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Baseballrulz


What have you done to help yourself?

What showcases have you attended?
What summer/fall teams have you played for?
What have you sent colleges regarding you?

I am well aware of the talent in New Hampshire as are college coaches in the region and elsewhere---have you made people aware?

BTW 5-11 /150 is not a very small player
Last edited by TRhit
Keep working out to build your body. Be careful you're not bulking up in a way that will hurt your baseball skills. Keep refining your baseball skills. Find the best D3 program you're capable of playing at. Then have the college coach find the best possible summer program he believes you can compete. If he gets you in the NECBL you'll get exposure to scouts.

You haven't mentioned foot speed and arm strength.
Last edited by RJM
Noone can answer your question but unless you get active and search out some schools you ave almost a zero chance.
You should have been working on this last year. There is nothing wrong with being 5'11. That is 6' with spikes right ?
You should get on the net and find some schools you would like and get some emails etc off to them. Be positive and let them tell you wether you have a shot or not. Don't sell yourself short. If you do no one will be interested..
Last edited by BobbleheadDoll
quote:
by bbrlz: I havent got a look from any scouts not even division 3 schools ... main question I guess is what is the likelihood of me playing college baseball(any division) ... from there do I have any shot at being drafted,


1) "likelihood of me playing college baseball?" - - very unlikely


2) "do I have any shot at being drafted" - - nope


pick a good college & get a good job
Last edited by Bee>
I disagree with Bee -- at least regarding your likelihood of playing college baseball at some level. I think you have a couple of things working against you:

* You are probably a late bloomer, at least with regard to your weight. This seems to be an automatic turnoff with many college coaches -- BUT NOT WITH ALL!!

* You have not been very proactive in contacting college programs.

Now is the time to get busy! Put together a list of, say, your top 10 college choices at the D2, D3, and NAIA level. At this point, don't bother with D1 schools, as many have already wrapped up the bulk of their recruiting. Get on the phone and call the recruiting coordinators of these schools and express your interest in their program. Sell them on your strengths and see if you can gauge their interest in you. If they seem interested, keep following up and schedule an unofficial visit at their campus. If they don't seem interested, ask them if they know of other schools with a need for an '08 outfielder.

If you are willing to attend a junior college next year, do the same with JUCO's you are interested in.

Best wishes as you look for a place to play. Please let us know how your search goes!
quote:
by if08: I disagree with Bee -- at least regarding your likelihood of playing college baseball at some level.
are you a politician?

the odds of GOOD hs players going to the next level is very small ...

the odds of VERY GOOD players getting drafted is also very small ...


the outlook for a hs sr who has NOT been noticed by any-body thru-out his career AND throws guys out (sometimes) on 2 hops is dismal at best (there was a GM that drafted his daughter, so all is not lost)
Last edited by Bee>
I'm not so sure I subscribe to the, "if you can do it, they will find you" camp. Someone, somewhere, needs to get up off their butts and promote the player, whether it's the coach, the player, or the players parents.

True example...

Junior year, pitcher 6-1, less than 1 ERA, HS coach sends two other pitchers to bigtime invite only showcase. HS coach then convinces Legion coach to cut pitcher at tryouts so pitcher will play in HS summer ball league for the HS coach. Goes 8-1 less than 1 ERA. Going into senior year, no one knows this kid...throwing 90.

The kids parents knew zero about the recruiting process, but eventually got some advice and helped the kid get some attention.

Kid is now a weekend D-1 starter as a Freshman.

All it takes is a non helping coach and a bit of ignorance and a kid slips through the cracks. Seen it happen.
quote:
Someone, somewhere, needs to get up off their butts and promote the player,
CplZ, as we type they are doing just that ...
AND, their players are all conference/all county/all state guys

by CplZ: Confused "for example - Jr pitcher 6-1, less than 1 era .. has success" -

hey now - we have a ... sr OF 5'9", throws guys out on 2 hops (sometimes)
Last edited by Bee>
We didn't have any of that either. Scouts rarely come to our tournaments the last few years. Never had a college coach at at game except a coupl Canadian coaches.
A few years before my son went to college there were 25-50 scouts at his elite tournaments The last few years there were none.
We have to go to pro camps to get interest. A few years ago there was a pitcher who spent a couple years at a JC. He came back to a local U and had no interest. He was throwing 92. Didn't even do well in the U BB. He went to a camp and was signed the next day. He was over looked as well. you have to get in front of the right people. That concept if you are good they will find you is not accurate. They may find most but not all.
Your marks are great so you have to find a school that is willing to work with you. Waiting for them to find you ia wrong. It is often hard for a position player to get noticed. Luck timing can play a lot in getting noticed.
I suggest you get busy.

Bee> that is a wopping 15 centimeters. Almost buried alive.
Last edited by BobbleheadDoll
Bee, have you ever had dreams and aspirations in life? It's obvious that you're one of those people who never has put in the time and effort to fulfill something that you've wanted to achieve.. No?

A quick question for you Bee... Could you look me in the eye and tell me that Tom Brady, a football player who was a decent hs quarterback, who was not that big or fast would go on to play for Michigan and then get drafted by the Patriots and is now arguably the best quarterback of all time...didn't think so.

