort after the first 4 Braves batters all scored to put the Surge down 4-0 by the time Ganus settled down.  After 2009 Aflac All-American C Brandon Stephens, the #6 hitter in the Braves lineup, singled in the last 2 runs, Ganus threw the rest of the game without allowing a hit.  Ganus topped out at 87 mph on his fastball and used his curveball very effectively.

SS/RHP Brady Anderson (2011, DeSoto County HS, FL) countered with a strong game for East Cobb, also throwing a complete game and allowing 6 hits while striking out 8 hitters.  Anderson pitched in the 86-89 mph range and showed a mature 3 pitch mix with a curveball and slider.
Projectable Young RHP's in Saturday Game >>

7/3/2010 4:06:59 PM

Kentucky Baseball Club defeated Blue Chip Bulls 6-3 Saturday afternoon at the East Cobb Complex.  Scouts and college coaches at the complex had the opportunity to watch two young and projectable pitchers start the game.

2011 RHP Taylor Martin started for Kentucky and went the first 5 innings to get the win, allowing 3 runs while striking out 9 hitters.  The 6-4, 175 lb Martin hit 88 mph frequently in the early going before settling down in the mid 80's and flashed plus potential on a 75-78 mph curveball that had hard 11/5 bite at times.  Martin attends Lexington Catholic HS in Kentucky.

2012 RHP Tyler Jackson started for Blue Chip and lasted only 3 1/3 innings, allowing 4 runs.  The 6-5, 180 lb righty showed very similar raw stuff to Martin, topping out at 86 mph with a tight 74 mph curveball and a high leg raise delivery that also matched Martin's mechanics.  Jackson attends Wren HS in South Carolina.

2011 C Nate Irving on Prospect Map >>

7/3/2010 1:40:32 PM

2011 C Nate Irving bats 3rd in the Dulins Dodgers 17U line up.  He's a 6-2, 210 lb athlete from Riverdale County High School in New York, an unusual place for the Tennessee based Dulins team to pick up a young player. 

The PG scout notes on Irving from Dulin's 7-4 win over ABD California were pretty impressive:  "thick strong build, very strong hands, definite strength in his swing, good runner for his size, strong arm, solid receiver, very interesting prospect."
2012 Tennessee RHP Touches 90 mph >>

7/3/2010 1:20:52 PM

Ohio Warhawks 2012 RHP Steven Gant threw the final 2 innings of the Ohio Warhawks 5-0 win over the East Cobb Rays Friday afternoon, allowing 1 hit and striking out 2.  The 6-1, 180 lb right pitched at 87-90 mph with a long, loose arm action and an extended 3/4's release point.  Gant showed flashes of both a  curveball and a slider and also mixed in a few change ups.  He's from Riverside High School in Jackson, Tennessee.
Spano Hits Grand Slam for the Juice >>

7/3/2010 1:13:38 PM

2011 C Josh Spano (Armwood HS, FL) hits clean up in the Chet Lemon's Juice line up and he did exactly that in the Juice's 8-4 win over the Gametime Academy 18U's.  The 6-2, 210 right handed hitter blasted a Grand Slam home run in the top of the 6th inning to turn a tight 4-3 ballgame into a comfortable 8-3 lead.
3B/1B Prospect Alex Santana Throws 91 mph >>

7/3/2010 12:34:36 PM

6-4, 200 lb 2011 prospect Alex Santana has been received plenty of attention from the scouting community recently for his pro profile build and hitting tools.  None of the Perfect Game staff can remember seeing Santana on the mound, however.  He did just that yesterday, though, throwing the final inning of the Florida Bombers 9-0 win over the BigStix Gamers. 

Santana throws from an easy delivery and a 3/4's release point.  His fastball was in the 88-91 mph range with hard running life into right handed hitters and his 74 mph curveball showed pretty good snap and 11/5 shape.  Scouts will be sure to take note of his future mound appearences.
Crownover Posts Shutout....Again >>

7/3/2010 12:27:02 PM

2012 LHP Matthew Crownover has been excelling in WWBA events since he was in 8th grade, so his 7 inning shutout of Team Extreme Friday afternoon wasn't a really unusual achievement.  Crownover had to pitch the entire game as his Astros teammates were only able to score 2 runs themselves.  Crownover allowed 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7 hitters.  He pitched in the 85-88 mph range with an excellent change up and plus command. 
Tyler Ross Impresses for All American Prospects >>

7/3/2010 12:15:07 PM

2010 C Tyler Ross of Barron Collier HS (FL) has had a very impressive tournament for All American Prospects.  He went 3-3 in the Prospects 10-1 win over the Louisiana Knights Friday, driving in 3 runs and showing outstanding raw bat speed.  Ross was a 46th round pick by the Phillies in the June draft but is expected to attend LSU in the fall as part of the Tigers outstanding recruiting class.  Ross will be looking to succeed All-American Micah Gibbs behind the plate and has a very good chance to develop an All-American career himself over the next 3 years.
Flanagan Puts On Display for Bandits >>

7/3/2010 12:07:22 PM

South Florida Bandits National OF Eric Flanagan put on a show  in the Bandits 11-3 win  over the Lake Area Dodgers.  The 6-2, 180 lb 2011 grad went 4-4 with 2 doubles and 3 runs scored out of the leadoff spot.  His scout notes read : "strong swing, quick hands, oppo gap power, stays back well on CB , aggressive and impressive."

Flanagan attends Bergan Catholic HS in New Jersey and is a right handed hitter.
RHP Nate Williams 2011 Pitching Prospect >>

7/3/2010 11:59:17 AM

2011 RHP Nate Williams didn't pitch especially well in the Midwest Wolverines 5-2 loss to Houston Elite on Friday afternoon.  The 6-4, 205 righty allowed 3 runs in 3 innings while walking 4 Elite hitters.  The scouts were sure to take notice, however.  Williams has a power pitcher's build and the quick, compact arm action that scouts like to see.  He topped out at 91 mph and showed some depth to a 74 mph downer curveball.  Williams attends Valley Center High School in Kansas.
East Cobb Yankees Win with 7 in the 7th >>

7/3/2010 8:13:53 AM

The East Cobb Yankees moved their pool play record to 4-0 Friday night by scoring 7 runs in the top of the 7th inning to defeat the East Tennessee Padres 11-7. 

The Yankees offense over the first 6 innings off Padres starter RHP Nick Williams (2010, Farragut HS, TN) mostly consisted of home runs by 3B Chase Butler and DH DeAndre Smelter.  Williams threw in the 88-90 mph range and showed a nice short slider.  But Williams was lifted after 6 innings and the Yankees took advantage of 2 walks, an error and 4 hit batters off 3 Padres relievers to build their rally around only 2 hits.
Trae Davis Up to 96 mph for Texas Sun Devils >>

Gm # 198 | 7/1/2010 | 9:00 AM Texas Sundevils vs. Team Connecticut Baseball

7/3/2010 8:04:58 AM

RHP Trae Davis, a 2010 grad from Mexia (TX) HS, received lots of attention from scouts this spring but his 5-11, 200 lb build and a strong commitment to Baylor prevented him from being drafted in a signing round.  He pitched three innings back on Thursday as a tuneup for an anticipated playoff start for the Texas Sun Devils and struck out 6 hitters in 3 shutout innings of work.  Davis was up to 96 mph on his fastball, similar to the velocity he was touching this spring, and pounded the bottom half of the strike zone consistently.  He will have to develop his slider and change up over the next three years in college baseball but there is no question about his arm strength. 

RHP Carson Baranik, a 2011 grad from Parkway HS in Bossier City, LA, pitched the first 4 innings for the Sun Devils in their 6-1 win over Team Connecticut, pitching between 86 and 90 on his fastball and showing a very good 75 mph curveball.
Reminder to All Teams RE: Consolation Games >>

7/3/2010 7:57:19 AM

All coaches were given specific instructions on how to contact the PG staff via text or email if they wanted to play a consolation game on Sunday.  Teams that do not contact the PG staff via this method will not be assigned games.  Please Do Not talk to the PG field scouts or the PG staff in the tower about your team's intentions regarding consolation games.

Thank you for your cooperation in scheduling this part of the tournament!
Playoff Note >>

7/3/2010 7:44:39 AM

The original schedule for the 18U had the 32 team playoffs beginning on Saturday night and the tournament ending with the semifinals and championship game on Monday morning.

The rains yesterday have forced adjustments to that scenario.  All games played today (Saturday) will be pool play games and the playoffs will not start until Sunday morning.  Because of this, the quarterfinals, semifinals and championship game will all be played on Monday.
The Blogs Return! >>

7/3/2010 7:34:49 AM

Many apologies about the lack of blogs on Friday.  When it rains like it did yesterday, all bets are off on some things.  All manpower goes into the basics of rescheduling games, the logistics of moving fields, equipment and personel around, etc.  Game sheets don't make it back to the tower in a timely manner and, of course, many games aren't even played.  We will try to get caught up today along with getting all the wraps up to speed as well.

The good news is that the forecast is completely clean for the next few days.  Yesterday's weather pattern was one of the strangest we've seen in many, many years of July's in Marietta; the weather came from the east and swirlled around slowly instead of moving through quickly from west to east as most weather does here.  Fortunately it was isolated enough that a half dozen fields in both the northern and southern portions of the playing area were essentially dry all day.
Burnette Leads Team Elite 17U To Victory >>

Gm # 351 | 7/2/2010 | 7:00 PM Team Elite 17u vs. Upstate Mavericks 18U Orange

7/2/2010 8:22:34 PM

RHP Jake Burnette (2011, Buford HS, GA) threw five strong innings in helping lead Team Elite 17U to a 5-1 victory over the Upstate Mavericks on Friday evening.  Burnette is very projectable at 6-4, 160 lb and touched 90 with his fastball while also flashing a quality changeup.

