Top Performer Spotlight: 2021 C/1B Josh Zambito (Penn Hills)

May 6, 2020
Joe Walentin
Scouting / Operations

It was a historic preseason here in Pennsylvania with our boots-on-the-ground scouting staff covering 700+ players at showcase events, all February long. The dust has settled and we are now ramping up our efforts in player rankings, scouting reports, and recap articles. While the outcome of the 2020 HS season is on hold, the Prep Baseball Report (PA) will continue to provide unrivaled coverage for the amateur baseball players in the Keystone State.

Scouting Report

3/01/20

Featured quality feel for a physically advanced 6-foot-3, 235-pound frame with raw power in everything he does. The right-handed hitter begins with a balanced, even stance utilizing a knee-knock stride to initiate a violent, slightly uphill barrel path into the hitting zone. Generated above-average hip-shoulder separation unleashing a loud barrel with whip through contact yielding an impressive 99 mph bat-exit velocity during batting practice. Had the top round of the day using an advanced lower half to repeatedly pepper the deep left centerfield gap with natural pull-side lift at the plate. Ran a 4.75 home-to-first. The primary backstop showcased adequate receiving skills with a soft glove hand at the catch point. Pop times ranged from 1.95-2.00 on accurate throws of 79 mph from the crouch out of a fluid, high ¾ arm-slot, utilizing quality straight line footwork and quick, repeatable transfers. Displayed comfortability while blocking, beating the ball to the spot with the glove and working laterally to shield the baseball towards the plate.

2/16/20

6-foot-3, 235-pound right-handed hitter starts from a square stance and uses a controlled lift-and-replace stride to begin. Displayed balance throughout while attacking the ball with intent creating consistent backspin. Registered a bat exit velocity of 96 mph and ran a 7.71 60-yard dash. Showcased capable defensive actions at both corner infield postions with 85 mph arm strength across the diamond.

Standout Skill

It was an overall impressive preseason for Josh but the bat stood out the most. Swinging with intent to do damage while remaining balanced through out and showing a good feel for the barrel with advanced whip through the zone resulting in a 99 mph exit velocity.

Player Projection

His bat should keep him in the line up, likely in the middle of the order in a run producing role. He has the skill set to stay behind the plate with the strong arm and accurate throws while still looking comfortable back there for his size. If he does grow out of the position he is athletic enough to play either corner position with his good foot work and soft glove hand.

Quick Hit

"Showed athleticism and good feel for his 6'4, 240-pound physically advanced frame. He has present power at the plate with a 99 mph exit velocity and natural pull side lift. And has the ability to play 3 positions in the field, behind the plate has a sub-2 pop time with a strong accurate arm at 79 mph. At both corner positions displayed athletic foot work, steady hands and strong throws across the diamond at 86 mph."

COMING THIS SUMMER

Trackman Partnership
Blast Motion Partnership
Driveline Partnership
Vizual Edge Partnership