My son's team is going to play in the WWBA down at East Cobb and I was wondering if anybody had any experiences with that tournement? Do a lot of scouts attended?
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It depends on the age group. From what I've heard the 17U week seems to be the most heavily scouted. Son played there at 15U and 16U and will be going back this summer at 17U. The scouts also seem to stay at the main complex for the most part and not travel to the various HS fields unless they are specifically interested in a particular player.
Thanks. My son's a 15 year old going to play in the 17u tournement. I've heard that a lot of scouts attended but I wanted to come here, you guys seem to know a whole lot.
When you're at the main complex you will see hundreds of scouts for the 17u and 18u tourneys.
When you're away, I think you can expect 15-25 scouts to come to your games IF your players are of sufficient quality AND they do their homework to communicate with teams of interest.
Which points out two keys to success:
1. Get onto the best team that will let you play. The better your team, the more scouts will follow your team, the more scouts will see you. Don't make the mistake of taking the team your dad started because he wanted you to be the star of your team.
2. Communicating with scouts is something a player should be pro-active about. If your son is 15, or maybe considered 16u by now, this year may be more of a learning experience for him, also a chance for PG to build his file for rating/ranking purposes. But you need to be on a team where your teammates are helping to bring eyes out to see the games.
Most people who go to these events are shocked to learn that there is a venue with this much scouting available. The folks back home will never believe you, if they haven't been themselves. That's nothing, wait until you go to the October tourney in Jupiter some day!
When you're away, I think you can expect 15-25 scouts to come to your games IF your players are of sufficient quality AND they do their homework to communicate with teams of interest.
Which points out two keys to success:
1. Get onto the best team that will let you play. The better your team, the more scouts will follow your team, the more scouts will see you. Don't make the mistake of taking the team your dad started because he wanted you to be the star of your team.
2. Communicating with scouts is something a player should be pro-active about. If your son is 15, or maybe considered 16u by now, this year may be more of a learning experience for him, also a chance for PG to build his file for rating/ranking purposes. But you need to be on a team where your teammates are helping to bring eyes out to see the games.
Most people who go to these events are shocked to learn that there is a venue with this much scouting available. The folks back home will never believe you, if they haven't been themselves. That's nothing, wait until you go to the October tourney in Jupiter some day!
The further away from the main complex you play the least amount of coaches attend. Last summer the team my nephew played on only played at the Main complex twice during the two week period he was there.
The key to success in East Cobb is to stay in contact with the coaches of the schools you are interested in and be sure to let them know when and where you are playing.
The key to success in East Cobb is to stay in contact with the coaches of the schools you are interested in and be sure to let them know when and where you are playing.
quote:The further away from the main complex you play the least amount of coaches attend.
All things being equal this would be true. But the key is to be on a team with sufficient talent that you attract a following. And you can help to develop that following by staying in touch with schools of interest to you throughout the tourney, e.g., by e-mailing them your schedule updates, when you'll be pitching, etc.
I coached a team that played 30 minutes from the East Cobb complex, but we still had 25 schools represented at our games. Certain players were being followed by certain schools.
It sure is a lot easier to see one kid in 5 games this way than to chase him around during the HS spring season. So, it can and does happen.
The main difference is that at the main complex if someone starts a buzz -- e.g., a pitcher goes 90+ during a game -- you can have scouts gravitate to the field on the spur of the moment. Obviously that doesn't work so well when you're some ways away. But while there's some value to the team in that, I honestly don't know how often that really amounts to anything in the recruiting process. The 90+ guy can only take one offer in the end. It's the repeated viewer, not the casual viewer, who is more likely to give your son an offer.
On a side note regarding the WWBA and the bigger PerfectGame tournaments, they tend to have an official scorekeeper who also takes notes on players who perform well which gets loaded into a PerfectGame database that schools and scouts with high enough subscriptions to www.PGcrosschecker.com can get access to review, as well as, www.baseballwebtv.com to view past events.
This is a great Tournament probably our favorite! Lots of scouts lots of talent!quote:Originally posted by UpStM13:
My son's team is going to play in the WWBA down at East Cobb and I was wondering if anybody had any experiences with that tournament? Do a lot of scouts attended?
My son went, got no attention at all.Was a great experience and he loved every minute of it.He did well, and proved to himself he could hang.I wouldnt necessarily equate a good experience to how many scouts may be there.There are lots of other things to gain from going.(if you can afford it with the economy).
I second Fan's experience, we heard from no one even though son was gunning down any base stealers. The year he went was when the SE drought broke, rain,rain, rain. They got rained out of their one appearance at the main complex so they got limited exposure. And of course maybe son was on a pop up spree or Kd too many times. PG had no control over those two items.
I'm sure many kids do well and do get responses from coaches, etc. With the attendance at these events and popularity its kind of like Disney Land. Everyone should see it at least once. Just be realistic about the outcome and don't get all Hollywood over the scouts.
I'm sure many kids do well and do get responses from coaches, etc. With the attendance at these events and popularity its kind of like Disney Land. Everyone should see it at least once. Just be realistic about the outcome and don't get all Hollywood over the scouts.
My son first played at East Cobb as a 15 year old on an 18 and under team. That was our first mistake. As other posters have said the majority of scouts are watching 17 and under teams. The logic there is that by the time they are 18 most players have already committed to the school they will attend. However, there are exceptions and son was one. Fast forward 2 years to summer before Sr. year. Son was invited to attend a pro workout to be held at school of choice. Several major league scouts were there and we didn't even get out of town before coach was texting son to say they would be contacting him again with an offer. Coach told son they had been following him since they saw him at EC as a 15 year old. Bottom line to this rather lengthy post, you never know who is watching and for how long they've been following.
My son is heading this yr to this tournament.
Where are some affordable places to stay?
Where are some affordable places to stay?
VAfana, one of the Posters in the Georgia room gave you a link to an older HSBBW conversation about places to stay.
Go take a look!
Go take a look!
Thes PG-WWBA events are some of the most well run and scouted events you'll play. The most attention is now given to the 17U event with the 18U and 16U almost even now. Prior years it was the 18U but with so many early committments the 18 U has gotten smaller and the 16U larger. Either way, proper planning by your coaches with regard to pitching can really maximize the number of coaches traveling off complex to see you guys.
Last year we played 20-30 minutes off complex and had over 40 coaches attend. Most teams will not get more then 1 game at the complex. There are over 180 teams in the event, do the math. You can't ask for more then PG gives you.
Last year we played 20-30 minutes off complex and had over 40 coaches attend. Most teams will not get more then 1 game at the complex. There are over 180 teams in the event, do the math. You can't ask for more then PG gives you.
I've been on here looking and some people say asking them where they'll be is a good idea.
Any opinions?
Any opinions?
Yes that is a good idea.
Coach Merc,
The 17U is the biggest turnout of scouts, but the 18U is not really that far behind. I would say most college coaches attend both. There are just as many professional scouts at the 18U, maybe even more. The talent level is about the same and many of the top 17s play in the 18U. The 16U has grown a lot, but still not the number of scouts and recruiters as either 17 or 18.
One thing to remember is that the 18U always has a large number of players who were drafted a month earlier. This makes it an automatic draw for the pro scouts. There are even a couple teams that are sponsored by MLB clubs and comprised of their recent draft picks along with other talented players. Also many of the top 17U teams play in both tournaments and some only play in the 18U. BTW, both tournaments are full every year and hundreds of teams who want in, we have no room for. Just thought I would add that in case anyone thought I was promoting one over the other. They're both real good with lots of scouts and recruiters. Lots of top 17U players in both, but more in the 17U because there are no 18 year olds or draft picks in that one.
Coach Merc,
The 17U is the biggest turnout of scouts, but the 18U is not really that far behind. I would say most college coaches attend both. There are just as many professional scouts at the 18U, maybe even more. The talent level is about the same and many of the top 17s play in the 18U. The 16U has grown a lot, but still not the number of scouts and recruiters as either 17 or 18.
One thing to remember is that the 18U always has a large number of players who were drafted a month earlier. This makes it an automatic draw for the pro scouts. There are even a couple teams that are sponsored by MLB clubs and comprised of their recent draft picks along with other talented players. Also many of the top 17U teams play in both tournaments and some only play in the 18U. BTW, both tournaments are full every year and hundreds of teams who want in, we have no room for. Just thought I would add that in case anyone thought I was promoting one over the other. They're both real good with lots of scouts and recruiters. Lots of top 17U players in both, but more in the 17U because there are no 18 year olds or draft picks in that one.
How should I go about asking the coaches what tournements they plan on attending?
UpStM13,
email, phone or snail mail. Or if you're around one ask him. If you are going to the tournament you mentioned earlier, chances are if it is a DI college your interested in, they will be there.
email, phone or snail mail. Or if you're around one ask him. If you are going to the tournament you mentioned earlier, chances are if it is a DI college your interested in, they will be there.
Is there a certain school your interested in knowing if they will attend? It would be easier to tell you who wont be there. Very very few.
UpSTM13
Send the schools you have interest in the list of events you expect to attend and ask if they will be attending---you can always adjust your plans and let them know if your schedule changes
Send the schools you have interest in the list of events you expect to attend and ask if they will be attending---you can always adjust your plans and let them know if your schedule changes
I looked up the 09 information and Blogs on the WWBA PG history. They say alot about the 17U WWBA but very little mention of the 18U blogs or updates. Was it because the talent was not as prevelant or because the 17U really is more popular sought after? Just wondering.
All the main blogs are on pgcrosschecker. It is possible that the 17U had more blogs than the 18U, but I'm not sure. I am sure that the 18U was not ignored, though we did have some additional bloggers at the 17U.
Here are the blogs from the 18U... I wouldn't call this "very little mention". Some of these names might explain why so many scouts and recruiters attend. Sorry for taking up so much space.
2009 WWBA 18U National Championship
Tuesday, June 30
2010 Mississippi Pitching Prospect
6/30/2009 7:53:17 PM
Put RHP Austin Herzog on the 2010 prospect list. The 6-3, 200 lb Herzog (2010, Hillside Christian HS, MS) threw 4 shutout innings (6 K's) in the Mississippi Worth Bandits 7-0 win over the East Cobb Indians. Herzog threw a heavy 90 mph fastball and mixed in a polished 74 mph change up and a big breaking curveball.
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Drew Cisco Throws Masterpiece
6/30/2009 7:48:38 PM
Diamond Devils RHP Drew Cisco (2010, Wando HS, SC) has been pitching in WWBA summer National Championships for three three years but he might not have thrown a better game than he did Tuesday night. The Diamond Devils needed Cisco's effort in a 2-0 win over the Puerto Rico Giants. Cisco threw a complete game 3-hitter, striking out 15 hitters without walking a hitter. He was steady 89-91 mph on his fastball, topping out at 92, while showing a mid 70's curveball with good shape and depth.
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Near No Hitter for Michigan Bulls
6/30/2009 7:36:27 PM
Michigan Bulls RHP Joe Battisteili (2010, Allen Park HS, MI) had to settle for a 7 inning 1-hit shutout in the Bulls 7-0 win over the Texas Sports Red. Battisteili struck out 10 hitters using a mid 80's fastball and 73 mph curveball.
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Team Connecticut Leadoff Hitter Scores 4 Runs
6/30/2009 7:29:59 PM
Team Connecticut Baseball Blue Jays picked the right player to hit leadoff in their 8-7 win over the ABD Bulldogs Navy. DH/SS Johnny Pritts (2010, Trumbull, CT) led off three different innings, twice with walks and once with a double, plus added another single in the middle of an inning. Pritts scored all four times he reached base, the first player in the Tournament to achieve that feat.
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Stars Baseball LHP Patrick Gamblin
6/30/2009 7:23:57 PM
Stars Baseball 2009 LHP Patrick Gamblin turned in one of the more unique pitching lines of any tournament in the Stars 2-0 win over the Houston Slam. You might say he was unhittable in his 4 2/3 innings of work. Gamblin used a 86-88 mph fastball and a big, slow curveball while facing 20 hitters. 13 of those hitters struck out, but 7 of them walked. A couple of hitters were thrown out on the bases and one reached on a wild pitch on a third strike. RHP Aaron Lewis finished up a 1-hit shutout with 2 1/3 additional innings, striking out 5.
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Georgia Knights Slam Three Home Runs
6/30/2009 7 15 PM
The Georgia Knights hit three home runs to account for 5 of the team's 6 runs in a 6-2 win over the South Florida Bandits National. CF Derrick Workman (2010, Dominion Christian HS, GA) hit a 3-run shot in the bottom of the first and EH Brad Fieger went followed with a solo shot. SS Reid Schneider (2010, Dominion Christian HS, GA) added a solo shot in the fifth inning. LHP England Smith (2010, Battle Ground Academy, TN) went the distance for the Knights, scattering 6 hits while striking out 12 hitters. Smith topped out at 87 mph with a big sweeping CB.
