LATEST PG SHOWCASE REPORT
2006 National Showcase
Bobby Buckner is a 2007 switch-hitting middle infielder from Boise HS, residing in Boise, ID. He has a lean, average athletic type build on a 5'11" 176 lb. frame, built the way you'd expect a middle infielder to be. Buckner played with a lot of energy and seemed to have as many or more fielding chances than most players. He took advantage of all the opportunities, earning a #50 ranking among PG National Top 100 position players. As a left hand hitter Buckner hit from an open stance. He made a lot of good barrel contact and showed whippy life in his swing, an indication of good hands. He has good bat control and did a nice job of staying in the middle of the field. Buckner is quite competitive in the box and looked like the kind of hitter that will grind out at-bats and wear down pitchers with his tenacity. From the right side he also showed his good hands and a swing path that was consistently inside the ball. He is a good fundamental hitter and would make a quality two-hole type. Defensively Buckner showed himself to be a well above average player. He has a quick arm and good hands, with a quick release and a quick first step. His jumps on the ball were very good and he pretty much made all the plays that you expect a high quality shortstop to make. The most impressive play made by a middle infielder was when Buckner went into the six-hole and showed off his strong arm and athleticism by making a Derek Jeter jump-throw to nail a runner at 1st base. It was a Big League play and just to see him do that makes you aware that this kid is a fan of baseball, watching and emulating top players. Buckner is a pretty average athlete in terms of running speed, with a 4.49 home/1st time and 7.16 60 yard dash time. However, he plays beyond that, with instincts that make up for footspeed. Buckner is the son of former standout MLB 1st baseman Bill Buckner. He is a top D1 prospect, with a game that just fits that level of play. After college he should also find himself with the opportunity to play pro ball, possibly after his junior year, certainly after his senior year.