Prep Baseball Report

SoCal ProCase Spotlight: OF Nick McLain


Les Lukach
State Scouting Director

    

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FULLERTON, CALIF. - Outfielder Nick McLain of Beckman HS who is currently ranked #6 in California and committed to UCLA put up the type of metrics that catches the eye of even the most untrained eye. Even amongst a group of the top players in Southern California, McLain stood out with his power, seed, and athleticism on the diamond. 

At 5-foot-10, 195-pounds, McLain possesses the type of physical, durable body that makes him a desirable outfielder for pro scouts. As a left handed hitter, McLain registered the type of Blast Motion metrics seen from the top collegiate players and in some categories on par with MLB averages. 

With 67 representatives from 22 MLB Organizations in attendance, some teams 2-3 deep, and the talent on the SoCal ProCase roster, McLain set out to show that his overall ranking in the state of California is for real and worthy of MLB scouting interest heading into the 2021 draft.


THE REPORT:

Body: 5-foot-10, 195-pounds; Strong, physical build with proportional strength throughout the frame. 

Hit: Makes consistent barrel contact from an uppercut path with plenty of pull side power. His early connection score of 105° put him at the top of the category of all levels of baseball measured by Blast Motion. Presently a gap hitter with over-the-fence power that projects with more consistency. 


Power: Present power is real with an average exit velocity of 87.72 mph and a peak of 97.79 mph on Trackman. Shows the ability to hit the ball hard the opposite way. It’s easy, natural power at the plate generated from his above average bat speed and physical strength. 

Field: Shows above average footwork and body control in the outfield where he covers a lot of ground and tracks balls easily. Works low-to-high and comes up ready to throw. Transitions are clean and hands work quickly. 

Arm: 91 mph outfield velocity with online throws with carry. The arm strength and accuracy has improved significantly since early spring. Arm strength and accuracy are certainly tools that play way up in the outfield. 

Run: Registered a 6.85 in the 60 yard dash on a grass surface. 

Summary: McLain has the look of a future power hitting outfielder - think Kole Calhoun - who will have some ups and downs at the plate but whose power will certainly put him in the discussion come the 2021 MLB Draft. Committed to UCLA where he should have an opportunity to step in and play immediately given his power both at the plate and in the outfield. McLain’s size will certainly be scrutinized, but he’s a player that plays much bigger than his physical stature. In game he’s the guy you want at the plate in a situation where the ball needs to be put in play. There’s little doubt that McLain will have to make a decision on where to play his baseball after the 2021 MLB Draft. 

UPCOMING EVENTS

There will be additional events in Northern CA scheduled for October 10 & 11, stay tuned!

SHOWCASE STATE DATE LOCATION
SoCal Uncommitted Senior Games CA 09/13 Amerige Park
Norcal Uncommitted Senior Games CA 09/26 Islanders Field
SoCal Underclass I.D. Camp CA 10/10 Great Park
SoCal Upperclass I.D. Camp CA 10/10 Great Park
SoCal Underclass I.D. Camp II CA 10/11 Great Park
SoCal Upperclass I.D. Camp II CA 10/11 Great Park


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