PG WWBA coverage

The final 4 in the 18u division tomorrow are EC Braves vs 6-4-3 Cougars and the Florida Bombers vs Georgia Roadrunners at 9 AM.

YoungGunDad,

I'm sorry about the subscription thing. Not sure what to do about it. It wasn't my decision, but I know it is done that way because it costs money to do it. We have three fulltime people entering scores, game wraps and blogs. Also a fulltime tech back in the office at home.

You can follow most things at the WWBA site, I think. www.worldwoodbat.com

Also, I won't tell anyone if someone with a subscription wants to copy and paste the blogs on this site. Please make sure it is only this site, and just the tournament coverage, though.

Right now we are into the final four in the 18U and we're in a rain delay. Next week's weather forecast looks good.

Thanks PG.

I truely understand the reasoning behind why due to the costs associated with entering/maintaining all this information.

I hope someone with a subscription would send the blogs for each day (18U) here for some of us who love reading that.

I saw a storm blow through before lunch here in Atlanta but it didn't appear that it was north of us at EC. Apparently it was. I remember those days!

Would someone post the blog from Game 1? Thank you.

2009 WWBA 17U National Championship
Tuesday, July 7

Parker Paces Dynasty
7/8/2009 8:52:19 AM

East Cobb Dynasty OF Jason Parker (2010, Pope HS, GA) got the ball rolling in the leadoff spot in a 7-3 Dynasty victory over the Dallas Diamond Jaxx. Parker went 3-4 with 2 doubles and showed the ability to turn around an 88 mph fastball with ease.

RHP Alex Filzen (2010, Hillgrove HS, GA) was very effective throwing 6 innings for the Dynasty only allowing 5 hits and 1 earned run. He did not walk a batter and does a good job of locating his fastball which sat in the 80-83 range.

Dallas Diamond Jaxx RHP Matt Harper (2010, Sachse HS, TX) was in the 82-85 range with his fastball topping at 88.

D-Backs Two Run Seventh Secures Victory
7/8/2009 8:31:44 AM

The ABC D-Backs scored two runs in the top of the 7th inning to claim a 4-3 win over the World Yacht Clippers 10's on the opening day of the 17U WWBA Championship. SS David Rodriguez (2010, McNeil HS, TX) drove in the go-ahead run in the top of the 7th inning and also looked very good defensively. World Yacht Clippers SS/3B Colin Moran (2010, Iona Prep, NY) looked good at the plate and is a sound defender.

Sun Devils Survive Marathon Game
7/8/2009 7:47:17 AM

The SE Texas Sun Devils knocked off the Richmond Braves Nationals 17U 7-5 in a game that took nearly five hours to finish due to rain delays.

LHP/1B Kirby Bellow (2010, Nederland HS, TX) had a big day for the Sun Devils going 3-4 at the plate and also started the game on the mound going 2 innings and allowing 1 earned run. Bellow shows a good feel for pitching and sat at 83-85 with his fastball, topping at 87. Bellow wasn't the only power arm that threw for the Sun Devils though with RHP Caleb Kellog (2010, Bridge City HS, TX) touching 88 and RHP Shane Waddell (2010, Little Cypress-Mauriceville HS, TX) touching 90.

Offensively SS/3B Garin Cecchini (2010, Barbe HS, LA) and C Jacob Felts (2010, Orangefield HS, TX) had big days for the Sun Devils. Cecchini went 1-2 with 3 RBIs and Felts went 2-4 with 2 RBIs.

Richmond Braves IF Dalton Renick (2010, Deep Run HS, VA) had a huge day at the plate going 2-2 with a triple and a homerun.

7th Inning Rally Lifts West Coast Wave
7/7/2009 7:29:30 PM

The West Coast Wave pushed two runs accross in the bottom of the 7th to secure a 4-3 victory over the ABD Warriors. C Alec Stiver (2010, Venice HS, FL) and LHP/OF Jake Brandenberger (2010, North Port, FL) both hit solo homeruns for the West Coast Wave.

LHP Griffin Murphy Continues to Impress
7/7/2009 7:27:13 PM

LHP Griffin Murphy was very impressive at the PG National Showcase last month and he added to his resume today in Marietta while pitching Trombley Baseball to a 5-0 win over the East Cobb Patriots. Murphy threw 6 shutout innings, allowing only 1 hit and 3 walks while striking out 10. Murphy has a very polished delivery and gets outstanding movement on a fastball that touches 90 mph. He commands his curveball well, although he needs to throw the pitch with more power.

RHP Casey Watkins (2010, West Ranch HS, CA) closed out the game and was impressive as well, throwing 86-89 mph with very good life.

Prince Leads the Dirtbags
7/7/2009 7:19:11 PM

RHP William Prince (2010, Fike HS, NC) doesn't intimidate on the mound at 5-10, 150 lbs but has good stuff. Pitching for the Dirtbag's 17U's, Prince threw a complete game 2-hit shutout against the Indiana Bandits in the Dirtbags 9-0 victory. His fastball topped out at 87 mph but his out pitch was a hard biting 71 mph curveball that he commanded very well. Prince struck out 7 hitters, including the side in the 6th inning.

Team Georgia 16U Outslugs Scorpions Purple
7/7/2009 7:15:15 PM

Team Georgia, a team comprised mainly of 2011 prospects was able to outslug the Orlando Scorpions Purple 9-5 on Tuesday morning. C Connor Lynch (2011, Pope HS, GA), a member of the Georgia 5A State Championship squad this spring at Pope lead the Team Georgia offensive attack going 3-4 with 2 RBIs. C Alex Close (2011, Milton HS, GA) also stood out at the plate for Team Georgia.

For the Orlando Scorpions, 1B Jeffrey Davis (2011, Freedom HS, FL) hit a deep homerun to right field in at the spacious Southern Poly Field. RHP Clay Chapman (2010, Colonial HS, FL) was 84-87, topping at 88 with his fastball.

More on Game 60
7/7/2009 7:11:57 PM

We blogged earlier on RHP Brady Hudson from the Utah Baseball Academy. Hudson finished with a complete game 5 hitter in a 1-1 tie against the Upstate Mavericks.

Hudson was matched by Mavericks LHP Chad Farmer (2010, Greenbriar HS, GA). Farmer threw a complete game 3 hitter and struck out 13 hitters. The 5-10 Farmer pitched in the 85-87 mph range with a hard downer CB in the mid 70's from an overhand release point.

Southall Paces Marucci
7/7/2009 6:51:06 PM

RHP/OF Austin Southhall (2010, University HS, LA) had a huge day on the mound and at the plate to lead Marucci Elite to a 5-0 victory over the South Florida Bandits Nationals. Austin took home the victory with a 6-inning performance allowing only 2 hits, while striking out 4 batters. He does a good job of locating his pitches and sat in the 84-86 range with his fastball, topping out at 87. Offensively, Austin also had a big day hitting a homerun with 3 RBIs.

2B Kaleb Barlow (2010, Jackson Prep, MS) is an offensive-minded second baseman who had a good day at the plate going 2-3 with 2 RBIs.

Howard and Singley lead way for Cincinnati
7/7/2009 6:47:06 PM

Cincinnati Playground All-Stars Brandon Howard (2010) and Adam Singley (2010) lead the Cincinnati Playground All-Stars to an opening day win at Campbell HS. Howard is a thin, lean, lively bodied shortstop. He looked good at the plate leading off the game with a single up the middle and also bunted for a hit later in the game. He showed very good speed on the bunt as he got down the line in 4.05 on a wet track. Howard also showed smooth advanced defensive actions at shortstop.

Singley followed Howard in the order today and also looked good at the plate. He has a nice swing that produces line drives. He also showed some bat speed as well.

Moll Wins Pitcher's Duel
7/7/2009 6:37:01 PM

LHP Sam Moll of the Dulins Dodgers White outdueled RHP Brian Zalneraitis 2-1 of Action Baseball 17U in one of the best pitching duels of the tournament.

Moll (2010, St. Benedict HS, TN) was outstanding allowing 1 earned run and 4 four hits in six innings. He is a polished pitcher that sat in the mid 80's with his fastball, topping at 88

Although he took the loss, Brian Zalneraitis (Round Rock HS, TX) might have been even more impressive throwing a complete-game allowing 3 hits and 3 walks while striking out 12 batters. Zalneraitis showed a feel for four pitches and sat in the low 80's with his fastball, topping at 84.

RHP Warren Aaron/RHP Cam Bedrosian
7/7/2009 6:23:37 PM

The Homeplate Chili Dogs threw 2 of the best arms in their opening day 6-1 victory over Diamond Vision Elite. The lesser known of the duo was the key to the victory, though.

Aflac All-American Cam Bedrosian (2010, East Coweta HS, GA) came in to pitch the 7th inning and showed his power stuff, touching 96 mph on some guns and surviving some early control problems.

RHP Warren Aaron (2010, Sandy Creek HS, GA) was very impressive, though, throwing 6 shutout innings, allowing only 2 hits. Warren is a long and projectable 6-7, 200 with a 84-88 mph fastball that got stronger as the game progressed. Aaron plays on the same high school team as OF Andrew Toles and SS Chris Triplett, both top 100 prospects in the PG Class of 2010 rankings.

Benoit Dominant In Opener
7/7/2009 6:22:47 PM

RHP Kane Benoit (2010, Port Neeches Groves HS, TX) was outstanding in the opener allowing only 1 hit in 5.1 innings, in a 3-0 victory for the Golden Triangle Blue Jays over the NCBA Golden Spikes. Benoit sat at 86-88 fastball with his fastball and showed the makings of a quality slider.

RHP Jordan Smith (2010, Liberty, NC) of the NCBA Golden Spikes is a projectable right-hander that was in the 85-88 range.

Benoit Dominant In Opener
7/7/2009 6:22:44 PM

RHP Kane Benoit (2010, Port Neeches Groves HS, TX) was outstanding in the opener allowing only 1 hit in 5.1 innings, in a 3-0 victory for the Golden Triangle Blue Jays over the NCBA Golden Spikes. Benoit sat at 86-88 fastball with his fastball and showed the makings of a quality slider.

RHP Jordan Smith (2010, Liberty, NC) of the NCBA Golden Spikes is a projectable right-hander that was in the 85-88 range.

EC Astros LHP Matthew Crownover, Next Chapter.....
7/7/2009 5:59:43 PM

We blogged about EC Astros LHP Matthew Crownover (2012, Ringold HS, GA) in last week's 18U blog. The freshman has been pitching, and dominating, in WWBA events since he was in 7th grade. So instead of repeating past reports that we'll just have to repeat for the next 3 years, we'll just type out the scouting notes of Crownover's 4 inning, 2 hit, 0 run, 0 walk, 10 strikeout performance this afternoon.

"FB 86-87, CB 70-74, Chg 70-72. Lean athletic build, polished easy delivery from H 3/4's slot. Changes speeds, mixes pitches well, FB has armside run. Exceptional move to 1B. Good hand speed on change. CAN REALLY PITCH!"

Big 4th Inning Powers Richmond Braves
7/7/2009 5:55:59 PM

A loaded Richmond Braves National '10 squad used a big fourth inning to cruise to an easy 11-1 victory over the South Florida Bandits East. C Patrick Harrington (2010, Kellam HS, VA), a South Carolina Verbal, got the fireworks started in the third inning with a homerun. While he had a relatively quiet day at the plate, OF Mitchell Shiflett (2010, Cosby HS, VA) posted the fastest sixty time in Perfect Game history with a 6.11 sixty at the National Showcase last month.

RHP Matt Houston (2010, Spotslvania, VA) scored the victory for the Braves throwing 3 innings and allowing only 1 hit. Houston sat at 83-85 with his fastball with plus command and good movement. RHP Trent Cundiff (2010, Northside HS, VA) came in relief for the Braves and sat at 85-88.

RHP Bob Decosmo (2011, Agawam, MA) sat at 87-89 for the South Florida Bandits East.

Page Turns on the East Cobb Braves
7/7/2009 5:53:39 PM

Score one for the power of an emotional let down. The East Cobb Braves won the WWBA 18U National Championship in dramatic fashion last night. Back on the field this afternoon against the South Florida Elite Red, the Braves lost 7-2. They will have an uphill battle to win their pool and advance to the playoffs to try to pull off an unprecedented double championship.

RHP Clint Cronin
7/7/2009 5:31:33 PM

RHP Clint Cronin (2010, Ponte Vedra HS, FL) was dominant in a 6-2 World of Baseball Angels victory over the East Cobb Red Sox. The 6'0", 155 lbs. right-hander showed a fastball at 84-88 with great life. He has outstanding command, which can be contributed to his very clean delivery. Cronin went 6 innings allowing 2 earned runs on 3 hits with 6 strikeouts and no walks.

SS Dante Bichette, Orlando Baseball Academy
7/7/2009 5:23:57 PM

SS Dante Bichette (Orangewood HS, FL) is only a 2011 but he's a veteran of WWBA play, so his home run in the Orlando Baseball Academy's 7-1 win over the St. Louis Pirates Red was not his first at this level of competition. It is very likely not his last, either. His father hit 274 bombs during his Major League career, including 40 with the 1995 Rockies.

The star of the game, though, was LHP Justin Nicolino (2010, University HS, FL). The 6-2, 155 lb Nicolino threw 6 innings, allowing only three hits while striking out 13 hitters. Nicolino threw up to 89 mph and had a sharp low 70's curveball he threw for strikes. RF Matt Militello of the Pirates hit a solo home run in the 1st inning for the only Pirates run.

Jameson Taillon
7/7/2009 5:20:08 PM

The nation's top-ranked pitching prospect RHP Jameson Taillon (2010, The Woodlands HS, TX) will be starting the 7:00 PM Game for Houston Kyle Chapman on Field 1 at the East Cobb Complex against the Orioles Scout Team.

Kish/Coyle Power Bandits Past Blackhawks
7/7/2009 5:16:38 PM

High school teammates MIF Sean Coyle (2010, Germantown Academy, PA) and RHP Keenan Kish (2010, Germantown Academy) combined for 5 RBI's in a 6-1 Bandits Baseball victory over the Texas Blackhawks.

