Eli
Ankeney

2022 MLB Draft League: Deceptive southpaw attacks hitters, missing bats and inducing weak contact with a disappearing low-90s fastball that averages 20" IVB.

Showcased impressive arm strength at the Preseason All-State where he hopped on the mound and sat 85-88 with his fastball out of a high ¾ slot. The 6-foot, 195-pound left-hander has a durable frame with strength present in the lower-half. He works linear down the mound with a medium-sized arm swing before quick hand speed through the ball with a stiffer deceleration while finishing square to the plate. His fastball featured some arm side life to it. His slider worked 73.-74, and was more of an average offering, but I was intrigued more so by his changeup, which he showed feel for at 75-77 and produced some late-fading action. Ankeney looks like he may still have more velocity in the tank moving forward, so recruiters will want to pay close attention to him throughout the spring/summer to see how he competes in games. With many 2019 players already committed across the country, Ankeney looks to be the type of arm that could help bolster a recruiting class.

A shade under 6-foot with a strong lower half. Pitched almost exclusively with his fastball early in this outing, working mostly 82-85. Shows some stiffness in lower half, but does a good job repeating his delivery and pounding the strike zone. 3-piece arm action creates some deception and allows the FB velo to play up and get by hitters. Early pronator that should be able to develop a solid changeup. Good LHP follow on the mound.