Christian
Italiano

Our second look at Christian really allowed for him to show his complete game. Smaller but ultra-athletic frame, Christian shaved down his 60 time from a 7.12 to 6.84. Maintained velocity measurables and improved exit velocity to 82 MPH. Offensively- Christian uses a wide setup at the plate with a hand position that starts in the center of his body. Snaps hands back to create proper spacing during load with limited movement downstairs (heel lift). Creates torque through lower half and core, quick wrists/forearms creates some whip through the zone. Smoked a couple of line drives on letter high fastballs during games. Defensively- Christian has suitable OF footspeed and possesses an accurate arm. Would like to see an elongated arm action to allow for additional carry and momentum build into release. Uses more of catcher/2B short arm action right now. Fast twitch with footwork allowing for quick first steps and full acceleration within a few steps. Pitching- Christian threw 2 impressive innings featuring a mid to upper 70's fastball with a tight/compact slider that showed late tilt. Compact delivery with short arm action where ball rolls under the hand on the upswing. Arm works quickly at a low 3/4 slot. Tends to recoil with follow through. Arm action and finish right now could lead to some stressers over time if pitching becomes an extended part of his game.

Christian Italiano, OF/RHP, Christian Brothers Academy, NY, (2018) Italiano stands an athletic 5-foot-6, 140-pounds. Shows some next level power from a smaller frame, evidenced by a (81mph) exit velocity. Offensively- At the plate he sets up wide,with a relaxed. Short back side load. Has a little bat drag a the start, but keeps his hands above and inside the ball. Strong aggressive swing through contact, good extension, hands finish high. In the outfield Italiano shows some speed. Ran a 7.12 60yd dash. Defensively- Showed some arm strength at 72mph, and could gain more as he learns to charge and move through the baseball. Transfer was clean to a low-mid 3/4 arm slot. Good athlete. Pitching- On the mound he starts with his hands mid level. Uses a side step, to a high leg lift. Hands drops a bit a separation. Uses drop and drive method. Has good hip and shoulder separation at time of foot strike. Throws from low 3/4 arm slot. Elbow stays a little bit lower than shoulder height. Could create some arm problems in the future. Showed above average arm strength and good differential from FB to breaking ball. (FB 75mph) (CB 62mph). Someone to keep an eye on.