2013 Under Armour All-America Scouting Blog

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Scouting Reports & Video Clips
by Andy Ferguson
9/18/13 @ 11:57am
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National Pitchers

The National staff struck out 10, but allowed 8 runs on 7 hits and 7 walks. The defense behind them committed three errors, resulting in 3 unearned runs. They averaged 93 for top end fastball velocity, slighly higher than the American team. Touki Toussaint and Grant Holmes put up bookend scoreless innings, first and ninth respectively, both featuring 95 mph fastballs. Though it was in a losing effort, the most impressive outing of the day came from Michael Kopech, who struck out the side with a dazzling display of stuff.

DAVID PETERSON

David stands at 6-foot-6, and is a very good athlete – making him a rarity in more than one way. He is able to get off the mound very well to field his position, which is especially valuable in a guy with the type stuff to induce a lot of ground balls.

He pitches from a three quarters arm slot, which gives his fastball tail and sink into the low 90s. He also features an upper 70s change with action similiar to his fastball, and two types of breaking ball – one in the upper 70s and a slower version in the lower 70s.

He struckout one, walked one, and allowed one hit in an inning of work.

ALEX VERDUGO

In the process of bringing home team MVP honors, Alex allowed no runs on no hits and punched out one in his inning of work. He combined that solid inning of work with an opposite field double, solifiying his reputation as one of the top two-way players in the country.

On the mound, he reached 94 with his fastball and flashed a slider with depth at 79. His arm works well from the glove, and he gets great extension out front – allowing him to aggressively finish his pitches out over his front knee.

At 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds, he has an athletic build with room to fill out. It will be interesting to see whether he develops into a position player or a pitcher in the future.

GRANT HOLMES

Grant was one of four pitchers to reach at least 95 on gameday. He touched it a couple of times actually, and sat around 92. He pitched a scoreless ninth inning to keep his team just one run down with a chance to tie or go ahead in the bottom half. He allowed one hit, struck out one and walked one.

Most people like him as a two pitch guy that eventually finds his way to a late inning bullpen role, his stuff is that good. To go with his low to mid 90s fastball, he spins an excellent breaking ball in the low to mid 80s. The best ones I saw today were 81, with late and sharp action. He has feel for both pitches, and is aggressive to the zone with both.

TOUKI TOUSSAINT

Like Grant Holmes, Touki also touched 95 with his fastball this outing. He goes about it in a different way however, with more arm speed and looseness than the power type stuff we see from Holmes.

At times, Touki will show "video game" or "electric" type stuff. We just don't normally see that life and depth in real life that often, he is truly a special talent.

His breaking ball has 11 to 5 shape in the mid 70s, with knee buckling depth – it is one of the better breaking balls in the entire class. He also threw a cutter or slider 85-87, and sat in the low 90s with his fastball.

He walked one and allowed no runs in a scoreless first inning of work.

MICAH MINIARD

At 6-foot-7, Micah was the tallest of the 2013 Under Armour All-Americans – and was one of three at least 6'6". When a need arose, he picked up an extra inning of work – bringing his line to three strikouts, two walks, one hit and no runs allowed in two frames.

He topped at 92 and pitched right around 90 with run and sink – especially when down in the zone. He moved his fastball in and out well, and pitched off of it very nicely with a sharp slider into the low 80s. I saw a couple plus, and one with devastating action at 82.

His combination of stuff and command was impressive over two innings of work.

JOE GATTO

The most physical at present of all the pitchers at the 2013 Under Armour All-America Game, Joe stands at 6-foot-5 and 215 pounds with long features and room to fill out even more.

He showed a solid four pitch mix, including a fastball that topped at 93 and sat around 90. His curve has downward action near 12-6 in the low 70s, and he also throws a low 80s slider with more tilt. His change was 84 with fastball arm action and arm speed.

In this outing, he didn't have the same fastball life or command I've seen in the past. He walked one and gave up four hits, none of which were that solid – but they found the outfield grass in any case.

MICHAEL KOPECH

A lot of the buzz during the game and immediately after was about Michael's outing. Not only did he strike out the side, but he made three very talented hitters look silly in the process. This was an especially important outing for him, coming on the heels of a couple of recent performances that didn't meet his expectations.

This time out, he was stellar. His fastball topped at 93, but he didn't use it that much. He relied heavily on his slider, which he had excellent feel for. The best ones were 78-79 with big action across the zone and down. He backed off some down into the lower 70s earlier in counts, but went back to the harder and shorter version as his out pitch.

If you blinked one too many times while he was on the mound, you missed a lot. He worked quick, attacked the zone, and made short work of the three hitters he faced.

FOSTER GRIFFIN

Foster is to me like a left handed version of Cobi Johnson, in that you need to see him in longer outings to fully appreciate what he can do. His stuff is impressive even in a short look, but like most guys with command and a quality three pitch mix – it doesn't always jump right out in one inning.

He topped at 91 after starting out most 87-88. He walked one, but picked him off shortly after – and that was when his velocity jumped, started to sit 90 after that and touched the 91. He relied mostly on his fastball, and also threw a low 70s curve and a mid 80s change.

He struck out one, walked one and allowed no runs in one inning of work.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

9/18/13 | 11:57am

Scouting Reports & Video Clips
by Andy Ferguson
9/12/13 @ 2:12pm
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American Pitchers

As a staff, the American team pitchers struck out 13 against 7 walks, allowed 8 hits and 7 runs – all earned. Most of the damage was done in the fourth inning, but even at the end of that frame they still held an 8-6 lead. After the offense posted five runs in the top of the second, Cobi Johnson posted a scoreless bottom half to hold a five run lead – a lead that would not be relinquished, thus earnning him the win. Grant Hockin pitched the eigth and ninth, keeping the score at 8-7 in favor of the American team – earning him both a save and team MVP honors.

For the record, the average top end fastball from the American pitching staff was 92.75 for the day. 91 and 92 were popular readings, while Dylan Cease touched 97 and Tyler Kolek topped at 99 on the stadium gun.

GRANT HOCKIN

Grant pitched two scoreless frames to record the save and preserve the victory for American. He allowed two hits, walked none and punched out three. In the process, he took home MVP honors for the American team as well.

He topped at 91, and pitched right around there at 89-90. He got it easily, and was able to command the fastball in and out. The delivery is fluid and under control, making it easy to see why he has command.

His breaking ball was between 78 and 82 depending on what he was trying to do with it. It, like his fastball, is a usable pitch that he has command of.

COBI JOHNSON

It takes more than just one inning to appreciate what Cobi can do. That could be said for many guys, but I think this is epecially true here. He was 88-92 with his fastball, and spun a tight 12-6 breaking ball in the mid to upper 70s. He allowed one hit and walked one in his inning of work.

In previous outings, he stood out with a combination of stuff, command and feel to pitch. He has a usable low 80s change as well, giving him three pitches with potential to be plus.