Offensively several players stuck out for Team Elite including OF Heath Holder (2011, Loganville HS, GA), SS Danny Lockhart (2011, Hebron HS, GA) and 2B Will Maddox. (2011, Gainesville HS, GA)
Scott Hagan Continues Hot Hitting for Clippers >>

7/2/2010 12:34:37 PM

We blogged about World Yacht Clippers OF Scott Hagan earlier in the tournament and he continues to impress the scouts.  Hagan, a 2011 6-3, 170 lb right handed hitting outfielder from Mamaroneck HS in New York, went 2-3 with a couple of runs scored and Rbi's in the Clippers 8-6 loss to the Houston Elite on Thursday.

The scout notes on Hagan read:  "solid hitter, bat really works, has some strength, good overall approach, plus arm from RF."
Cedar Crest HS (PA) Boasts Two Prospects >>

7/2/2010 12:00:56 PM

Two teammates from Cedar Crest High School in Lebanon, PA, stood out as prospects for Elite Baseball Black in their 11-1 win over the SARTA Reds Thursday evening at Campbell High School.

2011 OF Derek Fisher is a 6-3, 205 left handed hitter.  He went 2-2 with a walk, including a long home run.  The PG scouting notes on Fisher read:  "lean projectable athletic build, slightly open stance, good bat speed, somewhat long swing, no doubt HR to deep RCF, jumped off the bat hard, later singled 94 mph off the bat."

The starting pitcher for Elite was a 2012 right hander from the same school, Dan Black.  The 6-4, 190 lb Black threw 4 innings of 1 hit ball, striking out 4, while topping out at 85 mph from a smooth and easy delivery and arm action.  He throws both a slider and change up as secondary pitches.
Stuckey Heats Up In Jams For Dawgs >>

7/2/2010 11:49:29 AM

2011 RHP Jerry Stuckey threw 5 innings Thursday afternoon for the Homeplate Chilidawgs in their 7-1 win over the Orlando Reds.  The 6-1, 165 Stuckey (home schooled, Perry, GA) regularly threw in the 85-88 mph range but the couple of times he got in jams with runners in scoring position he bumped up his fastball to 90 mph and stayed down in the zone consistently.  Stuckey throws a split finger change up as his off speed pitch and will need to develop a breaking ball for the next level.
Buxton Clears Bases for Round Trip Win >>

7/2/2010 11:42:25 AM

2012 OF Bryan Buxton hit a one-out bases loaded double in the bottom of the 7th inning and Round Trip Baseball overcame a 4-0 deficit in their last at bat to beat Jays Baseball 5-4.

As has been the theme in virtually every large comeback in the tournament, the rally begun innocently enough with a walk.  CF Zac Freeman had the first big hit of the inning, another bases loaded double that plated 2 runs and set the stage, after another walk, for Buxton game winning hit.

The Round Trip Baseball starting pitcher is a prospect to follow.  Michael Peel is a 6-5, 200 lb right hander from Claxton (GA) HS and a member of the 2012 class.  Peed threw 5 innings of 3 hit baseball, featuring a 84-86 mph fastball and a mid 70's slurve type breaking ball.
Sweeting Starts and Relieves for SF Bandits >>

7/2/2010 9:48:10 AM

You rarely see this happen at any level, so it's worth noting.

RHP David Sweeting was the starting pitcher for the South Florida Bandits West team in their game Thursday afternoon against the Midwest Wolverines.  He pitched the first two innings, allowing 2 hits and a run, then was relieved at the start of the 3rd inning of a 1-1 ball game.

After the Bandits fell behind 4-2, Sweeting came back off the bench to reenter the game at the beginning of the 5th inning.  He threw harder than he did in his first trip to the mound, bumping his velo from 80 to 82 mph but replicated his first performance, allowing 1 run in 2 more innings of work.

The Bandits ended up losing 5-3.
Big 2011 Alabama Heat Prospects >>

7/2/2010 9:22:44 AM

Two 2011 Alabama Heat prospects stood out for their size and for their talent in the Heat's 5-3 loss to the South Florida Bandits National Thursday afternoon.

6-2, 215 RHP Jake Hester (Thompson HS, Alabaster, AL) has a power pitcher's build and a power pitcher's arm.  He threw up to 90 mph with a 78 mph slider through 4 innings of work.  Hester's mechanics are still raw and he was hurt by 4 walks and 3 hit batters.

6-3, 210 1B Austin Braddock (Heritage HS, Columbus, MS) hit in the cleanup spot for the Heat and went 2-3 at the plate with a double off the RCF fence.  The right handed hitter has a loose easy swing with very good bat speed and plenty of power projection.
Orlando Scorpions Bring the Big Bats >>

7/2/2010 8:56:05 AM

The Orlando Scorpions brought the big bats to their Thursday afternoon game at Sprayberry HS but had to fight hard to post a 14-8 win over Waves Baseball.  Orlando scored 10 runs in the first inning and led 11-0 after three frames and were looking at a short run rule win until Waves came back to score 3 runs in the 4th and post a 5 spot in the 5th.

XH Nick Gallipeau, the Scorpions cleanup hitter, had the first multiple home run game of the tournament, blasting 2 home runs and driving in three runs.  One of his home runs was estimated at 400+ feet to left centerfield by the Perfect Game scout at the field.

SS Austin Anderson, the Scorpions leadoff hitter, arguably had an even better day than Gallipeau.  Anderson led off the game with a triple and scored Orlando's first run, then capped off the inning with a bases clearing Grand Slam.  Anderson later added a sacrifice fly for a 5th Rbi.
Missouri Recruit Smith Throws Very Well >>

7/2/2010 8:41:38 AM

RHP Myles Smith of the NFWB Cobras threw a complete game 4 hitter in a 4-3 win over the East Cobb Astros 17's.  Smith, a 2010 Missouri signee, allowed 3 unearned runs in the 5th inning but otherwised cruised.  He showed his best raw stuff in the 7th inning, topping out at 91 mph and striking out the 2 of the final 3 hitters.

Smith participated in the 2009 PG National Showcase as a primary shortstop but is was evident to the PG staff at that point that the Detroit native had a brighter future on the mound.
DeAndre Smelter Makes 1st Appearence >>

7/2/2010 8:26:51 AM

Aflac All-American DeAndre Smelter made his first appearence at the event, pitching an inning of relief in the East Cobb Yankees 1-0 win over Pro Player Academy Thursday afternoon at Lassiter HS.  Smelter looked a bit rusty with his command but was mostly 90-92 with his fastball.

2011 RHP Ben Lumsden (Hilgrove HS, Dallas, GA) closed for the Yankees for the second time in the tournament.  The 6-2 righty throws a very heavy 88 mph fastball and has plenty of projection. 

2011 LHP Wes Benjamin (St. Charles East HS, Carpentersville, IL) threw a gem for Pro Player Academy, allowing only 2 hits and an unearned run in the loss.  The 6-2 southpaw pitched in the 85-88 mph range with his fastball and used a sharp 80 mph slider as his out pitch.
Patriots Bats Explode For 12-1 Victory. >>

Gm # 231 | 7/1/2010 | 11:30 AM Central Alabama Titans vs. East Cobb Patriots 18

7/1/2010 7:54:15 PM

The East Cobb Patriots bats came alive once again as they knocked off the Central Alabama Titans 12-1 on Thursday afternoon.  C Jared Welch (2010, Alpharetta HS, GA), OF Christian Van Camp (2010, Creekview HS, GA) and Evan Mitchell (2010, Wheeler HS, GA) all had two hits on the day.

 

Starter RHP Adam Moore (2010, Dominion Christian HS, GA) was up to 86 and went four innings, allowing no earned runs and only two hits.

 

Titans RHP Cameron Carleton (2011, Dadesville HS, AL) touched 88 with a potential above average changeup.

Five-Run First Leads ABD To Victory >>

Gm # 277 | 7/1/2010 | 4:30 PM ABD Bulldogs vs. Jacksonville Marlins

7/1/2010 7:44:21 PM

The first five hitters of the day scored for the ABD Bulldogs as they would hold off the Jacksonville Marlins 5-2 on Thursday afternoon.  1B Rouric Bridgewater’s (2011, Diamond Ranch HS, CA) bases-clearing double in the first pushed the Bulldogs lead to 5-1 as they would relay on their pitching staff to secure the victory. 

 

Starter RHP Ryan Keller (2011, West Ranch HS, CA) flashed a fastball in the 87-91 range with a tight 10-4 breaking ball.  In relief, RHP Matthew Troupe (2011, Granada Hills HS, CA) flashed three potential MLB pitches including a fastball that topped out at 90.

Ohio Warhawks vs Mass Pride >>

Gm # 255 | 7/1/2010 | 2:00 PM Ohio Warhawks vs. Mass Pride 18U

7/1/2010 7:23:50 PM

The Ohio Warhawks used strong pitching performances from right-handers Josh King (2010, Troup HS, GA) and Jessie Scott (2009, Warner Robbins, GA) to knock off Mass Pride 18U 4-1 on Thursday afternoon.  The two pitchers combined on a three-hitter with 11 strikeouts and 4 walks, while both pitchers touched 88 with their fastballs.
Team Elite 17U RHP Josh Heddinger >>

7/1/2010 6:14:27 PM

Team Elite 17U RHP Josh Heddinger (2011, Buford HS, Suwanee, GA) threw 5 1/3 innings this morning against the Cincinnati Riverbats in a 4-3 Team Elite victory.  The 6-5, 220 lb Heddinger, who also pitched at the PG National Showcase two weeks ago, struck out 8 hitters while allowing only 4 hits. 

Heddinger's size is an eye catcher for scouts, as is his upper 80's fastball that touched 90 mph frequently in the first couple of innings.  Heddinger has a very smooth delivery and a low effort downhill release out front.  His curveball still needs some developing but it's easy to project him to gain plenty of velocity as he matures over the next few years.
2012 Tampa Bay Warriors RHP Jason Carmichael >>

7/1/2010 6:00:13 PM

We saw Mariner HS (Cape Coral, FL) 2012 RHP Jason Carmichael pitch in mid-June at the Perfect Game Junior National Showcase at Tropicana Field and had him pegged immediately as one of the top young pitchers in the 2012 class.  The 6-3, 170 lb Carmichael is very athletic and very loose and should be nowhere close to reaching his physical peak. 

