On the Hunt: Catchers (7/3)
July 3, 2017
By Shooter Hunt
National Crosschecker
@ShooterHunt
Talented catchers continue to showcase strong receiving, throwing, and hitting skills this summer, and On the Hunt features seven next level candidates this week. Each of the players showcases the ability to really catch and throw along with advanced receiving skills. Some feature future power at the plate while others show advanced athleticism and quick hands. Each has continued to get better with many still with room to grow towards their high ceiling. States represented this week are Colorado, Illinois, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.
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Tate Ballestero C / OF / Morristown, NJ / 2019Rankings State Rank:19 POS:2
Ballestero was one of the standouts, for me, at the Garden State Underclass Showcase in New Jersey. At 6-foot-3, 185-pounds, he already possesses a strong frame with room to add. He showed off a level to uphill path from both sides of the plate, and had easy rhythm with his hand load. His balance during batting practice was impressive, and he was controlled from both sides to show off a mature couple of round, but also let loose to get some balls up in the air to demonstrate a chance for future power. Even more impressive about Ballestero was the work he put in behind the plate. He has soft hands, and loose hips that allow him to present a wide target and receive well. However, it is his strong arm, and smooth transfer that will give him a chance to vault into becoming one of the top catchers in the 2019 class. Look for Ballestero to be watched closely this summer, and especially at the Future Games in August.
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