Pro Material in Phiily area

[therefump]

Interesting player here in the Philly area. Most kids in our area head south or west to develop rather than go to High School here because of the weather. Anyway, I've had the pleasure of doing 2 of his games which is very unusual in our chapter. The Philadelphia Inquirer wrote a story about him:

http://www.philly.com/inquirer/sports/high_school/43955152.html

He's going to Germantown Friends Academy and is a junior. He a lefty throwing in the low 90s (depending on weather) for a pretty weak team. I've done 2 games with him pitching. He caught my eye for several reasons. He's a true team player. His setup pitch, a curve ball, is awsome. He can hit as well. It's not too often that you see potential pro material. Just thought I'd mention it.

I wrote this because usually these kids are spoiled rotten, complaining about every pitch that doesn't go their way. He's the exact opposite. He's very mature for being a junior.

[carolinablue]

Hope he ends up on the Phils.

Iv'e seen 80 max as an umpire, how does 90+ look. Any tougher ?

[therefump]

Hope he ends up on the Phils.

Iv'e seen 80 max as an umpire, how does 90+ look. Any tougher ?

Good question. It takes a good 2-3 pitches just to get a bead on the ball. Even though he's left handed (I'm a lefty who pitched) he throws a laser beam for a strike. Calling strikes is easy with him. Most lefties have "tails" on their fast ball. The problem, I've found, is adjusting to off speed pitches and curve balls. He's got an excellent 12-6 curve. Try going from low 90s to 60s. Wow, that is an adjustment. I had a CYO game that evening. Everything REALLY SLOWS DOWN.

About 4 years ago I got a taste of 98 MPH from a wood bat over 30 league. Even the catcher had trouble seeing it. :wow:I got drilled twice that day. :crybaby2:The second one was like a scene out of Naked Gun. I fell back about 6 feet with the wind knocked out of me. :agasp_:Needless to say, I upgraded to a West Vest.

The bottom line on speed is the adjustment factor. Make sure you get behind the catcher during warm ups to adjust. You'll see the ball but EVERYTHING including your mechanics will speed up. I love it once you're in the grove.

[LMSANS]

I had the opportunity to work a prospect who threw in the mid 90's a couple of years ago. Fall ball game. First pitch of the game is right down broadway. The batter steps out looks at me and says "I didn't even see that!".

Kid threw 3 perfect innings and then moved on.

[therefump]

I think that's what you call "Pro Material Appreciation" day.:smachhead: