Maalik
Houston

2/17/18:  5-foot-9, 160 pound right-handed pitcher has a high 3/4 slot with short arm circle.  Uphill shoulders, stays in line.  Rushed tempo at times.  Lands squared.  Raw delivery, will need polished as he matures.  Fastball sat 78-79, up to 80.  Breaking ball has gradual break at 65-67.  Change-up showed flashes of late arm side run, but flattened out at times.  Defensively, Houston moves well side to side.  Above average hands clean transfer.  Short arm swing.  Accurate throws with some carry.  Hits from a balanced crouch, short stride.  Balanced load.  Pull side hitter with some extension in swing path.  Average bat speed.  Exit velocity topped 78mph.

 
10/15/17:  Athletic 5-foot-9, 160 pound infielder hits from a balanced setup and high back elbow.  Simple, line drive approach.  Short stride, hands load back.  Uphill path to contact.  Uses all fields.  Finds the barrel consistently.  High exit velocity of 80mph.  Defensively, showcases range to left and right.  Above average hands with quick transfer.   Ability to throw from different angles.  Velocity topped 76 across infield.

Right-handed pitcher has a repeatable delivery with balance throughout.  Early hand separation into stride, lands soft.  High 3/4 arm slot with average hand speed.  Fastball sat 80-82 for strikes.  Breaking ball has some down action at 64-66.  Change-up has arm side fade with some feel at 70-73.  

 
2017 SCOUT BLOG:  Sophomore shortstop showed good defensive actions and arm strength across the diamond. Athletic, a bit undersized, but strong frame in the batters box and in the field. Hands work clean and smooth out in front to field, with longer arm swing to release. Good arm speed and carry across the diamond. Hit leadoff from the right side with good approach and set up. Middle to oppo line drive approach. Average bat speed, stayed on a ball and drove it well with back spin to right center field. Young and athletic follow in the 2019 class that has more skills and strength to gain.