It's all about putting your heart into the game you love.
quote:
by bbrlz: Bee... Could you look me in the eye and tell me that Tom Brady, a football player who was a decent hs quarterback, who was not that big or fast would go on to play for Michigan and then get drafted by the Patriots and is now arguably the best quarterback of all time...didn't think so.
could you explain how you're talking "next level/pro" when YOU put everything ya had into baseball and nobody anywhere ever even noticed?
Last edited by Bee>
BaseballRulz1789 -
One thing I might suggest is to get in touch directly with TRHit. He is very knowledgable about baseball in New England and seems to be supportive of those trying to play at a higher level. But - be prepared - he may tell you some things that you might not want to hear.

As for your chances of playing in college or getting drafted...who knows at this point? You haven't given us much to go on, which is why I would recommend a heart to heart with TRhit.

Good luck!
I wouldn't worry so much about your physical size at this point. Yes...continue to work and get bigger and stronger, but you are what you are - at least to this point.

If you have good skills, these will show through. You need to gain exposure and show folks what you can do. That is why I think getting an objective opinion on your current (and projectable) capabilities is important. THhit can help there. He seems pretty plugged in when it comes to NE baseball.
Well Bee, I hate to break it to you, but what scouts look for is pure potential. High School competition in no way comes close to college competition, so most of the time they base their decisions strictly on potential. That being said, you have a player (me) who is 5'11 and just cracks 150 and a 5'11-6' player who is close to 190-200, they both have the same amount of talent, who are you more confident with?
quote:
by bbrlz: Bee, I hate to break it to you, but what scouts look for is pure potential
you have aleady informed us that tho they had planty of time, they didn't find it in YOU

quote:
by bbrlz: That being said, you have a player (me) who is 5'11 and just cracks 150 and a 5'11-6' player who is close to 190-200, they both have the same amount of talent, who are you more confident with?
I'm not making the decisions, but from my experience you're in trouble, except where there is a keg at 3B

pick a great school & find a good job

there are also jobs on the lobster boats Smile
Last edited by Bee>
Be careful about getting your mind made up that you are too small. Coaches are looking for players that can help them win. There are many factors that go into how they view prospective players. Coach May, in another thread, gave a great comment on how two different coaches can view a particular player in dramatically different ways....depending upon their team's needs and the type of player that they like to have on their team.

Don't worry abbut your physical size too much. If you can help a coach win, they will be interested. Be ready for - and get - some honest and objective opinions about your abilities. Then, contact the coaches at schools that seem to be a "fit" where players of similar abilities have been successful. Keep in mind that you are also going to a college to get an education...so, choose a school/course of study that you would want to be in if there were no baseball.

Also,if you found your way to this site, then you are also knowledgable enough to know that there is certain objective criteria (velocity, 60 yd time, etc.) where you can judge your ability to compete. These are not the "end all" in determining whether you can play at the next level, but they are indicators. How do you measure up in these areas? You seem to having some success in high school - how competitive is the level of play? Beyond your on the field skills, there is also the issue of "makeup" - what is yours? And, who would verify that?

You need to seek out knowledgable baseball people in your area and seek their advice. For this reason, I recommended contacting TRhit. If not him, find someone else who is knowledgable and can give you some good, honest feedback.

Then, finally, contact the coaches of the schools that you are interested in. Let them know of your interest. Don't wait for them to find you...find them. Coming onto this site and asking for advice was a great first step. Now, keep going.

Again, good luck!
quote:
Originally posted by Bee>:
quote:
by if08: I disagree with Bee -- at least regarding your likelihood of playing college baseball at some level.
are you a politician?

the odds of GOOD hs players going to the next level is very small ...

the odds of VERY GOOD players getting drafted is also very small ...


the outlook for a hs sr who has NOT been noticed by any-body thru-out his career AND throws guys out (sometimes) on 2 hops is dismal at best (there was a GM that drafted his daughter, so all is not lost)

"odds" infers some sort of game of chance. There is little, if any, luck involved in the process.

Bee is correct though. The likelihood of playing at the next level(s)without any interest from the next level(s) is remote, at best.
How bad do you want to play in college? If you have no limitations then there is no problem. Many of the D-3 and JUCO programs here in NC have JV teams. Ive had several players that could not start for us go on to play JV college baseball. After a year or two several went on to actually play varsity and some have been main contributers. Its all a matter of how bad you want to do it and if you have any limitations you put on the situation.

Your size is meaningless. The fact is most hs players are under 6'0 and weight about what you do. If you have some talent and a big desire to play in college there is a place for you. It might be on a JV team for a couple of years. You might never make it off the JV team who knows. Thats up to you. Contact Methodist College a D-3 program in NC. NC Wesleyan in NC another D-3 program. Guilford College or Greensboro College both D-3 programs in NC.

I have a player at Methodist that was a very average HS catcher. But he was a tremendous kid with a bigtime work ethic. He loved the game and wanted to play in college regardless of the situation. He is now the assistant coach of the JV program. Get on the phone. Get on the emails.

There are numerous JUCO's here in NC that have JV teams. If you wait for someone to call you , you will be waiting 10 years from now for that call that will never come. Get busy if your serious. There is a place for every kid that truly wants to play in college. You just have to get out there and find it. PM me if your interested in any programs in NC. Drive your butt down here and I will evaluate you. I will then make some calls for you. Or call TR and see what he can do for you.

How bad do you really want to play? That is the real question. Your HT and WT mean nothing.
quote:
Originally posted by BaseballRulz1789:
Bee, have you ever had dreams and aspirations in life? It's obvious that you're one of those people who never has put in the time and effort to fulfill something that you've wanted to achieve.. No?

