LATEST PG SHOWCASE REPORT
2022 Southeast Uncommitted Showcase (2023 Grads)
Taiyo Watanabe is a 2023 C/RHP, 3B with a 5-10 210 lb. frame from Athens, GA who attends Cedar Shoals. Ran a 7.81 second sixty-yard dash time. Medium build with present strength and strong build. Primary catcher with side-saddle setup, low stance, and clean glove work, with ability to work up to the ball with strength to stick pitches in the zone. Produced throws at 71-mph to bases, paired with a 2.20 pop-time. Secondary right-handed pitcher with abbreviated wind-up mechanics that display rhythm and timing through release from a high three-quarter slot. Short, quick arm action with extension out front on fastball and ability to maintain arm slot on off-speed deliveries. Fastball at 74-mph. Curveball at 54-mph with developing feel. Occasional use of slider at 57-mph with more lateral plane tilt. Changeup at 65-mph that showcased developing feel and deception for swing-and-miss. Also competed in infield drills where feel for the glove is present, working through the ball with soft hands and first step agility to either side. Throws in the infield at 77-mph. Right-handed hitter who uses lower half strength to create torque in the swing leading to pull side, leverage contact with carry to the gaps. Bat speed showcased in current operation. Patient hitter who displays the ability to turn it loose when a pitch is in the zone. Good student.