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RHP Boomer Scarborough, Louisiana Knights Prospect
6/30/2009 7:04:38 PM
RHP Boomer Scarborough has a big league name and some pro level stuff. The 6-2, 235 2010 prospect from St. Stanislaus HS in Pass Christian, MS, threw 6 1/3 innings in Knights 3-2 loss to the L.E.A.D Ambassadors, allowing 5 hits, 3 runs and striking out 8. Scarborough was 87-91 mph on his fastball and threw both a mid 70's curveball and a mid 80's slider. He showed the ability to mix up his pitches and throw to spots.
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Scouting Without the Stats for the Rockdale Rhinos
6/30/2009 6:53:54 PM
Sometimes you don't have to do much in the performance category to impress the scouts. The Rockdale Rhino's CF Cameron Gibson (2011, Salem HS, GA) hits third in the Rhino's line up on a team of 2009/2010 players as a sophomore. He went 0-3 in the Rhino's 4-0 win over the East Cobb Titans but his PG scout notes read "Plus bat speed, Very good body. Good range and plus reads in CF, smooth defensively. Has an idea at the plate."
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Tampa SS Eric Gutierrez Slams Two HR's
6/30/2009 6:46:49 PM
Tampa Elite Spartans SS Eric Gutierrez (2010, Leto HS, FL) hit in the leadoff spot in the Tuesday morning game but it might be an idea to move him down to the middle of the order. Gutierrez slammed two home runs, a 3 run shot in the second inning and a 2 run shot in the third inning, then added another Rbi later in the third on a bases loaded HBP. Tampa Elite won 15-3 over the Orlando Scorpions Grey.
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Home Run's Do the Trick for East Cobb Braves
6/30/2009 6:35:13 PM
The East Cobb Braves, one of the pre-tournament favorites, only held a 3-2 lead over Next Level Baseball after 3 innings. They quickly put the game out of reach within a span of three hitters when 2B Zach Alvord (2010, South Forsyth HS, GA) hit a 3-run home run and RF Trey Griffin follow two hitters later with a 2-run shot of his own. Alvord and Griffin were two of the standouts at the recent Perfect Game National Showcase.
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Tournament's First 4-Hit Game
6/30/2009 6:16:24 PM
Long Island Titans OF/DH Frank Soler (2010, Chaminade HS, NY) registered the Tournament's first four hit game, going a perfect 4-4 hitting out of the second hole in the Titans 5-4 win over the East Cobb Dynasty. Soler scored the winning run in the bottom of the 7th on a single by C/LF Kyle Ambury (2010, Wantagh HS, NY).
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Atlanta Blue Jays Throw Two Loose Armed 2010 RHP's
6/30/2009 6:09:24 PM
RHP Justin McCalvin (2010, Lee County HS, GA) went the first 5 2/3 innings in the Blue Jays 7-0 win over the Florida Bulldogs, striking out 10 while only allowing 1 hit. McCalvin sat and 86 mph and was aggressive in spotting his fastball on the corners. He was relieved by 6-3, 190 lb RHP Demondre Arnold (2010, Creekside HS, GA), who struck out a couple more hitters while sitting at 87-88 mph with a very sharp 77 mph slider.
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EC Yankees Zane Evans on a Tear
6/30/2009 4:49:12 PM
East Cobb Yankees catcher Zane Evans (2010, Roswell HS, GA) is 3-3 with 2 doubles and 7 Rbi's thus far in the Yankees 4:30 game vs. the Big Hitter Diamond Stars. East Cobb is currently leading 14-0.
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Tournament Game Wraps
6/30/2009 4:46:33 PM
Summaries ("wraps" as we call them) of each and every game played at the WWBA 18U National Championship (all 480 of the pool play games, plus all the playoff and consulation games) will be posted on the WWBA website in as timely of fashion as possible.
Sample Wrap from Game 1:
WP: Cole Brand (CC) 5 IP, 7 H, 6 R, 4 K, 3 BB
LP: Josh Fein (PL) 5 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 4 K, 6 BB
LF Jamie Harper (CC) 1-2, 1 2B; SS Robert Jernigan (PL) 1-4, 2 R, 3 RBI; 2B Kris Matsoukas (PL) 2-3, 2 R, 1 RBI; C Logan Fiasco (PL) 2-4, 1 R, 3 RBI; CF Tad Reynolds (LP) 2-2, 1 3B, 3 RBI
One of the challenges of doing the wraps is that they are all done from one central location, the tower at the East Cobb Complex. The games, however, are played at 20 different locations (19 outlying fields, plus the 4 fields at the EC Complex/Kell HS). Collecting the score sheets from all those different fields is a logistic exercise given the distances and the Atlanta area traffic patterns. Although the scores of each game are immediately called in and posted when a game ends, the scoresheets from a game may not make it back to the Complex until the end of the day depending on the field's location and the game time.
So thank you for your patience in waiting for games to be posted!
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RHP Josh Pape Shines for OTC Bearcats
6/30/2009 4:29:00 PM
RHP Josh Pape (2009, Luella HS, GA) threw a complete game 3-hit shutout in the OTC Bearcats 4-0 victory over the Massachusetts Pride. Pape pitched in the 83-85 mph range with a very good hard curveball in the lower 70's. He struck out 6 hitters while only walking 1.
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Cam Bedrosian Hits 94 mph for Home Plate Chilidogs
6/30/2009 4:20:54 PM
RHP Cam Bedrosian (2010, East Coweta HS, GA), son of former ML pitcher Steve Bedrosian, is one of the hardest throwing pitchers in the 2010 class. We've been told that he touched 96 mph last week. He threw a tune up inning at the tail end of the Home Plate Chilidogs 11-1 victory over the MGBA Nationals, pitching between 90-94 while striking out 2 hitters.
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Schedule Correction
6/30/2009 4:04:44 PM
There is an error on the printed schedules for Game 280 (Thursday, 4:30 at Southern Poly). It shows that the San Diego Show are playing against themselves. The proper schedule, which is listed on the WWBA website, shows that the Show are playing Team Georgia. Team Georgia is the home team.
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East Cobb Pitcher Hour at the 18U
6/30/2009 4:00:28 PM
Three of the top East Cobb teams all played in the 4:30 time slot and all started top level right handed pitchers.
East Cobb Astros: Kaleb Cowart (2010, Cook County HS, GA) started off throwing 90-93 against Triple Threat Baseball Academy
East Cobb Braves: Ralston Cash (2010, Lakeview Academy, GA) was solid at 90 mph in the first inning against Next Level Baseball with a sharp 78 mph CB.
East Cobb Yankees: Ben McKinney (2009, Science Hill HS, TN) was 88-91 mph early against Big Hitter Diamond Stars.
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Braves Scout Team wins 10-3
6/30/2009 3:47:04 PM
The Braves Scout Team won their first game 10-3 over the Florida Stars Grey. The Braves scouting department has a completely unique approach to putting together a team for this event. While the old rules following drafting and following players have made that draft process extinct for the most part, the Braves have continued the process in modified form.
The Braves draft a group of high school players with the idea of following them during the summer and continuing their evaluations. A major part of that evaluation is putting them together as many of those drafts as possible on one team at this event.
There are 13 Braves 2009 drafts on the Braves scout team, which is coached by Braves scouts Manny Vega and former Major Leaguer Brian Hunter and organized by Braves scout/former PG staff member Tom Battista.
Ironically, it was two non-drafted players that hit home runs for the Braves, 2B Albert Alvarez (2009, Cofa HS, AZ) drove in 4 runs with a double and 2 run homer and SS Tony Calhoun (2009, Temecula Valley, CA) also added a 2 run shot. 34th round pick CF Arby Fields went 3-4 with a double. RHP Casey Upperman, a 24th round pick (Notre Dame HS, AZ) threw 4 innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 run while pitching in the 89-91 mph range.
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Florida Bombers Squeek Out Win
6/30/2009 3:24:12 PM
The defending champion Florida Bombers almost found themselves behind the 8 ball early in their attempt to repeat. Despite 6 no-hit innings from RHP Ben Lively (see previouis blog), the Bombers found themselves down 1-0 going into the bottom of the 7th to the Baseball Mentoring Program Black team. The Bombers managed to score 2 runs to get the win, though, with the winning run scoring on a hit by OF Zeke DeVoss (2009, Astronaut HS, FL).
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RHP Andrew Smith
6/30/2009 2:28:53 PM
RHP Andrew Smith (2010, Roswell HS, GA) turned in a tune up inning at the end of 6-4-3 DP Baseball Academy's 11-0 win over the East Cobb Rebels and it was an impressive one. The 6-2, 190 lb Smith was 90-93 mph and struck out all three hitters he faced. The performance duplicated his efforts at the 2009 PG National Showcase, where Smith also pitched in the 90-93 mph area with a nice curveball and plus command potential.
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Frankie Christian, ABD Bulldogs
6/30/2009 1:59:22 PM
OF Frankie Christian (2010, Upland HS, CA) pounded the ball during games at the PG National Showcase a couple of weeks ago in Minneapolis. He brought his hot bat down south to Georgia, apparently. The left handed hitting Christian has driven two balls into the right field corner on East Cobb field #3, with a double and triple to show for it. He's driven in 4 runs already by the 3rd inning and has thrown in a steam of home as well. ABD leads the Florida Bomber Braves 10-0.
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LHP Zach Dotson
6/30/2009 1:43:32 PM
LHP Zach Dotson of the Southeastern Athletics (2009, Effingham County HS, GA) was the 13th round draft choice of the Mets three weeks ago. Today he's throwing for the Southeastern Athletics at the 18U WWBA National Championships. Based on the way he threw early this afternoon, the Mets are going to have to get serious about him. The 6-3, 190 southpaw was 90-92 for 3 near perfect innings, allowing only one hit while striking out 6. Not only did he flash a plus fastball, it had excellent late life at the plate as well.
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RHP Ben Lively, Florida Bombers
6/30/2009 1:33:56 PM
Ben Lively is a 6-4, 180 lb right hander from the 2010 class (Gulf Breeze HS, FL) with a long, loose projectable body. He's pitching for the defending champion Florida Bombers in their opening game against Baseball Mentoring Program Black. Lively has been pitching in the upper 80's and commanding the strike zone.
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One Swing Changes Game
6/30/2009 12:29:05 PM
One swing can change a game. 5-8.140 lb 3B Ellison Fitchpatrick (2009, Farragut HS, TN) took that one swing in the Knoxville Yard's 3-2 win over the Houston Banditos, driving a 3 run home run in the 4th inning to account for all the Yard's runs.
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Second Team No-Shows
6/30/2009 11:34:04 AM
A second team in the 192 team field will not be playing this week. The Pasadena Texans in Pool Q did not make the trip from Texas and their scheduled games will be recorded as forfeits. Questions from teams in Pool Q should be directed to the PG Staff. Pasadena was scheduled to play the 2:00 pm game today at Campbell HS vs the Ohio Warhawks.
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Devin Burke Team Connecticut
6/30/2009 10:51:07 AM
Early in the 11:30 am game at Chatahoochie HS between Team Connecticut and the Palm Beach Clippers, Team Connecticut RHP Devin Burke has been consistently 90-93 mph and pounding the strike zone. Burke, a 2009 grad from Darien, CT, has signed with Duke.
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Chris Carter Stars with Bat and Glove
6/30/2009 10:37:04 AM
Jacksonville Warriors CF Chris Carter (2009, Stanton HS, FL) led the Warriors to a 10-1 win over Grand Slam USA on both sides of the ball. He finished 3-3 with 2 runs scored at the plate, while making a "Web Gem" catch in the OF.
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SS Evan Smith Hits 1st Tournament Grand Slam
6/30/2009 10:23:07 AM
World of Baseball Angels SS Evan Smith (2010, Fleming Island HS, FL) hit the event's first Grand Slam, connecting as part of the Angels 9-run 6th inning against the Mentium Athletics. The Angels ended up winning 13-0. RHP Ryan Hayes (2010, Eagle View Academy, FL) threw a complete game shutout, striking out 10 while allowing only 4 hits.
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Pensacola Trio Leads Offense
6/30/2009 10:12:42 AM
The Pensacola Longhorns used a 8 run sixth inning to defeat the Chattanooga Cyclones 12-3 in the first game on the main East Cobb field. CF Tad Reynolds, C Logan Fiasco and SS Robbie Jerrnigan all drove in 3 runs for the Longhorns.
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Crigger, Edgerton Fuel 2-0 Canes Victory
6/30/2009 10:07:12 AM
LHP Brandon Crigger threw a complete game 2-hit shutout with 13 strikeouts to lead the Canes to a 2-0 win over the Burkburnett Black Sox. Crigger (2009, Calvert HS, MD) carried a no-hitter into the 5th inning. CF'er Edgerton (2009, Aycock HS, NC) hit a 2-run home run in the 6th inning to provide the Canes runs.