A quick question for you Bee... Could you look me in the eye and tell me that Tom Brady, a football player who was a decent hs quarterback, who was not that big or fast would go on to play for Michigan and then get drafted by the Patriots and is now arguably the best quarterback of all time...didn't think so.

It's all about putting your heart into the game you love.


Tom Brady was overlooked however his father put together recruiting videos and sent them off to schools and that is when interest peaked. Who knows where he would be today if he waited for them to find him.

If you really want to play ball beyond HS learn from what happened to Tom Brady, do not sit around waiting for someone to find you. In the recruting process, it is just NOT all about putting your heart into the game.

Instead of arguing with Bee, who knows what you have to do because he has a son who has been there and done that, get the ball rolling. If you need help, go to your parents and your coaches or take up Coach May's offer and stop making excuses, if you want it as bad as you say get someone to evaluate your potential, you know now that you can't just sit around and be discovered, so do something productive about it.
Last edited by TPM
quote:
by IF08: Bee, there is no need for all the negativity
IF08 - - my daughter wants a "beemer" (BMW) but she has a Ford Escort (used) budget -
your pos vibes are appreciated

(btw, she wants it NOW - - she's worked hard & feels she's owed the opportunity to have it and pay (prolly/maybe) for it ... can you co-sign??
Last edited by Bee>
Wow, is Bee always that cynical?
Mad

BaseballRulz1789,
Like Coach May said, there is an opportunity for nearly everyone who wants it bad enough. If you are only 150 lbs and have been on a legitimate weight lifting program, it is time to consult a sports nutritionist. If you want your muscles to grow, you need to support growth with proper nutrition (NOT illegal supplements).

Proper nutrition was critical in my son's physical development. After a very disciplined workout and nutritional regiment, he is now a D1 signee and legitimate pro prospect. He's always been a great athlete, but his relentless pursuit of his goals is what got him there. It took him two years of disciplined training and nutrition (doing it the right way) to get where he needed to be. The question for most people is, how bad do you want it? In my son's case, it has been an obsession. Very very few players will discipline themselves and work so hard and relentlessly toward a goal. This is what separates the men from the boys.

By all means, pursue your dream. However, realize how much you need to put into it. If you really really really want it, do what it takes to get there.
Bee,
Do you coach? Man I hope not. If so, you should be fired immediately. Have you ever been around someone who's terminally ill? I'd hate to think you truly don't believe there's such a thing as false hope.

BBrlz,
Coming out of HS I was a 5'11" 175 QB. I was looked at by a couple D2 and D3 schools. But I wound up playing for a few yrs at a D1AA school. Mainly because I had a solid work ethic, and people who supported me. Does size help? Yes. But it's not everything. Keep lifting. There are lifting programs that are out there that can help with your weight. But in BB, you don't have to be huge. Work hard and believe you can get there. And for god's sake don't give Bee the respect by replying to his ****.
Bee>,

When I saw your first post in this topic, I was hoping that you were trying to help this player decide to stand up for himself and prove the naysayers wrong. But some of your ensuing posts sound just plain mean! Frown Yes, this player can use some realistic advice, but insulting and ridiculing him is not right!
You gotta get yourself out there also,send question ares and emails to promote yourself.Your are like a product and the only way companies(colleges)that are going to get to you is by promoting your self. and also dont worry about you being 5'11 150 because i am the same weight and a senior also. im not very muscle like but i have some and pack a good punch and pretty good outfielder and player. i quote "ITS NOT THE SIZE OF THE DOG IN THE FIGHT,ITS THE SIZE OF THE FIGHT IN DOG"
To all of the people who say that I need to be realistic with this whole thing, I completely agree with you and trust me I am being realistic. I never once boasted saying I was D1 or D2 material. However one thing I am being realistic about is putting the time and effort to be able to do what I love and that is play the game of baseball. I am completely dedicated to becoming a better ballplayer.

That being said,there are four classes in New Hampshire baseball: L,I,M, and S. I play in class I and have faced some pretty good competition. Class I is by far the strongest. My Sophomore year we faced Jeff Locke a lefty who was clocked at 95 and got drafted 51st by the Braves. I've also faced D1 players and prospects. The overall competition in the state as a whole is weak however.
BBRulz -
That's great that you have faced at least some good competition. But, in the end, it will come down to your skills and how hard you are willing to work.

If you are dedicated as you say you are, then you must take charge now and not wait for someone to "find" you. Pick up the phone and call the schools that you are interested in. Reach out to and take the advice of knowledgable baseball people (Coach May made quite an offer).

The time is now....good luck!
quote:
However one thing I am being realistic about is putting the time and effort to be able to do what I love and that is play the game of baseball. I am completely dedicated to becoming a better ballplayer.


I for one am a person who greatly respects persistance and it appears that you have that trait.

Take your above quote and your academic record along with some personal baseball info and make sure you get it to every DIII program you might be interested in.

There are DIII programs that will give any player a chance. Some that are more interested in fulfilling enrollment than winning baseball games. It might not be your ideal choice, but you have to decide if playing baseball is that important to you. It sounds like it surely is that important. That is all anyone can ask for... a chance to prove themself.

Best of luck and let us know how things turn out. Do your thing and everyone here (Bee included) will be pulling for you.
Im only 5'11 and 150 lbs. I dont have alot of competition to play against. I have not been contacted by any coaches. Some would look at this and see obstacles. I see opportunity. An opportunity to show that you belong. An opportunity to show that you can compete. An opportunity to live a dream.