The ultra-talented Sean Coyle is one of the top hitters in the country and possesses plus speed and arm strength. Along with going 2-3 with 3 RBI's at the plate, Kish took home the victory on the mound going 3 innings and allowing 1 run. Kish sat at 87-89 with his fastball today, although he has been in the low 90's in recent events.

RHP Joe Harvey (Kennedy-Kenrick HS, PA) topped at 88 for the Bandits, while Blackhawks RHP Nick Sawyer (2010, Hebron HS, TX) and RHP Chase Underhall (2010, Halton HS, TX) topped at 89 and 90 respectively.

Jupiter MVP Mark Payton
7/7/2009 5:11:49 PM

2008 Jupiter MVP Mark Payton (2010, St. Rita HS, IL) didn't start the Illinois Sparks first game against the Arlington A's but he had the biggest impact on the Sparks 1-1 tie. Pinch-hitting in the bottom of the 7th inning with the Sparks down 1-0, Payton hit a 2 strike solo home run to tie the game up.

England Smith Tosses 3-Hitter
7/7/2009 4:57:35 PM

LHP England Smith's (2010, Battle Ground Academy, TN) complete-game 3-hitter paced the Georgia Knights to a 5-2 victory over FTB Mizuno 17U. Smith sat at 83-86 with his fastball, topping at 87. His fastball has good life with his best off-speed pitch being a tight low 70's slider. Smith allowed 1 earned run with 6 strikeouts and 2 walks.

SS Sebastian Gomez stood out defensively for FTB Mizuno, while also batting leadoff and posting a 4.24 home to first time.

J.T. Riddle Solves ABC Mets
7/7/2009 4:54:25 PM

Kentucky Baseball Club SS/RHP J.T. Riddle (2010, Western Hills HS, KY) had his way on both sides of the ball in an 8-0 win over the ABC Mets.

The 6-3, 185 lb Riddle went the distance on the mound, striking out 7 hitters and only allowing 1 hit. He threw fastballs almost exclusively, getting outstanding running movement at 85-88 mph. A left handed hitter, Riddle hit in the #3 hole and went 3-3.

CF Beau Bouthilette (2011, Elizabethtown HS, KY) and RF Phillip Donovan (2010, Tates Creek HS, KY) hit home runs to support Riddle.

Wentz, O'Conner Leading Indiana Bulls
7/7/2009 4:42:34 PM

RHP Dalton Wentz is throwing a no-hitter through 5 innings for the Indiana Bulls in their game at Dominion Christian HS. Wentz has been 88-91 mph on his fastball in dominating the ABD Boxers. Aflac All-American SS Justin O'Conner has provided the offense with a long home run over the CF fence.

Guillen Sighting in Marietta
7/7/2009 4:36:37 PM

Ozzie Guillen hasn't made an appearence in Marietta and we don't think that the White Sox are scheduled to play the Braves anytime soon. But his son, Ozney Guillen, played a key role in the Florida Diamond Pros game today, a 5-4 loss to the Chain Baseball Black.

Guillen (2010, Pace HS, FL) is a 6-3, 190 lb left handed hitting outfielder who batted third in the Diamond Pros line up. His scout notes from the game read "thick strong build, open stance, gets closed, dives in some, has bat speed, strength in swing, 2B over CF's head." Guillen's double drove in 2 of the Diamond Pros runs.

Mike Foltynewicz
7/7/2009 4:35:24 PM

RHP Mike Foltynewicz (2010, Minooka HS, IL) stood out in a 10-1 Illinois Sparks 17U victory over the Charlotte Megastars. Foltynewicz has a loose and easy delivery and sat at 88-92 with his fastball, which showed good armside run and sink. In 3 innings of work Mike allowed 1 run on 2 hits, while walking 3 batters and striking out 2 batters.

Almost every starter for the Sparks contributed at the plate with 1B Jeff Schalk (2010, Wheaton North HS, IL) leading the charge going 2-3 with 3 runs scored, a double and an RBI. Schalk has a projectable build at 6'3", 190 lbs and drove the ball hard consistently each up.

Jordan Griffin Powers On Deck O's
7/7/2009 4:29:04 PM

2010 On Deck O's 1B Jordan Griffin (2010, Fort Mill HS, SC) provided an opportunity for interesting note taking by the PG scout at North Cobb Christian HS this morning. The notes in the first inning read "crushed hanger over the fence...." The notes in the 5th inning read "did it again, same pitch, same swing". The 6-2 right handed hitter, hitting in the 3rd hole, hit a pair of 2-run home runs in the O's 8-3 victory over the Indiana Prospects.

T.J. Pecoraro
7/7/2009 4: 08:12 PM

East Coast Select RHP T.J. Pecoraro (2010, Half Hallow Hills HS, NY) was outstanding at the Perfect Game National Showcase last month and just about as good last week at the 18U National Championship last week.

He trumped both those outings today with a 7 inning complete game no-hitter against the Knoxville Thunder this afternoon. The 6-0 right hander stuck out 14 hitters while only issuing 1 walk. Pecoraro pitched mostly with his fastball, which was consistently 90 mph with very good life, and occasionally mixed in a 78 mph curveball.

Breaking Balls Tame East Coast Greys
7/7/2009 3:52:16 PM

All Star Baseball Academy unleashed two pitchers with power breaking balls to tame the East Coast Greys 2-0 Tuesday afternoon.

LHP Greg Welsh (2010, Council Rock South HS, PA) touched 87 mph with his fastball but his out pitch was a nasty 77-80 mph slider that he showed plus command of. Welsh struck out 6 in 4 innings of 1 hit ball.

He was relieved by RHP Christian Duclos (2010, Great Valley HS, PA) for the last 3 innings. Duclos didn't throw as hard, topping out at 84 mph, but his 72 mph curveball had a huge 12/6 downer break. The 6-0 right hander struck out 8 hitters in his 3 innings of work, also allowing only 1 hit.

Dirtbags Blog 3
7/7/2009 3:43:57 PM

We've blogged previously on Dirtbags RHP Benton Moss. He wasn't the only Dirtbag player who had a great day. C Matt Roberts (2010, Graham HS, NC) not only caught a no-hitter, he hit a 2 run home run to lead the Dirtbag offense. Roberts has made a verbal commitment to North Carolina.

Harrison Fuels ABD Victory
7/7/2009 3:40:11 PM

The ABD Bulldogs Red are on the very short list of favorites for the 17U Championship.

They started the tournament in style as their leadoff hitter in the top of the first inning of their first game, 3B Travis Harrison (2011, Aliso Viejo HS, CA), hit a home run to start ABD on their way to a 12-2 win over the East Cobb Patriots. RF Cody Lewis (2010, Canyon HS, CA) added a 2-run home run in the 3rd inning.

Dallas Panthers Jason Zangerine
7/7/2009 3:27:59 PM

The Dallas Panthers Jason Zangerine (2011, Rowlett HS, TX) is listed as a 6-1, 160 lb right handed pitcher. The PG scout who watched the Panthers 8-0 win over the Parkview Panthers reports that Zangerine is also a very good outfielder and hitter. His 3-run home run powered the Dallas victory.

Malone Throws Gem for Chain Baseball
7/7/2009 3:23:45 PM

LHP Chess Malone (2010) of the Chain Baseball Gold threw a gem against the Connecticut Bombers 17U in a 5-1 Chain victory. The Bombers leadoff hitter in the first inning reached on an error, the second hitter singled and the third hitter reached on another error, resulting in a run. Malone went on to throw a complete game 1-hitter once his defense settled down, striking out 5.

Dallas Patriots RHP Colby Suggs
7/7/2009 2:35:55 PM

His Dallas Patriots teammates didn't supply him with any runs, but RHP Colby Suggs (2010, Sulpher Springs, TX) did his part in a 0-0 tie with the Louisiana Legends. Suggs threw 7 innings of 1 hit ball, striking out 7 hitters. He punched out the last 3 hitters and his last pitch of the game was 92 mph. Suggs stood out at both the PG Sunshine South and National Showcases and throws a plus velocity fastball with little effort and obviously maintains it. He doesn't look the part at a barrell chested 6-0, 215 lbs but is loose and very athletic.

LHP Chad Miller (2010, Sulpher HS, LA) matched Suggs in performance if not in raw stuff, allowing only 3 hits in his own complete game shutout. Miller pitched in the upper 70's with a 70 mph change up and 63 mph curveball and commanded all three pitches well.

First New Mexico, now Utah
7/7/2009 1:59:20 PM

This IS a 192 team NATIONAL championship, so there should naturally be players from all around the country. We just blogged about a hard throwing RHP from New Mexico, now a report just came in on a harder throwing right hander from Utah.

RHP Brady Hudson (2010, Riverton HS, UT) of the Utah Baseball Academy has started off his game against the Upstate Mavericks throwing 88-91 mph with a nasty CB. Hudson is only 5-9, 160 lbs but the arm strength and ability to spin the ball is obviously there.

S. Florida Bandits RHP Jake McCasland
7/7/2009 1:47:00 PM

Prospects from the state of New Mexico are fairly rare, especially when they are playing for a South Florida based team. Such is the case of RHP Jake McCasland (2010, Piedra Vista HS, NM). The 6-2, 215 McCasland threw the first 3 innings of the South Florida Bandits American team, pitching between 86-89 mph with 74 mph slider with tilt. He didn't walk a hitter while striking out 5. McCasland may have been on cruise control, as he was staked to a 6-0 lead before he stepped to the mound; there has been talk that he was up to 94 mph during the New Mexico state playoffs this spring.

FTB Mizuno OF'er Jeff Driskel
7/7/2009 1:39:35 PM

FTB Mizuno centerfielder Jeff Driskel (2011, Hagerty HS, FL) had a great opening game against the East Cobb Rebels on Field 2 at the Complex this morning. The 6-4, 220 lb right handed hitter blasted a 2 run home run in his first at bat and added a triple 2 innings later. FTB Mizuno won 4-1, with Driskel scoring 2 runs and driving in 2.

LHP Jesse Biddle
7/7/2009 1:32:16 PM

6-6, 220 lb southpaw Jesse Biddle (2010, Germantown Friends HS, PA) was one of the big sensations of the PG National Showcase and is currently the #40 ranked prospect in the 2010 class. He didn't show the velo this morning that he did at the National, pitching in the 85-87 mph area, but commanded his pitches well and showed an improved curveball in a 3-3 Philadelphia Senators tie with the New England Ruffnecks. Biddle struck out 10 in a 7 inning complete game, allowing only 5 hits.

Blog Update; Moss/Koumas
7/7/2009 1:19:58 PM

Lots of rain in the northern and eastern fields today, so lots of logistical weather issues to deal with that have interrupted the blogs.

Two players previously mentioned, Benton Moss of the Dirtbags and Forrest Koumas, both ended up with no-hitters (Koumas combined with Chris Andrews). Koumas also hit a 3-run home run, so he had a great day.

Dirtbags RHP Benton Moss
7/7/2009 12: 08:15 PM

Our scout at North Cobb Christian HS says that Dirtbags RHP Denton Moss (2011, Rocky Mount HS, NC) is pretty impressive for his age. The 6-2, 165 lb Moss throws four quality pitches for strikes, including an 85-88 mph fastball.

Moss's high school and Dirtbags teammate, LHP Hobbs Johnson, is a 2010 prospect who has verbal'd to North Carolina.

Palmetto Sand Gnats RHP Forrest Koumas
7/7/2009 11:55:48 AM

Palmetto Sand Gnats RHP Forrest Koumas (2010, Lugoff Elgin HS, SC) is pitching at Walton HS against the Houston Heat Black. The 5-11, 190 Koumas has started off the game throwing 89-92 mph.

Tyler Austin Update
7/7/2009 11:52:20 AM

Aflac All-American catcher Tyler Austin wasn't on any of the printed rosters at the 17U's but will be playing for the Chain Baseball Black team this week.

Wood, Plant Lead St. Louis Gamers
7/7/2009 11:19:51 AM

RHP Tyler Wood (2010, Chaminade HS, MO) threw a 2 hit shutout with 8 K's and SS Culver Plant (2011, Parkway North HS, MO) went 2-2 with 2 Rbi's and 2 steals to lead the St. Louis Gamers to a 5-0 win over the East Cobb Indians.

The 6-1, 175 lb Wood pitched in the 82-85 mph range with a very good 74 mph change up and big breaking 70 mph curveball. Plant is a long limbed 6-3, 185 lb athlete with smooth defensive actions and a good looking swing.

Indians CF Brooks Fleming (2010, Martin Co. HS, FL) had both hits for East Cobb.

3 Run Walkoff HR for the New Jersey Jaguars
7/7/2009 10:36:06 AM

The New Jersey Jaguars won their opening game in dramatic fashion, getting a 3-run walkoff home run from C Alexander DeBellis (2011, Pope John 23rd HS, NJ) in the bottom of the 7th inning to beat the Marucci Elite 16's 3-2.


7/7/2009 10:16:04 AM

RHP Ryan Stanek (2010, Blue Valley HS, KS) threw 5 solid innings in a 2-1 Mac N Seitz Indians win over the LEAD Ambassadors. The 6-4, 175 lb Stanek was 86-89 mph with his fastball and threw both a 77 mph slider and 70 mph curveball for strikes. He showed good sink on his fastball and was athletic and quick off the mound.

A.J. Cole Sharp in Orlando Scorpion Victory
7/7/2009 9:55:57 AM

Aflac All American RHP A.J. Cole threw 4 sharp innings in the Scorpions 8-0 win over Strike Zone. Cole touched 93-94 mph frequently in the early innings and showed some sharpness on an 80 mph slurve. He allowed 1 hit and struck out 5.

CF Dom Attansio filled his leadoff role well for the Scorpions, drawing two walks, getting hit by a pitch, stealing 3 bases and scoring 3 runs.

South Charlotte Panthers on the Board
7/7/2009 9:25:22 AM

The first final of the day is in from Kell HS: South Charlotte Panthers 9, Patriots of Virginia 0. The first of approximately 560 games that will be played in the event.

Our scout at Kell reports "Jake Watson (2010, Charlotte Christian HS, NC) is a pretty good shortstop. Left handed hitter, went 2-3 with 3 Rbi's, played a real nice shortstop defensively."

