By Steve Nielsen

Today’s Unsigned Senior Spotlight is on Jake Herron. Herron is a Class of 2013 graduate of Joliet West HS. Last year Herron put together a solid season on the mound, posting a 0.79 ERA with 99 strikeouts over 71 1/3 innings pitched. Herron's upside proves that he has all the ability to improve upon that in 2013.

Herron is a strong-bodied 6-foot-2, 190-pound right-handed pitcher who impresses with his feel for three pitches.  He demonstrates rhythm and tempo on the mound, throwing from an over the top slot. His arm works with little effort, leading us to believe that he has more in the tank. With a strong body and easy arm action it’s hard to put a ceiling on his potential. His fastball sat in the 81-83 mph range and he consistently throws it for strikes with movement.  His curveball looks to be a legitimate out-pitch, as it demonstrates tight spin and late break, thrown in the 67-70 mph range. His changeup also was a solid pitch, at 71-74 mph, with some arm-side sink.

Look for Jake Herron to be one of the top pitchers in his area in 2013.