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Justin Hager K's 14 for Lake Area Dodgers
6/30/2009 9:48:34 AM
Lake Area Dodgers LHP Justin Hager (2009, Grand Blanc HS, Swartz Creek, MI) struck out 14 hitters in Lake Area's 2-1 win over the Dallas Panthers.
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West Florida LHP Looks Sharp
6/30/2009 9:43:46 AM
West Florida Young Guns LHP Daniel Gibson was sharp in the West Florida 8-0 win over the Colorado Slammers. Gibson threw 3 no-hit innings, striking out 6 while working at 88 mph with his fastball and throwing a sharp curveball. Gibson is a 6-1, 190 lb 2010 grad from Tampa Jesuit HS.
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Duo Leads Richmond Braves
6/30/2009 9:38:52 AM
1B Austin Young and C Matt Harrington led the Richmond Braves to a 10-0 win over the Update Mavericks. Both players went 3-3, with Young hitting a home run and Harrington driving in 3 runs. Both players are 2010 prospects. Harrington (Kellem HS, Virginia Beach, VA) was a standout at the PG National Showcase, while Young (Atlee HS, Mechanicsville, VA) is a big 6-4, 235 lb power hitter.
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Glendora Gators Drop Out
6/30/2009 7:10:06 AM
The Glendora Gators (New Jersey) have dropped out of the 18U Championships, reportedly due to a car accident while traveling down to Marietta. The PG staff is in the process of contacting local teams off a waiting list to take the Gators place in Pool D. The 9 am Pool D game vs. Cape Coast Canes has been postponed. Other teams in Pool D will be contacted by the PG staff when updated Pool D schedule information is available.
2009 WWBA 18U National Championship
Wednesday, July 1
Playoff Schedule
7/2/2009 7:21:59 AM
We've been getting lots of questions about the playoff schedule/format.
There are 32 total pools (each made up of 6 teams) in the Tournament. The champion of each pool will be the only teams entering the 32 team playoffs. There will be no wild card teams. In case of ties at the end of pool play, the standard WWBA tie breaking rules will apply, in order of application: 1) head to head competition, 2) fewest runs allowed, 3) most runs scored.
The first round of the playoffs will be played (all 16 games) at 7 pm on Saturday. Sites for each game will be announced as the pairings are made. First round playoff pairings will pit the following pool champions against each other: Pool A vs. Pool AA, Pool B vs. Pool BB, C vs. CC, D vs DD, E vs. EE, F vs. FF, G vs. H, I vs. J, K vs. L, M vs. N, etc.
The home team in each playoff game will be determined by coin flip. There will be no playoff seeding of any type.
The Round of 16 and Quarterfinals will be held on Sunday, with all games being played at the East Cobb Complex and Kell HS. A complete slate of consolation games will be held on the outlying fields on Sunday.
The semi-finals will be held at the EC Complex at 9 am on Monday, with the Championship Game immediately following.
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Michael Basil Goes Yard Twice
7/1/2009 5:49:36 PM
Cincy Flames shortstop Michael Basil (2009, St. Xavier HS, OH) became the first hitter at the 2009 18U National Championship to blast 2 home runs in one game, connecting in both the first and fourth innings of the Flames 8-2 win over the Brookhaven Jays. Flames CF Rob Nesterhoff was on base both times Basil left the yard.
Basil is a 6-1, 190 lb right handed hitter who has signed to play at Indiana next year. He was ranked #368 on the final PG Crosschecker rankings for the 2009 class.
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Aflac All-American Trey Griffin
7/1/2009 5:29:45 PM
2009 Aflac All-American Trey Griffin (2010, Heritage HS, GA) is off to one of the hottest starts of any player in the 192 team tournament for the East Cobb Braves.
The 6-4, 200 lb right handed hitter hit a 3-run home run on Tuesday to break up a close game. Wednesday, Griffin went 2-3 with 2 doubles and another 3 Rbi's in an 8-1 win over the Florida Pokers.
The Braves feature four Aflac All-Americans in their starting line up in Griffin, IF Zach Alvord, CF Chavez Clarke and RHP/3B Stetson Allie.
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World Yacht Clippers '10's
7/1/2009 5:21:44 PM
The World Yacht Clippers '10 team has a young LHP who will be getting plenty of attention over the summer from colleges and probably next spring from the scouts. Ryan Pennell (2010, Rye Neck HS, NY) is a loose and easy 6-4, 185 lb southpaw. He was outstanding at the PG Sunshine Northeast Showcase last month but was unable to come to the PG National Showcase.
This morning Pennell was 86-89 mph for three innings (6 K's) in a 4-3 win over a veteran Knoxville Yard team. Pennell threw both a low 70's curveball and a slider that touched 82 mph and both showed hard spin and sharp bite. He's very projectable and already shows a polished approach to using his stuff.
Another 2010 World Yacht Clippers prospect, SS T.J. Olesczuk (2010, Hendrick Hudson HS, NY) had an outstanding game, going 4-4 with a triple, stolen base and 2 runs scored.
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Houston Slam 1B Trey Soape
7/1/2009 5:06:24 PM
The Houston Slam were on the short end of the Tournament's biggest slugfest, losing 16-7 to the Tampa Elite Spartans. But one of their young players left the biggest impression.
1B Trey Soape (2011, Second Baptist HS, TX) finished the game 2-3 with a home run and a double and 3 runs scored. The 6-2, 180 lb right handed hitting Soape's home run came off a 88 mph fastball that he drove far over the LF wall at Lassiter High School.
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ABD Aflac's Line Up
7/1/2009 4:57:42 PM
Teams facing the ABD Bulldogs (the 2008 WWBA World Champions) will have to deal with Aflac All-Americans in the first 3 spots in the batting order if the Bulldogs bat the same lineup they did on Wednesday.
SS Tony Wolters batted leadoff, CF Austin Wilson batted second and C Stefan Sabol hit third in a 10-2 win over the Atlanta Longhorns. The trio combined to go 4-6 with 2 walks and a HBP, scoring 5 runs and driving in 3 more. Sabol led the way with a 3-3 effort that included 2 doubles.
RHP Gabriel Encinas was impressive in the win, striking out 6 hitters in 4 innings with a 86-90 mph fastball and sharp breaking slider.
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Diamond Devils/South Charlotte Panthers
7/1/2009 4:19:11 PM
Two of the most experienced teams in the Championship are the Diamond Devils from South Carolina and their close neighbors, the South Charlotte (NC) Panthers. Both teams are filled with high level DI signees with extensive experience in events of this type. Both teams have started out the week with 2-0 records.
The Diamond Devils picked up a run rule 12-0 win today over the Mentium Athletics (coached by former ML pitcher Greg McMichael). LHP Chris Hanna (2010, Strattford HS, SC) threw 3 perfect innings, striking out 7 hitters. Hanna pitched in the mid 80's with a power curveball and very good command. Combined with Drew Cisco's 15 K masterpiece yesterday, Diamond Devil starters have thrown 10 innings, allowed 3 hits and struck out 22 in two games.
Diamond Devils EH Brison Celek, a South Carolina signee, hit a 3-run home run to pace the offense.
The Panthers were led today by 2008 Aflac All-American Richie Schaeffer, who hit a 400+ foot home run and later added a double later in a 6-1 win over the Florida Bombers Blue Sox. Schaeffer reportedly passed on a possible 7-figure signing bonus on draft day to honor his commitment to Clemson.
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A Hidden Player?
7/1/2009 4:01:00 PM
The Akadema Indiana Yankees reached down south to Hiram, Georgia to pull out a player who could be a rarity in this day and age, a hidden player. Yankees coach Buddy Swift says he understands that 6-4, 220 lb RHP Dalton Accord (2009, Hiram HS, GA) was throwing up to 94-95 mph this spring but went undrafted in June. He's signed with Middle Georgia JC for 2010. Accord was 88-93 mph on his fastball in a relief outing for the Yankees on Wednesday, although he ended up the loss in a 7-5 decision to the MGBA Nationals.
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Florida Bombers vs. Syracuse Sports Zone
7/1/2009 3:50:31 PM
Scouts and coaches trying to get a read on two top 2010 pitchers were in the right place if they were at Kennessaw Mountain HS at 11:30 am Wednesday.
RHP Colby Sims (2010, Mandarin HS, FL) threw 5 no-hit innings for the Bombers, although he allowed an unearned run in the first inning on a walk, stolen base and infield error. Sims duplicated his stuff from the PG National, throwing 88-91 mph with very good arm side run. His upper 70's slider showed sharp action at times and accounted for many of his 6 K's.
RHP Artie Lewicki (2010, St. Joseph's HS, NJ) threw 2 2/3 hitless innings himself but was hurt by erratic control (3 walks, 3 HBP's, 2 WP's) and allowed 2 runs. The 6-3, 190 lb Lewicki was also 88-91 mph on his fastball and threw a sinking 2-seamer in the 84-87 mph range. He has some mechanical issues with drifting to deal with but shows hard spin on a mid 70's slurve and some feel for a change up.
The 5-time champion Bombers ran their record to 2-0 with a 5-1 victory.
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Minnesota Starz 2010's
7/1/2009 1:51:53 PM
The Minnesota Starz are very familiar to the PG scouts, as they participated in the PG National Invitational Tournament at the Metrodome in Minneapolis prior to the PG National Showcase.
They've brought at least three solid DI type prospects from the 2010 class south to Georgia and all three were on their game in a 2-1 win over the Upstate Mavericks.
C Alex Jurich (2010, St. Thomas Academy, MN) hit a 2-run home run in the first inning to provide both Starz runs and later singled twice. He also had a 1.97 game throw on a steal attempt. Jurich is a 6-2, 200 lb right handed hitter.
SS Mark Tatera (2010, Holy Angels HS, MN)was on second base after his 1st inning double to score in front of Jurich's 370+ foot blast and ended up the game 2-4 at the plate. He's a versatile defender who can also catch and is an outstanding student who is getting attention from Ivy League schools.
RHP Thomas Larson (2010, Prior Lake HS, MN) threw a complete game 4-hitter for the Starz. He shows a smooth, repeatable delivery with very good arm side run on a 85-87 mph fastball. He also throws a mid 70's curveball and 77 mph change up.
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Carolina Cubs RHP Jonathan Aparicio
7/1/2009 1:23:26 PM
This must be the day for 2012 pitchers (remember, this is the 18U Championships, not the 16U).
The Carolina Cubs started 2012 RHP Jonathan Aparicio (East Wake HS, Wendell, NC) in their game against Team Connecticut. Aparicio went 3 innings, allowing 2 hits and 2 runs while striking out 4 hitters. The 6-3, 170 lb 15 year old was 85-88 mph on his fastball with a whippy, loose arm. His curveball was in the mid 70's and he had a good feel for throwing it for strikes. Carolina Cubs coach Ricky Keith says that Aparicio is a very good athlete who can swing the bat as well. Aparicio will also be playing for the Cubs at the 16U Championships the 14th thru the 20th.
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East Cobb Astros LHP Matt Crownover
7/1/2009 12:07:57 PM
By the time LHP Matt Crownover graduates from Ringgold HS, Georgia in 2012, it will only seem like we've seen him pitch forever. Actually it will only be 6 years, as Crownover, a freshman, started pitching for the Astros when he was in 7th grade.
Today was almost a typical Crownover performance, as he faced the minimum 15 hitters in a run rule 11-0 East Cobb Astros victory over Bullet Baseball. Crownover allow a hit and 2 walks but picked off two runners and saw another runner erased on a double play. Crownover has very good control over a mid 80's fastball, a 70 mph curveball and 73 mph change up and pitches with a veteran's savy.
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RHP Justin Bellez Touching 94 mph
7/1/2009 11:01:25 AM
San Diego Show RHP Justin Bellez was the Los Angeles Angels 38th round draft choice in June out of Mira Mesa HS in San Diego. He didn't come on for scouts as much as they had anticipated, throwing mostly in the 88-90 mph range. His draft slot indicates that he will likely fulfill his commitment to San Diego State.
The Angels might want to keep their eye closely on Bellez, though. The 6-2, 190 lb righty is throwing up to 94 mph this morning in the Show's game against the Competitive Edge Dodgers.
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LHP Thomas Dorminy, Tampa Elite
7/1/2009 10:53:46 AM
LHP Thomas Dorminy (2010, Alonso HS, FL) is pitching at 89-90 mph early in the 11:30 game between the Tampa Elite Spartans and the Houston Slam. He is also throwing a sharp downer CB with good hard spin. The 6-0, 200 lb Dorminy has a verbal commitment to U. South Florida.
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Richmond Braves National '10 RHP Tyler Skulina
7/1/2009 10:36:29 AM
The Richmond Braves 2010 team (they also have a 2009 team in Marietta) has got off to a very strong start at the 18U, which bodes well for their chances in next week's 17U National Championship.