Carmichael threw anywhere from 85 to 91 mph in the Warriors 3-2 win over the East Cobb Indians.  He throws a sharp mid to upper 70's curveball that will flash hard spin and deep bite and is working on a change up.
Hermann, Amad Are Gametime Prospects >>

7/1/2010 5:13:28 PM

Two 2011 players from Gametime Academy and Jacksonville, Florida showed their prospect tools Thursday afternoon at Lassiter HS during an 8-1 win over the Fungo Red Sox.

LHP Spencer Hermann (Mandarin HS) struck out 8 in 5 2/3 innings of work, allowing only 2 hits.  The 6-4, 200 lb southpaw pitched in the 85-87 mph range and flashed a plus 77-79 mph slider at times, along with a workable curveball and change up.  Hermann has good mechanics that he repeats very well and has a good feel for moving his pitches around the strike zone.

SS Christian Amad (Trinity Christian HS) went 2-3 with 4 stolen bases and scored 2 runs out of his leadoff spot.  Amad has good strength in his 6-0, 185 lb frame and shows soft hands and good range in the field along with his baserunning speed.
Atlanta BJ's Whatley Shows 2-Way Prospect Tools >>

7/1/2010 4:07:11 PM

3B/RHP Darren Whatley showed prospect tools on both sides of the ball during the Atlanta Blue Jays 6-4 win over the Michigan Diamonds Thursday morning at Centennial HS.

The 6-4, 220 lb Whatley is a right handed hitter from Bibb County High School in Centreville, Alabama and is in the 2011 class.  He went 2-2 at the plate with a double and scored a couple of runs.  The game notes from the Perfect Game scout at the field said among other things "smooth swing, good bat speed, has pop, relaxed in the box, good balance on CB's.  Gets great jumps on ground balls, shows range.  Intense player/gamer."

Whatley came in to relieve starter Vincent Jackson to start the 6th and final inning and retired the side without incident to get the save.  He showed a loose, whippy arm and a 87-89 mph fastball with good running action.
James Steals Win for Baseball Scoutz Gold >>

7/1/2010 3:55:25 PM

Baseball Scoutz Gold overcame a 7-5 deficit in the bottom of the 7th inning in spectacular fashion to defeat Edge Baseball 8-7.

The rally begun as rally's usually do, with a walk to EH R.J. Dennard.  LF Logan Jones followed with a single and both runners advanced on a wild pitch before a strike out.  3B Casey James then singled in both runners to tie the score.

James then took matters into his own hands.  He stole second base and advanced to third base when the catcher's throw went into centerfield.  After another hitter went down swinging for the second out, James stole home for the winning run.

Chet Lemon's Juice Moves to 3-0 >>

7/1/2010 3:17:40 PM

It's hard to slip under the radar as a former champion of a event (in this case, in 2007) but Chet Lemon's Juice seems to frequently do that.  Their teams rarely feature Aflac All-American candidates or numerous future top round draft choices but they always play hard and win often.  It looks like this year is no exception.

The Juice moved to 3-0 this morning with a 9-0 win over the South Florida Bandits Central team.  2011 RHP Kuehl McEachern threw 5 1-hit innings, striking out 4 hitters, to get the win on the mound.  The 6-3, 160 lb McEachern, who is listed as a primary outfielder on the roster, looked like a talented young pitching prospect, as he topped out at 88 mph with a big breaking curveball and threw quality strikes. 

LF Chris Newcomb (2010) continued his hot hitting in the #3 hole for the Juice.  Newcomb is 5-5 with a sacrifice fly over the past 2 days. 
RHP Pete Nagel, Round Trip Baseball >>

7/1/2010 3:00:29 PM

2011 RHP Pete Nagel is a promising young right hander from Metter (GA) HS who is pitching for Round Trip Baseball 11's.  He threw in the 85-90 mph range for 5 innings with an 80 mph slider that showed some bite and 82 mph change up that was a bit firm.  Nagel, who is 6-3, 215, has committed to the University of Georgia.
Luke Weaver Sharp for Chet Lemon's Juice >>

7/1/2010 2:53:24 PM

Deland (FL) High School RHP Luke Weaver threw very well at the PG National Showcase in Tampa 2 weeks ago.  The  Central Florida commit touched 92 mph on his fastball and showed a potential plus change up.

Weaver didn't show quite the same type of velocity while throwing 5 scoreless innings for Chet Lemons Juice in a 6-2 win over the St. Louis Gamers Gray but he did everything else just as well.  The 6-2, 170 lb right hander pitched  at 86-88 mph with very good late life on his fastball and again showed the very nice change up in the 76-78 mph range while throwing strikes with both pitches.  The one thing that Weaver still needs to work on is tightning up his curveball, which is definitely his third best pitch at this time.
Young Arms on Display at South Cobb HS >>

7/1/2010 2:47:23 PM

A couple of promising young arms were on display out of the bullpen Wednesday afternoon at South Cobb HS.

2011 LHP Jared Brown (Salem HS, Conyers, GA) went 3 scoreless innings to get the save in a 5-0 win by the Homeplate Chilidawgs 17's over the Blue Chip Bulls.  He is a 6-1, 175 lb southpaw with sound pitching mechanics and a 86-87 mph fastball that looks like it should keep improving.

2012 RHP Tyler Jackson is a 6-5, 180 lb prospect from Wren HS in Piedmont, South Carolina.  He threw 2 scoreless innings for the Bulls and pitched in the 84-87 mph range and also looks like he's going to keep improving as he gets stronger.
Team Connecticut Blue Jays Move to 3-0 >>

7/1/2010 1:28:14 PM

The Team Connecticut Blue Jays moved to 3-0 Thursday morning with a 9-1 win over the East Cobb Cardinals at Kell HS.

2011 1B Gus Constantino (Oxford (CT) HS) had a big day for the Blue Jays.  After walking and scoring in the first inning, the left handed hitter blasted a 3 run home run in the third inning and a run scoring double in the fifth inning. 

2011 RHP Michael Delalio threw a 2-hitter with 6 strikeouts to get the win.
Javier Baez Goes Yard for EC Braves 17's >>

7/1/2010 12:23:29 PM

2011 SS/3B Javier Baez has been one of the fastest rising prospects in the 2011 class over the last month.  Previously unheralded out of Jacksonville, FL, the 6-0, 200 lb Baez stood out at both the PG Invitational in early June and then at the PG National at Tropicana Field.  He has a nice combination of bat speed, strength and overall athleticism and shows very good instincts for the game. 

Baez hit an opposite field home run in the East Cobb Braves 17's 13-1 victory over the Chattanooga Cherokees.

Tyler Greene had 2 doubles for the Braves.
Bombers No-Hit Streak Ends But Win Streak Still On >>

7/1/2010 12:10:15 PM

The Florida Bombers moved their record to 3-0 in pool play with a convincing 10-1 run rule win over a talented Dallas Panthers team Thursday morning.  The Bombers scored 5 runs in the first inning to put the momentum firmly in their favor and coasted from there.

One streak that did end was the no-hit streak that the Bombers pitching staff had accumulated over the first two games of the tournament.  Panthers SS Roughed Odor singled as the second batter of the game and the Panthers collected 4 hits total.

2010 OF Dale Carey led the Bombers offense from his #3 spot in the lineup.  He was hit by a pitch in the first inning and scored a run, but came up in the second inning and launched a big solo home run.  Carey later cleared the bases with a double to account for the final margin.

The early lead gave the Bombers a chance to go deep into their pitching staff as they threw 5 different pitchers in the 5 inning game.  Starter Ben Lively, a 2010 right hander, threw the first 3 innings, pitching in the 86-90 mph range with a 73 mph curveball.
Moreno Leads Cardinals Over Storm >>

7/1/2010 11:55:47 AM

2011 RHP Dominic Moreno threw a complete game 5 hitter to lead the Strike Zone Cardinals to a 7-1 win over the Freshwater Storm Thursday morning at the Weber School Field.

The 5-11 Moreno is from Farmington, New Mexico, as is about half of the Strike Zone roster.  He pitched in the 84-87 mph range for the entire game and sometimes dropped down sidearm at 82-83 mph with great effect to right handed hitters.  Moreno's low 70's curveball was also a nice pitch that he commanded well.
Saturday Schedule Update >>

7/1/2010 9:32:35 AM

There are a number of "TBA" game locations on the official schedule for Saturday.  Below is where those games will be played.

Gm         TIME                      VISITOR                                HOME                                     LOCATION                                 POOL

407         9AM                  Rangers Baseball              Columbus Explorers              Alpharetta Legion Fld              Q

433         9AM                  Jacksonville Warriors         Nationals                            Wheeler HS                           BB

432         11:30AM            Kali Baseball                    St. Louis Gamers Blue            Alpharetta Legion Fld              D

476         11:30AM            Cape Coast Canes           Mass Pride                            Wheeler HS                           K

457         2PM                  World of Baseball             PBI Eagles                             Alpharetta Legion Fld              D

458         2PM                  S FL Bandits – 2010s        Kalamazoo Maroons                 Wheeler HS                           G

Tyler Wilson Fits the Closer Role Well >>

7/1/2010 8:37:54 AM

RHP Tyler Wilson (2010, Dorman HS, SC) is serving as the closer for the Mavericks and came in to finish his team's 4-1 win over the East Cobb Mets on Wednesday.  Wilson throws from a low 3/4's release point with a long extended arm action and is very intimidating to right handed hitters.  He pitched at 89-91 mph yesterday with a mid to upper 70's curveball.  The PG scout noted that one of the keys to Wilson's intimidation is that it doesn't look quite like Wilson knows where the ball is going at all times....but he throws enough strikes to get the outs.
Vigliarolo Continues to Swing Hot Bat >>

7/1/2010 8:18:23 AM

South Florida Bandits National 1B Mike Vigliarolo had a huge 2-run double in the Bandits 3-2 win on Tuesday and followed that up Wednesday with a 3-4 performance that included 2 more doubles and a couple of Rbi's.  Vigliarolo is an extra strong 6-1, 220 lb right handed hitter from the 2011 class who lives in New York but attends North Broward Prep in Florida.
Big Leo Benjamin Goes Big Fly >>

7/1/2010 8:12:36 AM

Florida Mustangs 18U 1B/C Leo Benjamin is one of the bigger and stronger players at the event.  The 6-3, 250 right handed hitter, a 2011 grad from Tate HS in Florida came up big for the Mustangs in their 4-2 win over the Northeast Rays Wednesday afternoon at Centennial HS.  Benjamin blasted a long 2-run home run in the bottom of the 6th inning to break a 2-2 tie and give the Mustangs their final margin.
Spanberger Spells Relief for St. Louis Pirates >>

7/1/2010 8:04:00 AM

It's not often a reliever gets noted in the Blogs but RHP Cody Spanberger's performance for the St. Louis Pirates-Delunas went beyond the normal reliever's role.

Spanberger, a 6-3, 190 lb 2011 grad Granite City, Illinois, came into the game in the first inning with only one out after Team Elite 17U had already scored 5 runs off the Pirates starting pitcher.  Spanberger got out of that jam with a K and a weak ground out, then went on to throw a 3 hit shutout over the next 6 innings, striking out 7 hitters.  Spanberger pitched in the mid 80's with a nice low to mid 70's curveball and was in complete command the whole way.
OTC's Reese No-Hits South Florida Titans >>

7/1/2010 7:29:48 AM

2010 RHP Monte Reese (Miller Grove HS, Stone Mountain, GA) threw a complete game 6 inning no-hitter Wednesday morning in OTC Baseball 18U's 11-1 win over the the South Florida Titans.  The 6-1, 175 lb Reese used a very live 86-88 mph fastball and hard breaking 12/6 downer curveball to overmatch the Titans hitters.  Reese's command momentarily left him in the 3rd inning when he walked four hitters to force in a run but otherwise was in complete control the whole way.

RF Trey Nelson and 2B Cody Powell provided more than enough offense for Reese.  Nelson went 3-4 with 4 Rbi's, including 2 triples, while Powell went 3-3 with a home run and a double accounting for 2 Rbi's.
1B Gabe Craven Puts on Power Display >>

7/1/2010 7:23:00 AM

Diamond Devils Blue 1B Gabe Craven (2011, Summerville (SC) HS) put on a power display Wednesday morning at Blessed Trinity HS that left an impression on the Perfect Game scout at the field, even though the Diamond Devils lost an 8-5 decision to the East Cobb Angels.

Craven, a 6-2, 205 lb left handed hitter who bats cleannup for the Diamond Devils, went 3-4 with a double and monster 2-run home run.  The PG scout notes on the performance read:  "big athletic body, LHH'er, quick bat, grips and rips, ball jumps off the barrell, + bat speed, power potential unlimited."
ACPB Trio Throws No-Hitter >>

7/1/2010 7:16:23 AM

Three ACPB Stars right handed pitchers combined for a no-hitter Wednesday afternoon at Marietta HS in a 3-0 ACPB win over the East Cobb Cubs 17's.

Starter Matt Houston threw the first 4 innings, striking out 6 but also walking 4 hitters.  CF Michael Gill came in for a quick 5th inning, striking out the side with his Luis Tiant delivery, mid 80's fastball and sweeping curveball.  Cody Shelton, who started the game at second base, finished up the final two innings in clean fashion to complete the masterpiece.

Shelton drove in 2 runs and Gill had two hits to lead the Stars offense as well.
Zane Evans Running Up Doubles >>

7/1/2010 7:09:01 AM

East Cobb Yankees C/1B Zane Evans is one of the hottest hitters in the tournament after 2 games.  The Georgia Tech commit is 5-6 in two Yankees victories with 6 Rbi's.  Most impressively, 4 of Evans' 5 hits have been doubles, including 2 in the Yankees 6-0 victory over the Florida Pokers White Wednesday evening.  Evans went 3-3 with 3 Rbi's and 3 runs scored to have a hand in all his team's scoring.

Yankees CF Andrew Toles when 2-3 for the second consecutive game and scored 2 runs from his leadoff spot.

It will be interesting to see how the Yankees use 2009 Aflac All-American RHP DeAndre Smelter.  Smelter has just played EH/DH the first two games and hasn't pitched yet.  East Cobb will most likely give him a short tune up outing today or tomorrow while saving him for an anticipated playoff start.
Defending Champs Move to 2-0 >>

7/1/2010 7:00:07 AM

The East Cobb Braves 17U's moved their record to 2-0 Wednesday evening with a 9-1 run rule victory over the BMP Black.  Two of the team's top prospects where at the top of their games, which bodes well for the Braves chances of advancing far into the playoffs again.

2011 RHP John Magliozzi, a Florida commitment, threw the first 4 innings for the Braves, allowing the BMP run while striking out 7 hitters.  The 5-10 righty pitched in the 90-94 mph range with a sharper curveball than he showed at the recent PG National Showcase.  Magliozzi's change up, which is usually his best secondary pitch, wasn't as sharp as normal and one was knocked off the top of the left field fence to account for the BMP run.

2011 OF Dwight Smith, one of the top left handed hitters in the country, gave East Cobb an 2-0 first run lead with a towering home run down the right field line.  He narrowly missed adding a second home run in the 2nd inning, driving a ball off the top of the centerfield fence next to the 385 ft sign that ended up as a 2-run triple.
U. Iowa Commit Throws Well >>

7/1/2010 6:52:04 AM

The University of Iowa baseball program, runner ups in the Big 10 this spring, is followed closely by the Perfect Game Staff.  Not only are the Hawkeyes the only D1 program in the state, the school is located about a half hour down the Interstate from the PG office.

One of their 2011 verbal commitments, LHP Sasha Kuebel from St. Louis University HS, threw outstanding Wednesday afternoon for the St. Louis Gamers Blue in their 1-1 tie with the East Cobb Braves.  The 6-1, 195 lb southpaw notched a complete game 5 hitter, striking out 10 Braves while not issuing a walk.  Kuebel worked in the 85-88 mph range with his fastball, showing excellent movement and command, and mixed in a low 70's breaking ball effectively.
ABD Youngsters Excel Again >>

7/1/2010 6:20:59 AM

The final game at the WWBA World Championships in Jupiter last October featured two teams from the ABD Bulldogs program in California in the finals.  The surprise team, of course, was the younger team of underclassmen.

While it's still way to early to anticipate a repeat of that scenario, it's worth noting that the ABD California team, comprised of the better underclassman in the program, are performing way better than the senior team.   The junior team is 2-0 thus far but the senior team is only 1-0-1 with a 2-2 tie and 6-3 win and hasn't played especially well.  The junior team has thumped two opponents by a combined margin of 24-2 on the other hand.

We blogged early yesterday about ABD California C/OF Colin Yelich, the 2012 brother of Marlins 1st round pick Christian Yelich.  The younger Yelilch went 1-1 with 3 walks yesterday and is now 4-4 with 4 walks in the tournament.  The team's best hitter, however, has been 1B R.J. Ybarra, who was 3-4 on Wednesday after a similar showing on Tuesday.  ABD California received a strong pitching performance from 2012 LHP Thomas Galuchie yesterday, who went the full 7 innings, allowing 7 hits and the single run.
Florida Bombers Rack Up Second No-Hitter >>

6/30/2010 6:36:24 PM

The Florida Bombers are now 2-0 in pool play but more impressively have not allowed a single hit in 14 innings of play.  Four Bomber pitchers combined to shut down the Taconic Rangers in a 5-1 win Wednesday afternoon at Sprayberry HS. 

RHP Sean Hurley pitched the first 1 1/3 innings before handing the ball off to RHP Dillon Maya for another 2 2/3 innings.  LHP Will Solomon pitched the 5th and 6th innings, continuing the no-hitter but issuing a couple of walks that led to the single Taconic run.  Just as he had done the day before, closer Adam Sargent finished up the no-hitter with a perfect 7th inning, striking out the side with an 88 mph FB and big sweeping slider.
Inghram Gem Ends in 0-0 Tie >>

6/30/2010 6:25:09 PM

Richmond Braves 2011 RHP Jason Inghram threw one of the most dominant games in recent WWBA history but only received a no-decision for his efforts, as the Braves couldn't muster a run against 2 Chain Baseball White pitchers in a 0-0 tie.

Inghram threw a complete game 1-hitter and struck out 16 hitters without walking a hitter.  The 6-2 southpaw wasn't overpowering with his raw stuff, pitching in the 81-84 mph range with a good curveball, but painted the corners at will.  He struck out the side in four different innings and only allowed a first inning double to Chain DH Jabari Gayle.  Inghram inexplicably didn't strike out anyone in the 6th inning while facing the bottom of the Chain batting order.
Cape Coast Wins on 3 Run Walk Off Pinch Hit HR >>

6/30/2010 5:45:06 PM

The Cape Coast Canes defeated the East Cobb Rays 9-8 Wednesday morning on what probably was the most dramatic single swing of the tournament thus far. 

The Rays had scored 6 runs in the top of the 6th inning to take a commanding 8-3 lead but the Canes scored 3 runs in the bottom of the 6th to bring the score to 8-6.  With one out, the Canes put two runners on base on a single and a hit by pitch.  Cape Coast then sent up primary RHP Nick Gonzalez up as a pinch hitter for 3B Mike Olavarioa.  Gonzalez responded with a 3 run walk off pinch home run to give the Canes a 9-8 come from behind victory.
Moore Means Less For EC Patriots Hitters >>

6/30/2010 5:25:01 PM

6-4-3 DP Cougars 18U RHP Stephen Moore faced 2 batters over the minimum in 4-0 complete game shutout win over the East Cobb Patriots Wednesday afternoon at Alpharetta HS.  The 6-2, 180 lb Moore (2010), who is a primary shortstop, allowed a leadoff single in the second inning, hit a batter in the third and issued his only walk (later erased stealing) in the sixth.  Moore struck out 10 hitters while pounding the strike zone with a mid 80's fastball and low 70's curveball.  He struck out the side on 9 straight strikes in the first inning to set the pace for the game.
Middle of the Order Powers Bandits >>

6/30/2010 4:57:50 PM

The middle of the Mississippi Bandits batting order provided the power in a 9-1 win over the South Florida Elite Red Wednesday morning at Kennesaw Mountain HS.