Now it is up to YOU to quit thinking of things as obstacles and start looking at the opportunity you can have. You are young. You can decide your path in life. Or you can allow others to choose that path. Get off this website and start researching D-3 schools in your area. JUCO's in your area. If you can not get any of them to give you an opportunity then reach out to other areas. There are people that will help you. But you have to help yourself as well.

You are not a finished product. You are a product willing to improve and dedicated to being the best you can be. Go out and sell who you are and what you are willing to be. Good Luck
quote:

Now it is up to YOU to quit thinking of things as obstacles and start looking at the opportunity you can have. You are young. You can decide your path in life. Or you can allow others to choose that path.

You are not a finished product. You are a product willing to improve and dedicated to being the best you can be. Go out and sell who you are and what you are willing to be. Good Luck


I kid you not, I said exactly the same thing to my son tonight and it wasn't about baseball. This is a universal idea, choose your path or it will be chosen for you.
Last edited by Nitric_Acid
What are your chances? It's an interesting question, but one which is pretty hard to answer, other than the chance is clearly better than zero. But if you could know the answer, how would that change your actions over the next few months? If it were only 10%, would you forego your HS senior season? Would you not bother to attend the showcase?

My point is that the question really ought to be: "What class of schools should I target?" Actually, looking at the several posts you've made here, I think that is your implied question, and there have already been some good responses to that in this thread. Ask your HS and legion coaches, go to the showcase and get a 60yd time and a gun reading on arm strength (or just find out how far you can long toss). Ask the showcase operator to give you an honest assessment.

Probably the answer will turn out that you should be targeting DIII and NAIA schools. If so, go after them, and don't look back.
For DII and DIII schools, videos can be very important. I spoke with one of the assistants for recruiting for our college team (DII). He said videos are important for them because they have a limited budget, and cannot afford to do much scouting besides local high schools. I'm sure there are many other baseball programs in the same situation.

Regarding your size, take a look at Tim Lincecum. 5'11", 170 lbs at 23 years old. David Eckstein is 5'6". Size helps, but what matters is if you can play the game.
quote:
That being said, you have a player (me) who is 5'11 and just cracks 150 and a 5'11-6' player who is close to 190-200, they both have the same amount of talent, who are you more confident with?
In this scenario I'm looking at one kid who may have maxed out and another I'm wondering what he can do when he adds thirty pounds. The scouts are looking at more than your current size. They're looking at your tools and your potential, including your potential size.

To this point you still haven't responded to my question reagarding foot speed and throwing velocity. What's your time in the sixty? How hard do you throw? I'm asking questions to get past my skepticism.

If nothing else there are D3's where any good high school starter can play. Getting drafted is probably stretching it. But you can be part of a team for four more years. You play the game until the game tells you you're done.
Last edited by RJM
Start doing the work. Here's a start. These D3 conferences all have schools in New England. The NESCAC may be out of your league academically based on the grades and SAT's you posted.

Great Northeast Athletic Conference
Commonwealth Coast Conference
New England Women's & Men's Athletics Conference
New England Small College Athletic Conference
North Atlantic Conference
University Athletic Association
Massachusetts State College Athletic Conference
Little East Conference

Here's a link to a list of every D3 college in the country including links to their websites. If you think you're good enough try Southern Maine or Eastern Connecticut. They're teams that get ranked nationally at that level. TR can probably tell you a lot more about New England schools.
Last edited by RJM
quote:
He said videos are important for them because they have a limited budget, and cannot afford to do much scouting besides local high schools. I'm sure there are many other baseball programs in the same situation


Great point. Most schools are on a budget and many attend the same events year after year. The chance of the coaches finding you are not as great as people would like to believe. A lot of it is pure luck that your stars are aligned and you perform well in front of a coach who has a spot for you and likes what you have shown.
baseballrulz

It would help everyone here to know what events you have attended previous to now--- having desire is great but what are your tools---footspeed, arm, bat etc==you have given no idication other than your feel you are undersized---HOGWASH

By the way my son coming out of HS was 5-9/150 and played Division I baseball at New Mexico State so I am not going to pity the smallish player---in fact our team roster every fall has players your size on it


And also my son was from the Northeast and a very weak HS baseball program
quote:
Originally posted by BaseballRulz1789:
Since most of you seem to be very knowledgable about the game, I figured I'd ask you.I've been playing baseball my entire lifeand I have dreams to continue to play as long as I can.
I'm entering my senior year.After high school I have aspirations to play college baseball and even pro baseball.However I havent got a look from any scouts not even division 3 schools. I've been starting on varsity since my sophomore year and play outfield. I batted around .330 last year and for the legion team i hit.400. I have dedicated myself to the game of baseball and feel like my game will improve greatly next season.
The problem that I have is that I'm a very small player. I'm only 5'11 and weigh around 150. I also don't have much muscle to me, but I have been lifting.
My main question I guess is what is the likelihood of me playing college baseball(any division) and from there do I have any shot at being drafted, if I continue to hone my skills. Should I continue to chase this dream or should I face reality? I fear that no matter how much I practice and train it will never be good enough for college or even the bigs, can. What should I do?