The element of deception is in play for him as well.His shoulders are closed and then his glove side arm works up and over – both hide the window where the hitter is looking to first pick up the ball.

DYLAN CEASE

On Thursday, in the gym during the instructional clinic the players did for local youth teams, Dylan was effortlessly dunking a baseball during breaks while the groups rotated. It was in impressive display of pure athletic ability. This goes a long way to explain how he generates mid to upper 90s velocity.

His delivery is athletic and fluid, and his arm works with looseness back and through. The ball gets out of his hand with great life, allowing for electric stuff at times. He topped at 97 with the fastball, and spun a low to mid 70s breaking ball. I also saw a change at 80.

He started the game for the American team, and notched a scoreless first inning in which he allowed no hits, no walks and struck out one. While his fastball was as impressive as I've seen, he didn't show the knockout breaking ball today – just didn't get out in front with it enough.

CARSON SANDS

Carson was impressive in his Thursday bullpen session, and impressed again in his Saturday game outing. He came in ahead of schedule, with two outs in the fourth instead of to start the fifth as planned – and it didn't seem to phase him at all.

He pitched around 88-90 and touched 92, and used what appeared to be two types of breaking ball. One had downward break with tilt in the low 70s, and he showed some with similar shape in the upper 70s also.

His delivery was balanced and under control, allowing his arm to work easy and loose from the glove and out front. The ball got out of his hand easy, and his pitches had good down plane from his hand.

Through 1.1 innings, he punched out three, walked one and alllowed one hit.

ALEX LANGE

Alex has a solid, strong build at 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds, and featured one of the better breaking balls on the day. He allowed one hit and struck out two in an inning of work.

He pitched at 90-91 and touched 92 with his fastball. Like we saw some other guys do, he produced different velocity ranges with his breaking ball depending on what he did with it. The get-me-over version was 75-78 and even it flahsed plus, while the put-away version was 80-82 with serious depth. He buried that pitch on the back foot of left handers especially well.

He carries his hands high and gets to his balance point quickly, as long as he stays in sequence he is able to get his release point out front where he can rotate his core to generate arm speed.

WILLIE RIOS

Willie took a line drive off his lower left leg early in his outing, which appeared to cause him trouble the rest of the way. He still showed quality stuff, but his control suffered once he was unable to use his lower half normally.

He topped at 92 with his fastball, and showed the same four pitch mix I saw in his bullpen session Thursday. The curve was 72-74, slider was 80-81 and the change was 80-81 as well. He was able to make the ball go both ways from his three quarters arm slot, the fastball and change had arm side life, while the curve and slider had varying degrees of action across the zone with some downward action as well.

SAM HENTGES

There are simply not that many people walking around at 6-foot-6 and 240 pounds, and especially not many with athletic ability and body control. Sam showed both of those things in a bullpen session Thursday, and again on Friday defensively at 1B where he moved well and showed soft hands.

He pitched between 85 and 88 with his fastball, and he got that easily with more leverage than arm speed. His breaking ball had downward break with tilt, and like his fastball it came out of his hand from a high release point and with great downward angle.

The delivery is fluid and his arm works, he is just scratching the surface of his potential on the mound. He struck out two and allowed one hit in an inning of work.

TYLER KOLEK

I can't recall personally seeing more than 97 on the radar gun until I saw Tyler flash 99 several times on the Wrigley Field gun. That is truly rare stuff, guys with that kind of velocity simply don't come around very often. The thing is, it's kind of a regular thing for him – who knows, maybe somebody out there has seen him hit 100?

He has an extra large frame at 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds, we initially comped him to Lance Lynn (Cardinals) but I think Brad Penny (13 year big leaguer) works well too.He gets his chest out over his front knee very well, allowing him to push his arm speed out closer to the plate and rotate through it – this is why I think he gets the mid to upper 90s velocity with what looks like such minimal effort.

I saw a plus breaking ball at 80, but he primarily went with the fastball this outing. He walked two and struck out one in his inning of work.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

9/12/13 | 2:12pm

Scouting Reports & Video Clips
by Andy Ferguson
9/11/13 @ 5:29pm
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National Infielders

Similar to the American team infielders, the guys that played in the dirt for the National team are each different type prospects. Luke Dykstra and Nelson Gomez are offensive minded players with raw power, with Dykstra offering more defensive versatility and more projection physically. Alexis Pantjoa is a slick fielder with the ability to play both sides of the bag, and the potential to develop into a bat control type hitter from the left side. Nick Gordon is an instinctual player, and the perfect example of "usability of ability". His skills are advanced, and his ability to put them to use in the game is even more advanced.

Whether you want to dream on a future bat like Dykstra, or get on the fast track with Gordon the "baseball player", the National team has you covered.

LUKE DYKSTRA

Luke has present raw power, and he looks like he is going to get bigger and stronger – meaning he stands to gain even more. When he barreled it up, the ball flew off his bat with as much life as anyone. There are some things that can be cleaned up in his stroke, but the core ability of getting the barrel to good pitches in game at bats appears to be in place. He walked, singled and flew out to CF in three trips – both balls he put in play were hit on the nose back up the middle, and both were on breaking balls.

His hands work fine defensively, and he moves like an athlete to the ball and showed body control on the slow roller play. His arm action is compact and he can make throws from the left side of the infield. I'd say he outgrows MIF and finds a home on a corner, where I think he has enough power to stick.

NICK GORDON

If there is a better baseball player in the country than Nick, I haven't seen him. He is able to use his hitting and fielding tools at an amazingly high level, such that the game appears to come very easily to him. I can't think of a better quality for an everyday player than that, and it's the only reason I need to like him better here than on the mound. He didn't pitch in Chicago, but I've seen him before up to 91 with a quality downer breaking ball. The bloodlines are there, but he is just too good of a player for me to pass on having him in the lineup everyday in the middle of the field.

For easily the best position player line of the game, he collected three hits in four at bats, drove in two runs, stole a base and scored a run.

ALEXIS PANTOJA

Alexis may not be as physical as some other guys yet, but he has advanced defensive skills and the makings of a quality left handed stroke. As he matures and fills out, he is going to pass a lot of people by.

His hands are soft, and his exchange is clean and quick. His feet work well and he stays down low with the ball. His arm fits better on the 2B side now, but his catch and throw skills allow him to play both sides of the bag.

His left handed stroke was simple and repeatable, and worked through the zone flat – allowing him to produce line drives from gap to gap. Though he didn't record any hits this game, he stood in well against some of the toughest breaking stuff of the day, including a devastating slider from Alex Lange.

NELSON GOMEZ

Nelson has a solid, strong build at 6-foot-2 and 195 pounds. He fits a corner profile with his raw power and arm strength. He generates power from a combination of bat speed and torque, he rotates hard through contact allowing him to whip the bat through the zone.