18U Tournament Buzz
7/7/2009 8:50:22 AM

While we're starting the 17U National Championship today, much of the buzz at the ball park this morning was still about the 18U championship game last night, where the East Cobb Braves came back from a 10-1 deficit to win 11-10.

You watch enough baseball games and you will see just about everything. The Braves are certainly not the first team to be looking the Run Rule in the eye then come back to win a game. But the stage they did it on was different. It was the championship game of the co-largest (192 teams) age group tournament in the country against the event's defending champion. It was in a game where just about every player will move on to Division I or Professional baseball. Every pitcher who took the mound was at worst a mid to upper 80's thrower.

These were some of the best players in the country playing at 100% emotional energy and focus.

It's hard to to feel a bit for the Florida Bombers. This is their season, they take immense pride in winning the 18U championship, which they've done 5 times in the past. They looked like they were shell shocked afterwards. But they played their hearts out and didn't "lose" the game. The Braves won it in spectacular fashion.

East Cobb Braves C/1B Eric Arce, the 18U Most Valuable Player, left quite an impression. One very high level college coach came up to me afterwards in the tower and asked "Arce....one of the top 5 left handed hitters in the country?" I said I wasn't sure about that without taking a hard look at it but for the past week there wasn't a better 17/18 year old hitter anywhere in the country. In the playoffs against a constant stream of top level pitchers Arce hit .667-4-8 in 5 games.

Howard JC Coach Britt Smith
7/7/2009 8:30:55 AM

One of the scouts that Perfect Game has running fields this week is Howard JC head coach Britt Smith. Howard made national headlines this spring when they won their first 57 games before losing to Temple JC in the NJCAA district playoffs. They came back to defeat Temple in the double elimination tournament, then went on to Grand Junction to win the Junior College World Series and finish the season with a 63-1 record.

Smith had an interesting perspective on the season. "I've been asked over and over what we can do to top this spring in the future. I'm not really sure how to answer that question yet. I do know that I'm not getting tired of being congratulated for it, though! It was a perfect season, we had great pitching, we had the great offense we're used to having at Howard and it was just a super group of young men. You couldn't ask for anything more."

One PG staff member had a suggestion for a topper...."Augie Garrido can't keep coaching forever at Texas, can he?"

2011 RHP Carson Baranik
7/7/2009 8:17:40 AM

Our first "scout call" from an outlying field comes from Oglethorpe, where Louisiana All-Stars Blue RHP Carson Baranik (2011, Parkway HS, LA) is throwing 90 mph with a sharp slider. Baranik is the #24 ranked prospect on the PG prospect list for the 2011 class. He was outstanding at the PG National Junior Showcase in Minneapolis last month.

RHP A.J. Cole Throwing at 9 am
7/7/2009 7:13:42 AM

Orlando Scorpions RHP A.J. Cole, an Aflac All-American from Oviedo HS in Winter Springs, FL, is throwing against the Strike Zone 17U's at 9 am on Field 2, which should draw a large crowd of high level scouts to the East Cobb Complex right off the bat this morning.

Cole is currently ranked #2 in the Perfect Game 2010 prospect listings.

We'll have a report on Cole's performance after the game.

17U National Championship Kicks Off
7/7/2009 7:06:49 AM

The WWBA 17U National Championship kicks off in an hour, with 192 teams ready to vie for the championship. 22 games will start at 9 am this morning at fields across the North Atlanta area.

PG Crosschecker and the WWBA will bring you constant blogs throughout the event, complete with up to the minute scouting information on as many top prospects as possible.

The Diamond Devils are the defending champions and have another outstanding team in Marietta again this year.

Reprinted with permission from http://www.worldwoodbat.com

No idea why those guitar players showed up in the post... And with that post I become an old timer!

Thanks PG for looking the other way.

Thanks Quillgirl (and congrats old timer) and PG for posting this. Sure brings back great memories of a great tournament. Hope everyone continues to have a good time and the weather cooperates.

Thanks guillgirl. And congrats on becoming an old timer!!!

2009 WWBA 17U National Championship
Wednesday, July 8

Taijuan Walker pitches 1-hitter for So Cal Bombers
7/9/2009 7:22:47 AM

Taijuan Walker (2010) pitched an outstanding game for the So Cal Bombers. Walker has a profile 6-4, 195 lb frame with projection. He pitched at 88-90 for the first couple innings, and maintained pretty good velocity throughout as he topped at 88 mph in the 7th inning. Walker throws with fairly low effort with a pretty easy delivery. His curveball was a bit loose early in the game, but it got sharper as the game went along. Walker nearly had a no-hitter as the only hit he gave up was nearly an outstanding sliding catch by the outfielder. He was dominant this performance as he struck out 12 of 21 outs. He's an interesting prospect who has a chance to be pretty good.

Justin Bhatti (2010) was also very good on the mound for the Patriots of Northern Virginia. He has a very thin body with a wirey type build. He pitched 5.2 very good innings allowing only 1 run on 5 hits. 3 of those 5 hits and the run came once he had recorded 2 outs in the 6th inning. Bhatti pitched at 83-86 mph with a short quick arm action. His curveball is fairly sharp and he throws it for strikes.

Braves Take Advantage Of Costly Errors
7/8/2009 7:17:02 PM

The Midland Braves took advantage of several costly errors to knock off the Lehigh Valley Baseball Academy on Tuesday night. After the first two runners got on the board for Lehigh Valley, Braves RHP Eric Martin (2011, Turpin HS, OH) was dominant not allowing an earned run and only surrendering three hits. Martin's command was impressive as he located his 83-86 mph fastball well.

Although saddled with the loss, Lehigh Valley RHP Tyler Vail (2010, Notre Dame Green Pond HS, PA) was very impressive sitting at 88-90 with his fastball and topping out at 92. He has an effortless delivery and the making of a quality curveball.

Dulins Dodgers White Wins In Last Inning
7/8/2009 7:06:57 PM

The Dulins Dodgers White pushed one run accross in the bottom of the seventh inning to knock off the Tri-State Arsenal 17U Blue 6-5 on Wednesday afternoon. LHP Blake Myers (2010, St. Benedict HS, TN) was up to 88 for the Dodgers, while RHP Kevin Comer (2011, Seneca HS, NJ) was up to 90 for the Arsenal.

Vachon Impressive In Complete Game Effort
7/8/2009 6:58:21 PM

ABC D-Backs RHP Brad Vachon (2010, Stony Point, TX) slowed the Midwest Blazers bats down 3-2 on Wednesday with a complete game effort. Vachon showed plus command of his fastball that sat at 83-87, topping out at 89. Maybe the most impressive stat line of the day was 9 strikeouts and 0 walks.

RHP Adam Plutko
7/8/2009 6:32:26 PM

RHP Adam Plutko (2010, Glendora HS, CA) is lighting it up for Trombley Baseball in their game tonight against the McHenry County Hurricanes. The PG Scout at Kennesaw Mountain HS says that Plutko is 88-92 mph in the early going "with a Mr. Jelly Legs" curveball in the mid 70's.

Taylor Tosses Two-Hit Shutout for Super 17
7/8/2009 6:30:17 PM

NJ Super 17 RHP Shane Taylor (2010, Clearview HS, NJ) tossed a two-hit shutout to hold off the Palmetto Sand Gnats 17U 2-0. Taylor sat at 87-90 with a sharp slider and only threw to only three batters over the minimum.

Not be forgotten in the game was the outstanding pitching performance by the Palmetto Sand Gnats who combined to give up only two hits. RHP Alex Brooks (2010, Lexington HS, SC) went 5 innings allowing 1 run on 2 hits. Brooks struck out eight batters and was up to 88 with his fastball. SS/RHP Jared Keels (210, Spring Valley HS, SC) threw 2 hitless inning to close the game and was up to 86 with his fastball.

With only four total hits in the game, NJ Super 17 RF Eric Sellitto (2010, Shawnee HS, NJ) had the biggest one with a solo homerun in the second inning.

Bottom of Order Lifts All American Prospects Red
7/8/2009 6:19:46 PM

The number 8 thru 11 hitters for the All American Prospects Red reached base 8 times and scored 7 runs to lead the Prospects to a 10-2 victory over the Michigan Diamonds. Having all those runners on base was a boon for Prospects leadoff hitter EH Giovanny Alfonso (2011, Lincoln Park HS, FL) as he went 3-4 with 4 Rbi's.

East Cobb Astros Cruise Over Texas Blackhawks
7/8/2009 6:01:13 PM

The East Cobb Astros won their 2nd straight game by a 9-0 score, defeating the Texas Blackhawks Wednesday afternoon.

LHP Will West (2010, Chiles HS, FL) got the start for EC, going 5 innings and striking out 11, allowing only 1 hit. West works in the mid 80's with a good curveball and outstanding command of both corners. RHP John Magliozzi (2011, Dexter HS, MA) pitched the 6th inning for the Astros and looked sharp, pitching at 90-91 mph with a knee buckling curveball.

LF Andrew Toles (2010, Sandy Creek HS, GA) led the Astros offense, going 3-4 with a double, 2 runs scored and 3 stolen bases.

Tony Mollica Fans 15 Batters
7/8/2009 6:00:25 PM

World of Baseball Angels LHP Tony Mollica (2010, Mandarin HS, FL) was outstanding in a 1-1 tie versus Strike Zone 16U, striking out 15 batters and allowing only 2 hits in 6 innings of work. Mollica sat at 82-85 with his fastball and showed an uncanny feel for pitching. His ability to locate any pitch at any time in the count was very impressive.

Seven-Run First Inning Paces Hardballers
7/8/2009 5:41:23 PM

A seven run first inning was all the Florida Hardballers needed as the held off the Texas Blackhawks Black 10-5. RF Travis Kirkman hit a two-run homerun in the first inning, while Chayce Garner's (2010, Palatka, FL) two-run double broke the game open. RHP Matt Dearden (2010, Gainesville HS, FL) was 88-90 in his first inning of work.

Blackhawks RHP Chase Underhill (2010, Northwest HS, TX) threw in relief once again for the Texas Blackhawks sitting at 87-90 with his fastball. IF Jason Kowalkowski (2010, Northwest HS, TX) was 1-2 with a 2B and 3 RBIs, while C Jean Ramirez (2011, Boswell HS, TX) also looked good for the Blackhawks.

Reeves Walk-Off Grand Slam Lifts Grays Navy
7/8/2009 5:19:07 PM

To say 3B Chad Reeves (2010, Faith Academy, AL) had a big day is an understatement as he lead the East Coast Grays Navy to a 7-4 victory over the Dallas Patriots. Reeves drove in all seven of the Grays' runs including a walkoff grand-slam in the bottom of the 7th and a three-run homerun in the third inning. For the game Reeves totals were 2-3 with 2 homeruns, 7 RBIs and a walk.

Grays' starter RHP Greg Greve (2010, Walsh Jesuit HS, OH) was very impressive in the victory throwing three perfect innings and touching 89 on the radar gun. Grays LHP Matt Arguello (2010, Davidson HS, AL) was up to 88 and SS/RHP Preston Packrall (2010, Clearwater Central Catholic HS, FL) was up to 86.

Coyle Impressive In Bandits Victory
7/8/2009 5:04:50 PM

MIF Sean Coyle (2010, Germantown Academy, PA) had another big day for Bandits Baseball as they knocked off the Summit City Sluggers 8-4 on Wednesday. Coyle went 2-4 with a double, triple and 4 RBIs.

Summit City Sluggers OF/RHP Levi Fisher (2010, Bryan HS, OH) hit a two-run homerun and hit 87 on the mound.

Hudgens Tosses No-Hitter For Heat Showcase
7/8/2009 4:54:29 PM

2010 RHP Brock Hudgens tossed a no-hitter in a 2-0 Heat Showcase Baseball victory over Farrah Nine. For the game Hudgens struck out 10 batters and walked 4 hitters. Hudgens has a loose and easy delivery and ran his fastball up to 87.

Farrah Nine 2011 RHP Nick Donatiello was impressive in 4 innings of work striking out 7 batters with no walks. Donatiello sat at 83-86 and showed a good feel for pitching.

Mugarian Impressive In Marucci Elite Victory
7/8/2009 4:41:19 PM

Marucci Elite RHP Wes Mugarian (2010, Pensacola Catholic HS, FL) was very impressive in a 5-3 Marucci Elite victory over the East Cobb Shamrocks. Topping out at 90, Mugarian threw 4 hitless innings, striking out 7 batters and walking only 1 batter. RHP Joshua Burriss (2010, Scotlandville, LA) was very impressive in relief topping out at 91 with a sharp 12-6 curveball.

David Norman 3-Run HR Lifts Patriots-Red 17U
7/8/2009 4:30:22 PM

East Cobb Patriots-Red 17U C David Norman's (2010, Starr's Mill HS, GA) 3-run homerun sealed the deal for an 8-4 Patriots victory over the Dallas Angels Baseball Club. Norman went 1-3 on the day.

RHP J.T. Autrey Promising Dallas Pitcher
7/8/2009 4:11:31 PM

The PG Scout described Dallas Tigers RHP J.T. Autrey (2010, Stephenville HS, TX) as "A Horse". The 6-5, 215 lb Autrey threw 6 innings, in a 7-2 Tigers victory over the East Cobb Cardinals, allowing 3 hits and striking out 8. Autrey threw up to 88 mph on his fastball and showed nice feel for his change up. His arm was smooth and quick and he could improve his stuff almost immediately by getting over his front side better.

Bundy/Alainez Overmatch Chain Baseball
7/8/2009 3:57:28 PM

RHP Dylan Bundy (2011, Sperry HS, OK) and RHP R.J. Alaniz (2010) combined on a 7 inning no-hitter in a 1-0 win over Chain Baseball.

Bundy was overpowering in 4 innings of work, striking out 9 hitters. He gets very good movement on a fastball that sits 91-94 mph and touched 96 mph during the 2nd inning. He mixes in a 80 mph slider and 73 mph curveball on occasion but basically just blows the ball past hitters.

Alaniz was almost as effective, striking out 4 in 3 innings. His fastball was 88-91 mph and his mid 70's curveball showed nasty bite at times.

