MVP Pitch/Catch Showcase 2005 Crofton, MD

Interesting you advise it for a pitcher. What about the catcher in these so-called "pitcher-catcher showcases". The only one we've been to should have just been called "pitcher showcase". All they seemed to need the catchers for was to put the tools on and stop the ball before it hit all those guys with the radar guns.

My son (06)Pitcher, attended the MVP Showcase last year and Al's organization does a great job for both the Pitchers and Catchers. There is a very good turnout from coaches and scouts and this event is well worth attending. My son did not attend this year because we had several visits and camps already lined up.

I certainly appreciate you all taking the time to make a statement here. It means a lot to me.

With respect to the catchers, I understand what you mean. My son is a catcher and you do feel abused.

Prior to the showcase I notify the coaches who the catchers are going to be as well when they are here, I advise the catchers to identify who they are verbally to the coaches each time they catch a pitcher. In addition I have them hit, and normally do PP Time. This year the rain prohibited it.

Lastly, I do not charge them anything, feed them, and offer them all the Gatorade they need.

If you have any specific questions, please give me a call at (410) 721-4203.

Thank you again for the kind comments.

Al McCormick

My son attended this year as a catcher and does not feel he was abused. It was well run and I (and he) feel he got a lot out of it. As Al said, it was free, he got fed, got to hit, and got to catch a lot of good pitchers. If it leads to something, great, if not, it was a good experience. Look forward to being able to do it next year. Thanks Al.

Sounds like Al does right by the catchers. Not charging them is HUGE and shows a tremendous sense of fairness as I think eveyone knows that the scout/recruiters are there to see the pitchers. I'd challenge some of the other showcase organizations to do the same.