MLB Bloodlines Run Deep For Darren Baker At Last Weekend’s National Tryout in Kentfield, CA
Darren Baker
Infielder Darren Baker (Granite Bay, CA) of Jesuit High School recorded the fastest 60-yard dash time we saw over the weekend. His 6.70 placed him on the 2017 class leaderboard, and it shows that hard work does indeed pay off. Darren’s impressive time on Sunday is a full second faster than what he ran back in 2013 when he recorded a 7.74 at the Baseball Factory’s California Select Training and Competition event.
While his 60 time is getting lower, Darren’s other measurable and scouting grades have continued to climb higher. His raw velocity has gone from 71 mph up to 85 mph and his hitting and fielding grades have skyrocketed. Of course, the University of California commitment knows a thing or two about player development. His father is Major League Manager Dusty Baker who has the Nationals off to a great start this season. Who knows, we may see Darren playing for his dad at the highest level one day.
A few 2018 grads made their way onto the 60-yard dash leaderboard with sub-7 times as well. Under Armour Pre-Season All-American Tahj Cunningham (Tallahassee, FL) ran a 6.93 at the Florida event while fellow 2018 Josh Bedell-Murray (Fernandina Beach, FL) ran an identical 6.93 and 2018 Ronnie Smith (Quincy, FL) ran a few ticks better posting a 6.87. In California, 2018 Dane Goodman (Ross, CA) ran a 6.96 to also qualify with the leaders.
Hard hitting 2019 Ethan Thompson was the only member of his class to crack the 60 leaderboard over the weekend. He ran a 7.07 time and has an intriguing power/speed combination that will need to be followed closely in the coming years.
The Under Armour Baseball Factory National Tryout Tour is rolling through all 50 states. Tryouts are held for players ages 12-14 and 14-18. Don’t miss your opportunity to Be Discovered.
Register online for an Under Armour Baseball Factory National Tryout near you or call (800) 641-4487.