RHP Tyler Skulina was the scouting star of the Braves 10-0 win over Grand Slam USA Wednesday morning, throwing 92-94 mph with a hard breaking 77 mph slurve. Skulina is a 6-6, 235 lb 2010 prospect from Walsh Jesuit HS in Strongsville, Ohio.
Other early standouts on the Braves '10 include C Pat Harrington, OF Mitchell Shifflet, 1B Austin Young and OF Eric Mayers.
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Two 2009 RHP's Stand Out Late Tuesday
7/1/2009 9:33:35 AM
Two 2009 right handed pitchers, one of whom wasn't even drafted, were among the most impressive pitchers to throw yesterday.
RHP Damian Magnifico (North Mesquite HS, TX) was the fifth round pick of the New York Mets. Pitching for the Texas Dukes, Magnifico threw 3 innings, allowing 2 runs, mostly due to the 5 walks he issued. What was impressive was his raw arm strength, as he showed a consistent plus fastball that touched 96 mph. Much like his scouting report from the spring, Magnifico's curveball and command was inconsistent to non-existent at times, but there was no mistaking the arm strength.
More of a surprise was the performance of San Diego Show RHP Ryan Wilkins, an undrafted (and thus current free agent) out of Cathedral HS in San Diego. The 6-1, 195 lb Wilkins threw 4 shutout innings, allowing 2 hits and striking out 5. He sat between 89 and 91 mph on his fastball and showed a very hard and late breaking upper 70's curveball. Wilkins has signed with San Diego State.
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Schedule Changes
7/1/2009 8:57:12 AM
There have been three schedule changes affecting games on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Each is thre result of a previously forfeited game that has made a field/game slot at or close to the EC Complex available. It's the tournament staff's desire to play as many games as possible on the primary fields.
The following games have been rescheduled:
THURSDAY, GAME 206, ABD California vs. Rockdale Rhinos. Will now be played in game #219's slot, 11:30 am at Kell HS.
FRIDAY, GAME 303, Edge Baseball vs. Georgia Trojans. Will now be played in game #320's slot, 11:30 am at Dominion Christian School
SATURDAY, GAME 403, East Cobb Angels vs. Team Connecticut Blue Jays. Will now be played in game #395's slot, 9:00 am at Kennesaw Mountain HS
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AFLAC All-American Team Announced
7/1/2009 8:33:18 AM
The 2009 Aflac All-American Team, as selected by Perfect Game, was announced yesterday. The 40 high school players from around the country, divided into East and West teams, will play at the San Diego Padres Petco Park on August 16th. The game will be nationally televised on the FOX Sports Network.
For the complete rosters and background on the Aflac All-American Game, follow this link:
http://www.aflac.com/us/en/abo...ory.aspx?rid=1303593
2009 WWBA 18U National Championship
Thursday, July 2
Game Added to Schedule
7/2/2009 7:57:20 PM
A game has been added to the schedule. The Mississippi Prospects will face the Maryland Redbirds at Oglethorpe University at 4:30. The game is officially categorized as a consolation game even though pool play has not been complete. Both teams come from pools which had a "forfeit" team and are making up for the lost game. The game does not count in pool standings.
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Top 5 Teams
7/2/2009 7:48:28 PM
At no point in the 18U National Championships will teams be seeded, but if they were, the top 5 teams after 3 days of play would be:
1. Richmond Braves '10 (3-0, 0 RA/24 RS)
2. East Cobb Astros (3-0, 0 RA/23 RS)
3. South Charlotte Panthers (3-0, 1 RA/15 RS)
4. Excel Blue Wave (3-0, 1 RA/12 RS)
5. East Cobb Astros 17U (3-0, 1 RA/9 RS)
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Wes Rea, Louisiana Knights
7/2/2009 7:26:34 PM
Wes Rea (2010, Harrison Central HS, MS) is listed on the Louisiana Knights program as a primary 1B. He's also listed at 6-4, 275 lbs, so it's hard to miss him either on paper or in uniform.
Rea came into close the Knights 4-2 victory over Team Connecticut this morning, throwing 2 innings in the relief of mid 80's southpaw Jordan Rittiner (2009, Jesuit HS, LA). Rea was 87-91 mph on his fastball with an upper 70's curveball and 75 mph change. His mechanics were a bit raw but he threw strikes with all three pitches.
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Pair of Draft 2009 Pitchers Impress
7/2/2009 6:56:14 PM
Two 2009 draft pitchers had very impressive outings this afternoon that were hopefully seen by their drafting clubs.
LHP C.C. Watson (2009, Cleburne County HS, AL) threw 6 innings for the Excel Blue Wave in a 2-1 win over the Atlanta Blue Jays. Watson was consistently 89-90 mph from an over the top arm slot and spotted his fastball with maturity. His curveball was a hard 78-80 mph slurve that he also spotted well. Watson struck out 10 and allowed only 2 hits.
Watson was a 29th round draft choice of the Texas Rangers.
Watson was trumped by Chet Lemon's Juice RHP Bryan Mitchell (2009, Rockingham County HS, NC). Mitchell, a 16th round pick of the Yankees, threw 5 innings of shutout ball, allowing 2 hits and striking out 11 in a Juice 9-0 victory over the South Florida Bandits East. Mitchell pitched at 91-94 mph in the early innings and was still 90-91 at the end of the game. Mitchell has an extremely loose and fast arm from a close to overhand release point.
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Broad Powers Florida Bombers
7/2/2009 6:05:45 PM
SS Michael Broad (2009, Nova HS, FL) powered the Florida Bombers to a 10-1 win over the CBC Diamond Rats. Broad had 2 home runs and 6 Rbi's after two innings and later added a Rbi single, giving him 7 Rbi's on the day.
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Shortage of Hard Throwing LHP's
7/2/2009 5:52:49 PM
The Class of 2010 has alot of big pluses in it but hard throwing LHP's definitely aren't one of them. In fact, we counted southpaws who touched 90 at the PG National and only came up with seven, and two of them were primary position players.
So we are taking an extra look at all the scoresheets this week and at the 17U's next week to hopefully find some more.
Dulins Dodgers LHP Sam Moll put himself on that list today. The 5-11, 180 southpaw (St. Benedict HS, Lakeland, TN) touched 89 mph frequently in the early innings of Dulins 9-1 win over the East Cobb Indians and settled into the mid-80's during the late innings. Moll only allowed 1 hit in 6 innings while striking out 7. He has a fluid delivery and does a good job of running his FB away from RHH'ers while mixing in a low 70's curveball.
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Trio of Richmond Braves '10 Hard Throwers
7/2/2009 5:09:59 PM
The Richmond Braves '10's unleased a trio of hard throwers in a 4-0 win against the East Cobb Patriots that ran their record to 3-0. Only one of them was a primary pitcher, though.
6-5, 190 lb RHP Cody Cox (2010, Grassfield HS, VA) started and went 5 innings, allowing 2 hits and striking out 8. Cox threw 86-89 mph with a loose and free arm action and a upper 60's curveball that flashed good spin.
Cox was followed to the mound by 3B Johnny Fasola (88-90 mph) and 1B Austin Young (88-90) to close out the game.
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Blake Burrell, ABD Navy
7/2/2009 4:46:02 PM
RHP Blake Burrell (2011, Canyon Springs HS, CA) isn't one of the bigger pitchers here; in fact at 5-8, 160 he's probably one of the smallest. But Burrell pitched big, throwing a 5-hit shutout against the East Cobb Angels in a 7-0 ABD Navy victory Thursday afternoon. Burrell was mostly 87-88 mph on his fastball from a simple, low effort turn and throw delivery. His 70 mph curveball was tight and quick and accounted for many of his 9 K's.
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Illinois Sparks 3B Chris Savas goes Yard..and Car
7/2/2009 4:30:13 PM
Illinois Sparks 3B Chris Savas (2009, Willowbrook HS, IL) hit home runs in his first 2 at bats Wednesday afternoon against the South Bergan Mets at Sprayberry HS, knocking in 5 runs. Not only did Savas go yard, he went Car! A major road runs along the other side of the left field fence at Sprayberry and one of his home runs drilled a passing car. We found out about it when the owner of the car showed up at the field to complain!
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Kalamazoo Diamond Maroons Defeat Braves Scout Team
7/2/2009 4:23:27 PM
In one of the bigger upsets thus far in the tournament, the Kalamazoo Diamond Maroons ran their record to 3-0 by defeating the Braves Scout Team 4-3 Thursday afternoon.
LHP Logan McAnallen (2009, DeWitt HS, MI) started for Kalamazoo and threw 4 solid innings, showing a mid 80's fastball and sharp slurve. He was relieved by another southpaw, Trey Popp (2009, Portage Central HS, MI), who held the Braves to a single run over the last three innings. Popp touched 88 mph on his fastball and showed good mound presence and command.
SS Torrston Boss (2009, Lowell HS, MI) went 2-3 with a home run to lead the Kalamazoo offense.
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Virgin Islands Prospect
7/2/2009 4:11:18 PM
It's rare for a prospect to come from the Virgin Islands but there might be one in the 2011 class. RHP DeShaun Lake hails from St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands and is a strongly built 6-0, 190 lb athlete. Starting the CBC Diamond Rats this afternoon, Lake was throwing 89-91 mph on his fastball with the makings of a good hard slurve type breaking ball.
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Taconic Rangers Youngster Doesn't Act His Age
7/2/2009 4:00:39 PM
Taconic Rangers RHP Seth Lamando is one of the youngest players in the 18U National Championships as a 2012 grad at Ketcham HS in New York. He didn't act like it while throwing a 7 inning no-hitter against the Orlando Reds.
The 5-11 right hander walked 2 while striking out 7. He pitched between 83 and 86 mph for all 7 innings and showed very good command of a upper 60's curveball. He obviously can handle the pressure of pitching to older hitters on a big stage.
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Roderick Shoulders, Chet Lemon's Juice
7/2/2009 3:54:30 PM
Big Roderick Shoulders (6-2, 220, 2010, Brandon HS, FL) is swinging a seriously hot bat. The left handed hitting first baseman doubled off the right field wall and hit a 400 ft HR in his last two at bats last night in Chet Lemon's Juice 4-4 tie with the NE Lumberjacks.
In his first at bat this afternoon on EC Field 1, Shoulders drove a 3 run home run over the LCF fence. We'll be watching for the next time he comes up.
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Kevin Link Throws Masterpiece
7/2/2009 2:58:20 PM
East Cobb Mets RHP Kevin Link (2009, Lassiter HS, GA) threw a masterpiece in the 2 pm game at EC Field #3, a 7-0 Mets win over the Houston Slam. Link, who will be attending Princeton in the fall, threw a complete game 7 inning no-hitter, walking one batter in the second inning, while striking out 13 Slam hitters. Link worked between 84 and 86 mph on his fastball with very good arm side running action while working in a 77 mph slider and 69 mph curveball.
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OF Dalton Henzman, Kentucky Baseball Club
7/2/2009 1:47:13 PM
Attention College Coaches.
Kentucky Baseball Club has a CF named Dalton Henzman (2009, 6-3, 190, R/R, Lexington Christian HS, KY) who has been outstanding the first three games here in Marietta. He's a very toolsy player with good speed that plays in centerfield, good projectable size and has shown very good power with the bat. Henzman has told us that he has not signed with any school and is looking for a D1 type opportunity if possible.
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Team Elite RHP Matthew Grimes
7/2/2009 11:01:07 AM
There seems to be a bottomless well of 2010 prospects from the state of Georgia. 2010 Matthew Grimes (6-5, 185, Mill Creek HS, GA) is throwing 89-91 mph with a 74 mph curveball for Team Elite in the 11:30 am slot this morning against the East Cobb Titans.
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East Cobb Braves Win 13-8
7/2/2009 10:25:44 AM
The East Cobb Braves outlasted the Bayou City Bears 13-8 in a 9 am game Thursday morning, with mixed performances from their Aflac All-Americans.
SS Zach Alvord continued his hot hitting, slamming his second HR of the week, a 2-run shot, and added a single and a walk while totaling 3 Rbi's. EH Trey Griffin was held hitless but had 2 sacrifice flies, running his tournament Rbi total to 8 thru 3 games.
CF Chavez Clarke scored a couple of runs after reaching base on a walk and HBP but went 0-2.
RHP/3B Stetson Allie went 1-2 with an Rbi and run scored at the plate and came on in the last inning to close the game. Allie lit up the radar gun at 95-97 mph with an 87-90 slider but missed consistently high while walking 3 hitters. A game ending double play bailed him out of a bases loaded jam.