In less than 24 hours this post generated 63 (now 64) replies and 1398 views.
Responses ranged from the cynical to very valid questions asked by those responding to really great encouragement and advice. I liked CM's advice, get off the website and do something if you really want it badly enough. He even extended an invitation to help evaluate this player. This is why the HSBBW is such a great place, so many willing to take their experience and help others.
I have not seen any indication from BaseballRulz that he read and understood all responses to what was being suggested, just a bunch of excuses and not even one thank you. I am not sticking up for anyone, but just like Bee>, I am a little bit leary of the true reason for this post and knowing Bee, that is his style of response. In his defense, a question was asked he gave his answer and that was his opinion. I agree with him, the answer is no to both questions, but he forgot to add "if you are not going to do anything but give excuses" Smile. He was being a bit harsh, but he did post what others were thinking.

BaseballRulz I challenge you to come back and answer some of the questions asked and after reading this what will be your course of action? Do you want it bad enough? What are you going to do about it? Prove Bee wrong. As you get older, you will find that life is full of great challenges, only the ones who accept those challenges and respond to them move ahead.

Folks, we must remember, you can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink. Roll Eyes

Were responses posted in vain? No way, because someone else in the same situation will read this and possibly follow advice given, so all is not lost.
Last edited by TPM
Bee only posted what others were thinking and feeling. Not everyone but some. I understand where he is coming from. Sometimes I think people come on here to get pity and a hug and when they realize they are actually going to get some advice that is going to cause them to have to do something they go away. Bee has seen this type of poster many times and so have I. Hey , feel sorry for me. He just doesnt buy into that stuff or care about that stuff too much to say the least.
I dont see anything wrong with getting all types of advice even advice that others do not agree with. If he does not act on the advice he is given then Bee is correct "He has no shot". If he continues to find excuses instead of looking for solutions "He has no shot". Maybe Bee was right all along? I dont know. But I dont have a problem with someone speaking their mind. Even if I dont agree with it or how it is said.
I have never understood why we get more caught up in answering the wrong questions first.

The first question should always be...is he/she accurate/right?

If the answer is yes, then it would seem everything else is only marginally significant, if at all. Never subscribed to the "how he said it" camp...was always much more of a "what did he really say" person.
Last edited by CPLZ
If everyone replied with the same answer, it would be nice, but very unrealistic. I actually feel there were many good responses to the young player. Much of what might help him. Personally I think what "Bee" posted is fairly important. If every post were to send his same message, maybe that might not be so good.

I liked TPM's message about how the replies to this and other threads can sometimes help many others who are in the same situation, but not comfortable posting. Maybe it is important to consider that at times in these discussions.
quote:
Originally posted by PGStaff:
If everyone replied with the same answer, it would be nice, but very unrealistic. I actually feel there were many good responses to the young player. Much of what might help him. Personally I think what "Bee" posted is fairly important. If every post were to send his same message, maybe that might not be so good.

I liked TPM's message about how the replies to this and other threads can sometimes help many others who are in the same situation, but not comfortable posting. Maybe it is important to consider that at times in these discussions.


I don't post much, but have learned immensely from others questions and inquiries. I'm sure there are many in the same situation. That's why it is important to maintain civility on the board. Blunt and cynical posts only make the author feel good about him/herself. No need to pound our chests and pump our egos...
Last edited by SteveNordie
I don't know what you guys want me to say. I can't answer the speed question because I can't remember the last time I got timed, but that's why I'm attending the showcase in February. I don't get the personal attacks against me. I simply came on here to get input from all of you on my situation and all thats happening is me getting attacked by half of you.

As far as sympathy goes, why would I come on to a website and ask for sympathy from people who I don't know? As far as making excuses for myself I'm not, but the simple fact is that recruiters look more at states where baseball is played year round and New Hampshire is not one of those states.

In case any of you missed it I stated that I have been working out daily to improve my game,which means that I am actually doing something about it. I never came on here for sympathy, just for opinions.
Bbr-
Good to hear you're going to the showcase in Feb.

What schools/coaches have you personally tried contacting (via email, phone call, responding to an online quetionaire)???

Are you going to call TRhit? Several people have suggested this. While I personally have never talked to him, I respect what he has to say here, and it is pretty apparent that a number of eperienced posters on this board value what he has to say.

Sounds like you are serious about the game and wanting to improve. But now you need to get serious about the recruiting. Your age AND geography require YOU to be PROACTIVE in contacting schools.

I wish you best of luck!
I've made some form of contact with a few D3 coaches.However, at this point there is not much else I can say to them because they've asked me for my personal profile and recommendations, which I'm still in the process of doing. I need to get that stuff before I can continue to talk to them. However, I still have yet to get accepted to those schools because im waiting to hear back.
Last edited by BaseballRulz1789
Three schools is w-a-y too few schools to be contacting. Multiply that number by about 5 or 10. A personal profile and recommendations should take no more than one week to complete and secure, IF you make them a priority and communicate a sense of urgency to those making the recommendations, which you definitely need to do. Time is of the essence!!!
Last edited by Infield08
I don't think I am speaking out of turn here, but TRhit owns/runs College Select Baseball.
Here is their link:
College Select

This organization is highly respected. TRhit, good bad or indifferent, doesn't sugarcoat anything.

The main reason I recommended him is due to geography. If you are at all interested in playing college ball in the Northeast, his organization can help, as long as you have the talent! (Notice, I didn't mention anything about size)....

You started this thread asking for opinions. While some posters are willing to give their 2 cents worth no matter what, others (like TRhit) want as many facts as possible before they express their opinion.

