GSBA: I think it went well. The coaches appreciated the simple format and the kids didn't do anything to interfere with their summer teams. I am definitely going to do this again next year, with the goal of opening it up to more than 99% class L. The only issue I will have to overcome will be in selecting the kids. I try to go through coaches and most of the ones in L have been very forth-coming. I have reached out to other class coaches but have heard very little back.
The other issue with that is I heard from quite a few parents wanting to get their kids in. It was nice to see such proactive parents, but I want this showcase to have the top level. I can't tell you how many parents think their kid throws 84-85+, and it just isn't true. I don't think they are lying, but I think they need to be realize that unless you have a scout who matains and calibrates their gun they are most likely 3-5 miles off at least. I had one kid who I went on parent recommendation, they said he was clocked at 87. Ok, I'll bite. He gets to the showcase and tops out at 79-80, and this is without pitching for 4 days! That is the only reason why I want to deal with coaches, as they tend to be less biased about this subject. There are not as many kids throwing in the 80's as being reported in New Hampshire. I think there are quite a few, but nothing near what people say.