LATEST PG SHOWCASE REPORT
2019 Jr. National Showcase
Derek Bender is a 2021 C/1B, 3B, OF with a 6-1 190 lb. frame from Latham, NY who attends The Albany Academy. Large, athletic frame with square shoulders and present strength to frame with additional room to fill. Primary catcher, begins with a lower set behind the plate, receives the ball out front, quick transfer and release out of glove, gains ground with lower half but will stride open, repeats actions, shows carry on throws down to second base. Righthanded hitter, begins with a narrow base and a high hand set and back elbow at the plate; utilizes a big leg lift trigger for timing at the plate. Shows looseness to hands and generates solid bat speed through the zone, uncoils well moving into contact. Keeps hands inside the ball and can get additional extension out front, gets inconsistent with timing occasionally but generates big leverage and ball jumps when squared. Very good student. Verbal commitment to Coastal Carolina.