RF Bradley Marquez prided the only DBAT run when he tripled leading off the 4th inning and later scored on a sacrifice fly.

EC Braves Bounce Back Behind Combined No-Hitter
7/8/2009 3:28:07 PM

The 18U National Champions East Cobb Braves bounced back from a opening game loss with a 12-0 win over the All-Star Baseball Academy. Alfac All-American RHP Kartsen Whitson and RHP Jay Shaw combined on a 5 inning no-hitter. Whitson went the first 3 innings and while his control was a little off (4 BB's), his stuff was first round quality, with a 92-95 mph fastball and 84 mph slider with excellent depth.

3B Barrett Austin drove in 3 runs for the Braves. LF Ben Gamel had a double and a triple and scored twice.

Castellanos Paces All-American Prospects
7/8/2009 3:16:53 PM

3B Nick Castellanos (2010, Archbishop McCarthy HS, FL) hit a 3 run home run in the first inning and a run scoring double in the third inning to lead the All-American Prospects Blue to a 7-2 win over the East Cobb Titans. Aflac All-American SS Yordy Cabrera singled in front of each of Castellanos' hits. Cabrera also came in to close the game and threw 88-91 mph from the mound.

Blanchard Outduels Peters
7/8/2009 3:02:33 PM

In arguably the best pitching duel of the 17U WWBA Championship ABD Bulldogs Navy RHP Matt Blanchard (2010, Mater Dei HS, CA) threw a complete-game one-hitter to outduel Indiana Prospect LHP Dillon Peters 2-1. Blanchard went the distance for the Bulldogs allowing only 1 run on 1 hit. He did a good job of locating his fastball, generally sitting between 83-86 with his fastball.

Dillon Peters (2011, Cathedral HS, IN) is one of the top 2011 prospect and it showed today as struck out 9 batters in 6 innings of work. He was able to easily run his fastball in to the 87-89 range and his only free pass was 1 HBP.

While the offenses were mostly inept on the day, Bulldog OF Mark Podlas (2010, Westhampton Beach HS, NY) went 2-2 with a run scored and a stolen base.

Converted OF'er Delmondre Arnold Throws 91 mph
7/8/2009 207 PM

RHP Delmondre Arnold of the Atlanta Blue Jays was an outfielder on previous ABJ rosters but is now a full-time pitcher. That seems like a wise conversion, as the 6-3, 190 lb right hander came in to throw the final inning of the Blue Jays 5-2 loss to EJ Sports Warriors. Arnold threw 89-91 mph on his fastball from a fast paced delivery and mid-3/4's release and flashed a sharp breaking 76 mph slurve.

Withrow picks up save for East Cobb Patriots Blue
7/8/2009 2:07:08 PM

Joseph Withrow (2010) faced the minimum in the final 2 innings to get the save for the East Cobb Patriots Blue 17U. The 6-4 right hander sat at 82-84 mph with his fastball and threw an 11/5 CB with some bite to it. He was dominant in his 2 innings of work getting 3 ground ball outs and 3 strikeouts.

Jason Garcia Sinks SoCal Bombers
7/8/2009 1:23:56 PM

Tampa Baseball Club RHP Jason Garcia (2010, Land 'O Lakes HS, FL) threw a 5 inning complete game in a 9-1 win over the SoCal Bombers. The 5-11 Garcia struck out 4 hitters but more importantly did not allow a single ball hit to the outfield, getting the other 11 outs on ground balls. He pitched from 85-89 mph with his fastball and spotted his 77-78 mph slider well down in the zone. CF Drew Doty and 1B Nick Pardo each drove in 2 runs for Tampa.

Young Lefties Shine for Update/Kentucky BBC
7/8/2009 1:17:07 PM

LHP Corey Littrell (2010, Trinity HS, KY) threw a 3 hit complete game to pick up the win in a 4-1 Kentucky Baseball Club win over the Upstate Mavericks on Wednesday. The 6-3, 185 lb Littrell held his velocity in the 87-88 mph range through all 7 innings with big arm side run. He showed good feel for his curveball and change up but relied mostly on his fastball to get outs.

The Mavericks brought in a young 2011 southpaw named Kevin Connell (Daniel Boone HS, TN) to throw the last 3 innings after falling behind 4-1. The 6-2, 185 lb Connell sat at 87 mph with a 72 mph downer CB.

Ferguson Impressive In Opener
7/8/2009 1:05:05 PM

LHP Caden Ferguson (2010, Sprayberry HS, GA) went 6 innings only allowing 1 earned run and 2 hits in a 4-1 East Cobb Shamrocks victory over MVP Baseball Black. The 6'3" left-hander sat at 78-81 with his fastball and showed an advanced feel for pitching. Offensively CF Ryan Brush (2010, Walker HS, GA) and C Ryan Raper (2011, Hillgrove HS, GA) stood out for the Shamrocks.

MVP Black CF Kelton Cronquist (2010, Mountain Crest HS, UT) had a big day for MVP Baseball Black going 2-3 with 2 doubles and 2 RBIs.

Home Runs Drive 4-4 Tie
7/8/2009 12:58:59 PM

Home runs were the key blows in a 4-4 tie between In The Zone and the OTC Bearcats Tuesday afternoon.

In The Zone DH Brad Hedden (2010, Roxbury HS, NJ) hit a 2-run home run in the first inning and later added an Rbi double.

OTC Bearcats 3B Cody Powell (2010, Luella HS, GA) came back to hit a 2-run home run with 2 out in the 6th inning to tie the score at 4.

Richmond Braves Nationals '11 Cruise In First Game
7/8/2009 12:47:00 PM

The Richmond Braves National '11 cruised to an easy 8-0 victory over Lights Out Baseball on Tuesday. LHP Jason Inghram (2011, Grassfield HS, VA) threw a five-inning shutout for the Braves allowing only 2 hits and striking out 11 batters. Inghram has good deception and locates his 82-84 mph fastball well.

Offensively OF Christian Hamlet (2011, Cosby HS, VA) had a huge day for the Braves going 3-3 with an HR, 2B and 3 RBIs.

Matthew Grimes/Philip Walby Impressive
7/8/2009 12:33:18 PM

The San Diego Dirtbags overcame a 3-0 deficit scoring 2 runs in the 5th and 6th innings to knock off Team Elite 4-3 on Tuesday. RHP Philip Walby (2010, Scripps Ranch HS, CA) sat at 86-88, touching 90 for 3 innings.

Team Elite RHP Matthew Grimes (2010, Mill Creek, GA) was impressive in 4 innings of work, allowing only 1 hit and no runs. Grimes sat at 86-89 with his fastball and showed a tight 12-6 curveball.

3B Josh Wallace Leads Homeplate Chili Dogs
7/8/2009 11:48:41 AM

There were rain delays at Alpharetta HS this morning, so the 9 am game didn't get over until after 12:30 pm. That was plenty of time for 3B Josh Wallace (2010, Newnan HS, GA) to do his damage. The right handed hitter hit 2 home runs and drove home 6 runs in a 12-2 victory over the Knoxville Thunder.

Canes Orange Defeat McHenry City 8-4
7/8/2009 11:20:36 AM

Sometimes very good stuff doesn't guarantee very good results.

Canes Orange RHP Austin Chrismon (2010, Menchville, VA) threw the first three innings for Canes, allowing 4 hits and 3 runs. He touched 91 mph on his fastball with a mid 70's curveball. His counterpart, 6-6 RHP Connor Sadzeck (2010, Crystal Lake HS, IL) had similar type velocity, touching 91 mph but was touched for 6 runs in 4 innings, mainly due to command problems.

RHP Curt Britt (2012, Scotland HS, NC) ended up the winning pitcher for the Canes, throwing 3 innings and allowing 1 run. He's a name to remember, as the freshman is 6-3, 195 lbs and already throws 87-88 mph.

Carolina Cyclones Break Through Late
7/8/2009 10:57:02 AM

The Carolina Cyclones were retired in order through 4 innings Tuesday afternoon by Long Grove A's RHP Jake LeMay. But LeMay was lifted after the 4th inning with a 3-0 lead and the Cyclones came back to win 4-3, getting 3 home runs in the process.

1B Daniel Palka (2010, Greer HS, SC) first put the Cylones on the scoreboard in the 5th with a solo home run. DH Jared Huffman (2010, Myrtle Beach HS, SC) tied up the game with a 2-run home run in the bottom of the 7th and was followed 2 batters later with a walk off solo shot off the bat of RF Brett Austin (2011, North Rochester HS, NC)

LHP Jeremy Holcomb, Dugout Club Braves
7/8/2009 10:52:01 AM

LHP Jeremy Holcomb (2010, Griffin HS, GA) threw a complete game 4-hitter in a 1-1 tie vs. the South Florida Bandits American. The 6-0 southpaw showed the ability to command the outside corner consistently with an 84-88 mph fastball. Bandits 3B Aaron Cohn was the only hitter to solve Holcomb, blasting a solo home run and later adding a single.

Power Bats Put Wind in Clipper's Sail
7/8/2009 10:48:18 AM

The World Yacht Clippers used some power bats to defeat the Big Stix Gamers 10-4 Wednesday morning. C Chris King (2010, Portsmouth, RI) was impressive both offensively and defensively for the Clippers hitting in the clean up hole, driving in 3 runs with a home run and single. 1B Mike Tandy (2010, Hendrick Hudson HS, NY) also had a home run and a single, while SS Thomas Olesczuk (2010, Hendrick Hudson HS, NY) and RF Michael Lang (2010, Ketchum, NY) had 2 run doubles.

SE Texas Sun Devils
7/8/2009 10:38:15 AM

The SE Texas Sun Devils brought out the hard throwers Wednesday morning. RHP Trae Davis (2010, Mexia HS, TX) pitched the first three innings, allowing 1 hit and striking out 6 hitters. Davis sat at 91-92 mph and relied on his FB most of the time. He was relieved by 6-5, 230 lb RHP Dan Child (2010, Jesuit HS, CA), who also threw 91-92 mph and featured a hard 84 mph slider. LHP Jeff Harvill (Evangel Christian HS, LA) closed for the Sun Devils in the 3-2 win against the Long Island Titans and was "only" 88 mph with a big sweeping CB.

Power Arms Pace East Alabama A's
7/8/2009 10:29:11 AM

The East Alabama A's used a four-run fourth inning to hold off the South Florida Elite Black 7-1. RHP Zach Helewski (2010, Smiths-Station HS, AL) was impressive for the A's going 4.2 inning, allowing 0 runs and 4 hits. Helewski located his 86-89 mph fastball well and struck out 9 batters, while allowing only 2 walks.

A's LHP Michael Crowley (2011, Auburn HS, AL) and South Florida Elite Black RHP Chris Ross (2010, West Broward HS, FL) both touched 88.

Taillon Impressive In Opener
7/8/2009 9:58:48 AM

Houston Kyle Chapman RHP Jameson Taillon (2010, The Woodlands HS, TX), the nation's 2nd-ranked prospect, was impressive Tuesday night in a 5-2 victory over the Orioles Scout Team. Taillon sat at 92-95 with his fastball and showing a good feel for his off-speed stuff. Taillon wasn't the only big arm though for Kyle Chapman as RHP Stefan Crichton (2010, Cinco Ranch HS, TX) and RHP John Simms (2010, The Woodlands HS, TX) both looked and touched 89 and 91 respectively.

MIF Tyler Green (2010, Brazoswood HS, TX) is known for being able to run his fastball into the low 90's, but it was his bat that stuck out on Tuesday night. Green is the three-hole hitter for Kyle Chapman and hit a homerun in the first inning and finished with 3 RBIs.

Orioles Scout Team SS Nick Poulos (2010, Douglas Freeman HS, VA) swung it well going 2-3 with 2 RBIs and 2 stolen bases. He had a two-run single off Jameson Taillon in the 3rd inning. RHP Owen Beightol (2010, Deep Run HS, VA) was sharp in two relief innings, striking out 5 batters and allowing only 1 hit. Beightol showed a good feel for pitching and sat at 84-87 with his fastball.


LHP Shane Conlon Leads Top Tier
7/8/2009 9:56:26 AM

LHP Shane Conlon (2010, St. Rita HS, IL) threw 6 shutout innings (4 hits, 5 K's) against Heat Showcase to lead Top Tier to a 4-1 win. Conlon pitched at 83-84 mph with his fastball with good armside run. His best secondary pitch was a nice 72 mph change up and he also had a solid upper 60's curveball.

Speedy CF Brian Monette hit a solo home run and 2B Kyle Ruchim drove home 2 runs from his leadoff spot.

Dallas Tigers SS/RHP Matt Lipka
7/8/2009 9:44:03 AM

Dallas Tigers Aflac All-American Matt Lipka (2010, McKinney HS, TX) took time off from his normal shortstop position to throw 7 innings Tuesday afternoon. He threw a complete game 4-hitter in a 1-1 tie with Farrah 9, striking out 8 hitters and retiring the last 11 in a row. Lipka has shown a 90 mph fastball in short stints but pitched between 84-88 mph with very good command of his fastball. He could have used more help from Matt Lipka the hitter, as Farrah LHP Chris Roskey and RHP Matthew Marsh held the Tigers to 4 hits themselves.

Reprinted with permission from http://www.worldwoodbat.com

Quillgirl...

Happy "old timer" to you...

Happy "old timer" to you...

Happy "old timeeerrr" to youuuuuuuuu...

Happy "old......"...ummmmm.....what was I singing?

CONGRATS girl!

anyone wanna post the blogs from 7.09?

PG, I no longer have a dog in the fight in Atlanta, but I am truly grateful that you are allowing the summaries to be posted! They are insightful and enlightening and extremely fun to follow! Thanks!

Quillgirl,
Congrats on your new "old" status, and thanks for posting the entries!

HaltomScout,
Has your son transferred to Justin Northwest?

collikar~ we were trying to keep it under the radar with the UIL - thanks PG staff!!!

2009 WWBA 17U National Championship
Thursday, July 9

Houston Heat Click On All Cylinders In 11-0 Win
7/9/2009 7:18:59 PM

The Houston Heat Black were nearly perfect in an 11-0 victory over the East Cobb Astros 17's on Thursday. LHP Mitch Taylor (2010, Spring HS, TX) and LHP AJ Glasshof (2010, Fort Bend Austin HS, TX) combined to throw a one-hit shutout, with Taylor throwing four hitless innings. Taylor sat at 85-88 with a sharp breaking ball, while Glasshof was 83-86 and showed a good feel for pitching.