Defensively, his feet and hands were solid and his release was quick when necessary. He showed plenty of arm strength to carry long throws across the infield from third base.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

9/11/13 | 5:29pm

Scouting Reports & Video Clips
by Andy Ferguson
9/10/13 @ 1:28pm
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American Infielders

You want a left handed power bat with the versatility to play anywhere in the infield? The American team has it, in the form of Gregory Deichmann. You want jaw dropping, show stealing home run derby type power from a guy that can hold down shortstop? The American team has that too, his name is Jacob Gatewood. How about a top of the scale, Ozzie Smith-esque acrobatic glove man up the middle? Yep, you guessed it. The American team has you covered with Milton Ramos.

They'll even throw in infield cameos from sweet swinging Ryan Johnson (a 2015 corner outfielder from Texas), and hard hitting Alex Jackson (a catcher from California). Yes, the American team…they know what you want.

GREGORY DEICHMANN

Coming into Chicago, I think most of us had a story about a ball we saw Gregory hit somewhere. We didn't see any prodigous home runs from him here, but the source of the power was clear. He has very quick hands to hit, and he uses the leverage in his long and lean frame well to drive the ball. He went one for three and scored once on the day, with a single and a walk.

Defensively, he played 3B and 2B for us. I think a lot of people like him as an offensive 2B from the Chase Utley mold in the future, myself included. Everything works fine defensively, and he has quickness and body control to work with. His arm is solid, allowing him to make the throws across the infield from 3B and to turn the double play from 2B.

JACOB GATEWOOD

Not sure where start with Jacob, so I'll just go in the order we saw things in Chicago. On workout day, he was more impressive defensively than with the bat. I knew he could throw, but I didn't know he could throw like that – his arm for me is in the same conversation with Gettys and Paredes (both OF). His hands were soft as well, and his actions were fluid and athletic. The Manny Machado comp is appropriate here, he is a special talent.

The offensive fireworks began Saturday morning in BP, and were on full display in the home run derby. The ball was flying off his bat, it truly was an impressive display of power. He launched balls easily over the bleachers and onto Waveland Ave, thanks to a combination of bat speed and leverage. Once the game started, he doubled and drove in a run in five at bats.

MILTON RAMOS

I'd seen Milton a few times prior to Chicago, and I knew his glove was good – but what I saw here was special. He is an amazingly talented defensive player, with off the scale hands and the gift of making even routine plays look spectacular. From both SS and 2B, he made all kinds of plays – including a diving stop out of nowhere up the middle from the 2B side of the bag. His ability to read and pick hops is uncanny, and he throws on the run amazingly well.

He walked twice and scored twice in the game, and collected an RBI. His right handed stroke is short and quick, built for line drive and hard ground ball type contact. He's got some rhythm to hit, which allows the higher leg kick stride move to work for him. Add in excellent speed and instincts and the package gets even more interesting, he is a dynamic and talented all around player.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

9/10/13 | 1:28pm

Scouting Reports & Video Clips
by Andy Ferguson
9/7/13 @ 3:52pm
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Catchers

The group of catchers we had at the 2013 Under Armour All-America Game offer examples of several different types of prospects. Usually at this position, the first thing to determine is if the defensive ability is good enough to stick at the highest level. From there, it needs to be determined what type of offensive output can be expected.

In my opinion, all four guys have (or project to have) the defensive skills to play the position. At least one – Gilberto Rodriguez – has the skills to excel defensively. Meanwhile, at least two – Alex Jackson and Chase Vallot – can be looked at as future middle of the order type hitters, which is exactly why they are high on many boards. Tim Susnara is the most well rounded, and the least reliant on any single tool to carry him – making it seem as if he is flying below the radar, though in reality he is in high demand for that exact reason.

TIM SUSNARA

Tim is a line drive spray type hitter with a quick bat. He gets the barrel to contact on a direct route, and gets extension out front through contact. If he fills out and adds strength, I think he will see some power from that part of his stroke – he squares up a lot of balls, and they leave his bat with life.

He spun Grant Holmes' cap on a good slider late in the game, kept his hands back and hit a missile line drive single right back up the middle.

Defensively, he sat well behind the plate showed arm strength and pop times in the low 1.9 range.

ALEX JACKSON

The first and only two time Under Armour All Ameican to this point, Alex is an extremely talented offensive player with versatile defensive ability. He combines hitting ability with raw power as well as or better than anyone else in the class. The necessary components of both tools are in place – balance, bat speed, strength – as are ones that make him advanced – rhythm to hit, pitch recognition skills, and plate discipline.

He walked, stole a base and scored a run in five trips to the plate.

A catcher by trade, he is an instinctual player with the reflexes to play 3B and the athletic ability to play OF. He is the rare "baseball player" with tools, the type tools that should land him in the middle of a batting order at a premium position.

GILBERTO "JUN" RODRIGUEZ

"Jun" sits beautifully behind the plate, and has an advanced and well rounded set of defensive skills. He received with soft and strong hands, and blocked several balls nicely in the dirt with runners at third base. His catch and throw skills are standout, not only noticable in his mid to upper 1.8 pop times, but also in the consistent accuracy of his throws.

He singled to LF from the left side of the plate, and hit two balls on the nose right handed – both for fly outs, one of which was a sac fly to CF.

Strength is a big part of his swing from both sides of the plate, especially from his hands and wrists. The ball gets off the bat well from a short and compact move. There is more in the tank too, he has room to improve his extension to unlock more consistent contact and power.

CHASE VALLOT

While some are on the fence with Chase behind the plate, I'm all in. He has a plus arm for me, has the catch and throw skills to post times in the low 1.9 range, and he blocks very well. The receiving skills can come with time, they are easier to pickup than the throw and block skills he already has in place.

The bat is the ticket anyway, he can flat out hit. He drove the ball to the opposite field with ease, and for that matter he drove the ball all over the ballpark thanks to a combination of bat speed, leverage and and strength. The ball sounds different off his bat, consistently more solid and louder than most.

He reached base twice in five plate appearances, including a single and a walk, and he scored two of the National team's seven runs.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

9/7/13 | 3:52pm

Scouting Reports & Video Clips
by Andy Ferguson
9/6/13 @ 4:49pm
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National Outfielders

Like the American team, the National outfielders accounted for a healthy percentage of their scoring on game day. Of the 7 runs posted, the outfielders scored three and drove in two more. The eventual National team MVP Alex Verdugo played both corner OF spots after he pitched a scoreless third inning, and he also collected the National's ony extra base hit on the day.

ALEXANDER PAREDES

I'll be honest, my jaw was on the turf after watching Alexander play catch at UIC on Thursday. The ball flew out of his hand unlike many I've seen, and with such a pretty stroke and so little effort. When he cut it loose the next day during the workout, it was even more impressive. I'd recommend you make it a point to go see he and Michael Gettys throw from the OF.

At the plate, his stroke was loose and fluid. He showed quickness in his hands along with the ability to accelerate the barrel, this from a player that doesn't turn 16 until the end of September.

