From the Hip: West Coast Procase Impact 10
June 7, 2023
Los Angeles, CA – The PBR Procase West brought together the most talented MLB Draft *underclass draft prospects to compete at the legendary Dedeaux Field on the campus of Southern California. Although the page has not been turned on the ‘23 MLB Draft, the summer circuit for next year’s has begun, and the many scouts in attendance were set to begin “double duty” (and triple duty with some of the ‘25s). The many talented rising seniors of the 2024 class showcased their skills across a full workout followed by a game. Every player in attendance was a draft prospect. Below are just some that made an impact in this look.
+ STATS
 |
Nick Montgomery C / 1B / Cypress, CA / 2024Arizona State recruit. Built with an extra-large frame at 6-foot-4, 210-pounds, Montgomery is one of the most imposing players in the country, and provided good reason for that with his performance. Blowing away the rest of the event with the highest average exit velocity (98.3 mph) in batting practice (102.3 mph max), the right-handed slugger blasted balls to all fields as an audible hush came over the crowd of scouts with each new swing. Setting up with a sturdy base and slight crouch, he loads the barrel into a pronounced power position with a slight leg hang before quick hands and ultra-strong wrists turn the barrel with astounding speed through the zone on an uphill path. This look shot Montogmery into the upper echelon of prospects in the class with regards to raw power, and given the production that he would later enjoy in game action, he has a chance to continue building a case for himself as a marquee prospect on the west coast with a strong summer. Perhaps most intriguing about Montgomery’s day was when he went behind the plate during the game. On the bag with easy carry and fluid transfer/footwork at 1.95 between innings, he also was sub-2.0 in live action, and exhibited soft hands with natural receiving capabilities. In a class that is still waiting for more catching prospects to present themselves, Montgomery immediately jumped into an elite category with his display at USC.
|