New York Games Spotlight: Kenny Cruz, OF, SOTA HS, NY (2016
June 15, 2015
Dan Cevette
Director, New York
Name: Kenny Cruz
High School: SOTA
Grad Year: 2016
Position: OF
Projects As: OF
Cruz exploded onto the scene this winter boasting several high-level, raw tools that project as above average. Recently Cruz was invited to the Area Code Games tryout and has made it through the first cut. His only question mark has been will he hit good pitching at the next-level - he has not faced many above average arms. At the Area Code tryouts he answered some of those doubts by putting on an impressive BP display, showing off above average bat-speed and strength. If his bat continues to improve your looking at a special player.
Scouting Reports
2/15 - Cruz stands an impressive 6-foot-2, 200-pounds with an athletic, pro-size body. From the outfield he moves extremely athletic, can track balls with ease – evidenced by his 6.63 60 yard dash. Highly athletic prospect, Cruz keeps the ball in front of his body, uses a cow hop, transfer is slow but hand speed is quick and arm is becoming more fluid. 84 mph arm strength from the OF with good carry. At the plate Cruz carries a big stick, and swings like a grown man. His 92 mph exit velocity only tells half the story, during bp he put on an impressive display attacking the ball out in front. Short path to the ball, slightly inclined path, producing power. Prospect on the climb.
12/21 - Cruz stands an impressive 6-foot-2, 200-pounds with an athletic, above average body. At the plate his setup is wide and relaxed. On the pitch he strides forward, slight open toe, drives his hands powerfully inside the ball (evidenced from his 87 mph exit velocity with wood-bat) short path, barrel slightly inclined through the zone, explodes on the ball out in front. He uses great extension with a high balanced finish. Next-level with the bat. From the outfield he fields the ball glove side, clean transfer. He uses a long-back arm action, needs some cleaning up, throws from an over-the-top slot, arm strength at 83 mph with carry. Cruz is highly athletic, ran a 6.78 60 yard dash, he is still a bit raw but all the high-end tools are there. Chance to be a big-time prospect.
Stories On Cruz
- New York Preseason All-2016: 1st Team - Mar 28, 2015
- Preseason All-State: OF Analysis From Feb. 15th - Feb 25, 2015
- New York Insider: Top Performers From Feb. 15th All-State Showcase - Feb 23, 2015
- Sneak Peek: Outfielders Attending Feb. 15th All-State Event - Feb 11, 2015
- Preseason All-State Player Spotlight: Kenny Cruz, OF, SOTA HS, NY (2016) - Jan 31, 2015
- Artistic Kenny Cruz (NY) Sculpting A Future In Baseball - Jan 22, 2015
- The Hotlist: Class Of 2016 Winter Standouts - Jan 14, 2015
- New York Pro Clinic - Showcase: Outfield Analysis From Dec. 21 - Dec 23, 2014