Team Pennsylvania Players Who Impressed at Midwest Future Games
August 12, 2012
Team Pennsylvania returned from the Midwest Future Games with two ties, a loss and much to be proud of. Every prospect on the 15 man roster found a way to contribute during the course of the weekend. Two Pennsylvania players to be singled out for their performances in PBR Plus articles are Brendan McKay (LHP/1B/OF) and Jamie Switalski (3B/RHP).
Brendan McKay (Blackhawk), the No. 2 ranked player in Pennsylvania's Class of 2014, went into the Midwest Future Games as a household name in western Pennsylvania. He left Illinois with his name being known by every coach in attendance. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound left-hander did not dissapoint at the Future Games. In four innings of work, he struck out eight, allowed one hit and no runs. McKay displayed an effortless 83-86 mph fastball that had good late life. McKay commanded the strike zone working both sides of the plate effectively. His ability to command three pitches, and a willingness to throw any pitch in any count adds to his promise. His plus 72-74 mph curveball was a dominant pitch against both right handed and left handed hitters.
McKay had an impressive round of batting practice and a triple to the center field wall in game one. His actions in the field and at the plate project him as a potential two-way player at the next level.
Jamie Switalski (Pine Richland), the No. 31 ranked player in Pennsylvania's Class of 2014, was not nearly the household name McKay was going into the Future Games, but his performance raised some eyebrows and helped his stock rise significantly. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound Switalski had a successful weekend going 3-for-6 with 2 RBI at the plate. On the mound he topped out at 84 mph. He had a solid round of batting practice and showed good carry on his throws across the diamond from third base (80 mph).