For the day, he scored a run and drove in a run in four trips to the plate.

CORBIN MARTIN

Corbin reached base twice in five trips to the plate, each time on a walk, and scored once. He featured a calm, easy demeanor in the batters box.

In BP, he showed a loose swing and worked the barrel through the zone on a level plane. His move was simple and repeatable, adn showed flashes of power to the pull side that should become more frequent as he fills out his long and lean frame.

From the OF, the ball left his hand with life after a quick arm stroke. He profiles best in the OF, but also played some 1B for us and was solid there.

ALEX VERDUGO

Alex earned MVP honors for his strong two-way effort at Wrigley. He was known as among the most talented two-way guys coming in, and he did not dissapoint. After pitching a scoreless third inning in which he touched 94, he switched gloves and went to the OF.

The day before, he showed he was willing to cut it loose with reckless abondon from the OF – which I loved. The ball came out from right over top which gave his throws great carry on line. At the plate, his move was ahtletic and full with great rotation from his core.

It looks to me like he only has one speed – all out. He let the bat go much like he did his throws, and produced some towering home runs to RCF in BP, and an opposite field double in the game that one hopped the LCF wall.

DAZ CAMERON

All I really need to do here is post the report Steve Bernhardt wrote on Daz prior to the game, there is nothing else to say…no other way to explain how good of a hitter he is. So, here it is:

"At the plate, he has an advanced, rhythmic approach with lightning quick hands. His path is direct and level and the bat speed generated leads to present power with even more to come in the future. Daz has an outstanding ability to find the barrel consistently and can handle both velocity and off-speed stuff very well for a young hitter."

After reaching the HR derby final eight in the morning at Wrigley, he walked and stole a base in five trips.

Defensively, he moved easy with compact actions and a quick first step. All signs point to Daz holding down CF at the highest level.

DARIUS DAY

Darius hit leadoff and started in CF at Wrigley Field in his hometown of Chicago. He reached base twice in four plate appearances, once with a single and once on a walk (a great at bat against hard throwing RHP Tyler Kolek). In addition, he stole a base, scored a run and drove in a run.

His left handed stroke is short and quick, and he maintains great balance and body control – which allows him to deliver the good part of the barrel to contact consistently.

He grew on me more than anyone at this event, which I think just means I was slow to appreciate all the things he can do. He played all three OF spots, and a case could be made for him at each. He throws well, moves quick and easy, and has the speed to cover ground.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

9/6/13 | 4:49pm

Scouting Reports & Video Clips
by Andy Ferguson
9/4/13 @ 3:09pm
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American Outfielders

Although none of the American outfielders wore it as a jersey number, 4 was their magic number on game day. As a group, they accounted for:
(4) hits – more than half the team total of seven
(4) runs – exactly half the team total of eight
(4) stolen bases – all but one of the team total of five

MONTE' HARRISON

Though Monte' arrived Thursday night late, and pretty much directly from the football field, it didn't appear to slow him down at all. He showed the same OF arm strength we've seen now a few times, the ball gets out of his hand easy and carries on line well.

During BP, he again featured quick and strong hands to hit. He was aggressive early in the count, and barreled up three balls during the game – most notably a scorching line drive up the middle that held up too long and was caught by Daz Cameron in CF. He saw some of the best breaking stuff of the day in his later at bats – first a filthy slider from Michael Kopech, and later another one from Grant Holmes.

MARCUS WILSON

Marcus accounted for much of the American team offensive output. He was on base twice in four plate appearances, he scored two runs and drove in another, and he also stole two bases. He continues to show great hand-eye coordination and a knack for getting the good part of the barrel to contact. He is a gap to gap line drive hitter at present, with potential to develop more power as he physically matures.

He played LF and CF, the two OF spots where he fits best. His release is quick and from a shortish arm stroke for the position, but his throws came out well and had life to the target.

STONE GARRETT

Stone scored once and collected two hits in four trips to the plate, including a bouncing single to left and a one hop line drive off the third baseman.

His present strength is easily noticable, and his short, quick stroke is well suited for consistent contact. He uses his strong hands and wrists to deliver the barrel quickly to the zone, allowing him to handle velocity well.

He played all three outfield spots during the game after starting as the DH. His future appears to be in either LF or CF, he is an excellent runner with a solid arm.

RYAN JOHNSON

Although he is only a 2015 graduate, Ryan was one of the most impressive offensive performers at the event. His left handed stroke is classic. He features rhythm to hit and great balance, along with a fluid and easy move through the zone.

He qualified for the home run derby in tough wind conditions for LHH, and then was the only LHH to put a homer on the board during the derby finals Saturday at Wrigley. In four plate appearances during the game, he reached base three times and scored a run.

From the OF, his arm worked loose and quick out front allowing the ball to leave his hand with life, and to carry on line to the target.

MICHAEL GETTYS

Michael started the game in CF, and hit in the two slot. He reached base twice in five trips to the plate, stole two bags and notched one run batted in.

On workout day, he showed bat speed and the ability to drive the ball – especially in the home run derby qualifier. He showed much of the same on Saturday morning in the derby finals, with several shots out onto Waveland Avenue.

His arm was the tops at the event for me, I had it right on with Alexander Paredes (National team OF) and easily above avg on the ML 20-80 scale.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

9/4/13 | 3:09pm

Home Run Derby Results
by Andy Ferguson
8/26/13 @ 1:57pm
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Following the workout for scouts on Friday at UIC, we held the qualification rounds for the home run derby. Every participating player (and pitcher) had the chance to qualify for one of the eight available slots at Wrigley Field on Saturday before the game. Left handed hitter, and right handed pitcher, Grant Holmes (Conway, SC) put on the most impressive display Friday, launching four bombs through a stiff wind blowing in from right field. We didn't know it at that time, but the jaw dropping displays of power were still a day away.

The finalists for the HR derby appear below, along with their Saturday home run totals:

NATIONAL TEAM

Chase Vallot
(6 HR – Rd. 1)
(2 HR – Finals)

Luke Dykstra
(5 HR)

Daz Cameron
(1 HR)

Grant Holmes
(0 HR)

AMERICAN TEAM

Jacob Gatewood
(6 HR – Rd. 1)
(3 HR – Finals)

Michael Gettys
(4 HR)

Alex Jackson
(3 HR)

Ryan Johnson
(1 HR)

This setup a final round showdown between Jacob Gatewood of the American team, and Chase Vallot of the National team – which Gatewood ended up winning 3 home runs to 2.

If there were any balls that scraped their way out, there may have only been one or two. The number of tape measure shots was impressive. Gatewood went halfway up the "Protect This House" banner in LCF, and Jackson put one three quarters of the way up the Baseball Factory banner just to the LF side of the UA banner. Gettys, Gatewood and Vallot launched several balls each over the left field bleachers and onto Waveland Avenue – I heard some people say they saw a ball Vallot hit land in one of the balconies across the street, and some say Gatewood did it too.