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Carolina Cyclones RHP Drake Thomason
7/2/2009 8:51:59 AM
RHP Drake Thomason (2010, Eastside HS, SC) wasn't on the PG radar before this morning but he is now. Pitching for the Carolina Cyclones at Sprayberry HS in the 9 am slot, the 6-2, 200 lb Thomason has been throwing 89-91 mph in the early innings with a power type arm action.
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SE Texas Sun Devils RHP Trae Davis
7/2/2009 8 11 AM
2010 RHP Trae Davis (Mexia HS, TX) has been very consistent over the past month at multiple Perfect Game events. He was 91-93 mph at the Sunshine South Showcase and about the same at the PG National Showcase. The very athletic 5-11, 195 lb Davis started this morning for the SE Texas Sun Devils and not surprisingly is the same....90-92 mph with a good slider.
2009 WWBA 18U National Championship
Friday, July 3
12 Teams Have Clinched Playoff Berths
Here are the blogs from the 18U... I wouldn't call this "very little mention". Some of these names might explain why so many scouts and recruiters attend. Sorry for taking up so much space.
2009 WWBA 18U National Championship
Tuesday, June 30
2010 Mississippi Pitching Prospect
6/30/2009 7:53:17 PM
Put RHP Austin Herzog on the 2010 prospect list. The 6-3, 200 lb Herzog (2010, Hillside Christian HS, MS) threw 4 shutout innings (6 K's) in the Mississippi Worth Bandits 7-0 win over the East Cobb Indians. Herzog threw a heavy 90 mph fastball and mixed in a polished 74 mph change up and a big breaking curveball.
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Drew Cisco Throws Masterpiece
6/30/2009 7:48:38 PM
Diamond Devils RHP Drew Cisco (2010, Wando HS, SC) has been pitching in WWBA summer National Championships for three three years but he might not have thrown a better game than he did Tuesday night. The Diamond Devils needed Cisco's effort in a 2-0 win over the Puerto Rico Giants. Cisco threw a complete game 3-hitter, striking out 15 hitters without walking a hitter. He was steady 89-91 mph on his fastball, topping out at 92, while showing a mid 70's curveball with good shape and depth.
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Near No Hitter for Michigan Bulls
6/30/2009 7:36:27 PM
Michigan Bulls RHP Joe Battisteili (2010, Allen Park HS, MI) had to settle for a 7 inning 1-hit shutout in the Bulls 7-0 win over the Texas Sports Red. Battisteili struck out 10 hitters using a mid 80's fastball and 73 mph curveball.
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Team Connecticut Leadoff Hitter Scores 4 Runs
6/30/2009 7:29:59 PM
Team Connecticut Baseball Blue Jays picked the right player to hit leadoff in their 8-7 win over the ABD Bulldogs Navy. DH/SS Johnny Pritts (2010, Trumbull, CT) led off three different innings, twice with walks and once with a double, plus added another single in the middle of an inning. Pritts scored all four times he reached base, the first player in the Tournament to achieve that feat.
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Stars Baseball LHP Patrick Gamblin
6/30/2009 7:23:57 PM
Stars Baseball 2009 LHP Patrick Gamblin turned in one of the more unique pitching lines of any tournament in the Stars 2-0 win over the Houston Slam. You might say he was unhittable in his 4 2/3 innings of work. Gamblin used a 86-88 mph fastball and a big, slow curveball while facing 20 hitters. 13 of those hitters struck out, but 7 of them walked. A couple of hitters were thrown out on the bases and one reached on a wild pitch on a third strike. RHP Aaron Lewis finished up a 1-hit shutout with 2 1/3 additional innings, striking out 5.
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Georgia Knights Slam Three Home Runs
6/30/2009 7 15 PM
The Georgia Knights hit three home runs to account for 5 of the team's 6 runs in a 6-2 win over the South Florida Bandits National. CF Derrick Workman (2010, Dominion Christian HS, GA) hit a 3-run shot in the bottom of the first and EH Brad Fieger went followed with a solo shot. SS Reid Schneider (2010, Dominion Christian HS, GA) added a solo shot in the fifth inning. LHP England Smith (2010, Battle Ground Academy, TN) went the distance for the Knights, scattering 6 hits while striking out 12 hitters. Smith topped out at 87 mph with a big sweeping CB.
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RHP Boomer Scarborough, Louisiana Knights Prospect
6/30/2009 7:04:38 PM
RHP Boomer Scarborough has a big league name and some pro level stuff. The 6-2, 235 2010 prospect from St. Stanislaus HS in Pass Christian, MS, threw 6 1/3 innings in Knights 3-2 loss to the L.E.A.D Ambassadors, allowing 5 hits, 3 runs and striking out 8. Scarborough was 87-91 mph on his fastball and threw both a mid 70's curveball and a mid 80's slider. He showed the ability to mix up his pitches and throw to spots.
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Scouting Without the Stats for the Rockdale Rhinos
6/30/2009 6:53:54 PM
Sometimes you don't have to do much in the performance category to impress the scouts. The Rockdale Rhino's CF Cameron Gibson (2011, Salem HS, GA) hits third in the Rhino's line up on a team of 2009/2010 players as a sophomore. He went 0-3 in the Rhino's 4-0 win over the East Cobb Titans but his PG scout notes read "Plus bat speed, Very good body. Good range and plus reads in CF, smooth defensively. Has an idea at the plate."
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Tampa SS Eric Gutierrez Slams Two HR's
6/30/2009 6:46:49 PM
Tampa Elite Spartans SS Eric Gutierrez (2010, Leto HS, FL) hit in the leadoff spot in the Tuesday morning game but it might be an idea to move him down to the middle of the order. Gutierrez slammed two home runs, a 3 run shot in the second inning and a 2 run shot in the third inning, then added another Rbi later in the third on a bases loaded HBP. Tampa Elite won 15-3 over the Orlando Scorpions Grey.
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Home Run's Do the Trick for East Cobb Braves
6/30/2009 6:35:13 PM
The East Cobb Braves, one of the pre-tournament favorites, only held a 3-2 lead over Next Level Baseball after 3 innings. They quickly put the game out of reach within a span of three hitters when 2B Zach Alvord (2010, South Forsyth HS, GA) hit a 3-run home run and RF Trey Griffin follow two hitters later with a 2-run shot of his own. Alvord and Griffin were two of the standouts at the recent Perfect Game National Showcase.
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Tournament's First 4-Hit Game
6/30/2009 6:16:24 PM
Long Island Titans OF/DH Frank Soler (2010, Chaminade HS, NY) registered the Tournament's first four hit game, going a perfect 4-4 hitting out of the second hole in the Titans 5-4 win over the East Cobb Dynasty. Soler scored the winning run in the bottom of the 7th on a single by C/LF Kyle Ambury (2010, Wantagh HS, NY).
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Atlanta Blue Jays Throw Two Loose Armed 2010 RHP's
6/30/2009 6:09:24 PM
RHP Justin McCalvin (2010, Lee County HS, GA) went the first 5 2/3 innings in the Blue Jays 7-0 win over the Florida Bulldogs, striking out 10 while only allowing 1 hit. McCalvin sat and 86 mph and was aggressive in spotting his fastball on the corners. He was relieved by 6-3, 190 lb RHP Demondre Arnold (2010, Creekside HS, GA), who struck out a couple more hitters while sitting at 87-88 mph with a very sharp 77 mph slider.
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EC Yankees Zane Evans on a Tear
6/30/2009 4:49:12 PM
East Cobb Yankees catcher Zane Evans (2010, Roswell HS, GA) is 3-3 with 2 doubles and 7 Rbi's thus far in the Yankees 4:30 game vs. the Big Hitter Diamond Stars. East Cobb is currently leading 14-0.
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Tournament Game Wraps
6/30/2009 4:46:33 PM
Summaries ("wraps" as we call them) of each and every game played at the WWBA 18U National Championship (all 480 of the pool play games, plus all the playoff and consulation games) will be posted on the WWBA website in as timely of fashion as possible.
Sample Wrap from Game 1:
WP: Cole Brand (CC) 5 IP, 7 H, 6 R, 4 K, 3 BB
LP: Josh Fein (PL) 5 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 4 K, 6 BB
LF Jamie Harper (CC) 1-2, 1 2B; SS Robert Jernigan (PL) 1-4, 2 R, 3 RBI; 2B Kris Matsoukas (PL) 2-3, 2 R, 1 RBI; C Logan Fiasco (PL) 2-4, 1 R, 3 RBI; CF Tad Reynolds (LP) 2-2, 1 3B, 3 RBI
One of the challenges of doing the wraps is that they are all done from one central location, the tower at the East Cobb Complex. The games, however, are played at 20 different locations (19 outlying fields, plus the 4 fields at the EC Complex/Kell HS). Collecting the score sheets from all those different fields is a logistic exercise given the distances and the Atlanta area traffic patterns. Although the scores of each game are immediately called in and posted when a game ends, the scoresheets from a game may not make it back to the Complex until the end of the day depending on the field's location and the game time.
So thank you for your patience in waiting for games to be posted!
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RHP Josh Pape Shines for OTC Bearcats
6/30/2009 4:29:00 PM
RHP Josh Pape (2009, Luella HS, GA) threw a complete game 3-hit shutout in the OTC Bearcats 4-0 victory over the Massachusetts Pride. Pape pitched in the 83-85 mph range with a very good hard curveball in the lower 70's. He struck out 6 hitters while only walking 1.
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Cam Bedrosian Hits 94 mph for Home Plate Chilidogs
6/30/2009 4:20:54 PM
RHP Cam Bedrosian (2010, East Coweta HS, GA), son of former ML pitcher Steve Bedrosian, is one of the hardest throwing pitchers in the 2010 class. We've been told that he touched 96 mph last week. He threw a tune up inning at the tail end of the Home Plate Chilidogs 11-1 victory over the MGBA Nationals, pitching between 90-94 while striking out 2 hitters.
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Schedule Correction
6/30/2009 4:04:44 PM
There is an error on the printed schedules for Game 280 (Thursday, 4:30 at Southern Poly). It shows that the San Diego Show are playing against themselves. The proper schedule, which is listed on the WWBA website, shows that the Show are playing Team Georgia. Team Georgia is the home team.
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East Cobb Pitcher Hour at the 18U
6/30/2009 4:00:28 PM
Three of the top East Cobb teams all played in the 4:30 time slot and all started top level right handed pitchers.
East Cobb Astros: Kaleb Cowart (2010, Cook County HS, GA) started off throwing 90-93 against Triple Threat Baseball Academy
East Cobb Braves: Ralston Cash (2010, Lakeview Academy, GA) was solid at 90 mph in the first inning against Next Level Baseball with a sharp 78 mph CB.
East Cobb Yankees: Ben McKinney (2009, Science Hill HS, TN) was 88-91 mph early against Big Hitter Diamond Stars.
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Braves Scout Team wins 10-3
6/30/2009 3:47:04 PM
The Braves Scout Team won their first game 10-3 over the Florida Stars Grey. The Braves scouting department has a completely unique approach to putting together a team for this event. While the old rules following drafting and following players have made that draft process extinct for the most part, the Braves have continued the process in modified form.
The Braves draft a group of high school players with the idea of following them during the summer and continuing their evaluations. A major part of that evaluation is putting them together as many of those drafts as possible on one team at this event.
There are 13 Braves 2009 drafts on the Braves scout team, which is coached by Braves scouts Manny Vega and former Major Leaguer Brian Hunter and organized by Braves scout/former PG staff member Tom Battista.
Ironically, it was two non-drafted players that hit home runs for the Braves, 2B Albert Alvarez (2009, Cofa HS, AZ) drove in 4 runs with a double and 2 run homer and SS Tony Calhoun (2009, Temecula Valley, CA) also added a 2 run shot. 34th round pick CF Arby Fields went 3-4 with a double. RHP Casey Upperman, a 24th round pick (Notre Dame HS, AZ) threw 4 innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 run while pitching in the 89-91 mph range.
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Florida Bombers Squeek Out Win
6/30/2009 3:24:12 PM
The defending champion Florida Bombers almost found themselves behind the 8 ball early in their attempt to repeat. Despite 6 no-hit innings from RHP Ben Lively (see previouis blog), the Bombers found themselves down 1-0 going into the bottom of the 7th to the Baseball Mentoring Program Black team. The Bombers managed to score 2 runs to get the win, though, with the winning run scoring on a hit by OF Zeke DeVoss (2009, Astronaut HS, FL).
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RHP Andrew Smith
6/30/2009 2:28:53 PM
RHP Andrew Smith (2010, Roswell HS, GA) turned in a tune up inning at the end of 6-4-3 DP Baseball Academy's 11-0 win over the East Cobb Rebels and it was an impressive one. The 6-2, 190 lb Smith was 90-93 mph and struck out all three hitters he faced. The performance duplicated his efforts at the 2009 PG National Showcase, where Smith also pitched in the 90-93 mph area with a nice curveball and plus command potential.