2B Marc McMillian sluggled 2 doubles from his #3 spot in the order, driving in 2 runs and scoring twice.  Cleanup hitter CF Chase Reeves one upped McMillian, slamming a 2 run home run and also scoring and driving 2 runs apiece.  #5 hitter C Hunter Renfroe trumped them both, clobbering a 3 run home run.  The trio accounted for 7 of the team's 9 runs with their extra base hits.
2 Out/Bottom 7th Triple Salvages Tie >>

6/30/2010 4:40:25 PM

Strike Zone Cardinals 1B Damion Lovato stroked a 2 out triple in the bottom of the 7th inning  to score RF Shane Wootson and give the Cardinals a dramatic 3-3 tie with the Southeastern Athletics 17's in a Wednesday afternoon matchup.  Lovato's drive hit near the top of the fence on East Cobb Field 2, narrowly missing an even more dramatic 2 run walk off home run finish. 

Strike Zone had been battling back all game after the Athletics first three hitters in the top of the first inning reached base and scored.  Cardinals RHP Andrew Castillo settled down after that rough start and only allowed one more hit the rest of the way en route to a complete game 3 hitter.
Rief Rises Up for Nelson Baseball School >>

6/30/2010 4:14:15 PM

2011 CF Andy Rief hit out of the #9 hole for Nelson Baseball School but the local Lassiter HS product might hit higher in future games.  Rief went 3-3 with a double and 4 Rbi's in Nelson's 8-0 win over Waves Baseball Wednesday afternoon at Walton High School.  Rief also pitched a perfect 7th inning, striking out 2 hitters.

2010 RHP Will Dietrichs threw the first 5 innings for Nelson, allowing only 1 hit and striking out 5 while pitching with a mid 80's fastball.
Follow Up on 1 Hour Game Wednesday Morning >>

6/30/2010 3:48:17 PM

The One Hour Game blogged about earlier this morning, an 8-0 win for Team Elite over the Louisiana Knights, had a couple of interesting sub-plots.

The starting and losing pitcher for the Knights was 2010 RHP Randy LeBlanc, the 16th round draft pick of the Florida Marlins.  LeBlanc received some top 5 round attention during the spring when he was touching 94 mph.  He wasn't at the top of his game this morning, allowing 8 runs in 3 1/3 innings, although he did touch 90 mph with his fastball.

The winning pitcher, 2010 RHP Carl Allen, faced one batter over the minimum in throwing a 3 hit shutout.  He pitched aggressively with a low 80's sinker and worked quickly and ahead in the count...obviously.

Team Elite 1B Grant Earls gave his team all the runs they needed with a 2 out 3-run home run in the bottom of the first inning.
Pike has Hardballers Fishing for Curveballs >>

6/30/2010 3:26:06 PM

Syracuse Strike Zone Chiefs RHP Chris Pike had his way with the Florida Hardballers, striking out 13 hitters without issuing a walk in a complete game 5 hit 4-0 win.  The 5-10 Pike, a 2010 grad, was up to 87 mph with his fastball but his out pitch was a hard biting 74 mph curveball that he did an outstanding job spotting in the strike zone.  Pike struck out 10 hitters over the first 4 innings and registred a K in every frame.
McLaughlin Dominates in EC Titans Victory >>

6/30/2010 3:16:53 PM

2012 RHP/OF Sean McLaughlin (Northview HS, GA) dominated on both sides of the ball in the East Cobb Titans 16U's 6-1 win over Roundtrip Baseball 11's.  The 5-10 McLaughlin threw a 7 inning complete game, allowing only 3 hits while striking out 7 hitters.  He pitched in the 85-88 mph range with an effortless delivery and arm action and good feel for a change up.  A solo home run by Roundtrip CF Zac Freeman ruined the shutout in the 4th inning.

Hitting out of the leadoff spot, McLaughlin went 3-4 with 3 singles and scored the game's first run.
Yelich Follows in Brother's Footsteps >>

6/30/2010 3:07:56 PM

Former ABD Bulldogs 1B and cleanup hitter Christian Yelich was one of the hottest high school prospects in the country this spring playing for Westlake High School.  The Florida Marlins thought enough of the power hitting left handed hitter to pick him with the 23rd overall pick in the first round.

It looks like ABD will have another Yelich in the batting order for the next couple of years.  Christian's younger brother Colin is a 6-2, 175 lb C/OF in the 2012 class.  A right handed hitter, Yelich went 3-3 with a triple, Rbi and 3 runs scored in ABD California's 9-1 win over the South Florida Bandits East.
Definition of "Worst Nightmare" >>

6/30/2010 2:53:35 PM

Earlier we blogged about a the definition of a "Bad" Inning.  Here's the definition of a coach's "Worst Nightmare."

You enter the top of the 7th inning with a 5-0 lead, your 2012 right hander having given you almost 6 shutout innings.  The bottom of the order is up for the other team, who has scored 4 runs in 13 innings thus far in the tournament.  The nightmare goes.......Walk (bad innings ALWAYS begin with a walk or HBP), E1, single, single, signle, Walk, Walk, Walk, single (out at home plate), E5, K, FC.

The 5-0 lead has quickly changed into a 7-5 deficit.  Your team goes 1-2-3 in the bottom of the 7th inning.

That was the fate of the Akadema Indiana Yankees this afternoon in their matchup with the North East Mud Hens.
Pitching Trio Throws 1-Hitter for Sun Devils >>

6/30/2010 2:42:43 PM

Three Texas Sun Devils pitchers combined for a 1-hitter in a 3-1 win over the Freshwater Storm.  The Storm's only hit was a leadoff single in the top of the first inning and only one runner reached base after than, on a throwing error.

LHP Chaz Hebert (2011, Breaux Bridge, LA) pitched the first 3 innings for the Sun Devils, striking out 5 hitters.  The 6-2, 180 southpaw was consistently in the 87-89 mph area with his fastball.  He was relieved by 2010 Oregon State signee RHP Dan Child, who threw a quick 2 innings with his 89-92 mph sinker and sharp 82 mph slider.  The Sun Devils then  brought in 2011 SS Jace Conrad to close and Conrad retired 6 consecutive hitters with an 87 mph fastball and 74 mph curveball.

Texas managed only 3 hites of LHP Cameron Tewksbury of the Storm but that was enough to pick up a second pool play victory.
Bottom of the Order Lifts FBA Red to Win >>

6/30/2010 2:30:25 PM

The normal theories and efficiencies of setting a batting order didn't apply for the FBA Red in their 7-1 victory over Team Gwinnett/Mizuno Wednesday morning at Kell HS.

The 9th, 10th and 11th hitters in the batting order were RF Brett Maggard, 3B Ryan Booker and XH Seddon Henry.  Eleven hitters are permitted in WWBA tournament games due to the existence of an EH and an XH in the WWBA rules.

The three combined to 3-3 with 3 Hit by Pitches and a walk, giving them a perfect 1.000% on base percentage.  More importantly, the trio combined to score 6 of FBA's 7 runs, with each reaching the plate twice.
Bombers Open Potential 6th Title Run With No-No >>

6/30/2010 2:03:03 PM

The Florida Bombers have won an unprecedented 5 WWBA 18U National Championships and narrowly missed winning a 6th last year when they lost in the championship game.

They opened up their 2010 championship in fine fashion on Tuesday, defeating the Puerto Rico Giants 4-0 on a combined no-hitter from RHP's Alex Vierra (6 innings) and Adam Sargeant (1 inning).  Vierra, a 2011 grad from Barron Collier HS in Naples, FL, is a primary fastball pitcher who gets excellent life on a mid to upper 80's fastball that occasionally touched 90 mph.  He only allowed one baserunner through the first 5 innings and that was on his own throwing error in the 3rd inning that was immediately erased on a double play.  In fact, Vierra recorded all but one of his 18 outs on either strikeouts (5) or ground balls (12).
Definition of a "Bad" Inning >>

6/30/2010 1:54:25 PM

Hit by Pitch, Walk, K, Walk, Error, Single, 3 Run Home Run, Hit by Pitch, Walk, Walk, Single, Single, Fielder's Choice, Fly Out.

10 Runs on 4 Hits.  That was Chain 18U Gold's 3rd (and final) inning in a 14-2 run rule victory over Frozen Ropes.

The 3-run home run came off the bat of 3B Blake Shouse and traveled a PG Scout estimated 380+ feet down the left field line at the Weber School field.
Biagini Powers Top Tier to 2-0 Start >>

6/30/2010 1:41:46 PM

Top Tier has started pool play with a 2-0 record with a couple of easy wins.  Leading the way has been 2010 OF'er Dom Biagini, a 6-1 right handed hitter from St. Viator's HS in Arlington Heights, IL.  Biagini had a home run and 3 Rbi's in Top Tier's opening 8-0 victory on Tuesday and gave the Illinois based team all the runs they needed this afternoon against the Houston Banditos Texas with a 3-run opposite field home run in the first inning this morning.  Biagini later added an Rbi single in the 5th inning.

RHP Jon Surber (2010, Lisle (IL) HS) threw 6 solid innings against the Banditos, allowing 4 hits without walking a batter.  He's a primary fastball pitcher who mixes up his 2 seam and 4 seam fastballs between 85 and 89 mph.
Home Run Binge Continues at EC Complex >>

6/30/2010 12:13:33 PM

Balls continued to fly out of the three fields at the East Cobb Complex Wednesday, as three more home runs were hit during the 11:30 time slot. 

Edge Baseball EH/1B Tyler Hutson accounted for two of those home runs, posting the first multiple home run game of the championship.  Hutson hit a 2 run home run in the first inning of Edge Baseball's 8-0 win over the East Cobb Blue Jays and then led off the 6th and final inning with a solo shot.

