By Steve Nielsen
Scouting Supervisor - Wisconsin/Illinois

As freshman around the state begin to participate in their first high school practices and soon enough, games, we take a look at the top 2018 prospects from the Fox Cities Preseason ID. Also look for Wisconsin's 2018 player rankings to be launched soon with some of the names you may see here.

Top 2018 Prospects

1. Max Alba, RHP/1B, Franklin, 2018
Young prospect with huge ceiling, highly projectable frame, long slender build, 6-foot-4, 170-pound left-handed hitting two-way prospect. Currently shows more upside on the mound, although bat really projects as well, average first base defender. Works from a full windup, clean delivery, tall and fall, stays online, good landing and direction, athletic finish. Arm action is short, over the top slot, quick arm that projects well. Fastball is mostly straight, four seam finish, 82-83 mph, pounded the zone. Throws slider that has downward action, occasionally backs up, 72-75 mph, throws aggressively with fastball arm speed. Sinking changeup shows promise, 72-74 mph, throws aggressively. Hits from the left side, balanced stance, short stride, good balance through contact. Short path, lacks extension, slight pull side hitter, hits with rhythm, fast bat, projects well with the bat. 89 mph exit velocity from the tee. Defensively showed average actions at first base, athletic around the bag, shows confidence. Short over the top arm action, 77 mph across the diamond. Ran the 60 at 7.52. High follow 2018 prospect, will be one of the top prospects in Wisconsin’s 2018 class.