Easton
O'Neal

O’Neal is sure to have college coaches following him closely, moving forward as a switch-hitting catcher with advanced defensive abilities. At 6-foot-1, 165-pounds, there is some present lean, defined strength with room for more, and as that comes there is potential for O’Neal to blossom into a run-producer. The load works fluid from both sides as the hands flow congruently with a leg lift and rock back. The ease of the bat speed thanks to quick hands was noticeable throughout batting practice as he covered the plate with firm contact (94 mph exit velocity) to all fields including some present pull side power from both sides. Behind the plate, soft hands allow O’Neal to be a quality receiver with quietness even while catching unfamiliar arms. The footwork is controlled and smooth with a 74 mph arm producing accurate throws and pop times as low as 2.0. Intriguingly, he also hopped on the mound where he showcased a short, quick arm with the ability to pound the strike zone up to 82 mph with feel for a downer breaking ball. Overall, it was an outstanding first look at a player that is likely a must-follow for many schools next summer.

The standout performance on the day came from ‘24 C/RHP Easton O’Neal (West Valley, WA). A 6’1, lean athlete with the ability to switch hit and stick at the catching position. He showed well from both sides of the plate with clean catch and throw skills on defense. Also struck out all 4 batters he faced on the mound with a consistent FB/SL combo.