By Shooter Hunt
National Crosschecker

In a new segment at the state level called, In the Weeds, PBR National Crosschecker, Shooter Hunt, takes a look at uncommitted players regardless of class whose skills and intangibles sometimes get missed in a showcase setting, but whose value to a good team at the next level is immeasurable. Some of the players included in this segment are under the radar, others have been overlooked, and some are late bloomers and fast-rising. Whatever the reason, our boots-on-the-ground scouting staff has identified many uncommitted prospects who can thrive with the right fit at some collegiate level. This week, In the Weeds, takes a look into the hidden talents coming out of Oklahoma with five players representing pitchers, catchers, infielders, and outfielders.

 

Brandon Rutledge, OF/LHP, McAlester HS, OK, 2018
Rutledge looks to be a classic case of a kid who consistently gets told that he is “too small” to play, but never believes it. And he shouldn’t believe it because he can definitely play. Though only 5-foot-8 and 150-pounds, Rutledge is an excellent athlete who already runs a 6.66 60-yard dash while also sporting a 3.5 GPA in the classroom. In the outfield, Rutledge bounces around with twitchy movements and smooth hands as well as showcasing a strong 85 mph arm. At the plate, Rutledge understands what his game is (speed), and focusses on keeping his hands inside the ball and spraying line drives from the middle to the opposite field, and always putting the ball in play. A bit fragmented, at times, Rutledge has hand strength to allow his swing to play at some level in college. On the mound, Rutledge recently ran his fastball up to 83 mph in a bullpen session with some arm side run, and is consistently around the zone with three pitches. While not the biggest player on the field, Rutledge has the “hate to lose” mentality in which he will do whatever it takes to win, and that is a trait that is always valued by coaches. Though schools may pass on Rutledge because of his size and raw skill set, he will ultimately make some college coach very happy.