The offense was very efficient scoring 11 runs on just 6 hits. 1B Dustin Selzer (2010, Houston Christian HS, TX) and 3B Andrew Mitchell (2010, Stratford HS, TX) both connected for two-run homeruns in the second inning.

Green Touches 93 in Kyle Chapman Victory
7/9/2009 7:03:29 PM

MIF/RHP Tyler Green (2010, Brazoswood HS, TX) had an impressive day for Houston Kyle Chapman Blue helping lead them to a 5-2 victory over the East Cobb Padres. Green was 1-3 at the plate with a double and an RBI, but it was on the mound where he really peaked peoples interest. Green has an easy delivery and sat at 89-93 with his fastball complimented by a nasty 11-5 curveball.

Kyle Chapman starter RHP Cody Dickerston (2010, Cy Woods HS, TX) was impressive in three innings of work throwing to the minimum amount of batters. He sat at 80-84 with great movement on his fastball. RHP Brandon King (2010, Cy Fair HS, TX) came on in relief and touched 88.

The East Cobb Padres Drew Tolbert was impressive at the plate going 2-3 and showing good raw hitting tools.

Cowart Touches 94 In Astros Victory
7/9/2009 6:54:59 PM

East Cobb Astros RHP/SS Kaleb Cowart (2010, Cook County HS, GA) was outstanding in a 5-0 victory over the Big League 30's. Cowart, an Aflac All-American, was up to 94 with his fastball allowing only two hits in five innings of work, while striking out 10 batters. OF Andrew Toles (2010, Sandy Creek HS, GA) had a solid day going 2-3, with a double, an RBI and a stolen base.

Big League 30's 2010 RHP Jordan Carter was up to 88 in a relief appearance and showed an easy delivery and a slider with good depth.

Arms Display For Grays 17U/Megastars Matchup
7/9/2009 6:45:40 PM

The East Coast Grays 17U knocked off the Charlotte Megastars on Wednesday afternoon 5-4 in a matchup that featured several quality arms.

Grays starter RHP Joe McNamara (2010, Don Bosco Prep, NJ) threw three hitless innings sitting at 81-84 with great movement and outstanding control. In relief Joey Napolitano and Edwin Rayes touched 90 and 86 respectively for the Grays.

Megastars starter RHP Keith Prowse (2010, Hopewell HS, NC) was very sharp going four innings allowing no earned on three hits. He sat at 82-85 with great mechanics and very good command. In relief Jon Hamlett (2009, Chase HS, NC) touched 90.

Wranglers Survive Pitcher's Duel
7/9/2009 6:34:43 PM

The San Antonio Wranglers defeated the Virginia Senior Barnstormers 1-0 in a classic pitcher's duel on Wednesday.

Wranglers RHP Luke Maloy (2010, Alamo Heights HS, TX) went six scoreless innings allowing only four hits. He did a good job of establishing his fastball which sat in the 85-89 range with good life.

Although saddled with the loss, RHP Joe McGillicuddy (2011, WT Woodson HS, VA) threw very well allowing only five hits in 6.1 innings of work. McGillicuddy worked at 82-85 with his fastball topping out at 87.

NFWB Cobras Outslug Bandits East
7/9/2009 6:25:37 PM

The NFWB Cobras won an 11-5 slugfest over the South Florida Bandits East on Thursday morning. C Jeremy Shay (2010, Dearborn Divine Child, MI) had an RBI in all four of his plate appearances and finished the day going 2-3 with a solo homerun and 4 RBIs.

Central Coast And Summit City Battle To 0-0 Tie
7/9/2009 6:20:28 PM

Central Coast Baseball and the Summit City Sluggers both through two-hitters in a 0-0 tie on Thursday morning.

Summit City RHP Matt Wisler (2011, Bryan HS, IN) was impressive going five hitless innings, striking out five batters and walking one. Wisler sat at 84-87 with plus command and showed a good feel for a 10-4 curveball.

Central Coast RHP (2013, Willow Glen HS, CA) is one of the younger players at the event, but he showed ability far beyond his years. He threw four innings allowing only one hit and sat at 79-82 with his fastball.

Lauer Tosses One-Hitter For D-Jacks Gold
7/9/2009 6:10:30 PM

Cust D-Jacks Gold RHP Darren Lauer (2011, Council Rock North HS, PA) tossed a one-hitter in a 9-1 victory over MVP Baseball Blue on Wednesday afternoon. He sat at 79-82 with his fastball and showed plus command only allowing one walk.

6-4-3 Explodes For 13 Hits/Tosses One-Hitter
7/9/2009 6:04:00 PM

6-4-3 DP Baseball Academy had a well-rounded performance from both their pitching staff and their offense on Wednesday. Four players had two hits for 6-4-3 including 2B Art Sanguarnsri (2010, Walker School, GA) who went 2-2 with two runs scored and two RBIs.

The MVP of the game would easily go to RHP Mitchell Newsome (2010, Alpharetta HS, GA) who went 2-3 at the plate with 3 RBIs, while also allowing only 1 hit in 4.2 innings of work. Newsome has a clean and easy arm action and sat at 84-87 with his fastball.

All Star Baseball and Chain Black Battle To Tie
7/9/2009 5:52:56 PM

All Star Baseball Academy and Chain Baseball Black battled to a 7-7 tie in a game that featured several power arms and lots of offense.

ASBA 1B Brad Johnson (2010, Rustin HS, PA) projects well at 6'4", 220 lbs. and had a huge day going 4-4 with 2 RBIs. RHP Casey Roche (2010, Downington East HS, PA) was up to 88 with his fastball.

Chain Black IF Caleb Bryson (2010, Thomas County, GA) showed big raw power going 3-3, including a three-run homerun in the first inning. RHP Matt Rossi (2011, Pacelli, GA) and RHP Tyler Austin touched 90 and 88 respectively.

Zach Kothera Tosses Five-Inning No-Hitter
7/9/2009 5:36:21 PM

Dallas Diamond Jaxx RHP Zach Kothera (2010, Frisco Centennial HS, TX) tossed a five-inning no-hitter in a 10-0 victory over the Lehigh Valley Baseball Academy on Wednesday. Kothera sat at 79-82 with his fastball and struck out 5 batters.

Dirtbags 17's Wilson Tosses Two-Hitter
7/9/2009 5:27:29 PM

RHP Brandon Wilson (2010, Cary Academy, NC) tossed a two-hit shutout to lead the Dirtbags 17's to a 2-0 victory over the EJ Sports Warriors. Wilson locates his pitches very well, sitting in the low 80's with his fastball and topping out at 86. Wilson did not issue a walk and flashed a tight curveball.

North Carolina Verbal Commit OF Jeff Bouton (2010, Hoggard HS, NC) went 2-4 and drove in both runs for the Dirtbags.

Bats Explode For NCBA Golden Spikes
7/9/2009 5:22:59 PM

The NCBA Golden Spikes bats were on fire today in a 10-2 victory over Richmond County Baseball. Phillip Dixon (2010, Northwest Guilford HS, NC) was 2-2 with 2 triples and 4 RBIs; 2010 CF Jordan Smith went 2-3 with a solo homerun in 5th inning to end the game; and 1B Macon Smith (2010, Western Guilford HS, NC) went 2-2 with a double and 2 RBIs.

Dirtbags Hufham Tosses One-Hitter
7/9/2009 5:07:42 PM

RHP Kyle Hufham (2010, Waccamaw Academy, NC) threw a one-hit shutout in leading the Dirtbags of North Carolina to a 2-0 victory over the San Diego Dirtbags. Hufham, a North Carolina Verbal Commit, sat at 85-89 with his fastball and flashed a tight 12-6 curveball. He struck out 11 batters while only walking 2 hitters.


Arms On Display With Canes Orange/Trombly
7/9/2009 5:01:22 PM

The Canes Orange pitching staff slowed a powerful Trombly Braves 6-2 behind strong performances from LHP Kyle Crockett (20100 Poquoson HS, VA) and RHP Austin Chrismon. (2010, Menchville HS, VA) Crockett showed a good two-pitch mix with a fastball that reached 88 complimented by a quality curveball. Chrismon has a very live arm and gets great life to his fastball that touched 90. He also shows a nasty curveball and played for one of the best high school teams in the country.

Offensively MIF Dillon Maples (2011, Pinecrest HS, NC) went 2-2 with 2 doubles and 2 runs scored for the Canes. 2B Parks Jordan (2010, Glenn HS, NC), CF Cameron Capell and OF Chad Pinder (2010, Poquoson HS, VA) stood out at the plate for the Canes.

Trombly RHP Kyle Richter (2010, Santa Margarita HS, CA) was impressive showing a live 88-91 mph fastball that he did good job of locating.

Five-Run Second Carries Bandits Nationals
7/9/2009 4:41:23 PM

The South Florida Bandits National team used a five-run second inning to hold off the East Cobb Shamrocks 7-6 on Thursday afternoon. Several Bandits player's stood out at the plate including SS Ian Vazquez (2010, Perkiomen School, PR) who went 2-2; C Patrick Fedorko (2010, Lawrence HS, NJ) who hit a solo homerun in the third inning; 2B Felix Castillo (2010, Palmer Trinity HS, FL) who went 1-3; and OF Eros Modena (2010, Coral Reef HS, FL) who 2-2 with 2 doubles and 2 RBIs.

On the mound Bandits RHP Jon Cohn (2010, Notre Dame Prep, AZ) and Jimmy Yacabonis (2010, Christian Brothers HS, NY) both looked solid in relief and touched 87 and 88 respectively.

Shamrocks 3B Beau Welborn (2010, Lassiter HS, GA) swung it well going 2-3 with a run scored and an RBI.

Power Arms On Display For NJ Super 17
7/9/2009 4:29:19 PM

Note: The NJ Super 17 is actually listed as the Tri-State Arsenal/Cust D-Jacks in the program.

The NJ Super 17 once again ran out a group of fireballers on Thursday afternoon in a 9-3 victory over the Orlando Baseball Academy. Starter RHP Victor Diaz (2010, St Joes Metutchen HS, NJ) looked good with an 84-89 mph fastball that showed heavy life. RHP (2009, Franklin HS, NJ) followed up Diaz and showed a very clean delivery and a fastball that touched 90. Last but not least, Jim Coughlin came to close the game and looked the best of any any arm throwing 2 inning and allowing no runs. Coughlin was 84-86 with a clean and easy delivery and showed a good feel for his change-up.

Offensively, 3B Mike Ford (2010, The Hun School, NJ) lead the charge for the NJ Super 17 going 3-3 with 2 runs scored and an RBI.

Orlando Baseball Academy LHP Taylor Lesch (2010, East Lake HS, FL) was up to 88 in a relief appearance.

Reilly has big day for VA Barnstormers
7/9/2009 3:40:44 PM

Connor Reilly (2010) had a big day at the plate going 3 for 3 with 2 doubles against the East Cobb Cubs 16U. Both doubles were one hoppers off the fence at Campbell HS. He showed some pop on those swings today.

John McGillicuddy (2011) was impressive on the mound for the Barnstormers in relief going 3.2 innings with 5 strikeouts. He has a fairly young looking build (6-1 183 lbs) with some room to fill. McGillicuddy pitches with a long extended arm action with low effort. Right now he pitches with mostly just his arm, once he gets his lower half and midsection involved in his delivery more he will throw harder. He pitched at 82-85 mph today.

Kenny Towns (2011) also pitched well in relief for the Barnstormers. The 5-11 165 lb Towns pitches with a short quick arm action and his arm works well. His mechanics work pretty well and he has good arm strength. Towns pitched at 83-86 mph and sported a fairly sharp 12/6 curveball.

Panthers Slow Power Arms
7/9/2009 2:49:31 PM

The South Charlotte Panthers knocked off the NJ Twins 3-2 on Wednesday afternoon behind the solid pitching performance from RHP Kurt Semeniuk (2010, Providence HS, NC) and a solo homerun from OF Ty Linton. (2010, Charlotte Christian HS, NC) Semeniuk was 82-85 with his fastball and relied on his command and pitchability to get slow down the NJ Twins. Linton is committed to North Carolina to play linebacker next year.

The Twins ran out a pair of power arms in 2010 Don Bosco Prep right-handers Eric Stevens and Dan Rauscher. Stevens was 87-91 with his fastball, while Rauscher was 85-89.

Winger Strong For Scorpions
7/9/2009 2:26:00 PM

Orlando Scorpions Black RHP Brett Winger (2010, Olympia HS, FL) was solid in a 5-1 victory on Wednesday. Winger threw 4 innings allowing 4 hits and 1 earned run. He generally sat in the 84-87 range with his fastball, topping out at 88 with good life.

Nick Castellanos/All American Prospects Blue Roll
7/9/2009 2:18:14 PM

IF Nick Castellanos (2010, Archbishop McCarthy, FL) had a big day for the All American Prospects Blue leading them to a 6-0 victory over Diamond Skills. Castellanos went 2-2 on the day with 3 runs scored, 2 doubles and 2 RBIs.

The pitching staff combined for a three-hit shutout behind starter RHP Willy Martin's (2010, Jesuit HS, FL) strong performance. Martin went 4 innings allowing only one hit, while striking out six batters and walking just one hitter. Martin is a good athlete that was 85-87 with his fastball with excellent command.

Gunn tosses complete game 2 hitter
7/9/2009 1:23:29 PM

Jeff Gunn (2010) tossed a complete game 2 hitter for the East Cobb Patriots Red 17U. He mixed his pitches well throughout showing a 76-79 mph fastball, and 11/5 CB, and a change-up with sink and armside run to it.

The best player in the game was the East Cobb Patriots centerfielder Willis Aitkens. He went 3 for 3 in the game and accounted for both runs scored by driving one in and scoring the other. He has a stocky strong build with a sound approach at the plate. He showed some bat speed and squared the ball up well.