Take the time to call or email him. His contact info is on the website.

Again, GOOD LUCK!!
BBRulz,

Get your profile together and the best references you can think of (High School Coach, summer coach, any good baseball person) and send it along with the information about attending a showcase soon. Tell them you will send them any feedback you get from the showcase or ask them if they could attend. Unfortunately you don’t have a lot of credentials to pass along right now (so it seems), but you also need to move the process along.

Sometimes what a player writes can create a lot of interest. I would include words to describe your desire, work ethic, goals, and any other strong points (as you have done in this thread). I would leave out any excuses or complaints. Be respectful, honest and positive with communication to coaches. Give them a reason to think about you in a favorable way.

Take it for what its worth, best of luck
BBR-
For the credentials of TR....it should be enough that you have people form - literally - all over the country recommending that you speak to him and discuss your situation. Not only me, but several others as well. That should be good enough to start. You need some help and he can provide some of that. However, as Coach May has clearly stated....the majority of the responsibility rests with you. You came here seeking advice....you have gotten it. Now, you must act.

The folks you have received advice from here are knowledgable, supportive people - even Bee. Heed the words you are given and act.

Keep us posted on your results - good or bad. You will find that folks here do care. Good luck.
BaseballRulz1789,


I agree with many posters about going to a camp or showcase. In my sons case he is recovering from a injury going into his Junior year. This presented problems for him because this is the time he wants to be seen. Luckily for us my son has been to camps and went to a P.G Showcase when he was a sophmore. What we did was just attach his P.G profile when e-mailing colleges. Even though this was only a state showcase which is one of Perfect Games smaller ones, it gave coaches enough info to peak interest. We have had replies wanting to see more after he recovers and starts throwing again.




My point is that not only do you have to be seen so they can know who you are. You also need to be evaluated by someone so you know how you compare with other players. I don't know TRhit personally but it sounds like he is close and may be able to give you a true assesment of your skills. I wouldn't let anyone's post bother you. In the end you are the one that will make the decision to either use someone's advice or not. Most of the people on this forum truely are here to help. Good luck, and if playing baseball is truely your desire do everything possible to make that dream come true. When you get older you want to look back and know that you did everything you could to succeed.



Banditsbb
wow - - interesting thread Smile
alotta views, prolly checking out all the websters agreeing Wink
or websters citisizing others with whom they disagree, then offering no opinion of their own Confused



the good side - bbrlz now has some very good advice ranging from - -
"atta boy .. you can do it" to my "swift kick", which btw I'd have given to my own in the same situation ... along with a chat w/TRHit

even a non-athlete hs sr should be very well informed re colleges at this point - AND should have narrowed down a pile of college options as well (just a few months before hs graduation)

just a few more observations -

1) 5' 11" ht isn't a handicap

2) my son graduated from a very demanding DI school with similar hs ACT scores

3) a post grad yr is also an option if late bloomer

4) daughter now wants a jeep

5) the Indy-Tenn NFL game should be negated w/both teams being eliminated from play-offs and Fisher/Dungee locked up after admitting to colluding/cheating/fixing the outcome of their game during the actual game Frown
which also btw knocked the Browns out!

6) I do wish bbrlz the best, tho if someone would'a given him a kick as a soph he'd now be 185# (on lasagna alone) & wouldn't bee 2 yrs behind the recruiting timeline
Last edited by Bee>
bbrulz

i don't know where your from in nh, but don't sell our baseball short. we have some good hs baseball players here, and you might very well be one.
IF you want to play there is a place for you. i know a few d3 coaches that are always looking. there are some juco's over the border that play some good baseball as well. unh has club baseball if your education is more important, but still want to play. snhu often overlooked. just a few off the top of my head.
many places around to play. where did you play legion? what hs?
i will add that 5,10 isn't an issue,i know a few your size that have been drafted. and they come from nh.
Last edited by 20dad
quote:
Originally posted by Bee>:
even a non-athlete hs sr should be very well informed re colleges at this point - AND should have narrowed down a pile of college options as well (just a few months before hs graduation)


This is a true statement.

Now hitting 90 replies and 2504 views. Wink
Last edited by TPM
I have no problem understanding what fanofgame is talking about. He's talking about wanting posters to not be so mean-spirited in their dealings with a high school senior who is obviously behind in more ways than one, but wants to play on the next level.

I just said goodbye to a houseguest who got a real kick out of putting other people down. Some of her opinions may have been correct, but it was the way she said things that was the problem. Maybe there are some snow-bound posters who are ready to climb the walls. Maybe there are some who have personal problems we're not aware of. I don't know what is causing so many people to be so crotchety, but all the rudeness, heavy-handed remarks, and condescension is getting very tiresome.
Last edited by Infield08
Fanofgame there is alot more to it than what you are actually seeing in this one thread. We have spent countless hours talking to people that come on this site asking for advice. They get all types of advice. From the tough love advice to the soft I understand advice. Some of the advice is good and sometimes it might not be so good. But the fact is if you come on here and ask for advice you can not choose what you are going to get in the form of that advice. If you like it and it makes sense to you go for it. If you think it can help you fine. If you dont like the advice then dont use it. Heck sometimes you might not like what you hear but it may still be the truth.

