Nova Scotia Scout Blog - Catcher Watch

April 22, 2021
Josh Parker
PBR Atlantic Scout

Finally, we were able to get one of our Preseason events off the ground in Nova Scotia at the end of March and get a first hand look at some of the talent in the province. A great day overall with lots of gains and positive changes in players, we take a look at 3 catchers who really caught our attention as a staff and made some noticeable improvements to their game.

Complete NS Preseason Statistics

To view the Positional Stats, Click Here.
To view the Pitching Stats, Click Here.
To View the Blast Stats, Click Here.

NOVA SCOTIA SCOUT BLOG

Ryan Avery SS / C / Halifax West , NS / 2022

Report: Avery was a standout among catchers during the NS Preseason ID, and it was clear he set a goal of improving his entire game since we last saw him in September. He profiles as an athletic, mobile catcher with sound footwork and technique behind the plate. Avery’s receiving and transition is very impressive which helps him to get the ball out of his glove very quickly. This translated to a personal best pop time of 1.95, which was an improvement from 2.04 previously. Avery is far from a one trick pony as he also flashed an 80mph velo from the infield and an 82mph exit velo at the dish.

Ryan MacDonald C / 1B / Auburn , NS / 2022

Report: MacDonald attended his first PBR showcase and it is clear he works hard at his craft. At 6-foot-3, 178-pounds, MacDonald doesn’t have the typical old-school catcher’s build, but he is able to move freely with good body control behind the plate. MacDonald was able to consistently register a pop time between 2.10-2.16, and there seems to be a lot of untapped potential with further commitment to improving his footwork and transfer.

Brad Howatt C / OF / Citadel , NS / 2022

Report: Howatt was another new face that impressed at the recent NS Preseason ID. At 6-foot, 187-pounds, the Nova Scotian catcher has a strong build but also flashes speed/agility that not many catchers possess. With further work on his set-up and a bit of a shorter stride, there is no doubt Howatt can build on his pop time of 2.18. As an added bonus, he also showed well in the batter’s box with a crisp swing and an exit velo of 82mph.