Top 10 Player Profiles of 2017: No. 8 Marius Balandis
December 20, 2017
Over the last few weeks we have counted down the 2017 caldendar year with a look at the top ten viewed profiles of 2017. After combing through our google analytics, we have compiled a list of the ten most visited profiles, by you, the readers, in 2017.
Coming from Lithuania to America over the winter 2016, RHP Marius Balandis (St. Laurence) burst on to the scene in 2017 for St. Laurence. A member of the Lithuanian National Team, Balandis ran his fastball up to 94 mph at the 2017 Super 60. The No. 17 ranked prospect in Illinois' Class of 2017 and No. 298 overall, Balandis currently plays at Iowa Western CC.
No. 8 Marius Balandis
Scouting Report
4.1.17 - Iowa Western CC recruit. 6-foot-2, 191-pound right-handed pitcher, athletic frame with room for continued physical development. Currently ranked No. 7 in Illinois’ 2017 class, No. 100 overall. The Lithuanian national was making his second high school start in the United States, first in Illinois. Dominated an overmatched Maine South team during St. Laurence’s 9-0 victory. Pitched five no-hit innings while striking out 11 and walking five. Other than a sac bunt, the first 14 batters either struck out or walked. Sat 87-90 through three innings, touching 91 once on a strikeout. Pitched at 86-88 in the fourth and fifth. Ball comes out of hand with ease - certainly a lot less effort when he dialed it up to 93-94 at the Super 60 in early February. Consistently missed gloveside with fastball; when delivery was on time, fastball flashed arm-side life. Also wrinkled in a handful of 68-70 mph curveballs, early break with occasional depth; and a few 80-mph changeups, two of which had late splitter-like tumble action. Quick, athletic arm, calm overall demeanor on the mound.