The point made was what are you doing asking for this kind of advice in your senior year? What have you been doing the last three years? As far as the weight comment it was an attempt to say "Hey what have you been waiting for?" Sometimes I wonder what some people are thinking. You are a senior you are four months from graduating from HS. Now you are wondering what you should be doing? Did you get in the weight room as a freshman? Have you been to any showcase events in your area? How many? Have you been evaluated by anyone that has a baseball rep that can vouch for you one way or the other?

Sometimes people need to be hit in the face with a 2 X 4 to wake their butt up to reality. Some posters specialize in making sure that happens. Some take other approaches. That is what makes this site so special. You are not going to hear what you want to hear. You are going to hear from people that have been there and done that. You are going to get the cold hard facts. Sometimes you will like what you hear. And sometimes you will not. But one things for sure , it will not be sugar coated bs.

I saw Bee's posts as an attempt to hit the kid in the forehead with the 2 X 4 of reality. Quit looking for reasons on why you can not do it and start looking for ways to do it. Otherwise you are done.
You all are making me look like a fool, which is completely fine based on the information that I gave you. But I did leave out a big part after all of this. It's not that I procrastinated and didn't have the drive to began all of this a few years ago.It wasn't until my Junior year that I found a true love for the game.

I have been a multi sport athlete my entire life and baseball was just another sport that I played. The thing is I have always been good at baseball even without going all out with practicing. Trust me, had I had the drive that I do know I would have started this process way back as soon as I could. I would have been joining AAU teams,etc., etc. Unfortunately I can't go back now and all I can do is focus on today and the future.
Last edited by BaseballRulz1789
I commend your son for all his hard work and determination. It appears that he has done his homework and, while he is not where he would like to be, he has a game plan to achieve his goals. Additionally, he has a strong supportive parent who is helping guide him.

I did not get any sense that this is the case for our original poster. He has come on here in his senior year asking for advice....which has been getting (97 responses!) Bee is correct - he is 2 years late in the recruiting process. That being said, there are still things that the original poster can do. But, the reality is that time is slipping away quickly.

He has been given some very specific suggetions on things to do. My hope is that he will listen and quickly develop his game plan and get working on it. Only BBR will know if he actually will do it. It is his turn now.
quote:
Originally posted by BaseballRulz1789:
You all are making me look like a fool, which is completely fine based on the information that I gave you.


BBR,
Whatever, you seem to have an excuse whenever you post. Actually I think that we are beginning to look like the fools, not you.
Because you have a love and desire to play the game, doesn't get you a scholarship.

My suggestion, focus on the future and not this message board.

Best of luck.
Having read the post in response to this young man makes me wonder whether he should have offered his questions up for the ridicule, insults and downright nastiness of some of the responses.

Since noone here really knows his circumstances, of either his personal history, or of his athletic abilities without seeing him in action, evaluating him specific to the five tools, it would seem to me that a more probing approach of those five tool areas would have been more useful. Other than that the advice is esoteric and its value could result in just confusing someone who sounds like he really needs some mentoring through the process..
JMO
quote:
it would seem to me that a more probing approach of those five tool areas would have been more useful
One hundred posts later he's still ignored questions on foot speed and throwing velocity. Not even a response in relation to other good players around him if he doesn't have clocked times.
I apologize if my earlier post in this thread seemed too critical of a long-time member of this site. I didn't mean it to offend anyone, but rather to defend the original poster.

I appreciate the variety of advice and opinions in this thread, and I agree that "tough love" and a good kick in the butt are sometimes needed. My husband and I have two sons in college, and he was responsible for administering the occasional verbal boot when they were teens, while I was responsible for being a little too understanding. Wink

But I still don't think we should gang up on a young poster... a player... a non-parent... non-adult...a 17- or 18-yr-old...

...and ridicule him or insult him for not having understood earlier what he needed to do to play college baseball. Most of the posts in this thread were thoughtful and helpful, and even the tough posts seem mostly appropriate even in my Mom-ish opinion, and I'm not arguing with those. Most of us have been here for quite a while and understand a lot about the steps in the process. But this new member is a HS aged kid who seems to have just found our site and might not know the answers yet. And that is who the site is for. I am truly thankful for the members who share their knowledge after having successfully made the trip, but we can't forget that the site is also, or especially, for those who haven't even started the journey yet.

Julie
Last edited by MN-Mom
quote:
by fan: please let me know the how someone puts on 35 pounds in two years? am i missing something? ... If it is a joke then I'm not laughing. if it is true statement then its nonsense
Confused the example has your own player on track to weigh in at 180# adding 25# in 2 yrs on "shakes"

I don't really understand your surprise, but you are correct that it's tough for some younger guys to gain weight - and yes, metabolism does vary, however from your example adding enough calories to support gaining 1/4 pound per week is not at all extreme and on the low side of the results many athletes that age expect and get ...

the key is not calories consumed, it's the calories/nutrition added to support muscle growth and working those muscles properly

btw, in a controlled/supervised program such as happens at college it's not unusual for a guy to put on his "freshman 15" by Christmas

I couldn't follow the DIII observations so I can't comment there
Last edited by Bee>
Jimmy Rollins is barely 5'10 and won the MVP award last year.

Dustin Pedroia about the same size or even smaller. Won Rookie of the year award this year.

Eckstein World Series MVP two years ago.

Houston Street and Tim Lincecum are small as well.

These guys found a way to get it done and they did not sell themselves short, no pun intended.

Good luck!
Guess I must have missed something here, so went back and read all the posts. Especially those by the original poster.