South Florida Elite C Tim Remes only left the yard once but accounted for more runs, as his third inning Grand Slam led the way for Elite's 8-0 win over the South Florida Bandits American.

Ironically, all three 11:30 time slot games at the Complex ended in 8-0 run rule victories.
Simpson Narrowly Misses Perfect Game >>

6/30/2010 11:00:39 AM

East Cobb Astros RHP Tucker Simpson (2012, Oxford (AL) HS) just missed getting on the 2010 bandwagon for perfect games, instead throwing a 5 inning no-hitter in an 8-0 East Cobb win over the Colorado Slammers Gray.

The 6-7, 220 lb Simpson didn't walk a batter while striking out 7.  The only baserunner reached when Slammers RHP drove a ball deep to right field that was dropped by the Astros outfielder.  Simpson, who topped out at 91 mph at the recent Perfect Game Junior National Showcase, pitched between 85 and 89 mph with plus movement and showed very good command of a nice change up and sharp curveball.

The Astros first 6 hitters of the game reached base and eventually scored, putting the outcome out of question right away.
Team Elite Make Quick Work of Louisiana Knights >>

6/30/2010 9:52:49 AM

No records are kept of the quickest games in WWBA history but this morning's 9 am match up at the Cartersville Baseball Complex between Team Elite 18U and the Louisiana Knights 18's would certainly be on the short list of candidates.  The final score of run rule 5 inning Team Ellite 8-0 victory was called in at 10:01 am after an on-time start, meaning the game lasted barely an hour and maybe a minute or two less.
Home Runs Flying at East Cobb This Morning >>

6/30/2010 9:47:00 AM

In addition to Avery Romero (Tampa Bay Warriors) home run (see below), two other long balls were launched in the Michigan Wolverines 6-2 win over the World Yacht Clippers National.

2011 C Tory Bell (Maize HS, KS) of the Wolverines enjoyed an outstanding morning at the plate.  In addition to blasting a 2-run home run in the third inning, the 5-9, 165 cleanup hitter also had 2 doubles in a 3-3 performance. 

2011 RF Scott Hagan broke up a shutout bid by Wolverines RHP Devon Brogan with a 2 run home run in the 7th inning.  Hagan is a slender 6-3, 170 lb athlete from Mamaroneck HS in New York that projects very well physically and has nice present bat speed.
2012 2B Avery Romero Packs Some Pop >>

6/30/2010 9:38:15 AM

When a scout's notes lead off with "hidden power", that's usually a good sign.  That was the first description of 2012 2B Avery Romero's performance for the Tampa Bay Warriors in their 6-6 tie Wednesday morning with the South Florida Bandits West.

The 5-10, 170 lb Romero (Pedro Menendez HS, St. Augustine, FL) drove home his brother, SS Jordan Romero (2010) with the game's first run on a ringing double, then blasted a long home run in his next trip to the plate.  He later added a single to cap a 3-4 day with 3 runs scored.

Tampa Bay RHP Jose Fernandez (2011, Alonso HS, Tampa) was one of the top performers at the PG National last week, touching 95 mph, but struggled with his command during 4 innings of work this morning.  The big right hander allowed all 6 South Florida runs, walking 4 hitters and generally working behind in counts.  Fernandez was 88-92 mph on his fastball and threw a solid mid 70's curveball.
Longshots Overcome Long Odds >>

6/30/2010 8:12:50 AM

The biggest comeback of the first day of the championship undoubtedly belonged to the aptly named Longshots Baseball '10's. 

They trailed the Sandlot Tide 7-2 entering the bottom of the 6th inning and were facing a 2010 RHP (Luis DeJesus) who was throwing 85-88 mph out of the bullpen.  Starting with the 5th spot in the batting order, their inning proceeded as follows:  walk, single, ground out, single, single, walk, double, double, walk, strikeout, double.  The game was then called on time limit with the Longshots still batting with runners on second and third and now holding a 9-7 lead.

3B Eric Jugieio was the only hitter to collect two hits in the inning, driving in the first run with a single and the seventh and last run with a double.  He also doubled in the earlier at bat.
RHP Romano on 2011 Prospect Map >>

6/30/2010 8:05:58 AM

Team Connecticut Blue Jays RHP Sal Romano threw 6 shutout innings in his team's 6-0 win over the South Georgia Titans Tuesday evening at Sprayberry HS.  The 6-4, 200 lb member of the class of 2011 throws from a low to mid 3/4's release point with a long, extended arm action and is loose out front.  Romano was 85-89 mph with his fastball and threw a big sweeping low 70's curveball that was effective when he got on top of it. 
Three Texas Dukes P's Combine for No-No >>

6/30/2010 7:45:26 AM

Three right handed pitchers from the Texas Dukes 18U combined on a 7 inning no-hitter in a 6-0 win over the Colorado Slammers Gray on Tuesday night at Kell HS.

Robert Barker (2010) retired the first 13 hitters in order before being lifted with one out in the 5th inning.  Barker showed the best raw stuff of the trio, topping at 85 mph with a tight curveball.  Cory Whitcomb (2010) came in to strike out 4 over the next 1 2/3 innings, while Justin Schneider (2011) finished up with a hitless 7th.
Two Central Alabama 2011 RHP's Impress >>

6/30/2010 7:36:51 AM

Neither Trey Cochran-Gill (Tallassee (AL) HS) or Cameron Carleton (Dadeville (AL) HS) impress with their size but both are potential power pitchers.  The 5-10, 150 lb Cochran-Gill has a silky smooth delivery and quick arm action and maintained 88-90 mph velocity for the better part of 6 innings in the Central Alabama Titans 3-2 loss to the Atlanta Blue Jays on Tuesday afternoon. 

The 6-0, 170 lb Carleton was the hard luck loser, as a 2 out walk, a balk and a single by Blue Jays RF Vincent Jackson ended the game in the bottom of the 7th.  Carleton was 87-89 mph with a big sweeping curveball and improved mechanics could immediately give a boost to his velocity.
Greene Drives in 5 for the East Cobb Mets >>

6/30/2010 7:22:37 AM

RBI opportunities abounded for East Cobb Mets EH Taylor Greene, a 2010 middle infielder from Cartersville (GA) HS, in his team's 12-6 win over the Richmond Braves 2010 team.

Hitting out of the #7 spot in the line up, Greene drove in 2 runs with a third inning double, another 2 runs with a fifth inning single and a 5th run with a sixth inning walk.  The 5 Rbi's was a tournament high for the first day.

Greene's teammate, 1B Nick Vinson (2010, Roswell (GA) HS) also set a tournament high thus far by scoring 4 runs.
Powers, Hutchins Drive Storm Victory >>

6/30/2010 7:18:11 AM

The combination of 2011 EH Josh Powers and 2010 1B Travis Hutchins proved to be just enough to lead the Freshwater Storm to a 2-1 victory over Homeplate Chilidawgs 16U Tuesday afternoon.

Powers, hitting out of the cleanup spot, singled to lead off the second inning later came around to score on a single by Hutchins, who was hitting seventh.  They repeated the act in the 4th inning, with Powers reaching on an error this time and again eventually scoring on a Hutchins base hit.

LHP Kent Emanuel Dominates >>

6/30/2010 7:12:49 AM

2010 LHP Kent Emanuel from local Woodstock HS turned in perhaps the most dominating pitching performance of the first day of the championship.  The 6-4, 210 lb soutpaw, pitching for 6-4-3 DP Cougars 18U, threw 6 innings of 1 hit shutout ball against the South Florida Bandits 10's in a 7-0 win.  Emanuel struck out 13 hitters and only issued on walk while pitching with an 86-88 mph fastball and nice CB/Change combination.  He has signed with North Carolina.
McCord Impresses For Dulins Dodgers >>

6/30/2010 7:06:32 AM

2011 RHP Rock McCord, along with having a great name, also impressed with his talent yesterday in a 5-2 win for his Dulins Dodgers over the East Cobb Cardinals.  McCord, who attends Spanish Fork HS in Mobile, Alabama, pitched 5 innings of one hit ball, striking out 8 hitters.  He throws with a low effort delivery that he repeats well and pitched in the 85-88 mph range with a sharp breaking 76 mph slider.
Daniel Norris/East Cobb Yankees Update >>

6/30/2010 7:03:14 AM

It was blogged yesterday that LHP Daniel Norris of the East Cobb Yankees, the #1 prospect in the 2011 high school class, was touching 96 mph early in his start against the Long Island Titans.  Norris ended up pitching 2 2/3 innings, allowing 1 hit and no runs while striking out 4 in a 5-1 Yankees victory, pitching consistently at 92 mph.

The Yankees used 5 pitchers in the victory.  2010 RHP Carter Harrison struck out 4 out of 5 hitters he faced to get the win.  2011 RHP Ben Lumsden struck out 5 of the 6 hitters he faced to get the save.  Lumsden throws a very heavy fastball at 86-88 mph and stayed at the bottom of the strike zone.

C Zane Evans of the Yankees had two doubles and drove in two runs.  CF Andrew Toles also had 2 hits for the Yankees.
Edwards Shuts Out Franklin >>

6/29/2010 7:02:12 PM

Diamond Devils Blue 2011 RHP Carl Edwards dominated the Franklin Outlaws in a 7-0 victory Tuesday afternoon.  The 5-10, 180 lb allowed only three hits while striking out 10 hitters.  Edwards sat at 87-88 mph the entire game and his low 70's curveball was a nasty second pitch.  He commanded the strike zone with precision and his arm action and delivery were very sound.

RF Taylor Burris drove in 3 runs with a 4th inning double to lead the Diamond Devils offense.
Brockett Stops the World >>

6/29/2010 6:56:52 PM

East Cobb Braves RHP Andrew Brockett (2010) threw a complete game 2-hit shutout against World of Baseball in a 6-0 victory.  Brockett struck out 7 hitters versus only 1 walk while retiring the first 12 hitters of the game.  He touched 90 mph with his fastball early in the contest and showed a sharp breaking 11/5 breaking ball in the 73-75 mph range.

