Shane
Gipson

4.24.15 - 5-foot-11, 170-pound right-handed hitting catcher quickly becoming one of the top defensive catchers in Illinois’ 2016 class. Recorded consistent pop times from 1.95-2.0 in between innings at several games this spring, as low as 1.90. Went 0-for-4 in this game, but homered on Monday against the Hilltoppers. Threw out a runner during the game, 2.16 down to second.

4.18.15 - 5-foot-11, 170-pound right-handed hitting catcher, strong lower half, ranked No. 103 in Illinois and rising. advanced catch-and-throw skills behind the dish. Rattled off pop times from 1.87-1.95 in between innings (was clocked this winter at 78 mph from the crouch, 86 mph from a gather and shuffle out of the crouch to show raw arm strength). Threw 2.08 and 2.19 in game, the 2.19 on a breaking ball down/tough pitch to handle. Hits third for Nazareth, open, crouched setup, some swing and misses on slider/breaking ball down, singled to right, line drive single to center, and a line drive homer to center for three hits in doubleheader. Above average bat speed, stride gets back to square, works up the middle/right side. Also homered Monday to right at Joliet Catholic, so displays power to center/opposite field gap.

3.30.15 - 5-foot-10, 160-pound, right-handed hitting catcher with a strong build.  Showed plus arm strength behind the plate. Popped 1.95-2.00 between innings. Throws on the bag with carry. Flexibility in the lower half and soft hands receiving. At the plate shows an up the middle approach. Waited back on a CB for LD single to CF. Went 2-3 in game. Should be a Division 1 catcher.