Player Spotlight: Kelly and Langston

August 26, 2015

By: Zac Bottoms
Arkansas Scouting Director

It is always good to see players get the opportunity to play at the next level this week, 2017 RHP/OF Austin Kelly committed to the University of Arkansas while 2016 OF Zach Langston committed to University of Central Arkansas. Both players were high on our radar with Kelly ranked 6^th in the 2017 class and Langston ranking 12^th in the 2016 class. Here is our complete breakdown on both players.

2017, Austin Kelly, RHP/OF, Bryant HS
Kelly is a 6-foot-1 190-pound RHP with a large frame and a physical build. His fastball sits 86-89 mph with late life through the strike zone. He threw a slider 78-80 mph with erratic break but at times was sharp with late 10/4 action. Overall a big arm with some upside, as he matures and cleans up some timing issues he will throw harder and strikes on a consistent basis. He is an advanced athlete that runs a 6.9 in the 60. He works through the baseball with a fluid exchange and a strong arm. Offensively he uses physical strength to push the bat through the zone. He has a line drive swing that stays in the hitting zone for a long time.

2016, Zach Langston, OF, Batesville HS
Langston is a 5-foot-11 175-pound outfielder with a medium frame and an athletic build. He runs a 6.87 in the 60. Defensively he plays through the baseball with a fluid exchange with a strong arm. He throws the ball 87 mph from the outfield. Offensively he has an advanced feel for the barrel, consistently driving the balls during games and in batting practice. He starts from an athletic stance with a smooth load, he attacks the baseball with fast bat speed and a slight uphill bat path. He maintains his rhythm and balance through extension. Overall Langston is an advanced high school player at phases of the game and should transition well to the college game.

Player Spotlight: Kelly and Langston

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