Quick Hits: OR Top Prospect Showcase II
June 25, 2020
Keizer, OR - For the second straight week we found ourselves at the friendly confines of Volcanoes Stadium in Keizer, OR checking out another group of talented baseball players from across the state.
Over the course of 1 full week, we had the chance to get eyes on over 100 total players. While COVID19 may have shut down the HS season and limited the window for summer baseball, it hasn't taken away the passion and enthusiasm of the players.
In 'Quick Hits' from Session II of our Oregon Top Prospect events, we check out some uncommitted prospects who had impressive performances that caught our attention.
QUICK HITS
Utech’s frame continues to develop, and looks noticeably stronger, and perhaps a bit taller after last seeing him in the fall. He was stellar in all phases of the game showcasing impressive feel for the barrel from the left side with some controlled aggression through the zone. Fluidly rocking the hands back with a leg hang before striding out, the barrel played with lag through the zone, and allowed him to comfortably pepper both gaps with firm contact. The frame is athletic at 5-foot-11, 160-pounds and should continue adding much more strength in the future. Behind the plate, Utech utilized clean footwork and exchange to allow his strong arm to play accurately and with carry in producing throws that were mostly in the 1.94-1.97 range. To top it off, he bounced around at shortstop with twitchy glove-work, and the same strong arm across the diamond. Overall, it was an outstanding showing, and there is plenty of promise for his future development. Clearly a player that college coaches will want to take note of moving forward.
+ C Leo Reeves, South Eugene HS (2023)
Reeves stole the show in batting practice, blasting balls high and far from both sides of the plate. The 6-foot-2, 165-pound backstop is wide-shouldered with some proportional strength throughout a highly-projectable frame that should carry considerably more strength in the future. He was able to leverage his frame at the plate, getting on-plane early with early connection from both sides. The effortless stroke and heavy barrel provided for some home run strength as he gained ground through impact before finishing fully with a back side lean. He showcased a quick transfer behind the plate with a controlled release that produced pop times between 2.05-2.15. The receive tool is solid, and continued to show well throughout all bullpens. Overall, the projection of the frame and power in the bat should have college coaches locked in on his development, which should come quickly as he gains more in-game experience.