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Frankie Christian, ABD Bulldogs
6/30/2009 1:59:22 PM
OF Frankie Christian (2010, Upland HS, CA) pounded the ball during games at the PG National Showcase a couple of weeks ago in Minneapolis. He brought his hot bat down south to Georgia, apparently. The left handed hitting Christian has driven two balls into the right field corner on East Cobb field #3, with a double and triple to show for it. He's driven in 4 runs already by the 3rd inning and has thrown in a steam of home as well. ABD leads the Florida Bomber Braves 10-0.
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LHP Zach Dotson
6/30/2009 1:43:32 PM
LHP Zach Dotson of the Southeastern Athletics (2009, Effingham County HS, GA) was the 13th round draft choice of the Mets three weeks ago. Today he's throwing for the Southeastern Athletics at the 18U WWBA National Championships. Based on the way he threw early this afternoon, the Mets are going to have to get serious about him. The 6-3, 190 southpaw was 90-92 for 3 near perfect innings, allowing only one hit while striking out 6. Not only did he flash a plus fastball, it had excellent late life at the plate as well.
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RHP Ben Lively, Florida Bombers
6/30/2009 1:33:56 PM
Ben Lively is a 6-4, 180 lb right hander from the 2010 class (Gulf Breeze HS, FL) with a long, loose projectable body. He's pitching for the defending champion Florida Bombers in their opening game against Baseball Mentoring Program Black. Lively has been pitching in the upper 80's and commanding the strike zone.
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One Swing Changes Game
6/30/2009 12:29:05 PM
One swing can change a game. 5-8.140 lb 3B Ellison Fitchpatrick (2009, Farragut HS, TN) took that one swing in the Knoxville Yard's 3-2 win over the Houston Banditos, driving a 3 run home run in the 4th inning to account for all the Yard's runs.
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Second Team No-Shows
6/30/2009 11:34:04 AM
A second team in the 192 team field will not be playing this week. The Pasadena Texans in Pool Q did not make the trip from Texas and their scheduled games will be recorded as forfeits. Questions from teams in Pool Q should be directed to the PG Staff. Pasadena was scheduled to play the 2:00 pm game today at Campbell HS vs the Ohio Warhawks.
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Devin Burke Team Connecticut
6/30/2009 10:51:07 AM
Early in the 11:30 am game at Chatahoochie HS between Team Connecticut and the Palm Beach Clippers, Team Connecticut RHP Devin Burke has been consistently 90-93 mph and pounding the strike zone. Burke, a 2009 grad from Darien, CT, has signed with Duke.
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Chris Carter Stars with Bat and Glove
6/30/2009 10:37:04 AM
Jacksonville Warriors CF Chris Carter (2009, Stanton HS, FL) led the Warriors to a 10-1 win over Grand Slam USA on both sides of the ball. He finished 3-3 with 2 runs scored at the plate, while making a "Web Gem" catch in the OF.
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SS Evan Smith Hits 1st Tournament Grand Slam
6/30/2009 10:23:07 AM
World of Baseball Angels SS Evan Smith (2010, Fleming Island HS, FL) hit the event's first Grand Slam, connecting as part of the Angels 9-run 6th inning against the Mentium Athletics. The Angels ended up winning 13-0. RHP Ryan Hayes (2010, Eagle View Academy, FL) threw a complete game shutout, striking out 10 while allowing only 4 hits.
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Pensacola Trio Leads Offense
6/30/2009 10:12:42 AM
The Pensacola Longhorns used a 8 run sixth inning to defeat the Chattanooga Cyclones 12-3 in the first game on the main East Cobb field. CF Tad Reynolds, C Logan Fiasco and SS Robbie Jerrnigan all drove in 3 runs for the Longhorns.
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Crigger, Edgerton Fuel 2-0 Canes Victory
6/30/2009 10:07:12 AM
LHP Brandon Crigger threw a complete game 2-hit shutout with 13 strikeouts to lead the Canes to a 2-0 win over the Burkburnett Black Sox. Crigger (2009, Calvert HS, MD) carried a no-hitter into the 5th inning. CF'er Edgerton (2009, Aycock HS, NC) hit a 2-run home run in the 6th inning to provide the Canes runs.
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Justin Hager K's 14 for Lake Area Dodgers
6/30/2009 9:48:34 AM
Lake Area Dodgers LHP Justin Hager (2009, Grand Blanc HS, Swartz Creek, MI) struck out 14 hitters in Lake Area's 2-1 win over the Dallas Panthers.
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West Florida LHP Looks Sharp
6/30/2009 9:43:46 AM
West Florida Young Guns LHP Daniel Gibson was sharp in the West Florida 8-0 win over the Colorado Slammers. Gibson threw 3 no-hit innings, striking out 6 while working at 88 mph with his fastball and throwing a sharp curveball. Gibson is a 6-1, 190 lb 2010 grad from Tampa Jesuit HS.
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Duo Leads Richmond Braves
6/30/2009 9:38:52 AM
1B Austin Young and C Matt Harrington led the Richmond Braves to a 10-0 win over the Update Mavericks. Both players went 3-3, with Young hitting a home run and Harrington driving in 3 runs. Both players are 2010 prospects. Harrington (Kellem HS, Virginia Beach, VA) was a standout at the PG National Showcase, while Young (Atlee HS, Mechanicsville, VA) is a big 6-4, 235 lb power hitter.
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Glendora Gators Drop Out
6/30/2009 7:10:06 AM
The Glendora Gators (New Jersey) have dropped out of the 18U Championships, reportedly due to a car accident while traveling down to Marietta. The PG staff is in the process of contacting local teams off a waiting list to take the Gators place in Pool D. The 9 am Pool D game vs. Cape Coast Canes has been postponed. Other teams in Pool D will be contacted by the PG staff when updated Pool D schedule information is available.
2009 WWBA 18U National Championship
Wednesday, July 1
Playoff Schedule
7/2/2009 7:21:59 AM
We've been getting lots of questions about the playoff schedule/format.
There are 32 total pools (each made up of 6 teams) in the Tournament. The champion of each pool will be the only teams entering the 32 team playoffs. There will be no wild card teams. In case of ties at the end of pool play, the standard WWBA tie breaking rules will apply, in order of application: 1) head to head competition, 2) fewest runs allowed, 3) most runs scored.
The first round of the playoffs will be played (all 16 games) at 7 pm on Saturday. Sites for each game will be announced as the pairings are made. First round playoff pairings will pit the following pool champions against each other: Pool A vs. Pool AA, Pool B vs. Pool BB, C vs. CC, D vs DD, E vs. EE, F vs. FF, G vs. H, I vs. J, K vs. L, M vs. N, etc.
The home team in each playoff game will be determined by coin flip. There will be no playoff seeding of any type.
The Round of 16 and Quarterfinals will be held on Sunday, with all games being played at the East Cobb Complex and Kell HS. A complete slate of consolation games will be held on the outlying fields on Sunday.
The semi-finals will be held at the EC Complex at 9 am on Monday, with the Championship Game immediately following.
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Michael Basil Goes Yard Twice
7/1/2009 5:49:36 PM
Cincy Flames shortstop Michael Basil (2009, St. Xavier HS, OH) became the first hitter at the 2009 18U National Championship to blast 2 home runs in one game, connecting in both the first and fourth innings of the Flames 8-2 win over the Brookhaven Jays. Flames CF Rob Nesterhoff was on base both times Basil left the yard.
Basil is a 6-1, 190 lb right handed hitter who has signed to play at Indiana next year. He was ranked #368 on the final PG Crosschecker rankings for the 2009 class.
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Aflac All-American Trey Griffin
7/1/2009 5:29:45 PM
2009 Aflac All-American Trey Griffin (2010, Heritage HS, GA) is off to one of the hottest starts of any player in the 192 team tournament for the East Cobb Braves.
The 6-4, 200 lb right handed hitter hit a 3-run home run on Tuesday to break up a close game. Wednesday, Griffin went 2-3 with 2 doubles and another 3 Rbi's in an 8-1 win over the Florida Pokers.
The Braves feature four Aflac All-Americans in their starting line up in Griffin, IF Zach Alvord, CF Chavez Clarke and RHP/3B Stetson Allie.
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World Yacht Clippers '10's
7/1/2009 5:21:44 PM
The World Yacht Clippers '10 team has a young LHP who will be getting plenty of attention over the summer from colleges and probably next spring from the scouts. Ryan Pennell (2010, Rye Neck HS, NY) is a loose and easy 6-4, 185 lb southpaw. He was outstanding at the PG Sunshine Northeast Showcase last month but was unable to come to the PG National Showcase.
This morning Pennell was 86-89 mph for three innings (6 K's) in a 4-3 win over a veteran Knoxville Yard team. Pennell threw both a low 70's curveball and a slider that touched 82 mph and both showed hard spin and sharp bite. He's very projectable and already shows a polished approach to using his stuff.
Another 2010 World Yacht Clippers prospect, SS T.J. Olesczuk (2010, Hendrick Hudson HS, NY) had an outstanding game, going 4-4 with a triple, stolen base and 2 runs scored.
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Houston Slam 1B Trey Soape
7/1/2009 5:06:24 PM
The Houston Slam were on the short end of the Tournament's biggest slugfest, losing 16-7 to the Tampa Elite Spartans. But one of their young players left the biggest impression.
1B Trey Soape (2011, Second Baptist HS, TX) finished the game 2-3 with a home run and a double and 3 runs scored. The 6-2, 180 lb right handed hitting Soape's home run came off a 88 mph fastball that he drove far over the LF wall at Lassiter High School.
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ABD Aflac's Line Up
7/1/2009 4:57:42 PM
Teams facing the ABD Bulldogs (the 2008 WWBA World Champions) will have to deal with Aflac All-Americans in the first 3 spots in the batting order if the Bulldogs bat the same lineup they did on Wednesday.
SS Tony Wolters batted leadoff, CF Austin Wilson batted second and C Stefan Sabol hit third in a 10-2 win over the Atlanta Longhorns. The trio combined to go 4-6 with 2 walks and a HBP, scoring 5 runs and driving in 3 more. Sabol led the way with a 3-3 effort that included 2 doubles.
RHP Gabriel Encinas was impressive in the win, striking out 6 hitters in 4 innings with a 86-90 mph fastball and sharp breaking slider.
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Diamond Devils/South Charlotte Panthers
7/1/2009 4:19:11 PM
Two of the most experienced teams in the Championship are the Diamond Devils from South Carolina and their close neighbors, the South Charlotte (NC) Panthers. Both teams are filled with high level DI signees with extensive experience in events of this type. Both teams have started out the week with 2-0 records.
The Diamond Devils picked up a run rule 12-0 win today over the Mentium Athletics (coached by former ML pitcher Greg McMichael). LHP Chris Hanna (2010, Strattford HS, SC) threw 3 perfect innings, striking out 7 hitters. Hanna pitched in the mid 80's with a power curveball and very good command. Combined with Drew Cisco's 15 K masterpiece yesterday, Diamond Devil starters have thrown 10 innings, allowed 3 hits and struck out 22 in two games.
Diamond Devils EH Brison Celek, a South Carolina signee, hit a 3-run home run to pace the offense.
The Panthers were led today by 2008 Aflac All-American Richie Schaeffer, who hit a 400+ foot home run and later added a double later in a 6-1 win over the Florida Bombers Blue Sox. Schaeffer reportedly passed on a possible 7-figure signing bonus on draft day to honor his commitment to Clemson.
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A Hidden Player?
7/1/2009 4:01:00 PM
The Akadema Indiana Yankees reached down south to Hiram, Georgia to pull out a player who could be a rarity in this day and age, a hidden player. Yankees coach Buddy Swift says he understands that 6-4, 220 lb RHP Dalton Accord (2009, Hiram HS, GA) was throwing up to 94-95 mph this spring but went undrafted in June. He's signed with Middle Georgia JC for 2010. Accord was 88-93 mph on his fastball in a relief outing for the Yankees on Wednesday, although he ended up the loss in a 7-5 decision to the MGBA Nationals.
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Florida Bombers vs. Syracuse Sports Zone
7/1/2009 3:50:31 PM
Scouts and coaches trying to get a read on two top 2010 pitchers were in the right place if they were at Kennessaw Mountain HS at 11:30 am Wednesday.
RHP Colby Sims (2010, Mandarin HS, FL) threw 5 no-hit innings for the Bombers, although he allowed an unearned run in the first inning on a walk, stolen base and infield error. Sims duplicated his stuff from the PG National, throwing 88-91 mph with very good arm side run. His upper 70's slider showed sharp action at times and accounted for many of his 6 K's.
RHP Artie Lewicki (2010, St. Joseph's HS, NJ) threw 2 2/3 hitless innings himself but was hurt by erratic control (3 walks, 3 HBP's, 2 WP's) and allowed 2 runs. The 6-3, 190 lb Lewicki was also 88-91 mph on his fastball and threw a sinking 2-seamer in the 84-87 mph range. He has some mechanical issues with drifting to deal with but shows hard spin on a mid 70's slurve and some feel for a change up.
