Tagged With "lefty"
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2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
My son is a current LHP sophomore and plays on his HS JV team. The HS is a Div 1 4a school that was in the CIF semi finals last year and plays in a very competitive league and schedules always schedules top CA teams ( Orange Lutheran, Harvard...
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A Player's Confidence
We all know the peaks and valleys in competitive sports. We have even heard pro's and coaches say they try and stay on a median plane no matter how it's going. I believe confidence fuels this state of mind. Confidence is wild and hard to grasp. All players should have it, but how many really do? Confidence does not relate to instant gratification. Confidence is derived from hard work and utilized in specific moments of time. Confidence has purpose and comes through preparation for the task...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
I want to be completely honest with the poster about the number and odds for the "crafty lefty" pitcher in top academic baseball. The very high academic school my son plays for has only one. That player only does late inning mop up work and gets hit very hard. For that matter, we have a 6'3" lefty who throws north of 85 who is a weekend starter and gets hit very hard if his breaking stuff isn't on. So here are the odds at our school. The coaching staff recruits nationally for only 6 "tips"...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
Thanks craftyshortstop.....great info from someone who is currently watching heir son play D3 baseball. He still has two more years left, so we'll see where his velo ends up but I'm assuming if he get into the low 80s, he may get some looks being a lefty and with his grades. if not...im sure he'll go to a good University, join a fraternity and have just as good a time. ....remembering that most of these HS and college players will never make a living playing baseball. Good luck to your so...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
AcademicsFirst, You're getting a lot of good advice here. A good reality check. Your son is not "projectible". He's a grinder. You seem to be doing all the right things to give your son the best chance to figure out where he belongs. Your son's academics will open doors for him. For the "grinders", at some point it becomes a matter of how hard he is willing to work. Web is a "grinder". He surpassed more physically gifted players because he was willing to out work them. Don't give up on...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
Totally agree with web's dad. AF - You have a dialogue in the top right box of the web page.
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
Thanks webs dad and you are definitely right. He's always fought the battle of being a smaller kid even back through playing Pony ball, so it's nothing he isn't use to. Hoping he can grow another 3-4" in the next year and a half, which would put him at 6'. He's playing on a Connie Mack team this summer, besides for playing on his Varsity summer team, so he'll go up against some solid hitters all summer long, which should help him. Yeah, that's what I love about this site...such great...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
Originally Posted by AcademicsFirst: ..Hoping he can grow another 3-4" in the next year and a half, which would put him at 6'. ... AF, I know you commented on the reaching 6' partially in jest but be careful with that. I had that type of dialog with my son and it took him longer than it should have to accept his height and focus totally on what he can do with what he has instead of what he can't do because of what he doesn't have. If sub-6' is likely to stick, keep pointing out the players...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
Cabbage...you are absolutely right. It's kinda funny because he always tells me you grow when you sleep, so he try's to get as much sleep as he can, which usually means going to bed earlier than I thought he would. But we really don't talk about height too much. He knows it will be what it is...and no, I'm 5'10 and his mom 5'7, so we didn't get that lucky. He eats very healthy and he try's to have a protein shake once a day after practice, so the rest will be left up to nature.
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
AF All good posts here. I know of a crafty lefty here in CA that 2 years ago max'd out 78 at a PG Showcase listed at 5'8" 140 lbs. Our travel team faced him several times over the years & struggled to make solid contact.He is now listed at 5' 11' 175 lbs. & I'm told he sits mid 80's. and is still known as a crafty lefty. He committed to a DI high academic school this past November. I'm sure grades had a lot to do with it, but being a crafty lefty did as well. My point is that your...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
In the context of most D3 academic schools.......If your screen name reflects his desires, his future academics and baseball team will most likely be determined by continued strong GPA and future SAT/ACT scores. Top academic schools recruit their baseball players through academics . Occidental and Hopkins are examples, but there are more such as the NESCAC conference. So, he'll want to be one of the best baseball players to get the coaches "tip", and have the best grades to get the...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
Check the on-line rosters of the teams that you mentioned (Oxy, UCSD, CSM, etc). Height and weigh don’t tell the whole story, but it should give you an idea of what’s typical. Of course, focus on the LHPs. You might also find profiles for some of those kids on the Perfect Game site, and that will list their pitching velocity. Also, use the Perfect Game site to see the recent classes who committed to schools that he is interested in. The “College Commitments” list will link you to player...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
Not to sound blunt or rude, but I'd suggest taking a step back and waiting until he plays varsity baseball before looking at college baseball. Lots can happen in that timeframe.