Orphanos and McCue Battle to 1-1 Tie
7/9/2009 12:37:09 PM

Franklin Outlaws RHP Chris Orphanos (2010, Riverdale HS, TN) and Philadelphia Senators RHP Slater McCue (2010, Germantown Academy, PA) squared off in a classic 1-1 pitcher's duel.

McCue went the distance for the Senators allowing 6 six hits, while striking out 12 batters and walking only 2 hitters. Orphanos allowed just 4 hits, striking out 4 batters and walking none.

Senators CF Jon McAllister (2010, Chestnut Hill Academy, PA) hit a solo homerun in the 4th inning.

Ruffnecks Score Two In Final At-Bat
7/9/2009 12:16:46 PM

The New England Ruffnecks pushed two runs accross in the bottom of the sixth inning to knock off FTB Mizuno 7-6 on Wednesday morning. OF Jack Colton (2010, Roxbury Latin HS, MA) had a big day going 3-4 with a double, 2 runs scored and an RBI.

FTB Mizuno OF Jesse Winker (2012, Olympia HS, FL) looked good at the plate going 2-3 with a double and 2 runs scored. RHP Danny Bolanos (2010, Brito Private, FL) was 90-93 in a brief relief appearance for FTB Mizuno.

Hall Impressive For Team Mizuno Palm Beach
7/9/2009 12:04:28 PM

LF Dave Hall (2010, John Carroll HS, FL) went 3-3 with an RBI in a 8-3 Team Mizuno Palm Beach victory the Northeast Rays.

Lawing Goes Deep In Blue Wave Victory
7/9/2009 12:00:58 PM

CF Brandon Lawing (2010, Grissom HS, AL) two-run homerun in the first inning set the tone for a 6-5 Excel Blue Wave victory on Wednesday afternoon over the East Cobb Indians. Lawing went 3-3 on the day with 3 RBIs.

IF Connor Smith (2010, Lafayette HS, LA) hit a solo homerun in the first inning for the East Cobb Indians.

4-Run 7th Lifts Astros 17's
7/9/2009 11:55:06 AM

The East Cobb Astros 17's used a four-run seventh inning to knock off the Orlando Baseball Academy on Wednesday night. CF James Harris' (2010, Etowah HS, GA) two-run double sealed the deal for the Astros.

Astros RHP Devin Rentz (2010, Harrison HS, GA) was impressive in four innings of work allowing no earned runs and only 3 hits, while striking out 8. Rentz sat at 86-89 with a clean delivery and did an excellent job of locating four pitches. RHP Miles Detelich (2010, Lawton Chiles HS, FL) was impressive closing the game out, touching 87 with his fastball.

Orlando Baseball Academy RHP Dillon Zimmerman (2010, East Ridge HS, FL) allowed only 1 earned run and 2 hits in 4.2 innings of work. He sat at at 85-88 with his fastball and complemented his fastball with an excellent breaking ball.

LHP Kevin Matthews Strikes Out 14 in 6 Innings
7/9/2009 11:24:00 AM

LHP Kevin Matthews (2011, Richmond Hill HS, GA) struck out 14 ABC DBacks hitters in 6 innings of 3 hit baseballof in a 4-0 win for Big Stix Gamers. The 5-11 Matthews already has the major college coaches in the area buzzing.

Here are the scout notes from Matthews performance "FB 86-88, SL 79-80. Small/slender body, H 3/4's slot with arm side run but little sink. True SL with minimal cutter depth, attacks the zone and forces hitters to swing, uses both sides of the plate, primarily pitches off FB."

RHP Miguel Silva "Vulcans" Richmond County
7/9/2009 11:11:26 AM

RHP Miguel Silva (2010, Hilltop HS, CA) threw a 2-hit shutout at the Richmond County Nationals Thursday morning, striking out 13 hitters while only walking 1.

Silva topped out at 87 mph in the 5th inning and was throwing harder in the later innings than he was early. His out pitch was a 70-73 mph "Vulcan" style split finger change that had incredible diving action at times. If you aren't familiar with a Vulcan change, picture Spock with a baseball in his hand between his middle fingers instead of the conventional split finger grip.

CF Zach Granite was the only Richmond County player to solve Silva, singling in the 1st and 6th innings.

PG National Players Excel for Marucci Elite
7/9/2009 11:05:42 AM

Three top prospects from the Perfect Game National Showcase showed their talent for Marucci Elite in the Elite's 8-5 win over the OTC Bearcats Thursday morning at the EC Complex.

C/RHP Case Nixon picked up the save for the Elite, throwing 2 1/3 hitless innings, striking out 5. Nixon threw in the 90-92 mph area with clean pitching mechanics, good command and showed nice feel for a upper 70's slurve type breaking ball.

Nixon was relieving RHP Josh Burris, who was in the 88-90 mph range with a sharp 73 mph curveball.

3B Matt Kirkland led the Elite offense, hitting a triple and 2-run home run while scoring twice. Kirkland is one of the most versatile players in the 2010 class and has high level prospect tools at third, behind the plate and on the mound.

2012 LHP Colin Rodgers gets win for Red Lizards
7/9/2009 10:44:03 AM

Colin Rodgers (2012) picked up the win for the Red Stick Sports Red Lizards. He has a 5-11 165 pound lean build. His arm worked easy and loose along with pretty good arm speed. His velocity was in the 80-84 mph range for his entire outing. Rodgers also threw an effective 1/7 curveball along with a change-up with sink on it. He struggled with his command at times, but he showed the ability to repeat his quick paced delivery and throw 3 pitches for strikes. He looks to be a good follow for the 2012 class.

East Alabama A's Outslug ECB Padres
7/9/2009 9:36:17 AM

Offense was the name of the as the East Alabama A's knocked off the East Cobb Padres 11-7 on Wednesday. A's OF Blake Barrow (2011, Trinity HS, AL) and 3B Clark Gray (2010, Stanhope Elmore HS, AL) both had big days going 2-2 and 2-3 respectively.

The Padres were led by C Ryan Gallardo (2010, Alpharetta HS, GA) who went 3-3, Trip White (2010, Lafayette HS, GA) who went 2-3 and SS Drew Tolbert who went 2-3 with 2 RBI.


Barry Goes Deep In Top Tier Victory
7/9/2009 9:24:40 AM

Top Tier OF Tim Barry (2011, Oak Forest HS, IL) connected for two homeruns in a 6-0 victory over ABD Orange County on Wednesday afternoon. 3B Kevin Koziol (2010, Brother Rice HS, IL) was also impressive for Top Tier going 2-3.

The pitching staff combined for a one-hit shutout with RHP Eli Anderson going 4.2 innings and allowing only one hit. Anderson was up to 87 with his fastball, while RHP Jon Surber (2010, Lisle, IL) touched 88 with good life.

Show Combines For 2-Hitter
7/9/2009 9:13:10 AM

The San Diego Show pitching staff combined to only two hits in a 9-4 victory over the Indiana Bulls 17 White. Bulls 1B Scott Donley (2010, Crown Point HS, IN) did all the damage for the bulls with a grand slam in the third inning.

San Diego Show RHP Rudy Acosta (20100, Mount Miguel HS, CA) and RHP Jordan Michael (2011, Murietta Valley, CA) touched 84 and 90 respectively in the two-hit performance.

Ding has great day for Tampa BB Club
7/9/2009 8:30:04 AM

Tyler Ding (2010) was outstanding for the Tampa BB Club. The 5-11 155 lb outfielder went 3 for 3 with a home run. He has a quiet approach at the plate and reminded me of a Dustin Pedroia type set-up and approach. Ding showed good bat control and bat speed as he squared up nearly every pitch he swung at. He has good hitting tools and is fun to watch hit.

Nick Pardo (2010) is a 6-5 220 lb firstbaseman with a very projectable body. He had a good day at the plate as well going 2-3 with 2 runs. He showed good bat speed at the plate and was squaring up the baseball well.

Canes Green Win On Walkoff Hit
7/9/2009 7:45:00 AM

The Canes Green 17's squandered a 3-1 lead in the seventh inning before SS Joshua Tobias (2011, SE Guilford HS, NC) hit a walk-off double to lead the Canes to a 5-4 victory over the East Cobb Dynasty. Tobias had a huge game for the Canes going 3-4 with 2 2Bs and 3 RBIs.

Canes' starter RHP Nate Hoffa (2010, Manassas Park HS, VA) was impressive in four innings of work allowing no runs and only two hits. He sat between 84-88 with his fastball and showed a good feel for his off-speed stuff.

Taijuan Walker pitches 1-hitter for So Cal Bombers
7/9/2009 7:22:47 AM

Taijuan Walker (2010) pitched an outstanding game for the So Cal Bombers. Walker has a profile 6-4, 195 lb frame with projection. He pitched at 88-90 for the first couple innings, and maintained pretty good velocity throughout as he topped at 88 mph in the 7th inning. Walker throws with fairly low effort with a pretty easy delivery. His curveball was a bit loose early in the game, but it got sharper as the game went along. Walker nearly had a no-hitter as the only hit he gave up was nearly an outstanding sliding catch by the outfielder. He was dominant this performance as he struck out 12 of 21 outs. He's an interesting prospect who has a chance to be pretty good.

Justin Bhatti (2010) was also very good on the mound for the Patriots of Northern Virginia. He has a very thin body with a wirey type build. He pitched 5.2 very good innings allowing only 1 run on 5 hits. 3 of those 5 hits and the run came once he had recorded 2 outs in the 6th inning. Bhatti pitched at 83-86 mph with a short quick arm action. His curveball is fairly sharp and he throws it for strikes.

Reprinted with permission from http://www.worldwoodbat.com

Too cool...fun reading. Just wish it was last weeks 18U tournament.
This was the first time my son has played at the WWBA at East Cobb and I was very impressed with how well everything ran. He had a blast in the tournament even though the team itself was overmatched at times. He got alot of innings behind the plate as the other catchers were out of town during this event. Overall, we really enjoyed the tournament (not the outcome), meeting parents/kids from other teams and just how smoothly things went at our games.

anyone want to copy the blogs from today (7.11) and post on here???

Lindberg Pitches Diamond Devils to Playoff Win
7/11/2009 8:05:53 PM

LHP Jimmy Lindberg (2011, Bishop England HS, SC) threw a complete game 5-hitter to lead the Diamond Devils to a 7-1 win over the Canes Green in the first round of the playoffs. Lindberg worked a upper 70's fastball, good curveball and decpetive change up around the zone to keep the Canes hitters consistently off balance.

C Jack Blackwell drove in 2 runs in the Diamond Devils 5 runs second inning. 2B Jorden Eysen and CF Houghston Armstrong each had 2 hits.

Keiston Stevens
7/11/2009 7:45:29 PM

Upstate Mavericks RHP Keiston Stevens (2010, Union HS, SC) was dominant in a 5-1 victory over Baseball Parks of America on Thursday. Stevens consistently sat at 87-89 with his fastball, topping out at 91. In five innings of work, Stevens allowed only 3 hits while striking out 9 batters.

Alex Ott Pitches NJ Jaguars to 3-2 Win
7/11/2009 7:40:48 PM

LHP Alex Ott (2010, Pompton Lakes HS, NJ) did a good enough job of missing bats Saturday to pitch 6 2/3 innings in the New Jersey Jaguars 3-2 win over Team Georgia. The 6-4, 190 lb southpaw only allowed 2 hits and both runs and got 12 of his outs on strikeouts. Ott also walked 7 hitters, all in the first 3 innings, before settling down. RHP Mark Palumbo came in to strike out the final hitter to get the save.

Ott touched 86 mph on his fastball but the key to his outing was developing a consistent release point on his curveball in the middle of the game. He maintained his velocity very well considering his pitch count and was still touching 86 mph in the last inning.

Dillon Maples
7/11/2009 7:35:45 PM

The bats were alive as the Canes Orange 17 knocked off the Dallas Titans 14-0 on Friday. OF Park Jordan (2010, Glenn HS, NC) put an exclamation point on the victory with a three-run homerun in the thrid inning. Jordan went 2-3 on the day, with a double, a homerun, 2 stolen bases and 3 RBIs.

RHP Dillon Maples (2010, Pinecrest HS, NC) threw the final inning and overmatched hitters with an 89-93 mph fastball and showed a good feel for a slider.

Cody Geyer
7/11/2009 7:28:42 PM

East Cobb Dynasty RHP Jeremy Brown (2010, Hillgrove HS, GA) and RHP Trent Sheffield (2010, Sprayberry HS, GA) combined on a four-hitter to knock off the Midland Braves 3-1 on Saturday.

Midland Starter RHP Cody Geyer (2010, North Buncombe HS, NC) threw a complete-game sitting at 85-90 with his fastball.

LHP/1B Jeff Boehm, Illinois Sparks
7/11/2009 7:28:28 PM

LHP/1B Joeff Boehm (2011, Mt. Carmel HS, IL) of the Illinois Sparks has established himself as a top 2-way prospect in the 2011 class. The 6-1, 180 lb Boehm touches 90-91 mph off the mound and has a powerful left handed bat at the plate. He threw 3 1/3 shutout innings against the West Coast Wave in a 4-2 Sparks victory, striking out 5 and allowing 3 hits.

Trey Nielsen
7/11/2009 7:18:46 PM

3B Trey Nielsen (2010, Skyline HS, UT) had a huge day on Saturday going 3-3 with 2 homeruns and 4 RBIs in a 9-3 Utah Baseball Academy victory over Baseball Parks of America. OF Brian Pointer (2010, Galena HS, NV) hit a three-run homerun in the sixth inning, which was followed immediatly by Trey Nielsen's second homerun of the day.

Utah RHP Adam Duke (2010, Spanish Fork HS, UT) went the distance allowing 6 hits over 6 innings of work, sitting at 85-89 with his fastball.

Hanson Pitches Arlington Over Diamond Skills
7/11/2009 747 PM

LHP/OF Chris Hanson (2010, Euless Trinity HS, TX) pitched 6 outstanding innings after his teammates staked him to a 4-0 lead in the first inning, leading the Arlington A's to a 6-0 win over Diamond Skills

Hanson didn't allow a hit until two outs in the 6th inning, the only hit he did allow. The 5-11 southpaw walked 3 and struck out 13 hitters, using an 81-84 mph fastball that he kept low in the strike zone to set up a 75 mph change up that had very good sinking life at the plate.