Only one phrase seems appropriate to sum the display of power we saw from these guys today…HOLY COW!

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

8/26/13 | 1:57pm

Thursday Bullpen Notes by Andy Ferguson 8/22/13 @ 6:47pm Back to Top
Sam Hentges It isn't very often you see a pair of 6-foot-6 left handers side by side, but it happened today – all thirteen feet of it. Sam Hentges (Mounds View HS – Shoreview, MN) used a combination of length and a high three quarters arm angle to generate excellent down plane on his pitches. His velocity is generated from leverage more than arm speed. David Peterson (Regis Jesuit HS – Denver, CO) featured a more athletic and up tempo delivery, but different type stuff. He works from more of a three quarters slot, and turns the ball across and down in the zone with arm side life. Make sure to watch lefty Carson Sands (North Florida Christian HS – Tallahassee, FL) on Saturday if you want to see an arm that really works. His delivery is fluid and balanced, with somewhat of a slower tempo that makes his arm speed really stand out. The ball got out his hand with great life, and with down plane. Touki Toussaint Keeping to the trend of lefties, Willie Rios (St. Bernard HS – Waterford, CT) showed off a four pitch mix – Fastball, change, curve and slider. I'm looking forward to his game outing to see how he uses each. Foster Griffin (First Academy – Orlando, FL) leveraged his fastball down in the zone, and was working on throwing his change up behind it. He keeps the same delivery and arm speed on the pitch, and has a great feel to let the grip do the work. A pair of righties with potentially electric stuff took their turns as well, though they both took it easy. Dylan Cease (Milton HS – Milton, GA) generates a lot of torque as he winds and unwinds his core, this certainly helps him generate an upper 90s fastballs and the tight spin on his breaking ball. Touki Toussaint (Coral Springs Christian HS – Coral Springs, FL) threw a short box, and he stayed under control and within himself very well. The result was the same video game type arm speed and stuff, but also a repeatable release point – and more consistent command as a result.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog	8/22/13 \| 6:47pm

(Out)Field of Dreams
by Andy Ferguson
8/21/13 @ 4:07pm
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Rounding out the position group introductions are the outfielders. This position was especially deep in the 2014 high school class, and you will see the cream of that crop this weekend. This group is flush with athletes first and foremost, so expect to see a lot of speed from these guys – and not just on the bases. Hands and barrels will work through the zone with speed, the ball will come off of the bat with speed, and arms will work through release with speed to help generate velocity and carry on throws,

Players listed below in order by jersey number, starting with the visiting American squad.

AMERICAN TEAM

#5 Monte' Harrison – OF, 6-3/200, R/R, Lee's Summit West HS, Lee's Summit, MO

Monte’ is one of the nation’s top athletes excelling on the baseball field as well as at wide receiver on the football field. He has a strong frame with quick-twitch actions and outstanding baseball tools. With plus speed and possessing outstanding arm strength, he can play all three outfield spots well. At the plate he has extremely quick and strong hands leading to plus bat speed and the potential for power to all fields. Monte’ is an extremely high ceiling prospect. Teammates with fellow UA AA Game player, Alex Lange. He is committed to play baseball and football at the University of Nebraska.

A two-sport star who excels as a wide receiver in football as well, Monte’ has an extremely high ceiling as a baseball prospect. His speed, arm strength and strong frame make him an intriguing athlete for scouts to watch at the Under Armour All-America Game this summer in Chicago.

#8 Marcus Wilson – OF, 6-2, 175, R/R, Junipero Serra HS, Los Angeles, CA

Marcus is a long, lean athlete with tremendous tools and serious upside. He glides in the outfield and has the speed and arm strength to play all three outfield spots. His swing is loose with excellent bat whip and a feel for the barrel. As he continues to mature his bat speed will result in power to all fields. His current tools translate to game play as shown when Marcus homered in the CIF Championship Game at Dodger Stadium last spring. This helped to bring Serra and former Under Armour All-American Dominic Smith the CIF title.

Marcus is the second player in the last two years to be selected to the Under Armour All-America Game from Junipero Serra High School, following in the footsteps of first round draft pick Dominic Smith. Marcus has tremendous tools including speed, arm strength and hitting ability. He should make a strong impact on the scouts in attendance at the Under Armour All-America Game this summer.

#22 Stone Garrett – OF, 6-2, 185, R/R, George Ranch HS, Sugar Land, TX

Stone is chiseled at 6’2”, 185 pounds with a wealth of tools. He is a 6.67 runner with the ability to play all three OF spots with his range and arm. At the plate, he generates outstanding bat speed leading to hard, loud contact. He drives the ball to all fields and is a special athlete.

It’s not often we find a player with plus speed and power. It’s this rare combination that Stone brings to the game, matched with the talent to play all three outfield positions. We look forward to watching Stone’s speed and power on display at Wrigley Field.

#32 Ryan Johnson – OF/1B, 6-3/215, L/R, College Station HS, College Station, TX

Ryan is one of two 2015 graduates invited to attend. He is a big, physical young man who can play either corner outfield spot as well as first base. His left-handed swing is clean and powerful with present power that will only increase with maturity. He has an advanced feel to hitting and is an extremely hard worker who should maximize his outstanding potential.

One of only two players invited to attend the Under Armour All-America Game from the 2015 high school graduating class, Ryan has an advanced feel for hitting. He has shown a clean, powerful stroke at the plate that will continue to develop. We are excited to see him perform this summer at Wrigley Field.

#33 Michael Gettys – OF/RHP, 6-2/205, R/R, Gainesville HS, Gainesville, GA

Michael is a physical young man who is another two-way prospect with outstanding athleticism. He is a plus runner with excellent instincts who handles centerfield with ease and will stay there at higher levels. In addition, he swings the bat with authority, showing bat speed combined with excellent barrel accuracy. On the mound he shows a three-pitch mix, led by his low 90s fastball and breaking ball that has already led to two no-hitters this spring. Michael is committed to the University of Georgia.

A two-way prospect with impressive athleticism, Michael excels on the mound, in centerfield and at the plate. Having thrown multiple no-hitters this spring for his high school team, he pounds the zone with a three-pitch mix including a low 90 mph fastball. His speed and instincts allow him to track down balls in the outfield with ease while wrecking havoc at the plate. Look for these talents to impress scouts at the Under Armour All-America Game.

NATIONAL TEAM

#8 Alexander Paredes – OF, 6-2/170, R/R, La Romana, Dominican Republic

Alexander is the top outfield prospect in the 2014 Dominican Republic class. He has a strong, lean frame that generates very good bat speed. His swing is well coordinated with advanced barrel accuracy for a young hitter. Defensively, Alexander has the arm and range to play any of the outfield spots, though he projects best in center.

With a strong frame, Alexander has the arm strength and range to play any position in the outfield. He has impressed our scouting staff with his bat speed and barrel accuracy at the plate. We are excited to see Alexander continue the strong history of talented players from the Dominican Republic, when he competes in the Under Armour All-America Game this summer.