Here it is

quote:
Since most of you seem to be very knowledgable about the game, I figured I'd ask you.I've been playing baseball my entire lifeand I have dreams to continue to play as long as I can.
I'm entering my senior year.After high school I have aspirations to play college baseball and even pro baseball.However I havent got a look from any scouts not even division 3 schools. I've been starting on varsity since my sophomore year and play outfield. I batted around .330 last year and for the legion team i hit.400. I have dedicated myself to the game of baseball and feel like my game will improve greatly next season.
The problem that I have is that I'm a very small player. I'm only 5'11 and weigh around 150. I also don't have much muscle to me, but I have been lifting.
My main question I guess is what is the likelihood of me playing college baseball(any division) and from there do I have any shot at being drafted, if I continue to hone my skills. Should I continue to chase this dream or should I face reality? I fear that no matter how much I practice and train it will never be good enough for college or even the bigs, can. What should I do?


Soon after he stated this
quote:
my arm strength needs some improving but I have thrown runners out from the outfield sometimes on a line and sometime with one or two bounces. My foot speed is good I just need to get better jumps off pitchers


Then this
quote:
TRhit I got an invite to the Joe Wladyka preseason showcase in February down in New York, which I'm planning to attend. I play legion ball and I'm slated to be starter next summer for that team. As far as college coaches, I've only contacted a few via email and I'm waiting to gather all my information until I respond back to them and set up a meeting.


Everyone keeps asking him for more information. It seems he may never have thrown to a radar gun or even been timed in the 60. He answered the arm strength and speed questions very early in this thread. Maybe not with actual numbers, but with his own non inflated opinion. I think he understands he is behind in the process. Guess I don't see where he has avoided any questuions that he can actually answer at this time.

That said, he did get a little defensive a couple times. Sounds like a smart kid who loves baseball. I hope he sticks around and asks more questions. Not just for his sake but others in his situation.

Also, no matter whether someone says something good, flattering or blunt. Hearing all opinions can be very helpful. Whose to say if the nice or not so nice stuff will be most helpful to "BBRulz". I'd like to think it was all said to somehow help this player rather than demean him. I think it was and hopefully he received a lot of information that might help him.

BBRulz, Hope you get what you want. I'm pretty certain you will find most everyone here pulling for you. Like Coach May said so eloquently Smile... sometimes it takes a 2X4 to the forehead to get the job done.

You should be glad that you got so many opinions and that someone is willing to get tough with you, too. Take both what you want to hear and what you don’t like hearing to heart. Both can be important!

Good luck
quote:
Originally posted by Bee>:

the key is not calories consumed, it's the calories/nutrition added to support muscle growth and working those muscles properly

btw, in a controlled/supervised program such as happens at college it's not unusual for a guy to put on his "freshman 15" by Christmas
On this point I agree with Bee>. It is not only a matter of taking in calories, but also the proper nutritional balance, and matching up with the proper workout routine.

Son went from 5'11" 170# as a high school sophomore to 6' 200# as a junior and currently 6' 215# as a senior, with a ripped physique, and increased speed and strength. Yes, some natural physical maturing, but mostly through a VERY disciplined diet and training program over a two year period. The key is, he is extremely SELF-MOTIVATED. You can't force this upon someone. He has to want it for himself.

Yes, there are some great inspirational stories about the little guy who made it big, but that is the exception rather than the rule. Generally speaking, size DOES matter when it comes to top level draft prospects and D1 recruits. We have heard over and over again from scouts that they love son's physical size and presence, as well as speed for his size. It's what sets him apart from other athletes with similar baseball skills.

I'm not trying to brag here, just relaying what we have learned and heard through the process. That is not to say that a 5'11" 150# kid can't be a top level recruit, prospect or successful major leaguer, but he better bring something special to the plate, so to speak, such as amazing arm strength, freak speed, and/or a big bat.

This is only my opinion, and I am referring only to top level recruits and prospects. In any case, there is a roster spot for nearly everyone who wants it badly enough. Just find out where you realistically fit in, and get it done.
Last edited by SteveNordie
Kids develop differently. My oldest was full grown as a soph. Full beard , thick and very physically developed at a young age. My youngest who is alot taller and bigger still has that baby face. When he was a freshman he started working really hard in the weight room and core agility as well. He was a 5'11 200 baby faced pudgy kid. He has continued to work so hard in the weight room and on his diet as well as continued the core and agility work. Just over the last few months he has had quite a change in his physique. He is now 6'2 and 223 and really looks alot slimmer. His speed has drastically improved and his over all quickness and agility has as well. Its almost like the last 6 months he has totally grown into a mans body.

My point is its not a sprint its a marathon. You have to stick with it and stay the course. A proper diet with proper rest and hard work will pay off. But it takes a highly motivated self driven person to do these kind of things. You have a short window of opportunity in this game. Most guys are out of the game before they physically develop. Usually because they did not understand that time waits for no one.
There are a load of things to take into consideration with a HS player---I learned this from my sons AD while sitting watching a JV basketball game-- he pointed out on of the players--fully blossoming with body hair--- and my son who was stark naked at that point when it came to body hair---he told me your son won't physically mature until he is 19/20 years of age---the other kid is done--- and he knew what he was talking about---my guy went to college at 5-9/150 came out at 5-11/195 and the other kid never played college sports despite being a superb three sport athlete in HS

PARENTS===sit back and let it come to the player

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