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
Thanks guys...as always, great advice. Speaking to a local ex scout who runs a Connie Mack and scout team here in Socal, said that there is college baseball out there for everyone if they are realistic, so I've always tried to keep things in perspective. JH...you're not gonna hurt my feelings. Like I've said, I've never told my son or thought he would ever make $ playing baseball. He's always fought through not passing the eye test, but he's still growing and has gotten where be has cause he...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
AcademicsFirst- Good thought process. I apologize if I came off as blunt, I've just seen a lot of people in your position going way overboard in relation to the process. I've seen 96 mph fastballs in D3 baseball and 75 mph fastballs in D1 baseball. The only thing you can do as a player is work as hard as you can to be the best you can possibly be, both in the classroom and on the field. Once the time comes, getting a gauge of where you stand is easier than some think. If you get yourself...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
Participation in the SoCal Scout league along with acceptance and attendance at the better Stanford camp (and/or a PG event) will give you both a real good idea where he stacks up. I've heard that statement about "there's a college for every player" before and I don't really agree. Realistically, the average player will finds it very surprising how competitive even most D3's and NAIA's are. Many decent/average HS players (not saying your son is), have to be willing to travel to the far...
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
Great points Cabbage...haha, if his velo stays where it is for the next two years, I'll be the first one telling him to go get his degree from Berkley or UCLA. He works out weekly with Trevor Bauer's pitching coach he had when he was in HS, so we'll see how his strength and velocity increases this next year. In the meantime, I'm just thankful he doesn't NEED baseball to get into a good College. Playing baseball would just be an added bonus.
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Re: 2015 LHP D2/D3 Options
Check out Head First showcases. They're for kids who are more academically inclined.
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Re: Lefty pitcher
Yes, I understand. I guess the big decision is whether or not we should do a P.G. year. I do believe he has the capability of increasing his velocity.
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Re: Lefty pitcher
The thing about D1 is the significant improvement would have to be by September/October. He would have to already be on their radar as a follow.
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Re: Lefty pitcher
Have any baseball people told your son he’s a possible D1 prospect? Or are you both hoping he can make the jump? A big problem is COVID has backed up rosters for a couple of years. Even if he PG’ed he’s still all in on next summer when most quality mid major D1 pitchers are offered heading into junior season. However, there are still spots for top quality pitchers. It would have to be a jump in talent that places him in the elite, “have to have on the roster” lefty. Unless a kid is a pro...
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Lefty pitcher
I have never posted on this site but I have a question. My son is a young 17 year old entering his senior year. He is a lefty pitcher with great control and movement consistently throwing 83 mph and also has a 85-86 mph fastball. He is a very good student taking all honors and A.P. classes. His overall weighted G.P.A. is a weighted 3.9 It would have been higher but they would not include his 3rd and 4th term marks his junior year as part of his GPA ....due to virtual learning from home. Yet...
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Re: Lefty pitcher
Most appreciated. Thank-you. My son will be on this. And yes I do think there is room to get bigger and stronger.
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Re: Lefty pitcher
Since you’re in MA he should be looking at NESCAC, NEWMAC, Commonwealth Coast Conference (D3) and Northeast 10 (D2) schools. He should look at doing Head First. Someone else might know what is up with Head First this year. The Northeast showcase was supposed to be in July. The Lynn Invitational Showcase is in a week. https://lynninvitational.com/ Even though he’s young for his grade he’s still in the grade he’s in. The only reason it would make difference is if he’s projected to be...
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Re: Lefty pitcher
Has your son done events and showcases that would have gotten him in front of D1 schools? If he has, and he hasn't gotten offers by now, that probably means it's not the right level for him. If he has not, well, even in normal times it's really late in the game and unlikely that he'd get much interest unless he picked up a bunch of MPH's really quickly. A LHP who can throw mid 80's over the plate definitely will get interest from high academic D3 schools. But even then, it's late. He would...
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Re: Lefty pitcher
There is a lot of information on this site about HA D3 recruiting. Some things to think about: - where has he played in the last year (I know with coronavirus, it may be not much)? Does he have any coaches (travel or high school) who are willing to help you with this? Have you asked them what they think? Having coaches make contacts with schools, if they are willing and/or if they have connections, is the best way to get college coaches to take a look at you. - do you have video of his...
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Re: Lefty pitcher
Thank-you for all the replies. I’ll let you know how this all turns out. I appreciate all of the advice, I am happy to hear that a LHP throwing mid 80’s will get interest from high academic D3 schools. Honestly, a year ago my son was not throwing at this velocity....things have changed and I now think he could have many opportunities ahead.
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Re: Lefty pitcher
Schools want to know the unweighted GPA, and the test scores, especially the tippy top Nescacs. If he can touch 86 and has "great control and movement", then a HA D1 is not out of the question. A local RHP ended up going to Columbia after showing great pitching savvy at Headfirst. He was under 6', and didn't throw harder than 86 or so.