1B/RHP Austin Kubitza led the offense, going 3-3 with 2 runs scored and a double that drove in a run in the first inning. CF Andrew Holmes drove home 2 runs with his own double in the first.

Vigo/Underhill Lead Blackhawks Black
7/11/2009 711 PM

SS Brian Vigo's (2009, Fossil Ridge HS, TX) fourth-inning grand slam gave the Texas Blackhawks all the offense they needed as they knocked off the Central Coast Baseball 7-4 on Saturday.

RHP Chase Underhill (2010, Haltom HS, TX) was impressive once again for the Blackhawks as he threw 2.1 perfect inning striking out five batters while topping out at 90.

Forest Koumas Tops Off Outstanding Tournament
7/11/2009 7:07:29 PM

Palmetto Sand Gnats RHP/IF Forrest Koumas (2010, Lugoff Elgin HS, SC) finished off an outstanding tournament in style, throwing 3 hitless innings and picking up the win in a 6-1 win for the Sand Gnats over the East Cobb Astros 17U's.

The 5-11, 190 lb Koumas pitched between 88-92 mph with a dirty low 80's slider while striking out 3 and walking 1. He had shown similar stuff earlier in the week and has also shown a powerful bat.

DBAT Bats Warm Up for the Playoffs
7/11/2009 6:42:06 PM

The DBAT Mustangs warmed up for the playoffs with a 14-5 win over the Connecticut Bombers. The game was played in the 4:30 pm time slot on Field 3 at the EC Complex, with DBAT staying in their dugout for a 7 pm playoff game.

Three DBAT hitters slammed home runs, all in a space of 5 hitters in the 4th inning, to lead the 15 hit attack. LF Brett Pittle (2010, Tyler Lee HS, TX) led off the inning with a solo home run, one of 3 hits he had on the afternoon. After a ground out and a walk, SS Brett Johnson (2010, Plano Senior HS, TX) hit a 2-run home run. Johnson also had 3 hits in the game. The next batter, 3B Wes Jones (2011, Flower Mound HS, TX) went yard as well.

Florida Hardballers Overcome 5-1 Deficit in B7
7/11/2009 6:18:24 PM

The Florida Hardballers scored 5 runs in the bottom of the 7th inning to beat the Summit City Sluggers 6-5. Pinch hitter Derek Vasquez (2010, Santa Fe HS, FL) supplied the first 2 runs of the rally with a 2-run home run. EH/C Tyler Griffin (2010, Gainesville HS, FL) had the big blow after that, a 2-run triple that scored the tying and winning run.

RHP Matt Deardon (2010, Gainesville HS, FL) pitched the first 2 innings for the Hardballers. He topped out at 91 mph on his fastball with a hard spinning 75 mph curveball.

Brewers 21st Round Pick SS Brian Vigo-Suarez
7/11/2009 652 PM

The Texas Blackhawks Black team defeated Central Coast Baseball 7-4 Saturday afternoon behind shortstop Brian Vigo-Suarez. Vigo-Suarez (2009, Fossil Ridge HS, TX) was the Milwaukee Brewers 21st round draft choice in June. He went 2-3 with a long Grand Slam home run to left field in the Blackhawks 5-run fourth inning.

RHP Lanny Zier (2009) picked up the win with 4 2/3 innings of work. RHP Chase Underhill (2010, Haltom HS, TX) got the save with 2 1/3 innings of perfect relief, striking out 5 hitters. The 6-5, 185 lb Underhill touched 90 mph from an overhand release point that created very good downhill angle to the plate

Kevin Comer
7/11/2009 4:47:31 PM

RHP Kevin Comer (2011, Seneca HS, NJ) threw three scoreless inning allowing only one hit in a 9-3 Tri-State Arsenal Blue victory over the East Cobb Red Sox 16U on Saturday. Comer sat at 83-88 with his fastball and featured a fairly tight 12-6 curveball. OF Eric Barbieri (2010, Cherokee HS, NJ) hit a solo homerun in the first inning for the Arsenal.

Patriots/Baseball Black Battle To 8-8 Tie
7/11/2009 4:32:29 PM

The Dallas Patriots 17U and Chain Baseball Black battled to a 8-8 tie on Saturday in a game that featured three homeruns. Chain OF Larry Green and 1B Caleb Bryson (2010, Thomas County HS, GA) hit back-to-back homeruns in the fourth inning. Patriots OF Austin Vaughan (2010, Rowlett HS, TX) lead off the game with a homerun for the Patriots.

Marlins Stun ECB Braves
7/11/2009 4:16:47 PM

The New Jersey Marlins knocked off the 18U WWBA Champions East Cobb Braves 5-3 on Saturday afternoon. Despite only recording two hits, the Marlins managed to push accross to four runs in the fourth inning thanks in large part to three walks and one hit batter.

Braves OF Ben Gamel (2010, Bishop Kenny HS, FL) hit a solo homerun in the second inning.

Corey Black
7/11/2009 3:56:47 PM

RHP Corey Black (2009, Mission Bay HS, CA) was up to 92 in a 7-0 San Diego Show victory over the Golden Triangle Blue Jays. Black showed good life on his fastball and a quality 12-6 curveball in one inning of work.

Chris Penn has big game for Lights Out Baseball
7/11/2009 3:25:59 PM

Chris Penn (2010) had a big day at the plate for Lights Out Baseball. The 6-6 190 lb left handed hitter hit the ball on the nose every time he was at the plate. He has a tall projectable build and has plenty of room to fill. He swings from an open stance with a high hand set and has a smooth swing. He got the barrell on the ball every plate appearance and looked good doing so.

Brad Hall (2010) went the distance to pick up the win for Lights Out Baseball allowing 2 earned runs on 5 hits with 5 strikeouts. He pitched at 81-84 mph the whole game and showed a pretty good 11/5 curveball for strikes. His curveball got tighter with better bite as the game went along. Hall could make a jump in velo with a few adjustments to his delivery.

Tyler Moore (2010) looked good for the Marucci Elite 16's. He showed solid catch and throw skills behind the plate popping consistently in the 2.00-2.10 range in between innings. He also had a good day at the plate going 2 for 2 with a nice left handed set up and smooth swing.

Big Aflac Matchups in 7 PM Playoff Games
7/11/2009 3:21:25 PM

If you are a scout or just a baseball fan, the Complex is the place to be at 7 pm if you want to see high level pitching.

Field 1 will feature the East Cobb Astros vs. the Indiana Bulls. The Bulls will be pitching Aflac All-American Justin O'Connor against 6-7 2012 RHP Tucker Simpson. O'Connor has reportedly been up to 96 mph this spring despite playing shortstop every day.

Field 2 will feature two more Aflac All-Americans, both primary pitchers. RHP DeAndre Smelter will take the mound for the Canes Orange, while RHP Peter Tago will toe the rubber for the ABD Bulldogs.

Linton/Holberton
7/11/2009 2:24:58 PM

OF Ty Linton (2010, Charlotte Christian HS, NC) and C Brian Holberton (2010, Myers Park HS, NC) combined to go 4-7 with 4 RBI's in a 7-5 South Charlotte Panthers victory over the Tampa Baseball Club.

Tampa RHP Jason Garcia (2010, Land O Lakes HS, FL) was very impressive in defeat. While the numbers don't indicate that great of an outing, Garcia reached 91 with a very clean delivery. At 5'10", 160 lbs., Garcia has a very quick arm and showed a fairly tight slider.

Chris Wilson/Ernie Saragosa
7/11/2009 1:44:33 PM

The So Cal Bombers used a well-rounded attack to handle the Dallas Tigers-Davis 9-2 on Saturday. RHP Chris Wilson (2010, St. Paul HS, CA) and RHP Ernie Zagagosa (2010, Kaiser HS, CO) both looked good on the mound touching 91 and 90 respectively. Wilson's velo projects well with a tall athletic build and an effortless delivery. Zagagosa has a very live arm and showed a tight slider.

Offensively OF Allen Sarkissian (2010, West Hills HS, CA), C Jake Shirley (2010, South Hills, CA) and Chris Wilson all had big games going a combined 7-9.

Houston pitches Richmond Braves '10 to playoffs
7/11/2009 12:53:31 PM

Matt Houston (2010) pitched a very good ball game to put the Richmond Braves '10 in the playoffs. He has a 6-2 175 lb frame with room to fill. Houston pitches with a long loose arm action, his arm works, and he pitches with low effort. He threw 3 pitches for strikes all outing and would throw any pitch in any count. All but 2 of the outs recorded were either ground ball outs or strikeouts. Houston showed good pitchability and had a very confident demeanor on the mound. His fastball was 81-84 mph the entire outing.

Mitchell Shifflett and Johny Fasola had good days at the plate for the Braves. Shifflett (2010) was 2 for 4 with a triple and an RBI. Fasola (2010) was 3 for 4 and squared the ball up very well each at bat.

Alex Luna (2011) pitched very well in relief for the Blue Wave. He went the final 4.2 innings allowing just 2 hits and 0 runs with 5 strikeouts. He has a taller thin projectable body with some projection to his velocity. He sat at 82-84 while touching 86 a couple of times. He threw his 11/5 curveball for strikes and got quite a few bad swings from the Braves hitters on it. It is a strikeout pitch with tight spin and bite. He is a solid follow for the 2011 class.

Nick Williams/Travis Donahoo
7/11/2009 12:47:23 PM

RHP Nick Williams (2010, Farragut HS, TN) and RHP Travis Donahoo (2010, Catholic HS, TN) both lit up the radar guns for the Knoxville Thunder in a 5-5 tie against the Diamond Vision Elite on Saturday morning, hitting 88 and 89 respectively.

Hawkins Three Run Blasts Leads Team Elite
7/11/2009 12:42:10 PM

OF Christopher Hawkins (2010, North Gwinettt, GA) provided all the offense for Team Elite with a three-run homerun in the third inning in a 3-2 victory over the Dirtbags.

RHP Matthew Grimes (2010, Mill Creek HS, GA) sat at 88-90 with his fastball over three scoreless innings and only allowed two hits. 2010 LHP Adam Clark was up to 88 to close the game and was perfect through 1.1 innings of work.

Despite the loss the Dirtbags won their poll and claimed a spot in the championship bracket.

Mac N Seitz Defeats Orlando Scorpions for Playoffs
7/11/2009 12:21:27 PM

1B Adam Giacalone (2010, Shawnee Mission HS, KS) of Mac N Seitz Indians hit a 7th inning home run off Aflac All-American RHP A.J. Cole (Oviedo HS, FL) to give the Indians a 2-1 win and a spot in the playoffs as the winner of Pool A.

Cole had come into the game in relief but saw the left handed hitting Giacalone turn around a 95 mph fastball. Cole dialed it up to 97-98 mph after that but the damage was done.

Playoff Update
7/11/2009 11:10:51 AM

The following teams have made the playoffs after the completion of the 9/10 am games this morning.

Pool E: Illinois Sparks

Pool G: Top Tier

Pool H: Carolina Cyclones

Pool I: Canes Orange

Pool L: Dirtbags

Pool O: Ontario Blue Jays

Pool P: Marucci Elite

Pool Q: East Cobb Astros

Pool S: DBAT Mustangs

Pool T: Orlando Scorpions Purple

Pool Y: Diamond Devils

Pool Z: Canes Green

Pool BB: SE Texas Sun Devils

Pool DD: All American Prospects Blue

Nola/Allen Toss One-Hit Shutout
7/11/2009 10:44:55 AM

The Louisiana All-Stars Red knocked off the San Diego Gamers 6-0 on Saturday morning, behind an outstanding performance from RHP Aaron Nola (2011, Catholic HS, LA) and RHP Brandon Allen. (2010, Milton HS, FL)

Nola threw five scoreless innings allowing only one hit, while striking out five batters. He sat at 85-87 from a low 3/4 arm slot that produced very good armside run and he complimented it with a fairly tight slider.

Allen threw two hitless inning, striking out four batters while touching 89 to close out the game.

Lumpa flirts with no-no
7/11/2009 10:21:38 AM

Mark Lumpa (2010) a right handed pitcher for the Orlando flirted with a no hitter in the Scorpions 8-2 victory over the Richmond Braves National '11. Lumpa allowed his first baserunner and hit on consecutive batters in his 5th and last inning of work. Lumpa has a shorter body with a thick stocky build. He is a strike thrower spotting his fastball and breaking ball very well. His fastball was in the 80-82 range all game and his breaking ball was 68-71. He is the type of pitcher who just gets guys out.

Jeremy Sandifer (2011) started for the Richmond Braves and struggled a bit. He does have an athletic 6-2 205 body and good arm strength. He pitched at 81-85 early on and could make a jump in velocity if he stayed back and closed longer. He has a chance to be a pretty solid arm for the 2011 class.

Brad Graham and Alex Bacon had good days at the plate each having 2 hits for the Scorpions.

Etsell Impressive For Bandits Baseball
7/11/2009 9:22:21 AM

Bandits Baseball RHP Ryan Etsell (2010, Northeast Catholic HS, PA) was sharp in two perfect inning of relief, helping seal the deal for a 4-3 Bandits Baseball victory over Central Coast Baseball. Etsell's body projects very well and he was up to 88 with a smooth and effortless delivery. MIF Sean Coyle (2010, Germantown Academy, PA) had another solid game going 1-2 with a double and a run scored.

All American Prospect Blue Roll Friday Night
7/11/2009 935 AM

The All American Prospects Blue had a solid team effort on Friday night cruising to a six-inning 9-1 victory over the Arlington A's 17 Action. SS Yordy Cabrera (2010, Lakeland HS, FL) and 3B Nick Castellanos (2010, Archbishop McCarthy HS, FL) both had big days at the plate for All-American Prospects. Cabrera went 3-4 with 2 doubles and 3 RBI, while Castellanos was 2-3 with a huge two-run homerun in the fifth inning.

All American RHP Jimmy O'Neill (2010, Pendleton School, FL) played for one of the top high school teams in the country this year and looked very impressive in three inning of scoreless work. O'Neill allowed just one hit and was 87-89 with his fastball and showed a very good feel for his change-up. North Carolina Commit RHP Ryan Heuler (2010, Cardinal Mooney HS, FL) was up to 91 in a brief relief appearance.


