By Nathan Rode
National Supervisor

The 2014 All-Star Futures Game took place Sunday in Minneapolis as part of this week’s festivities. I love watching that game, not just because it gives a glimpse of future major leaguers, but because I saw so many of the players on the U.S. team when they were amateurs. It’s a chance to see how much players have developed, whether they have met or exceeded expectations so far. 3B Joey Gallo (Rangers) has always had big-time power, but in high school he didn’t always tap into because he swung and missed so much. He’s still prone to the strikeout, but it’s obvious he has made some adjustments that help him hit for a higher average. We won’t know for certain until he reaches and spends some time in the big leagues, but he’s come a long way in the last couple years. OF Jesse Winker (Reds) can put on a power show of his own. I will always remember watching one of his batting practice sessions on a backfield at Team USA’s complex. He was showing easy power for a 17-year-old and he always had a sweet swing. It’s translating for him in pro ball so far. He was also a lot of fun to cover because he plays with energy, has fun on the field and is never short on words.

Prep Baseball Report puts on the Future Games, a slight variation on the name with an even younger twist. Taking place July 30-August 2 this year, the Future Games will showcase some of the top 2016 and 2017 players from the PBR coverage area. Be sure to keep an eye out for coverage of that event, which is heavily recruited by Division I programs.

Now, let’s answer some questions…

It's early but what do you think about UCLA 2016 recruiting class? Looks to be about four, first or second round draft picks.
I'm not going to anoint anyone in UCLA's 2016 recruiting class a first rounder just yet, but the Bruins have a strong group of verbal commitments—which is no surprise. John Savage and his staff have done a fantastic job in recent years getting talented players to commit. A scout once told me, "If you're at a game and think a player is good, look at his commitment. If it's UCLA, you're right." Because much of my coverage is centered on the draft, I only get limited looks at underclassmen and haven't seen all of the 2016s currently verbally committed to the Bruins.