Josh
Hammond

Prep Baseball All-American Game: Explosive, high-level two-way tools for the future Demon Deacon and 2023 All-American Game MVP. Physical 6-foot-1 frame with a certified hand cannon on the mound, Hammond showcases huge arm speed out of a tight arm circle. Utilizing a low, three-quarters slot while getting deep into his lower half with big extension, Hammond is able to produce 5ft release heights or under on the entire pitch mix creating tough angles. Fastball sits a heavy 92-95 while getting consistent hard arm-side run and showing an innate ability to spin (Avg. 2481). Slider can be a plus pitch sooner than later. 82-85 with ability to add and subtract sharp sweep at will, Hammond also shows supreme command and plus spin that allow the pitch to play up even more. Creates ugly swing-and-miss in any count. Changeup is firm in the mid-80s with present feel and ability to get great arm-side fade that can be devastating from the arm slot. With the stick, Hammonds quiet approach and above-average bat speed allow the barrel to explode through the zone for big pop that continues to play well in-game and in BP. Can produce triple digit exit velocities at will. Hammond likely has the highest upside on the mound, but the bat plays and will play as long as he continues to hit.

Body: 5/9, 140 pounds. Athletic build, room for maturation ahead.
Defense:  Fluid actions, feel for getting good hops, soft hands, funnels to the belt, clean transitions.
Arm: R.  INF - 79 mph.  Loose arm with quickness, high 3/4 slot, accurate.
Hit: R. Balanced, relaxed, even base, hands at back shoulder. Short stride, hands load back. Balanced and loose, hands are quick, short path to the ball, barrel stays through the zone, has barrel feel with the ability to use the whole field.
Power: 80 mph exit velocity from the tee.  Above average bat speed.
Run:7.82 runner in the 60. 

Delivery: Simple rocker and turn. Lifts with the foot, then bringing the knee toward the mid-chest. Stable head. Level and slightly closed, lands just across his line with a square foot-strike.
Arm Action: R. Long arm swing creating some rhythm in the body, working to an over-the-top slot. Better than average arm speed. Works with intent
FB: T78, 77-78 mph. 2149 rpm. 1:15 spin tilt with 21.8 inches of induced vertical break. Worked to the glove side and elevated at times.
CB: 64-65 mph. 2459 rpm. Late 11/5 tilt. Solid depth with swing and miss potential in the zone. Did create chase. Average zone feel.
SL:  mph.  rpm. .
CH: 69-71 mph. 1436 rpm. Good arm speed with arm side run. 2:15 spin tilt