The 5-time champion Bombers ran their record to 2-0 with a 5-1 victory.
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Minnesota Starz 2010's
7/1/2009 1:51:53 PM
The Minnesota Starz are very familiar to the PG scouts, as they participated in the PG National Invitational Tournament at the Metrodome in Minneapolis prior to the PG National Showcase.
They've brought at least three solid DI type prospects from the 2010 class south to Georgia and all three were on their game in a 2-1 win over the Upstate Mavericks.
C Alex Jurich (2010, St. Thomas Academy, MN) hit a 2-run home run in the first inning to provide both Starz runs and later singled twice. He also had a 1.97 game throw on a steal attempt. Jurich is a 6-2, 200 lb right handed hitter.
SS Mark Tatera (2010, Holy Angels HS, MN)was on second base after his 1st inning double to score in front of Jurich's 370+ foot blast and ended up the game 2-4 at the plate. He's a versatile defender who can also catch and is an outstanding student who is getting attention from Ivy League schools.
RHP Thomas Larson (2010, Prior Lake HS, MN) threw a complete game 4-hitter for the Starz. He shows a smooth, repeatable delivery with very good arm side run on a 85-87 mph fastball. He also throws a mid 70's curveball and 77 mph change up.
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Carolina Cubs RHP Jonathan Aparicio
7/1/2009 1:23:26 PM
This must be the day for 2012 pitchers (remember, this is the 18U Championships, not the 16U).
The Carolina Cubs started 2012 RHP Jonathan Aparicio (East Wake HS, Wendell, NC) in their game against Team Connecticut. Aparicio went 3 innings, allowing 2 hits and 2 runs while striking out 4 hitters. The 6-3, 170 lb 15 year old was 85-88 mph on his fastball with a whippy, loose arm. His curveball was in the mid 70's and he had a good feel for throwing it for strikes. Carolina Cubs coach Ricky Keith says that Aparicio is a very good athlete who can swing the bat as well. Aparicio will also be playing for the Cubs at the 16U Championships the 14th thru the 20th.
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East Cobb Astros LHP Matt Crownover
7/1/2009 12:07:57 PM
By the time LHP Matt Crownover graduates from Ringgold HS, Georgia in 2012, it will only seem like we've seen him pitch forever. Actually it will only be 6 years, as Crownover, a freshman, started pitching for the Astros when he was in 7th grade.
Today was almost a typical Crownover performance, as he faced the minimum 15 hitters in a run rule 11-0 East Cobb Astros victory over Bullet Baseball. Crownover allow a hit and 2 walks but picked off two runners and saw another runner erased on a double play. Crownover has very good control over a mid 80's fastball, a 70 mph curveball and 73 mph change up and pitches with a veteran's savy.
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RHP Justin Bellez Touching 94 mph
7/1/2009 11:01:25 AM
San Diego Show RHP Justin Bellez was the Los Angeles Angels 38th round draft choice in June out of Mira Mesa HS in San Diego. He didn't come on for scouts as much as they had anticipated, throwing mostly in the 88-90 mph range. His draft slot indicates that he will likely fulfill his commitment to San Diego State.
The Angels might want to keep their eye closely on Bellez, though. The 6-2, 190 lb righty is throwing up to 94 mph this morning in the Show's game against the Competitive Edge Dodgers.
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LHP Thomas Dorminy, Tampa Elite
7/1/2009 10:53:46 AM
LHP Thomas Dorminy (2010, Alonso HS, FL) is pitching at 89-90 mph early in the 11:30 game between the Tampa Elite Spartans and the Houston Slam. He is also throwing a sharp downer CB with good hard spin. The 6-0, 200 lb Dorminy has a verbal commitment to U. South Florida.
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Richmond Braves National '10 RHP Tyler Skulina
7/1/2009 10:36:29 AM
The Richmond Braves 2010 team (they also have a 2009 team in Marietta) has got off to a very strong start at the 18U, which bodes well for their chances in next week's 17U National Championship.
RHP Tyler Skulina was the scouting star of the Braves 10-0 win over Grand Slam USA Wednesday morning, throwing 92-94 mph with a hard breaking 77 mph slurve. Skulina is a 6-6, 235 lb 2010 prospect from Walsh Jesuit HS in Strongsville, Ohio.
Other early standouts on the Braves '10 include C Pat Harrington, OF Mitchell Shifflet, 1B Austin Young and OF Eric Mayers.
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Two 2009 RHP's Stand Out Late Tuesday
7/1/2009 9:33:35 AM
Two 2009 right handed pitchers, one of whom wasn't even drafted, were among the most impressive pitchers to throw yesterday.
RHP Damian Magnifico (North Mesquite HS, TX) was the fifth round pick of the New York Mets. Pitching for the Texas Dukes, Magnifico threw 3 innings, allowing 2 runs, mostly due to the 5 walks he issued. What was impressive was his raw arm strength, as he showed a consistent plus fastball that touched 96 mph. Much like his scouting report from the spring, Magnifico's curveball and command was inconsistent to non-existent at times, but there was no mistaking the arm strength.
More of a surprise was the performance of San Diego Show RHP Ryan Wilkins, an undrafted (and thus current free agent) out of Cathedral HS in San Diego. The 6-1, 195 lb Wilkins threw 4 shutout innings, allowing 2 hits and striking out 5. He sat between 89 and 91 mph on his fastball and showed a very hard and late breaking upper 70's curveball. Wilkins has signed with San Diego State.
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Schedule Changes
7/1/2009 8:57:12 AM
There have been three schedule changes affecting games on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Each is thre result of a previously forfeited game that has made a field/game slot at or close to the EC Complex available. It's the tournament staff's desire to play as many games as possible on the primary fields.
The following games have been rescheduled:
THURSDAY, GAME 206, ABD California vs. Rockdale Rhinos. Will now be played in game #219's slot, 11:30 am at Kell HS.
FRIDAY, GAME 303, Edge Baseball vs. Georgia Trojans. Will now be played in game #320's slot, 11:30 am at Dominion Christian School
SATURDAY, GAME 403, East Cobb Angels vs. Team Connecticut Blue Jays. Will now be played in game #395's slot, 9:00 am at Kennesaw Mountain HS
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AFLAC All-American Team Announced
7/1/2009 8:33:18 AM
The 2009 Aflac All-American Team, as selected by Perfect Game, was announced yesterday. The 40 high school players from around the country, divided into East and West teams, will play at the San Diego Padres Petco Park on August 16th. The game will be nationally televised on the FOX Sports Network.
For the complete rosters and background on the Aflac All-American Game, follow this link:
http://www.aflac.com/us/en/abo...ory.aspx?rid=1303593
2009 WWBA 18U National Championship
Thursday, July 2
Game Added to Schedule
7/2/2009 7:57:20 PM
A game has been added to the schedule. The Mississippi Prospects will face the Maryland Redbirds at Oglethorpe University at 4:30. The game is officially categorized as a consolation game even though pool play has not been complete. Both teams come from pools which had a "forfeit" team and are making up for the lost game. The game does not count in pool standings.
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Top 5 Teams
7/2/2009 7:48:28 PM
At no point in the 18U National Championships will teams be seeded, but if they were, the top 5 teams after 3 days of play would be:
1. Richmond Braves '10 (3-0, 0 RA/24 RS)
2. East Cobb Astros (3-0, 0 RA/23 RS)
3. South Charlotte Panthers (3-0, 1 RA/15 RS)
4. Excel Blue Wave (3-0, 1 RA/12 RS)
5. East Cobb Astros 17U (3-0, 1 RA/9 RS)
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Wes Rea, Louisiana Knights
7/2/2009 7:26:34 PM
Wes Rea (2010, Harrison Central HS, MS) is listed on the Louisiana Knights program as a primary 1B. He's also listed at 6-4, 275 lbs, so it's hard to miss him either on paper or in uniform.
Rea came into close the Knights 4-2 victory over Team Connecticut this morning, throwing 2 innings in the relief of mid 80's southpaw Jordan Rittiner (2009, Jesuit HS, LA). Rea was 87-91 mph on his fastball with an upper 70's curveball and 75 mph change. His mechanics were a bit raw but he threw strikes with all three pitches.
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Pair of Draft 2009 Pitchers Impress
7/2/2009 6:56:14 PM
Two 2009 draft pitchers had very impressive outings this afternoon that were hopefully seen by their drafting clubs.
LHP C.C. Watson (2009, Cleburne County HS, AL) threw 6 innings for the Excel Blue Wave in a 2-1 win over the Atlanta Blue Jays. Watson was consistently 89-90 mph from an over the top arm slot and spotted his fastball with maturity. His curveball was a hard 78-80 mph slurve that he also spotted well. Watson struck out 10 and allowed only 2 hits.
Watson was a 29th round draft choice of the Texas Rangers.
Watson was trumped by Chet Lemon's Juice RHP Bryan Mitchell (2009, Rockingham County HS, NC). Mitchell, a 16th round pick of the Yankees, threw 5 innings of shutout ball, allowing 2 hits and striking out 11 in a Juice 9-0 victory over the South Florida Bandits East. Mitchell pitched at 91-94 mph in the early innings and was still 90-91 at the end of the game. Mitchell has an extremely loose and fast arm from a close to overhand release point.
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Broad Powers Florida Bombers
7/2/2009 6:05:45 PM
SS Michael Broad (2009, Nova HS, FL) powered the Florida Bombers to a 10-1 win over the CBC Diamond Rats. Broad had 2 home runs and 6 Rbi's after two innings and later added a Rbi single, giving him 7 Rbi's on the day.
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Shortage of Hard Throwing LHP's
7/2/2009 5:52:49 PM
The Class of 2010 has alot of big pluses in it but hard throwing LHP's definitely aren't one of them. In fact, we counted southpaws who touched 90 at the PG National and only came up with seven, and two of them were primary position players.
So we are taking an extra look at all the scoresheets this week and at the 17U's next week to hopefully find some more.
Dulins Dodgers LHP Sam Moll put himself on that list today. The 5-11, 180 southpaw (St. Benedict HS, Lakeland, TN) touched 89 mph frequently in the early innings of Dulins 9-1 win over the East Cobb Indians and settled into the mid-80's during the late innings. Moll only allowed 1 hit in 6 innings while striking out 7. He has a fluid delivery and does a good job of running his FB away from RHH'ers while mixing in a low 70's curveball.
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Trio of Richmond Braves '10 Hard Throwers
7/2/2009 5:09:59 PM
The Richmond Braves '10's unleased a trio of hard throwers in a 4-0 win against the East Cobb Patriots that ran their record to 3-0. Only one of them was a primary pitcher, though.
6-5, 190 lb RHP Cody Cox (2010, Grassfield HS, VA) started and went 5 innings, allowing 2 hits and striking out 8. Cox threw 86-89 mph with a loose and free arm action and a upper 60's curveball that flashed good spin.
Cox was followed to the mound by 3B Johnny Fasola (88-90 mph) and 1B Austin Young (88-90) to close out the game.
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Blake Burrell, ABD Navy
7/2/2009 4:46:02 PM
RHP Blake Burrell (2011, Canyon Springs HS, CA) isn't one of the bigger pitchers here; in fact at 5-8, 160 he's probably one of the smallest. But Burrell pitched big, throwing a 5-hit shutout against the East Cobb Angels in a 7-0 ABD Navy victory Thursday afternoon. Burrell was mostly 87-88 mph on his fastball from a simple, low effort turn and throw delivery. His 70 mph curveball was tight and quick and accounted for many of his 9 K's.
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Illinois Sparks 3B Chris Savas goes Yard..and Car
7/2/2009 4:30:13 PM
Illinois Sparks 3B Chris Savas (2009, Willowbrook HS, IL) hit home runs in his first 2 at bats Wednesday afternoon against the South Bergan Mets at Sprayberry HS, knocking in 5 runs. Not only did Savas go yard, he went Car! A major road runs along the other side of the left field fence at Sprayberry and one of his home runs drilled a passing car. We found out about it when the owner of the car showed up at the field to complain!
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Kalamazoo Diamond Maroons Defeat Braves Scout Team
7/2/2009 4:23:27 PM
In one of the bigger upsets thus far in the tournament, the Kalamazoo Diamond Maroons ran their record to 3-0 by defeating the Braves Scout Team 4-3 Thursday afternoon.
LHP Logan McAnallen (2009, DeWitt HS, MI) started for Kalamazoo and threw 4 solid innings, showing a mid 80's fastball and sharp slurve. He was relieved by another southpaw, Trey Popp (2009, Portage Central HS, MI), who held the Braves to a single run over the last three innings. Popp touched 88 mph on his fastball and showed good mound presence and command.
