QUICK TAKE

Didn't get to see him play infield the first day I came across him because he was pitching and he threw a CG. At the underclass games Neil stood out as the top all-around player, with tools, polish, playability, and energy, all of which are traits of players who thrive at the college level, and beyond. Neil is the starting 2nd baseman for Freedom HS and I can only presume that he would be the shortstop if his teammate wasn't one of the top draft prospects in California. In any case, they form what may be the top middle infield combination in Northern California, and perhaps the state. 

SCOUTING REPORTS

8/25/18 - Saint Mary’s College commit, 5-foot-10, 155-pounds, one of the top 2020 players in Northern California. Compact athletic build. The hit tool is a standout tool right now and plays up as a left-handed hitter. Short stroke with plus bat speed and high level barrel contact skills. Can pull hands in and still drive the ball as well as lashing balls pitched middle and away. Real quiet in the box with a small load, hits from an initial crouch, very quiet in the box and sees the ball well. Gap to gap, line to line now with extra base pop and should develop some homer power in the coming years, even at his size. Neil is also has base stealing skills and his instincts/reads on the bases can cause some havoc. Defensively has a strong arm that plays up the middle. Athletic actions in the infield and a quick release. Will play 2^nd base as a junior and likely shortstop as a senior due to the presence of one of California’s top 2019 players at his school, SS Kyren Paris. Neil also pitches and certainly at the high school level he has a chance to be well above average. Quick short arm action like that of an infielder, high-3/4 slot, painted corners with the fastball, occasional riding action, change-up with good feel and finish, used change-up well in right on right at-bats. Curveball is an 11/5 shaped pitch that is a usable secondary pitch within his repertoire.

2/27/18 - St. Mary's commit, the 5-foot-10ish 155-pound Neil is a left-hand hitting infielder who happened to be pitching on this day. Didn't see him playing defense but saw a smooth and easy swing, works inside the ball well, good balance at the plate and good timing to contact. Spray type swing with chance to hit for average in college. Went CG though he's going to play and hit in college, he's a good baseball player on the mound, got up to 82 mph, quick breaking curveball, knows how to attack and clearly has feel for the game.