Tate
Strickland

In the fourth, another Tennessee commit RHP Tate Strickland (Harrison HS, GA) entered on the bump. He touched a 97 mph with his high-spin heater (2,600-2,800 rpm), then dialed it up to 98 before going to his slider numerous times in a row. It flashed plus with late action and spun tightly (2,500 rpm) at 84-87 mph. The 6-foot-3 right-hander also killed spin on his work-in-progress changeup (1,550 rpm).

6-foot-3 170-pounds. Tennessee commit. Strickland gave the Hoyas 3 strong innings of work. He knows how to pitch, and does not need to over power hitters with his fastball. The frame has room to fill out and add strength and fastball velocity. His delivery is clean and smooth throughout. His fastball was 87-89, but started to decrease towards the end of the 2nd inning and 3rd. His breaking ball was the most impressive at 76-78. He went to it early in counts, and could throw it for a strike at any time. The pitchability for Strickland is plus for his age, and will be a name to watch the next couple of years.