#10 Corbin Martin – OF, 6-3/185, R/R, Cypress Ranch HS, Cypress, TX

Corbin is an athletic outfielder with a tall, lean frame at 6-3, 185 lbs. A 6.7 second runner in the 60-yard dash, he can play all three positions in the outfield, but profiles best in left. Corbin has an advanced approach at the plate with a simple right-handed swing that can handle velocity. He shows flashes of power that will continue to become more frequent. Corbin is committed to Texas A&M.

Corbin profiles best as a left fielder at the next level, but has the speed and arm strength to play all three outfield positions. With an advanced approach at the plate, it is clear that he can comfortably handle quality pitching. We are excited to see Corbin perform on the biggest of stages, at the Under Armour All-America Game this summer at Wrigley Field.

#24 Dazmon Cameron – OF, 6-1, 184, R/R, Eagle's Landing Christian Academy, McDonough, GA

Daz is a dynamic athlete with 5-tool potential. He plays centerfield where his speed and instincts allow him to cover plenty of ground, and will allow him to stay there at higher levels. At the plate, he has an advanced, rhythmic approach with lightning quick hands. His path is direct and level and the bat speed generated leads to present power with even more to come in the future. Daz has an outstanding ability to find the barrel consistently and can handle both velocity and off-speed stuff very well for a young hitter. Overall, this young 2015 prospect appears on track to follow his father Mike Cameron’s ML footsteps.

The son of former Major League player Mike Cameron, Daz has the ability to follow in his father’s footsteps. Only a rising junior, this 2015 high school graduate has 5-tool potential. He has an advanced approach at the plate with present power. We are excited to see Daz roaming around in centerfield at Wrigley this August for the Under Armour All-America Game.

#42 Darius Day – OF, 5-11/180, L/R, Simeon Career Academy, Chicago, IL

Darius is a quick-twitch athlete who has the range and instincts to play centerfield at the next level. He has plus speed (6.67 in the 60) and plus arm strength (92 mph) in the outfield to go along with advanced hitting tools. His left-handed stroke is short and quick with very few holes for a high school hitter. Darius is a potential middle-of-the-field defender who can hit at the top of a line-up.

We are excited to have Darius compete at the Under Armour All-America Game this summer in front of his hometown Chicago friends and family. With plus speed, hitting and arm strength, he has the tools to impress scouts on this national stage at Wrigley Field.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

8/21/13 | 4:07pm

The (Infield) Dirty Dozen
by Andy Ferguson
8/20/13 @ 8:57am
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Though you will see twelve different Under Armour All-Americans playing on the dirt Saturday at Wrigley Field, only seven are primary infielders. That leaves five guys that primarily play elsewhere, but also serve as quality infield defenders.

According to Dictionary.com (remember when we used to reference Webster's Dictionary instead?), versatile is an adjective that means:

Screen shot from Dictionary.com

Based on the above definition, versatile is certainly accurately used to describe our 2013 Under Armour All-American infielders. Even the primary guys are capable of playing multiple infield positions – those guys appear below, while the secondary guys either have been or will be introduced at their primary position.

Prior to the first pitch on Saturday 8/24, I'll post scheduled defensive alignments for both teams – so you will easily be able to follow these guys as they move around the field during the game.

NATIONAL TEAM

#4 Luke Dykstra – IF, 6-1/190, R/R, Westlake HS, Thousand Oaks, CA

Luke is an athletic infielder with a live body and fluid actions. At the plate he has quick strong hands that produce surprising power to all fields. Luke also has good bloodlines, as his father Lenny played Major League Baseball and his brother Cutter is currently in the minor leagues.

Our scouts continue to be impressed by Luke and his athletic actions in the infield. He also has strong hands that generate power to all fields. We are excited to see Luke take the field in Chicago this summer at the Under Armour All-America Game.

#5 Nick Gordon – IF/RHP, 6-1, 200, L/R, Olympia HS, Windermere, FL

Nick is an extremely talented two-way player as both a shortstop and right-handed pitcher. In the field, Nick is an instinctual defender who shows quick feet, soft hands and a plus arm. At the plate, his left-handed stroke is fluid and quick with outstanding barrel accuracy. As a pitcher, Nick has an athletic, repeatable delivery with low 90s velocity and a big curveball. The brother of Dee and the son of Flash, Nick appears primed to follow in their footsteps to a Major League career. He is committed to Florida State.

Nick is an amazing athlete who will be heavily scouted both as a right-handed pitcher and a shortstop. He throws in the low 90s, has quick feet at shortstop and an outstanding left-handed stroke at the plate. He really is the total package and will be fun to watch in this year’s Under Armour All-America Game.

#12 Alexis Pantoja – IF, 6-0/155, L/R, Puerto Rico Baseball Academy, Vega Alta, PR

Alexis is a talented middle infielder with natural actions at shortstop. He moves very well laterally, has excellent hands and on-line carry to his throws. As a hitter, Alexis has a loose, free left-handed stroke that results in line drives to all fields. Some more physical maturity will enhance all of his current tools.

A talented shortstop with good range and excellent hands, Alexis continues to impress our scouting staff with his tools. He uses a left-handed stroke to spray the baseball to all fields. We are excited to see him participate in the Under Armour All-America Game at Wrigley Field.

#23 Nelson Gomez – IF, 6-2/195, R/R, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Nelson is one of the top prospects in the Dominican Republic for the 2014 signing period. He has light tower power from the right side with the hitting ability to get to that power in games. He can play anywhere in the infield with reliable hands and excellent arm strength.

A top prospect from the Dominican Republic for the 2014 signing period, Nelson has tremendous power in his right-handed swing. A sure-handed infielder with a strong arm, he will be exciting to watch perform at the Under Armour All-America Game this summer at Wrigley Field.

AMERICAN TEAM

#4 Gregory Deichmann – IF, 6-2, 180, L/R, Brother Martin HS, Metairie, LA

Gregory is a left-handed hitting infielder who swings the bat with authority. His combination of bat speed and loft lead to loud contact and outstanding power. He is a reliable defender who has the range and arm necessary to play anywhere in the infield. Gregory is committed to LSU.

Gregory has shown the ability to play anywhere in the infield based on his range and arm strength. A left-handed hitter, he has tremendous power at the plate. We look forward to seeing him compete at the Under Armour All-America Game this August.

#13 Jacob Gatewood – IF/RHP, 6-5, 190, R/R, Redwood HS, Visalia, CA

Jacob is a tall athletic infielder with big power. His swing is loose and easy, but generates both bat speed and leverage. He drives balls to all parts of the park. In the field he shows smooth and easy actions with plenty of arm for the left side of the diamond. Jacob is committed to USC.

