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Western PA College Prospect Showcase Analysis: RHP Thomas McCloskey

January 13, 2014

By Greg Williams
PA Director of Scouting

Thomas McCloskeyThere were only three unsigned seniors in attendance at the Western PA College Prospect showcase and RHP Thomas McCloskey (Meadville High School) took full advantage. The 6-foot-1, 175-pound RHP, coming off a 3-4 record with a 2.98 ERA in 42.1 innings of work as a junior, showcased some of the potential for development that he possesses.

McCloskey sat 77-79 out of a high 3/4 arm slot with a long, loose throwing motion. He gets out over his front leg well and does not have any wasted movement in his delivery. His fastball showed solid arm side run and late life. The lanky righty has just begun his winter preparations for his senior season on the mound and is likely to sit in the low 80s by April.

McCloskey also showed a 68 mph changeup thrown at near fastball arm speed with some sinking action and an 11/5 breaking curveball at 64 mph that requires more development.

McCloskey's 2013 season was highlighted by a perfect game effort against Slippery Rock HS on April 15. He utilized a low 80's fastball with cut action, a developing slider and a changeup to keep the Rockets off balance for seven innings. What was most impressive about McCloskey's gem was that he registered just four strikeouts. He induced 12 ground ball outs in the game and used just 63 pitches in the 3-0 victory. His long, loose arm action coupled with a frame that could still fill out significantly makes McCloskey an intriguing follow this spring.

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