2014 Prospect Watch: Khristian Reynolds, Avon HS
November 15, 2011
Reynolds is a sophomore that shows poise, maturity, and talent far beyond his age. Troy Drosche, Avon High School’s head coach, gave high praise when it came to Reynolds.
“Khristian is exactly the type of player that you want on your team. Academically, he is at the top of his class with a 3.8 GPA, and we know Khristian can be counted on to do all the little things that is required in our program. He takes pride in giving his best effort at every drill we have in practice. His hands and footwork are exceptional, but his competitiveness separates him from many players.”
“He will be an asset to any major D-1 college baseball program. With his skill set, work ethic, and passion for the game, he has a tremendous future. ”
Reynolds has attended multiple PBR Indiana events where he showcased plus defensive actions, soft hands, good range and a strong arm. He projects to be a middle infielder at the next level, but due to his arm strength has the ability to become a successful pitcher.
On the mound Reynolds shows a fastball consistently at 82-85 mph, along with a plus breaking ball at 64-66 mph. He also throws a second off speed pitch, a changeup, for a strike at 73-76 mph.
At the plate he possesses a strong bat, displaying a good load and gets to extension well. Reynolds has the ability to hit to all fields with pop.
Despite the success and talent he has already shown, Reynolds is well aware there are things to improve on in order to play at the next level. When asked what he needs to improve on the most, he was quick to point out his speed.
“I believe my improvement needs to be speed on the bases. Overall, I think I am a very smart base runner, but my speed is not where I want it to be. I also would like to improve on hitting for a higher average this year as well as becoming more comfortable on the mound and being able to go further in games. I am currently working hard in the off season in the weight room to build strength and size.”
Reynolds is expected to be the starting shortstop this upcoming spring for Avon, while hitting in the top third of the line-up. Avon lost several key contributors from last season, and Reynolds is expected to fill the void as a vocal leader for the team. Reynolds understands that responsibility and is willing to take that on.
” I want to become an established leader on the team. Because of the loss of 6 key seniors, our team will be somewhat inexperienced, so I consider leadership a strong point. I also expect to become more fluid and more comfortable and competitive at the varsity level, and do all I can to help my team become successful.”
Reynolds understands that hard work and dedication key components on making it to the next level.
“Hard work and 100% effort all the time is the best advice I have been given. I’ve been told that college scouts learn more about you during your warm up before a game than they do in the game just because they see you do more. You’re always being evaluated whether on the field or off.”
Look for Reynolds to be a key contributor as a sophomore this upcoming spring for Avon HS. He expects to be the starting shortstop and increase his innings on the mound. After the high school season, Reynolds will once again play for the Indiana Bulls 16U team.