Jacob is a tall, athletic infielder who has demonstrated big power at the plate. He has a loose swing with bat speed and leverage, allowing him to drive the ball to all parts of the park. With a knack for making the game look easy he will be fun to watch at Wrigley Field this summer.

#26 Milton Ramos – IF, 6-1/160, R/R, Florida Christian HS, Hialeah Gardens, FL

Milton is a smooth, fluid shortstop who may be the best defender in the class of 2014. His hands are soft and sure, his feet are quick and efficient, and he has plenty of arm strength from all different angles across the diamond. He has a line drive stroke from the right side using the whole field, and rises to the occasion against quality pitching. Milton is committed to Florida Atlantic University.

With smooth actions at shortstop, Milton Is one of the best high school infielders in the nation. He uses a line-drive stroke to spray balls all over the field. A gamer who performs best against quality pitching, we are excited to see what he will produce at the Under Armour All-America Game this summer.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

8/20/13 | 8:57am

Back(stops) To The Future
by Andy Ferguson
8/19/13 @ 5:21pm
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OK, I'll admit it. I'm biased. You got me.

As a former catcher, my eyes are always drawn behind the plate. I often hear that people don't notice a good catcher until (or unless) he makes a mistake. I'm still not sure what I think about that, but mostly I think it means people aren't looking close enough.

There is no more demanding position on the field, mentally or physically. No other player handles the ball as often, has to know more about the other players on the field (teammates and opponents), and has to deal with the nicks and dings from foul tips off other hitter's bats. The pitcher-catcher relationship is special as well, there is no opportunity for players to work more closely together – and to more directly affect the outcome of a game.

It seems like it wasn't that long ago when we considered it enough for a catcher to be a defensive minded player that contributed offensively every now and then. Times have changed. We can thank the likes of Joe Mauer, Brian McCann, Buster Posey and Matt Wieters just to name a few.

Prospects behind the plate today are asked to display the arm and field tools, along with the hit and/or power tools. Often, the hit and power tools are so good that they may also profile at a corner infield position – as is the case with at least two Under Armour All-Americans below.

AMERICAN TEAM

#10 Alex Jackson – C/OF, 6-1, 200, Rancho Bernardo High School, Escondido, CA

Alex is a returning 2012 Under Armour All-American, making his second appearance in the game this summer. He is an outstanding young prospect with a strong present frame and an excellent set of tools. At the plate, his right-handed stroke generates serious raw power and he has shown the ability to center top level pitching on a consistent basis. Behind the plate he is a leader with strong hands and good carry to his throws. Overall this is the type of player that is a highly sought-after commodity for organizations.

Alex will be making history as a two-time Under Armour All-American, he is the first and only one so far. His right-handed stroke generates serious raw power and he is a leader behind the plate. We are happy to have him at the Under Armour All-America Game again this year.

#2 Tim Susnara – C, 6-0, 185, St. Francis High School, Redwood City, CA

Tim is one of the most polished all-around catchers in the country. His left-handed stroke is short and quick leading to hard contact to all fields with flashes of power. He receives well, has a high baseball IQ and is a leader from the catching position. He is committed to the University of Oregon.

A standout from California, Tim makes hard contact to all fields using a short, quick left-handed stroke at the plate. He is one of the most polished catchers in the country and demonstrates an impressive understanding of the game. We look forward to his performance at Wrigley Field in the Under Armour All-America Game.

NATIONAL TEAM

#7 Gilberto Rodriguez – C, 5-10, 180, Puerto Rico Baseball Academy, Juncos, PR

Perhaps the best defensive catcher in the entire 2014 class, Gilberto has standout catch and throw skills to go along with excellent receiving and blocking skills. His strong, durable frame is ideal for the position and his quick feet and exchange lead to consistent times to 2B in the 1.8s. At the plate, he has bat speed from both sides of the plate out of a raw approach. Some refinements will unlock his big power potential.

Gliberto is a standout catcher with tremendous skills behind the plate. His quick feet and strong arm lead to accurate throws to second based in the 1.80 second range. We are excited to see Gilberto perform at the Under Armour All-America Game, where he will clearly grab the scouts attention.

#25 Chase Vallot – C, 6-0, 205, St. Thomas More High School, Youngsville, LA

Chase is a strong, physical catcher with all-around tools. His right-handed swing is short and quick with a clean bat path. A combination of bat speed and leverage lead to his ability to drive balls to all parts of the park. Behind the plate he has excellent arm strength with on-line carry to his throws, and shows good athleticism from his durable body. Overall, Chase has an advanced, run-producing bat at a premium position. He is committed to Mississippi State University.

Chase is a strong, physical catcher with excellent arm strength behind the plate. An athlete with the ability to hit for power, we are excited to see Chase perform on the biggest stage in front of scouts and fans at the Under Armour All-America Game this summer at Wrigley Field.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

8/19/13 | 5:21pm

More CG's Please by Andy Ferguson 8/19/13 @ 4:07pm Back to Top
Since Randy Johnson notched 12 complete games in 1999 with the Arizona Diamondbacks, only once has a pitcher posted double digit CG's in a season. "Big Game" (or "Complete Game") James Shields threw 11 complete games (4 were CG shutouts) in 2011 with the Tampa Bay Rays. Alex Lange This season, as of August 19, Adam Wainwright (St. Louis Cardinals) and Chris Sale (Chicago White Sox) are tied for the Major League lead with 4 CG each. Clearly, more care is being taken with pitchers today. Pitch counts and innings limits have contributed to fewer CG, but so has the growth of specialty bullpen roles. Today's starting pitchers in the big leagues definitely have the stuff to get through ML lineups three and four times, but it is far less common today than it was in years past. BaseballReference.com has a great table that illustrates how this changed. The format of the 2013 Under Armour All-America Game, powered by Baseball Factory calls for pitchers to throw one inning each. This All-Star Game type setup allows guys to cut it loose for an inning with no need to keep anything in reserve for later innings. However, if needed these guys below certainly could call upon special outings from their 2013 high school seasons to help put some more hitters in the book. Micah Miniard Right handers Joe Gatto (St. Augustine Prep – Hammonton, NJ) and Grant Holmes (Conway High School – Conway, SC) tossed 1 hit gems this season. Gatto shut down Mainland HS, while Holmes punched out 10 in a state playoff victory. Grant Hockin (Damien High School – Pomona, CA) and Alex Lange (Lee's Summit West High School – Lee's Summit, MO) turned in 2 hitters of their own. Both right handers, Hockin fanned 10 and recorded a shutout while Lange notched 9 strikeouts. Left hander Carson Sands (North Florida Christian – Tallahassee, FL) hurled a complete game shutout this season. He allowed just 3 hits and notched 13 strikeouts over 7 innings of work. Not to be outdone, 6-foot-7 righty Micah Miniard (Boyle County High School – Danville, KY) pitched a no hitter against Woodford County, the defending state champs in Kentucky. While we won't see any CG's at Wrigley this weekend, we will see a parade of talented pitching prospects to the mound each half inning.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog	8/19/13 \| 4:07pm

Watch Out Waveland!
by Andy Ferguson
8/17/13 @ 4:09pm

Wrigley Field (Image captured from Google Maps)

Located on the North Side of Chicago in the Lake View community area (in a neighborhood nicknamed "Wrigleyville"), Wrigley Field is bordered to the north by Waveland Avenue (top center of image above) – which runs from East to West between N Sheffield Ave and N Clark St, and directly behind the left field bleachers. For just about any right handed hitter on the planet, going deep onto Waveland Ave would place at or near the top of their home run bucket list (for me personally, it is tops – and I only missed it by a few feet).