East Cobb broke the game open early as their first four hitters scored in the first inning, with the big hit being a 2 run single by EH Colton Montgomery.  SS Jakob Nixon had 2 hits and scored 2 runs.
Meurer, Azar Lead Banditos >>

6/29/2010 6:39:58 PM

2010 LHP Matt Meuer threw a complete game 3 hit shutout and 2010 C Anthony Azar launched a 2 run first inning home run to lead the Houston Banditos North to a 3-0 win over the Syracuse Sports Zone Chiefs.  

Meuer was steady at 82-84 mph for all 7 innings and mixed in a tight slider and big breaking curveball effectively.  He walked 1 hitter while striking out 5.

Azar, who caught Pirates first round pick Jameson Taillon at The Woodlands HS during the spring, added a single later in the game.  He popped as low as 1.94 in between innings and ran 4.33 to first base on a ground ball to showcase his overall tools.
Black Stars on Both Sides of the Ball >>

6/29/2010 6:29:33 PM

San Diego Show RHP Corey Black stood out on both sides of the ball in the Show's 6-2 win over the Upstate Mavericks Orange.  Black threw a complete game 2 hitter and struck out a tournament high 13 hitters.  Black pitched in the 88-91 mph range and showed good command of four pitches, including a change up that was probably his best secondary pitch.  Black also led off for the Show and went 2-3 with a double and Rbi at the plate.

Upstate RF Chase Corn was the only hitter to challenge Black, slamming a 2 run triple in the third inning to account for his team's 2 runs.
Taylor Guererri Update >>

6/29/2010 5:59:09 PM

Diamond Devils 2011 RHP Taylor Guererri, noted in an earlier blog, finished up with a 3 hitter in the Diamond Devils 9-1 six inning run rule victory over the Florida Mustangs.  Guererri struck out 9 hitters while only issuing one walk, working in the 90-95 mph range the entire game.
Will Allen Leads Dulins to 6-3 Win >>

6/29/2010 5:55:04 PM

2010 C Will Allen is one of the more experienced players in the tournament, having played in PG and WWBA events since his freshman year in high school.  So it wasn't surprising when the Pirates 37th round draft pick led the way in Dulins Dodgers 6-3 opening win over the East Cobb Titans.  Allen walked and scored a run in the first inning, then launched a 2-run home run in the second inning.  Allen has signed with Mississippi if the Pirates don't make a strong run at him this summer.
Command Wins Over Velo >>

6/29/2010 5:44:46 PM

2011 LHP Hayden Petitta outpitched 2011 RHP Justin Camp in leading the East Cobb Astros 17's to a 4-0 win over the Excel Blue Wave 17's Tuesday afternoon.  The 5-11, 185 lb Pertitta showed that command and feel does sometimes win out over velocity and power.  He topped out at 81 mph with a mid 60's curveball and a nice change up and consistently hit his spots with all three pitches.  The 6-4, 220 lb Camp touched 90 mph with his fastball with a mid 70's curveball but allowed 8 hits and 3 walks, along with all 4 East Cobb runs, in 5 innings of work.

C Michael Adkins gave Pertitta all the support he needed with a 2 run home run in the first inning.
Titans Survive Wild 7th Inning >>

6/29/2010 5:23:16 PM

The South Florida Titans survived a XXL (extra, extra long) 7th inning to beat the Nationals 9-5 Tuesday afternoon.  The Titans entered the last frame up 5-2 before scoring 4 runs in the top of inning to take a 9-2 lead.  The Nationals came back to score 3 runs in the bottom half of the inning and had the tying run at the plate at the end of the game. 

2B Antonio Alvarez had a very unusual game for the Titans, going 3-3 at the plate with a walk and a hit by pitch while batting in the #2 slot in the lineup.  With 7 inning games, run rules, time limits and wooden bats, the opportunity to reach base 5 times in a single game is a rare achievement at a WWBA tournament.  Alvarez scored 3 runs and collected an Rbi as well.
Over Not Overpowering But + Effective >>

6/29/2010 5:14:50 PM

Team Connecticut SS/RHP Devin Over wasn't overpowering in a 4-0 win over the Southeastern A's but he certainly was effective.  Over only struck out 1 hitter but spun a 7 hit complete game shutout.  Over did touch 88 mph with his fastball frequently but threw to contact and didn't walk a single hitter.

2B Yuta Okazaki had a 2 run Rbi single in Team Connecticut's 4 run sixth inning rally.
Cooney Outduals Sheppard in 2-1 Game >>

6/29/2010 5:01:57 PM

2010 RHP Harrison Cooney threw a complete game 3-hitter to lead All American Prospects to a 2-1 win over Team Elite.  Cooney sat steadily in the 88-91 mph range and hit 91 mph frequently in the 7th inning.  He pitched aggressively with his fastball low in the zone and kept hitters off balance with a big breaking upper 70's slider.

2010 Team Elite RHP Tripp Sheppard threw almost as well in defeat, also pitching a complete game while allowing 5 hits.  Unfortunately for Sheppard, 3 of those hits came consecutively in the second inning, the last a 2 run double by EH Ryan Arrick that drove home C Tyler Ross and 1B Brandon Thomasson.
Diel Deals for St. Louis Pirates >>

6/29/2010 4:24:18 PM

2011 LHP Steven Diel of the St. Louis Pirates threw 5 innings this afternoon against the Upstate Mavericks in a game that ended in a 2-2 tie.  The 6-1, 180 lb Diel, who attends Francis Howell HS in St. Charles, Missouri, allowed 3 hits, 2 unearned runs while striking out 6 hitters.  His fastball was steady in the mid 80's and he showed a tight curveball and sinking change up that he kept low in the zone well.  Southpaws with that profile usually end up very successful pitchers at the college level.
EC Braves Open Title Defense >>

6/29/2010 4:07:51 PM

The defending champion East Cobb Braves 17's opened their repeat run with a 8-0 run rule victory over the Hammond Chiefs Tuesday.

2010 RHP Erick Eck threw 4 innings of 1-hit shutout ball to get the win.  The 6-3 Eck pitched at 85-87 mph with a sharp breaking 75 mph downer curveball and struck out 8 hitters without walking a batter.

EH Alexander Cruz and CF Michael Hodorowski each had 2 hits to lead a balanced offensive attack.

ML's Son Leads MGBA Braves >>

6/29/2010 3:54:02 PM

2010 2B D'Monte Grissom, the son of former big league CF Marquis Grissom, filled his leadoff role in ideal fashion in the MGBA's 5-4 win over the Florida Hardballers.  The 5-9, 175 lb Grissom led off the first inning with a single and came round to score the game's first run.  He led off the third inning with a double, later scoring the first of Braves three runs that inning.
Spencer HR Lifts EC Patriots to Win >>

6/29/2010 3:36:23 PM

2011 DH/C Blake Spencer hit a home run over the centerfield fence at the Weber School to lift the East Cobb Patriots 17's to a 3-2 win over Prospect Elite 2011.  Spencer's home run leading off the bottom of the 6th inning broke up a 2-2 pitcher's dual.

Patriots RHP Chris Goershel went 6 innings, allowing 5 hits and both Prospect Elite runs, to get the win.
Hoffa Buries Gametime Academy >>

6/29/2010 3:31:27 PM

NVTBL Stars RHP Nate Hoffa, a 2010 grad from Manassas Park, Virginia, was overpowering in the Stars 3-2 win over Gametime Academy.  The 6-1, 145 lb Hoffa pitched at 88-91 mph for six dominant innings before tiring and allowing 3 straight Gametime hits in the 7th inning to tie the game at 2-2.

The Stars rebounded in the bottom of the 7th, putting together 3 walks and a hit by pitch to score the winning run.  3B Michael Katz, who earlier in the game had singled and then doubled home a run, got credited with the game winning Rbi on a bases loaded walk.
Learner Leaves The Yard >>

6/29/2010 3:24:46 PM

2011 OF Matthew Lerner had a big day in the North East Rays' 7-5 win over the East Cobb Orioles 18's at Lassiter HS this morning.  The 6-1, 200 lb Lerner, a left handed hitter at Thayer Academy in Massachusets, blasted a two-run home run in his first at bat of the Championship, then doubled to drive in another run in his next at bat in the third inning.  Perhaps not surprisingly, Lerner got hit by a pitch in his third at bat and later came around to score the Rays final run.

2010 1B Austin Jamieson had three hits for the Orioles, including an Rbi double.
Taylor Guerrieri Lights Up Guns >>

6/29/2010 3:18:25 PM

2011 RHP Taylor Guerrieri is throwing for the Diamond Devils out at Marietta High School in a 4:30 pm matchup.  The University of South Carolina signee has been steadily 91-93 mph on his fastball and is showing a pro level 80 mph slurve and deceptive change up as well. 
Near Cycle for FBA's Colton Davis >>

6/29/2010 3:12:45 PM

FBA Red CF Colton Davis hammered a single, double and triple from his leadoff spot in the batting order but FBA had to settle for a 4-4 tie with the Northeast Mud Hens in a matchup at Lassiter HS.

Davis, a 6-4, 200 lb athlete from Lake Wales, Florida, also stole a base and scored 2 runs.  The game ended by time limit after six innings, depriving Davis of a chance to finish off his afternoon with a home run.
Norris Heating Up for EC Yankees >>

6/29/2010 3:07:36 PM

LHP Daniel Norris, the top ranked prospect in the 2011 class according to the PG Rankings, started for the East Cobb Yankees in the 4:30 pm game at Lassiter High School.  He has been up to 96 mph already in the first inning.
Sand Gnats Bite the Bulldogs in 2-2 Tie >>

6/29/2010 2:49:40 PM

The ABD Bulldogs, winners of both the WWBA 17U and WWBA World Championship in 2009, were held to a 2-2 tie Tuesday by the Palmetto Sand Gnats in a 2:00 pm game at the East Cobb Complex.  In fairness to the Bulldogs, though, they have numerous players currently playing at the USA 18U Trails in Cary, North Carolina.

