The five tools

College coaches are looking for fielding ability , quickness , speed , arm strength , arm action , the ability to make all types of plays - slow roller - glove side and arm side etc. Your not a mif if you can not field the middle at a very high level.

Different coaches have different points of emphasis. Some are willing to go the Mark Belanger route, i.e., take a gold glove guy even if it means having a weak stick. Others would put up with some errors to get a big producer in the lineup.

My personal observation, though, is that the latter types tend to gravitate to other positions over time.

And the MIF positions end up going to guys who can carry their weight in both departments. Because there's a lot of competition for those slots.

Thanks guys,

What is the sixth tool that scouts look for?

Baseball IQ. The ability to feel the game and make plays and decisions without having to think it through. Remember the play in the WS that Utley made when he instinctively realized he might not have a play at first so he turned and threw to the plate nailing the runner? Some guys have it and some guys dont.

Thanks Coach May,

That Utley play was a great one!
Will the kid with a bit less skill get more looks if he has a higher baseball IQ and a better attitude then a more skilled player who doesn't respect the game?

Skill usually wins out, coaches may believe that they can change attitude. The kid with less skill and good BBIQ who is a hard worker should be able to find opportunities though. It is all about the correct fit.