During the magical home run race of 1998, Sammy Sosa famously hit home run number 61 of the season some 450+ feet over the left center field fence and onto Waveland Avenue. He went on to hit number 62 in the ninth inning of the same game, making him the second person in the span of only five days (Mark McGwire did it on September 8) to break the record of Roger Maris that stood for 37 years until mid September of 1998.

Fast forward to August 24, 2013 – almost 15 years later – and you'll find the 2013 Under Armour All-America Game, powered by Baseball Factory. The sights of these young sluggers will certainly be set beyond the famous ivy covered walls. In fact, twelve players specifically noted a home run (or home runs) as the highlight of their 2013 High School season. Not all are right handed, but if you take a look at the right side of the image above you'll see N Sheffield Ave waiting beyond the right field bleachers – giving the left handers a target of their own.

Gilberto Rodriguez

Switch hitting catcher Gilberto "Jun" Rodriguez (pictured at left, Puerto Rico Baseball Academy – Juncos, PR) homered once from each side of the plate during a double header this season. For the day, he went 6 for 8, stole two bases, and threw out three would be base stealers.

Left handed hitters Gregory Deichmann (Brother Martin High School – Metairie, LA) and Ryan Johnson (College Station High School – Texas) went deep twice and drove in 5 runs. Deichmann did it with a 3 for 3 day, Johnson went 4 for 4, both were named All-State.

Right handed hitting outfielders Dazmon Cameron (Eagles Landing Christian Academy – McDonough, GA, and a 2015 graduate like Ryan Johnson above) and Stone Garrett (George Ranch High School – Sugar Land, TX) had 2 home run games as well. Cameron also doubled, and drove in four runs. Garrett's two blasts came in a 4-0 victory over Antascocita High School.

Luke Dykstra (Westlake High School – Thousand Oaks, CA), Michael Gettys (Gainesville High School – Georgia) and Nick Gordon (Olympia High School – Windermere, FL) all flirted with hitting for the cycle this season. Dykstra collected all the extra base hits he needed with a double, triple and home run – only the single eluded him. Gettys posted a 4 for 4 with two singles, a triple, a home run and 6 RBI – only a double short of the cycle. Gordon was a triple short of the cycle after a day that featured two singles, two doubles and a home run.

Monte Harrison

Three players' long ball efforts led helped lead their team to state championships in 2013. Dylan Cease (Milton High School – Georgia) notched a win on the mound versus Parkview, and then homered in the next game to send his team to the state championship game agsint Roswell. Alex Jackson (Rancho Bernardo High School – Escondio, CA) posted a home run and 3 RBI in the Open Championship Division victory. Marcus Wilson (Juniperro Serra High School – Los Angeles, CA) doubled and went deep at Dogder Stadium in the CIF Division Championship game.

Lee's Summit West High School (Missouri) three sport star Monte Harrison (pictured at right) noted a walk-off home run as his 2013 season highlight. Harrison is headed to the Univeristy of Nebraska to play football (WR) and baseball.

Wrigley Field is known as one of the most unpredictable parks in the Major Leagues, due to unusual wind patterns. Hitters will be hoping for a south-southwest wind on August 24, winds from this direction are "blowing out" and would be favorable for displays of home run power.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

8/17/13 | 4:09pm

Punching (Out) Their Tickets
by Andy Ferguson
8/17/13 @ 1:41pm
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Willie Rios

Cameron Varga

Alex Verdugo

Michael Kopech

Apparently, there were some very bad days to be a hitter during the 2013 high school season. If you happened to be standing in against any of these Under Armour All-Americans on these particular days, you certainly know what I mean.

Cameron Varga (Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy – Ohio), Alex Verdugo (Sahuaro High School – Tucson, AZ) and Willie Rios (St. Bernards High School – Waterford, CT) each turned in 18 K performances earlier this year. Varga and Rios punched out 18 over seven innings of work, while Verdugo recorded all 18 outs through six innings of work via strikeout.

The playoffs in Texas featured another whiff worthy performance, this time with Michael Kopech on the mound. He fanned 15 on the way to a shutout of his district rival, and secured the first playoff win for Mount Pleasant High School in 11 years.

Watch out Nolan Ryan, there are some up and comers chasing your record of 5,714 strikeouts.

Under Armour All-America Game Blog

8/17/13 | 1:41pm

@Jake_Gatewood2 by @BaseballFactory 8/17/13 @ 9:03am Back to Top
Just saw the commercial for the Under Armour All American game on MLB Network!! Can't wait to be in Chicago! @UnderArmour @BaseballFactory — Jacob Gatewood (@Jake_Gatewood2) August 17, 2013

Under Armour All-America Game Blog	8/17/13 \| 9:03am

@Steve_Bernhardt by @BaseballFactory 8/16/13 @ 6:43pm Back to Top
1 week from now we will be watching the UA All-Americans work out at UIC. Looking forward to seeing all that talent. #UAGame — Steve Bernhardt (@Steve_Bernhardt) August 16, 2013

Under Armour All-America Game Blog	8/16/13 \| 6:43pm

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The tour experience.

At your Under Armour Baseball Factory tryout, you’ll be evaluated by our professional coaches, get tips to improve your game, and meet other players from your area.

Experience a tryout

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The video definitely had an impact.”

Division I Head Coach on player Chris Givin

Partners

¿De Dónde Eres? by Andy Ferguson 8/15/13 @ 2:30pm Back to Top
Translated to English, ¿De dónde eres? is an informal way to ask "Where are you from"? With five native Spanish speakers on our rosters this year, it seems a fitting title to a post about where our players come from. The 2013 group of Under Armour All-Americans consists of players from (2) countries, (14) different states and (1) United States Territory. The traditional warm weather and talent rich states of California and Florida are tied atop the leaderboard with six players each, followed by hotbeds Texas and Georgia with four and three respectively. In addition, this group features four Carribean players, two each from the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. The complete list appears below: California (6) Florida (6) Texas (4) Georgia (3) Dominican Republic (2) Louisiana (2) Missouri (2) Puerto Rico (2) Colorado (1) Connecticut (1) Illinois (1) Kentucky (1) Minnesota (1) New Jersey (1) Ohio (1) South Carolina (1)

Under Armour All-America Game Blog	8/15/13 \| 2:30pm