SS Torrston Boss (2009, Lowell HS, MI) went 2-3 with a home run to lead the Kalamazoo offense.
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Virgin Islands Prospect
7/2/2009 4:11:18 PM
It's rare for a prospect to come from the Virgin Islands but there might be one in the 2011 class. RHP DeShaun Lake hails from St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands and is a strongly built 6-0, 190 lb athlete. Starting the CBC Diamond Rats this afternoon, Lake was throwing 89-91 mph on his fastball with the makings of a good hard slurve type breaking ball.
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Taconic Rangers Youngster Doesn't Act His Age
7/2/2009 4:00:39 PM
Taconic Rangers RHP Seth Lamando is one of the youngest players in the 18U National Championships as a 2012 grad at Ketcham HS in New York. He didn't act like it while throwing a 7 inning no-hitter against the Orlando Reds.
The 5-11 right hander walked 2 while striking out 7. He pitched between 83 and 86 mph for all 7 innings and showed very good command of a upper 60's curveball. He obviously can handle the pressure of pitching to older hitters on a big stage.
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Roderick Shoulders, Chet Lemon's Juice
7/2/2009 3:54:30 PM
Big Roderick Shoulders (6-2, 220, 2010, Brandon HS, FL) is swinging a seriously hot bat. The left handed hitting first baseman doubled off the right field wall and hit a 400 ft HR in his last two at bats last night in Chet Lemon's Juice 4-4 tie with the NE Lumberjacks.
In his first at bat this afternoon on EC Field 1, Shoulders drove a 3 run home run over the LCF fence. We'll be watching for the next time he comes up.
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Kevin Link Throws Masterpiece
7/2/2009 2:58:20 PM
East Cobb Mets RHP Kevin Link (2009, Lassiter HS, GA) threw a masterpiece in the 2 pm game at EC Field #3, a 7-0 Mets win over the Houston Slam. Link, who will be attending Princeton in the fall, threw a complete game 7 inning no-hitter, walking one batter in the second inning, while striking out 13 Slam hitters. Link worked between 84 and 86 mph on his fastball with very good arm side running action while working in a 77 mph slider and 69 mph curveball.
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OF Dalton Henzman, Kentucky Baseball Club
7/2/2009 1:47:13 PM
Attention College Coaches.
Kentucky Baseball Club has a CF named Dalton Henzman (2009, 6-3, 190, R/R, Lexington Christian HS, KY) who has been outstanding the first three games here in Marietta. He's a very toolsy player with good speed that plays in centerfield, good projectable size and has shown very good power with the bat. Henzman has told us that he has not signed with any school and is looking for a D1 type opportunity if possible.
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Team Elite RHP Matthew Grimes
7/2/2009 11:01:07 AM
There seems to be a bottomless well of 2010 prospects from the state of Georgia. 2010 Matthew Grimes (6-5, 185, Mill Creek HS, GA) is throwing 89-91 mph with a 74 mph curveball for Team Elite in the 11:30 am slot this morning against the East Cobb Titans.
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East Cobb Braves Win 13-8
7/2/2009 10:25:44 AM
The East Cobb Braves outlasted the Bayou City Bears 13-8 in a 9 am game Thursday morning, with mixed performances from their Aflac All-Americans.
SS Zach Alvord continued his hot hitting, slamming his second HR of the week, a 2-run shot, and added a single and a walk while totaling 3 Rbi's. EH Trey Griffin was held hitless but had 2 sacrifice flies, running his tournament Rbi total to 8 thru 3 games.
CF Chavez Clarke scored a couple of runs after reaching base on a walk and HBP but went 0-2.
RHP/3B Stetson Allie went 1-2 with an Rbi and run scored at the plate and came on in the last inning to close the game. Allie lit up the radar gun at 95-97 mph with an 87-90 slider but missed consistently high while walking 3 hitters. A game ending double play bailed him out of a bases loaded jam.
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Carolina Cyclones RHP Drake Thomason
7/2/2009 8:51:59 AM
RHP Drake Thomason (2010, Eastside HS, SC) wasn't on the PG radar before this morning but he is now. Pitching for the Carolina Cyclones at Sprayberry HS in the 9 am slot, the 6-2, 200 lb Thomason has been throwing 89-91 mph in the early innings with a power type arm action.
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SE Texas Sun Devils RHP Trae Davis
7/2/2009 8 11 AM
2010 RHP Trae Davis (Mexia HS, TX) has been very consistent over the past month at multiple Perfect Game events. He was 91-93 mph at the Sunshine South Showcase and about the same at the PG National Showcase. The very athletic 5-11, 195 lb Davis started this morning for the SE Texas Sun Devils and not surprisingly is the same....90-92 mph with a good slider.
2009 WWBA 18U National Championship
Friday, July 3
12 Teams Have Clinched Playoff Berths
BTW, the post above does not include game stories, game wraps, etc from that tournament. That would be an even longer post and people might start getting mad. The truth is that people can read those blogs and get an idea of the talent level at the 18U. Scouts and college recruiters are aware of the talent. Many top underclassmen play in that tournament as well as the recent draft picks. In other words, that tournament is loaded.
Many interesting stories from the 18U. Five first overall picks of the draft have played in it. And Zach Greinke signed his first Royals contract in between his team's games there. He was playing for Team Florida in that tournament back then. He decided to take the 2 or 3 million instead of finishing the tournament.
Many interesting stories from the 18U. Five first overall picks of the draft have played in it. And Zach Greinke signed his first Royals contract in between his team's games there. He was playing for Team Florida in that tournament back then. He decided to take the 2 or 3 million instead of finishing the tournament.
the east cobb teams are so talented that they are heads above any of the kids on the other teams. the other teams become pedestrian comparatively and thus, don't get much if any attention. we played east cobb and all the scouts were there looking at half of their line-up for schools like Georgia, Southern Miss, GTech, Tenn., Ark., etc. Many of the kids on East Cobb Astros were already committed during their Jr. year so it was scouts that were trying to cherry pick the non-committed ECA's. A few other teams like ABD got a sniff and that was it.
Switchitter, while in the past that may have been true I can tell you that from about 2006 and on at the WWBA tournaments there has been much more parity.
I read on the PG website every year about all of the other very talented teams from other states that come with incredible players.
But as far as players from Georgia, the parity of other select teams here have given the East Cobb some very, very good competition. Granted, the EC program still attracts top players but they are no longer the only show in town anymore.
YGD
I read on the PG website every year about all of the other very talented teams from other states that come with incredible players.
But as far as players from Georgia, the parity of other select teams here have given the East Cobb some very, very good competition. Granted, the EC program still attracts top players but they are no longer the only show in town anymore.
YGD
I agree.
I am a big fan of ECB in many respects. All of my kids have played in that organization. They have a really good program and attract the best talent. They will have 2 teams in any age category that will be among the top in the nation, with one usually at or near the top. After the first two teams in each age group the rest will range from very competitive to somewhat/moderately/not very competitive.
While other programs have stepped up to the challenge, including other local programs,only a handful of programs nationally might be consistently as competitive. The top East Cobb teams will almost always be in the hunt for national titles not only because they attract top talent, but they also emphasize winning among other things.
They do a lot of things right. While I am not a fan of some aspects of the program(s) you cannot argue with success.
I am a big fan of ECB in many respects. All of my kids have played in that organization. They have a really good program and attract the best talent. They will have 2 teams in any age category that will be among the top in the nation, with one usually at or near the top. After the first two teams in each age group the rest will range from very competitive to somewhat/moderately/not very competitive.
While other programs have stepped up to the challenge, including other local programs,only a handful of programs nationally might be consistently as competitive. The top East Cobb teams will almost always be in the hunt for national titles not only because they attract top talent, but they also emphasize winning among other things.
They do a lot of things right. While I am not a fan of some aspects of the program(s) you cannot argue with success.
quote:Many interesting stories from the 18U.
Interesting read PG. Interesting to me that most of the big names on 18U teams were playing "at age level" but are in fact Seniors this 2010 year (most after finishing their Junior years are on 17U teams) and will graduate as 19yr. olds!
Not to rehash old thread, but looks like starting late, or repeating a grade, certainly won't work against you.
Love the WWBA, son will play his last this summer before heading to College team.
PGStaff gave you a great answer, Azallan. I went back and realized tha you're really asking about the WWBA held at the East Cobb complex, not about the East Cobb program itself. 17U definitely seems to get more attention because most of the 18U are already signed. Lots of the top 17U and even some 16U will play in the 18U tournament. 18U is no slouch and gets plenty of coverage, just maybe slightly below the 17U imho. Lot of talent at the 18U!
I'm going to be playing in East Cobb 17u this summer. It should be fun.
I'm doing 18,17,and 16. I'm too pumped.
AWESOME PG! Thanks for the find. I was looking in the wrong place. My son did get on a Cali Team for the Tourney! (BMP)Baseball Mentoring Program. Looking forward to the comparison to the AZ Fall Classic and The Tucson PG Nationals. Sounds like they are babies compared to the East Cobb WWBA in June. Son just wants some good quality play before college ball comes. Thanks again!
Good Job Allan...Let me know how it goes with BMP!How did you get hooked up with them? GO Hunter!
RR23
RR23
They saw Hunters Profile and liked him. So they invited him to play in East Cobb on their team.They have four ex MLB players as coaches. So Hunter will be able to learn alot there and in Australia. Hunter is also going to play for USA in the Goodwill Games in Australia for Bob Williams founder of the Area Code Games. I guess Bob knows Coach Leach of PMB Ex player of the NY Yankees. So Hunter will get 10 Games in 2 weeks in Ga. at the East Cobb WWBA and then in Dec. Get 10 more games in 2 weeks in Australia. He should be sharp and ready to go before his college season starts next year. So excited for him and the life experiences he will have before college and in college! Good luck to you and Ryan this year Rod. See ya round bud!
See you around the diamond my friend! Sounds like a great Summer Plan prior to being a freshman in college! Hope you guys could three-peat.
RR23
RR23
Thanks for your support! And the same to you guys. Go get em!
I have 2 questions:
1. If I emailed a college about my interest In their program, but they have never seen me play before, is there a chance they will follow me at East Cobb this summer?ccvvc
2. With the way the blogs on pg crosschecker work, even If a collge coach didn't see any of my games, they can still get my name if I have a good tournament. Is this correct?
1. If I emailed a college about my interest In their program, but they have never seen me play before, is there a chance they will follow me at East Cobb this summer?ccvvc
2. With the way the blogs on pg crosschecker work, even If a collge coach didn't see any of my games, they can still get my name if I have a good tournament. Is this correct?
Bump
I would think that would be a possibility, DLOCK15. Many colleges visit East Cobb or have someone there as a part of their recruiting. I'm not sure about which tournament you're talking about and their dates - or how that relates to the quiet periods, but letting programs you're interested in know your summer schedule will give you an opportunity to be seen.
As for your second question, those on this board more knowledgeable that me would need to answer. General information, Rosters, blogs, and 'wrap ups' of key game contributors will be available for WWBA. I would expect that many coaches will use this information and other information provided by Perfect Game if you are referring to those tournaments.
As for your second question, those on this board more knowledgeable that me would need to answer. General information, Rosters, blogs, and 'wrap ups' of key game contributors will be available for WWBA. I would expect that many coaches will use this information and other information provided by Perfect Game if you are referring to those tournaments.
East Cobb is the epicenter of amateur baseball. I played many tournaments down there and always saw college coaches scouting. The thing is however, they are mostly southern colleges and myself being a Northerner, there were more schools up there that I could play at and succeed at.
That being said, you really can't go wrong playing down there. They have top of the line facilities and always produce top ( even Major League ) talent. If you have the chance to go down there, and can afford it, I would go.
Please let me know if you have any other questions. I went through the entire recruiting process and college baseball experience and am now trying to share my knowledge with those who want to listen.
Ken Jacobi
Author of “Going with the Pitch: Adjusting to Baseball, School, and Life as a Division I College Athlete”
That being said, you really can't go wrong playing down there. They have top of the line facilities and always produce top ( even Major League ) talent. If you have the chance to go down there, and can afford it, I would go.
Please let me know if you have any other questions. I went through the entire recruiting process and college baseball experience and am now trying to share my knowledge with those who want to listen.
Ken Jacobi
Author of “Going with the Pitch: Adjusting to Baseball, School, and Life as a Division I College Athlete”
I think it will be a good idea if Perfect Game would have a list of colleges who attends year after year so as to assist players in sending their communications. This is the case for the Arizona Senior and Junior Fall Classic Websites were coaches list from previous years are accesible. You will have an idea which colleges are constantly attending.
BTW, Son will be at East Cobb for the first time for the 17UWWBA July 9-15 ,2011 and will play with the only team from Arizona.
BTW, Son will be at East Cobb for the first time for the 17UWWBA July 9-15 ,2011 and will play with the only team from Arizona.