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On the Recruiting Trail: Class of 2016 Corner Infielders

November 16, 2014

By Jacob Gill
Philadelphia Region Director of Scouting

A busy summer and fall has led to a flurry of college commitments among high end talent in the Class of 2016. With the early signing period scheduled for November 12-19 its time to focus on this year's junior class. The final series installment in our look at some of the top prospects in the 2016 class that remain uncommitted in both Pennsylvania and West Virginia focuses on corner infielders.

Top Uncommitted Corner Infielders

+ 6-foot-1, 220-pound first baseman Patrick Ferguson is one of the top left-handed power bats in the state. Starting from an open, narrow stance with good pre-swing rhythm, he takes a controlled stride, has a feel for generating loft in his swing, and has shown over-the-fence pop with wood. Ferguson earned first-team all-section honors for Pittsburgh Central Catholic as a sophomore.

+ Neumann-Goretti third baseman Nick D'Amore is a well-rounded player who has the potential to contribute with the bat and glove at the next level. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound right-handed hitter has a simple approach at the plate, keeps his head still throughout his swing, and projects to drive the baseball (90-mph exit velocity). D'Amore's feet, hands, range, and arm (87-mph across the diamond) will play at the hot corner.

+ Receiving D'Amore's throws for the Saints will be first baseman Lou Testa, a transfer from Paul VI in New Jersey. Standing at 6-foot-2, 235-pounds, Testa provides a huge target on the bag and an imposing presence in the batter's box. Combining physical strength with good bat speed, the right-handed hitter registered a 97-mph exit velocity at the Elite Prospect Showcase in November, which projects among the best raw power in the state.

+ 3B/RHP Eddie Flores (Nitro HS, WV) is an interesting two-way prospect. A bit undersized for an elite corner infielder at 5-foot-8, 170-pounds, Flores creates significant barrel whip with some looseness to his right-handed swing. The junior showcased a 91 mph bat exit velocity at the WV Top Prospect Games in August and showed two way abilities sitting 83-85 on the hill.

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