Utah Tosses No-Hitter Yet Falls 6-1
7/11/2009 8:39:51 AM

Despite throwing a no-hitter on Friday night, the Utah Baseball Aacemy managed to loss 6-1 to the Kentucky Baseball Club.

The Kentucky Baseball Club's RHP Zach Riney (2009, Elizabethtown HS, KY) and LHP Corey Littrell (2010, Trinity HS, KY) was impressive throwing a three-hitter. Riney went the first six inning with Littrell closing out the game. Littrell sat at 84-87 and showed the ability to command three pitches.

Utah RHP Trey Nielsen (2010, Skyline HS, UT) was looked sharp throwing three-hitless inning and sitting at 88-89 with a late sharp-breaking curveball.

Brown's Three-Run Blast Lifts Dirtbags
7/11/2009 8:06:48 AM

OF Dylan Brown (2010, Smithfield-Selma HS, NC) hit a three-run homerun in the top of the sixth inning to lead the Dirtbags to a 5-2 victory on Sunday. The Dirtbags trailed 2-1 heading into the fifth inning before a four-run fifth inning secured the deal. RHP Jake Joyce (2010, Carlisle HS, VA) threw threeperfect inning of relief to secure the victory for the Dirtbags. Joyce struck out six batters and topped out at 89 with his fastball, complimenting it with a hard and sharp slider.

Power Arms On Display For Team Elite
7/11/2009 7:58:41 AM

Team Elite 17U ran out several power arms in a 6-3 victory over the Teel Ravens on Friday. Starter RHP Mitch Crutchfield (2010, Grayson HS, GA) allowed one run in three innings of work, touching 87 with his fastball. RHP Taylor Hicks (2010, North Oconee HS, GA) has a loose and easy delivery and touched 88 with his fastball, while also showing a hard low 80's slider. RHP Morgan Owenbey was up to 88 while closing the game for Team Elite.

1B Nick Jones (2010, North Gwinnett HS, GA) hit a solo homerun in the seventh inning for Team Elite.

Reprinted with permission from http://www.worldwoodbat.com

Thanks Q-girl for all your help this past week and for the blog updates!!

Congrats on the old-timer status~

Final Blog:
009 WWBA 17U National Championship
Monday, July 13

ABD Wins 17U National Championship
7/13/2009 1:49:14 PM

The ABD Bulldogs defeated the East Cobb Astros 11-4 to win the 17U National Championship.

Bulldogs 3B/OF Travis Harrison won the Most Valuable Player Award.

Astros LHP Will West won the Most Valuable Pitcher Award.

ABD Takes 11-4 Lead into Bottom 7
7/13/2009 1:34:41 PM


ABD Stretches Lead
7/13/2009 1:26:29 PM

The Astros are now on their 7th pitcher of the game. ABD now leads 9-4 with runners on 1st and 3rd and no out. 1B Christian Yelich just drove in 2 runs with a hard single to LCF.

Score Remains 6-4 ABD Heading into the 7th
7/13/2009 119 PM

East Cobb's first 2 hitters reached base in the bottom of the 6th but a slick Tony Wolters-Brett Harrison-Christian Yelich double play on a ground ball by the speed Andrew Toles cut the rally short.

6-4 ABD going into the top of the 7th.

ABD Stretches Lead to 6-4 Going to Bottom 6
7/13/2009 1:05:54 PM

OF Michael Lorenzen singled in a run in the top of the 6th inning, putting ABD up 6-4. Trevor Williams is still on the mound for the Bulldogs in the bottom of the 6th.

East Cobb Narrows Gap to 5-4
7/13/2009 12:55:55 PM

A couple of infield errors by the normally sure handed duo of SS Tony Wolters and 2B Brett Harrison, plus a clutch 2 out single by Aflac All-American C Brandon Stephens, has pulled East Cobb back to a one run deficit after 5 innings.

Wolters Fly's Out to LF. ABD 5-2, Bottom of 5
7/13/2009 12:46:06 PM


ABD Threatening Again
7/13/2009 12:44:31 PM

ABD has the bases loaded with 2 out in the 5th with Aflac All-American SS Tony Wolters up.

East Cobb pitchers have walked 6 hitters and hit 2 more thus far. In the first 9 games of the tournament, Astros pitchers only walked 10 total batters.

ABD still up 5-2

ABD Ups Lead to 5-2
7/13/2009 12:33:59 PM

ABD OF Michael Lorenzen led off the top of the 5th inning with a triple and ended up scoring on a sacrifice fly. 5-2 ABD.

ABD Goes Up 4-2, Bottom of 4
7/13/2009 12:23:24 PM

ABD scored 4 runs in the top of the 4th inning to take a 4-2 lead. Wildness on the part of EC Astros starter Kaleb Cowart contributed to starting the inning, then Brett Harrison, Travis Harrison and Tony Wolters all knocked run scoring singles.

East Cobb 2, ABD 1, Bases Still Loaded, 1 Out
7/13/2009 12:07:51 PM

Brett Harrison drives in the first ABD run with a soft single to RF

ABD Threatening Again
7/13/2009 12:03:18 PM

ABD left the bases loaded in the second inning and runners on 2nd/3rd in the third inning. They now have the bases loaded and no outs, 3B Jake Middleton at the plate.

East Cobb Up 2-0 Over ABD, Top of 3rd Inning
7/13/2009 11:42:22 AM

The East Cobb Astros are up 2-0 after 2 full innings of play in the 17U championship game. Kaleb Cowart, the Astros starting pitcher, and LF Andrew Toles have Rbi singles. Cowart got out of a 2-out, bases loaded jam in the bottom of the 2nd inning.

East Cobb Pitching Continues to Dominate
7/13/2009 11:11:04 AM

The East Cobb Astros pitching staff continued to dominate the 17U National Championship, as LHP Will West (2010, Chiles HS, FL) and RHP Brady Anderson (2010, DeSoto HS, FL) combined on a 4-hit shutout in a 4-0 win over the South Florida Elite.

East Cobb pitchers have allowed 3 runs in 9 games thus far in the tournament. The have a walk to strikeout ratio of 10 walks/77 strikeouts.

West allowed all 4 hits in 5 innings of work while striking out 9 Elite hitters. West struck out 20 hitters in 10 innings while going 2-0 this week. Anderson finished up with 2 perfect innings.


ABD Defeats Homeplate Chili Dogs to Gain Finals
7/13/2009 10:58:31 AM

The ABD Bulldogs defeated the Homeplate Chili Dogs 2-1 to win a berth in the 17U National Championship finals.

The game was a great pitcher's battle between ABD RHP Gabriel Encinas (2010, St. Paul HS, CA) and Chili Dogs RHP Kevin Werner (2011, East Coweta HS, GA). Both pitched complete games, with Encinas allowing 6 hits while striking out 7 hitters and Werner allowing 5 hits while striking out 3.

The two pitchers took different routes to their success. Encinas is a power fastball pitcher and maintained his 89-91 mph fastball for all 7 innings while mixing in some mid 70's curveballs. Werner pitched more off a sweeping 70 mph curveball that he commanded very well to set up hitters for a low 80's fastball.

As he has done all tournament, ABD 3B Travis Harrison (2011, Aliso Viejo HS, CA) led the Bulldogs offense out of his leadoff spot. Harrison doubled to lead off the game and came home to score an a sacrifice fly by SS Tony Wolters. In the 6th inning, with the score tied, Harrison lined a 1 out single and was doubled home by DH Stefan Sebol.

Mac-N-Seitz Outscores SE Texas Sun Devils 7-5
7/13/2009 9:25:37 AM

RHP Max Ising (2010, Lee's Summit West HS, MO) held the SE Texas Sun Devils offense to 1 unearned run over the last 3 2/3 innings, giving the Mac-N-Seitz offense enough time to come back and defeat the Sun Devils 7-5 in playoff action Sunday.

Starting pitcher Ryan Johnson was more successful at the plate than on the mound for the Indians, slamming a 2 run double in the 5th inning that put Mac-N-Seitz in the lead. He had also singled and scored in the 2nd inning. 3B Taylor Drake singled twice, walked and scored 3 runs for Mac-N-Seitz.


LHP Rolando Gautier Spins Gem for S FL Bandits
7/13/2009 9:17:20 AM

LHP Rolando Gautier (2010, Pennsauken HS, NJ) threw a playoff masterpiece, shutting out the Big Stix Gamers 2-0 in Round of 16 playoff action Sunday. The 6-2, 180 lb Gautier scattered 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. He pitched in the 82-84 mph range with a 73 mph curveball and 75 mph change up.

LHP Blake Merritt pitched well in defeat for the Gamers, allowing 5 hits and 2 runs in 5 2/3 innings.

3B Aaron Cohn (2010, Suncoast HS, FL) went 3-3 for the Bandits, driving in the first run with a 2nd inning double.

San Diego Shows Bandits the Door
7/13/2009 9:11:02 AM

The San Diego Show defeated Bandits Baseball 7-2 in the first round of the playoffs Saturday night.

LHP Joey Denato (2010, Torrey Pines HS, CA) threw a complete game 4-hitter for the Show. He took a 2-hit shutout into the 7th inning before Bandits 3B Ryan Seiz touched him up for a 2 run home run. Denato consistently worked ahead in the count with a 81-84 mph fastball and showed nice action on a low 70's curveball.

C Danny Hawksley (2010, Valhalla HS, CA) paced the Show offense, hitting a solo home run in the third inning and a lead off double in the Show's 4 run 6th inning.

Top Tier Defeats Carolina Cyclones 7-2
7/13/2009 8:34:40 AM

RHP's Brian Monette (2010, Willowbrook HS, IL) and Jon Surber (2010, Lisle HS, IL) combined on a 1-hitter in a 7-2 Top Tier win over the Carolina Cyclones in the first round of the playoffs Saturday night.

Monette threw the first 4 2/3 innings, allowing the only Cyclones hit, a run scoring double by RF Jordan McNeely in the 5th inning. Surber, who throws from a low 3/4's slot with an 85-87 mph fastball and sweeping mid 70's slider, finished up with 2 1/3 near perfect innings for the save.

3B Kevin Koziol (2010, Brother Rice HS, IL) was the big bat for Top Tier. His Grand Slam in the 5th inning extended Top Tier's 3-2 lead and also added a double.

Crownover Pitches East Cobb Astros to Playoff Win
7/13/2009 8:24:42 AM

LHP Matthew Crownover (2012, Ringgold HS, GA) continued his masterful pitching, throwing a 5 inning complete game shutout in a 8-0 East Cobb Astros run rule victory over the Marucci Elite Sunday afternoon.

Crownover is extremely polished for any age, let alone a 15 year old freshman. He spoted his mid 80's fastball flawlessly and worked a 72-74 mph curveball on the corners as well. He walked none and faced only 1 hitter over the minimum.

LF Andrew Toles and 1B Johnny Nogowski each had 2 hits to lead the East Cobb offense.


Orlando Scorpions Defeat Louisiana Legends 3-1
7/13/2009 8:20:19 AM

The Orlando Scorpions Purple advanced to the quarterfinals Sunday afternoon with a 3-1 win over the Louisiana Legends.

RHP Anthony Dovale (2010, McKeel Academy, FL) was the star for the Scorpions, throwing 5 innings and allowing 2 hits and 1 run. The 6-4, 210 lb right hander struck out 5 Legends hitters using a fastball that topped out at 87 mph and a hard mid 70's curveball. RHP Brandon Keen (2010, Olympia HS, FL) got the save with 2 scoreless innings, touching 90 mph on his fastball.

Marucci Elite Defeat Ontario Blue Jays 9-6
7/13/2009 8:15:42 AM

The Marucci Elite defeated the Ontario Blue Jays 9-6 in the first round of the playoffs Saturday night. The Elite scored early and often but had to withstand a 5 run Blue Jays comeback in the bottom of the 7th to get the victory.

LF Jake Anderson (2010, Woodlawn HS, LA) and EH Wade Wass (2010 Pensacola Catholic HS, FL) each had 2 hits in the early innings to lead the offense. Anderson singled in the first and later scored and doubled in the second to drive in a run. Wass led off the 2nd inning with a double and came around on a triple by 1B Patrick McGavin (2010, Spanish Fort HS, AL), then slammed a 2-run home run in the 3rd.

Elite starter Nic Watkins only allowed 5 hits and 1 run through 6 innings before tiring. DH Jeff Kosta (2010, St. Aloysius Gonzalez SS, ON) hit a 3-run home run to spark the Ontario rally

Weather/Schedule Update
17U: 8am
7/13/2009 8:00:00 AM

Due to some great work by Jeff Guy and his East Cobb grounds crew early this morning, the semifinal games at the Complex will start on time (9 am) this morning.

Reprinted with permission from http://www.worldwoodbat.com

I tried to follow this and track the Canes. Saw some of the summaries (e.g., Hoffa, Chrimson, etc.). But can you summarize, overall, how they did? Overall record for both Green and Orange? Standout players--pitchers and position players? How about Hoffa, Costello, and others? When will Veeder be back?

They were very good. Lots of very talented players. One of the Canes teams played in one of the best WWBA games ever. Lost in a playoff tie breaker to the eventual champions from California.

The Canes shortstop (Pinder) put on a show! Both starting pitchers were outstanding. Canes pitcher stayed 94-95 for 7 innings giving up two hits. ABD Bulldogs starter stayed at 92 the whole game topping out at 94. Had to be at least 100 or more scouts and college coaches watching that game.

The Canes program has become one of the best in the nation.

Would it be possible for someone to post the game notes from the 16U WWBA Tourney from lat week?

quote:

Originally posted by rhobbs:
I tried to follow this and track the Canes. Saw some of the summaries (e.g., Hoffa, Chrimson, etc.). But can you summarize, overall, how they did? Overall record for both Green and Orange? Standout players--pitchers and position players? How about Hoffa, Costello, and others? When will Veeder be back?

If you hold down the "CTRL" key and hit F, you put in the word(s)Canes into the search box to check out all the post on the Canes for that page after you hit the find tab.

Good Luck!