2/17/2016

Georgia Highlands took on Cleveland State in some Wednesday afternoon JUCO action at LakePoint. Highlands put on an impressive power display with a 12-2 rout backed by three big home runs. 

Some standouts from today's action include:

So. LHP/1B Daniel Gooden

The 6-foot-2, 205 pound strongly built Gooden unleashed two home runs, the second of which was captured in the video below. The Georgia Tech transfer showed very impressive bat speed at the plate and the ability to generate back spin. He struggled at times letting his hips leak out and hitting off his front side, but when he waits back, he can use his strength to drive the ball with authority. 

For 2/17's video of Gooden, please follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnZc6gXluJA

So. 1B Zach McCrum

There may not be a hitter in the country seeing the ball as well as McCrum has the last week. The 6-foot-4, 230 pound slugger delivered a massive home run and a missed a second by a matter of feet, that was only stopped by the batter's eye. As previously noted in this blog, McCrum uses an incredibly patient approach at the plate and shows the ability to pick up spin and lay off what would be a chase pitch. He has very present raw power and strength, coupled with his bat speed and natural lift in his swing. His advanced barrel timing and feel allow him to consistently make hard contact. 

For 2/17's video of McCrum, please follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTCdeQ0u6qg

Fr. 3B Brandon Bell

The talented freshman has been a frequent feature on these recaps and not without accident. Bell continued his hot start to the season with a pair of doubles at the plate on Wednesday. Bell has very impressive bat speed at the plate. His explosive hands through the zone and ability to match plane allow him to drive the ball to all fields. He had the hardest hit ball of the game registered at 105 mph off the bat per TrackMan data in his second at-bat of the game. 

For 2/17's video of Bell, please follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4slLfFG42k

So. LHP Casey Collins

Collins took the mound for his third outing of the year and arguably his best. He tossed five innings allowing two unearned runs on just two hits. His fastball was down slightly from his last appearance sitting in the mid-80's, but also with improved command. He pitched quickly and effectively in route to earning his first win of the season.