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LHP velocity advice needed
Hello, 16.5year old Lefty sophmore throwing consistant true 80-82 fb. I know this topic is discussed on older threads but would love some feedback. 6'1 205. Large frame but done growing for sure.But lifts religously. Very good control and shifty curveball. (by far his best pitch) realisticaly I think he may get FB to 85. 3.8 GPA. of course he dreams of D1 but it may not be in the cards. question is : do D1 schools even look at him or not? LHP DAD
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
When I see “dreams of D1” I get concerned. If it’s realistic, go for it. But I get concerned a kid will place himself in the wrong prospect pool and not get noticed. Unless a player is a potential top ten round pro prospect education should come first. The player should be looking for the best possible education and baseball experience regardless of division level. There are some advantages of opportunity to being a left handed pitcher. But the goal should be to get on the field not on the...
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
thank you all for replies. when I say he " dreams of d1" I guess like most kids it's always a dream, but I am very realistic with him. He runs a 4.8 40 and takes all honors or high honors classes. We always stress academics. I am a teacher and have seen many kids not get into schools bc of academics. But growing up as a lefty pitcher people always say what an advanrage it is.... He would be happy playing anywhere but also as a lefty I don't see him at ss or 3b. I always thought being a lefty...
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
Lhp Dad a few years ago at our Texas Rangers Area Code team tryout at TCU, I noticed a 6' 5" Lhp throwing 85 mph. I ask our Rangers GM, "what about this pitcher" Randy said "no Bob he does not throw with velocity". I overruled Randy and place the pitcher on my 900 team. True Story: the young man returned to Houston and gained 10 mph and in June was a 1st round draft. "you never know"! Keep the faith! Bob
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
Keep working hard. May not be a top 25 program but all pitching coaches want a guy who can get players out. With the right instruction, he can be the teams secret weapon.
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
“he may get better playing time and development at a JUCO “ This has always been true for 90% of HS players that advance to play in college. Covid has only added strength to the argument - and it’s even more true for position players. You don’t get better sitting on a bench and JUCO baseball is way better than people realize. Last Thursday I saw Grayson and McLennan play a DH in Waco, TX. There were more scouts in the stands than fans - and there were a lot of fans!
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
There is a 2022 we know (he was a 2021 but reclassed, re-did Jr. year HS at private school) who is an LHP, max velo of 83 mph, but is an excellent pitcher with good curve/off speed. He just committed to Lafeyette. He's not a big as your son. I am unsure where he is academically. I just put this out here so you know D1 patriot league could be a good fit down the line too.
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
Osh1001, Yes, and he has the potential to get a lot of looks across other NCAA levels Your son has a lot going for him. Use those "tailwinds" (academics, LHP, frame, etc...) to target schools that are looking for someone like your son. He still has time to further develop, and put some polish on his skills. Also, don't get hung up on the "D1 thing". As RJM stated, getting on the field should be the athletic goal. Folks get hung up on the D1 label because they don't understand there is a...
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
Yes, they will absolutely look at him if he is in a spot to be seen. Does he play for a travel team that gets to big tournaments? Does that org have connections to colleges far and wide? If the answer is no, then its time to fix that one way or another. Your son will play somewhere, if he wants to play. Don't rule our JUCOS, in the current environment of packed rosters at the D1 level, he may get better playing time and development at a JUCO. JMO
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
Ok. Thanks for all the input. He just moved to a team that will travel east coast. Fla, Georgia tournaments on schedule so. So at least some opportunities.Been to 1 pg showcase 15 months ago... Has had a couple camp invites. Not against JC at all. Just trying to figure out best fit at best level... thanks!
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
he just started with a higher level team that does velocity training. He went 10 weeks with them and gained approx 2-3 mph. Next step is to get one on ones but not sure about the timing with school ball and then travel in the summer. Should he be throwing with a one on one coach in season? Thank you for response.
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
Since you are a critical juncture, probably so. Probably that time to go all in.
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
I have a 6-2 LHP that is as strong as an ox - - 210 lbs. High school he topped out at 82 on a good day. Today he sits 85-87 and can touch 90 on a good day. He went the D3 route. 3.4 GPA and a 32 ACT. Used baseball to get into a school he was just barely able to qualify for. Best decision he made... period. We tried hard for a D1 program.... got looks from Ivy and Patriot teams. But he went where he was loved and it has made all the difference. Made friends for life and had fun while still...
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Re: LHP velocity advice needed
My son didn’t want to be a college pitcher. But he wanted to excel as a high school pitcher. And arm strength is good for any position. He worked with a pitching coach in the fall of his junior year. He went from cruise 82/83 Max 85 to cruise 87/88 Max 90 with improved mechanics and listening to a new coach. He was at the point where he was tuning out his travel pitching coach of three years and me. The new pitching coach didn’t tell him anything we hadn’t told him. But it was a new,...