2010 RHP Jared Keels worked through some periodic control problems to throw a complete game for Palmetto.  Keels allowed only 4 hits but walked 6 hitters and hit another.  He worked out of a bases loaded, 1 out jam in the bottom of the 7th inning to preserve the tie.
Duo Records Shutout for Cyclones  >>

6/29/2010 2:37:09 PM

2011 RHP Donny Norris (5 innings) and 2012 RHP Jordan Doyle (2 innings) combined on a 5 hit shutout in a 6-0 win for the Cyclones Baseball 17U's over the Houston Banditos Texas.

Norris topped out at 85 mph on his fastball and showed good command of both a slilder and curveball.  Doyle, a primary infielder who DH'd and batted 5th in the Cyclones batting order, pitched at 83 mph with a deceptive delivery and struck out 4 hitters in his 2 innings of work.

EH Tyler Kellmann provided all the offense that the Cyclones needed, clearning the bases with a double in Cyclones 4 run third inning.
Cape Coast Canes Upset Ohio Warhawks >>

6/29/2010 2:16:38 PM

The Cape Coast Canes scored the first major upset of the tournament thus far, defeating the Ohio Warhawks 2-1 in a 2:00 pm game at the East Cobb Complex.

The Canes received outstanding pitching from starter Montana Durapau (2010/RHP) and reliever Scott Garner (2010/RHP).  Durapau went the first five innings, throwing in the 85-88 mph range with a very sharp mid 70's curveball and allowing the only Warhawk run while striking out 7.  Garner retired the side smoothly the last two innings with an 85 mph fastball and 73 mph slider.

The Warhawks started 2010 RHP Aaron Blair, a 21st round draft of the Astros.  Blair pitched at 89-91 mph with a mid 70's curveball but struggled with his command at times while allowing 1 run in 3 innings of work. 

The Canes scored the decisive run in the 4th inning when 1B Chris Biocic opened the inning with a single, advanced to second base on a wild pitch by LHP Zakery Qualls and scored on a single by RF Jason Boulais.
Jolly's Gem Leads Jays Baseball >>

6/29/2010 1:51:22 PM

2010 OF/RHP Tripp Jolly threw a complete game 2-hitter to lead Jays Baseball to a 7-0 win over the Strike One Sidewinders in a 9 am matchup at Pope HS.

The only hits off the 5-10 Jolly were a 2-out infield single in the 4th inning by 3B Alex McGill and a another single by McGill in the 7th inning.  Jolly faced only one batter over the minimum as he didn't walk a hitter and McGill was erased on a double play to end the game.   Jolly pounded the strike zone with a low 80's sinking fastball and showed plus command of a low 70's curveball.

1B Will Gatlin was the top offensive performer for the Jays, driving in 3 runs while going 2-4 at the plate.  DH Willie Beckley and LF Chance Schmidt both had 2 hits and scored 2 runs for the Jays as well.
STL Gamers, Chilidawgs in 3-3 Tie >>

6/29/2010 1:39:52 PM

The St. Louis Gamers 18's and the Homeplate Chilidawgs battled to a 3-3 tie in Pool I play at the Weber School.  The Chilidawgs scored an unearned run in the bottom of the 7th inning without the benefit of a hit to even up the game, which had been very cleanly played up to that point.

2010 RHP Paul Richmond of the Gamers threw 6 solid innings, allowing only 5 hits and 2 runs while keeping the Homeplate hitters off balance with a steady array of off speed pitches.

2011 RHP Kevin Werner started and went 4 innings for the Chilidawgs, allowing 2 hits and 1 run.  Werner pitched in the mid 80's with a nice low 70's curveball.  2010 RHP Aaron Warren was also impressive for Homeplate, retiring the final 7 Gamers hitters while touching 89 mph with his fastball.

Richmond Braves Win Pitcher's Dual >>

6/29/2010 1:07:11 PM

The Richmond Braves National 2011's defeated Ranger Baseball 2-1 in a well played pitcher's dual Tuesday morning at Kell High School.

2011 RHP Nick Christopher started for Richmond and threw four innings, allowing 3 hits and one run.  Christopher touched 87 mph on his fastball and used a nice sinking change up as his primary off speed pitch.  Fellow 2011 RHP Ian Shiner took over for the last three innings, striking out four while allowing only one hit.  Shiner pitched in the mid 80's with a hard downhill angle to the plate.

Ranger RHP Trevor Guthrie pitched just as well but suffered the tough luck loss.  The 2012 grad allowed only three hits in five innings of work but gave up both Richmond runs.  Both runs scored on sacrifice flies, one by EH David Spinosa, the other by SS Ryan Cook.

EC Astros Open with 6-2 Victory >>

6/29/2010 12:07:29 PM

The East Cobb Astros opened up the 18U tournament with a 6-2 win over the South Florida Clippers.

2011 LHP Daniel Koger threw the first 5 1/3 innings for the Astros, allowing only 2 hits while striking out 6 hitters.  The 6-5, 170 lb southpaw topped out at 85 mph and had a nice 71 mph curveball.  With his slender build and easy arm action, Kroger really projects physically.  2011 RHP David Sosebee finished up for East Cobb, retiring the final 5 hitters in order while pitching at 88-90 mph on his fastball.

2012 OF Kyle Carter showed a smooth left handed swing while going 3-3 with two doubles.  3B Chase Scott, also a 2012 prospect, drove in the first two East Cobb runs with a second inning double.
Faucheux Spins Shutout for Marucci >>

6/29/2010 11:57:03 AM

2011 LHP Henri Faucheux threw a complete game 3 hit shutout to lead Marruci Elite 18's to a 5-0 win over Akedema Indiana Yankees Tuesday morning on East Cobb Field 2.  Faucheux didn't allow a hit until the fifth inning and struck out six hitters overall.  He topped out at 87 mph on his fastball while showing good feel for a mid 70's curveball and change up.

SS Jake Nickerson set the table for the Marucci offense, going 3-3 and scoring three runs.  He was driven in twice by C John Clay Reeves, the first time on a sacrifice fly in the first inning to put Marucci up 1-0 and then again in the third inning when Reeves launched a 2-run home run.
Texas Sun Devils Open with strong 8-1 win >>

6/29/2010 10:28:44 AM

The Texas Sun Devils (formally Southeast Texas Sun Devils) opened what is expected to be a strong drive to reach deep into the playoffs with a 8-1 win over the Strike Zone Cardinals. 

Univeristy of Texas signee Kirby Bellow (2010) threw four strong innings to get the win.  Bellow struck out eight hitters and allowed one run while pitching at 86-88 mph with a sharp breaking mid 70's curveball.  Fellow 2010 grads RHP Mark Blackmar and Ryan Brady finished up with three scoreless innings, each pitching in the upper 80's as well.

2011 SS Jace Conrad and 2012 2B Gavin Cecchini led the offense, which scored twice in the fourth inning and six times in the fifth.  Each had two hits and an Rbi.  LF Trevin Sonnier also had two hits and an Rbi. 
Team New York Tops South Florida Huskies 6-4 >>

6/29/2010 9:42:46 AM

The Team New York Cardinals 17's scored early and late to defeat the South Florida Huskies 6-4 in the 9 am game at Kell High School. 

The Cardinals jumped to an immediate 3-0 lead in the top of the first inning, with C Louie Lambros driving in a pair of runs with a single, but the bats went quiet for the next three innings as the Huskies came back to take a 4-3 lead.  The Cardinals then scored a pair of runs in the fifth inning and added an insurance run in the sixth for the final margin.

2013 RHP Danny Rodriguez got the win in relief, throwing 3 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing only one hit.  Rodriguez only threw in the low 70's but had an excellent curveball that he located very well and didn't allow a ball hit out of the infield after the first batter he faced.
South Florida Bandits Rally for 3-2 Win >>

6/29/2010 9:26:07 AM

The South Florida Bandits National, held to 1 hit and no runs through six innings, rallied for three runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to defeat Elite Baseball Black 3-2.

1B Mike Vigliarolo had the big hit, a two-run double up the right centerfield gap to score two runs and tie the score with one out.  Vigliarolo then came home to score the winning run on a infield throwing error.

Both teams opted to spread their innings out among the entire pitching staff in this initial game, as South Florida threw four pitchers and Elite countered with five.  The most impressive hurler was South Florida RHP Matthew Margaritonda, who struck out five hitters in two innings of work.  The 2011 grad throws from a low 3/4's release point  and topped out at 86 mph with a sharp mid 70's curveball as his strike out pitch.
Lake Area Dodgers Win Opener 4-2 >>

6/29/2010 9:05:20 AM

RHP Jacob Winiki (2010) threw a complete game three hitter to lead the Lake Area Dodgers to a 4-2 win over the SARTA Reds in a 9 am game at the East Cobb Complex.  Winiki allowed three hits and two runs in second inning but settled down after that.  He was up to 84 mph on his fastball but his out pitch was a 70 mph change up that he used at any point in counts and got numerous ground balls outs with.

CF Frank Dreslinsky provided the offense for the Dodgers, driving in two runs with a double in the second inning and another run with a single in the fourth inning.  RF Dontae Gabriel went 2-3 and reached on an error and twice scored on Dreslinsky's hits.  He also drove home a run himself with a triple.
Opening Day at 18U WWBA National Championships >>

6/29/2010 5:56:12 AM

The players are starting to file into the East Cobb Complex at 7:45 Tuesday morning for the opening games of the WWBA 18U National Championships.  The 192 team event is scheduled to kick off at 9 am at 21 different fields across the greater north Atlanta area.  96 games are scheduled for the day.

The East Cobb Braves 17U are the defending champions and will make their tournament debut at 4:30 pm at East Cobb Field #2 against the Hammond Chiefs.  The Braves defeated the 5-time champion Florida Bombers 11-10 in the championship game last year, one of the most memorable games in WWBA history, as they overcame a 10-1 deficit for the comeback victory. 

The championship game is scheduled for Monday, July 5.

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