Top Ten Profiles of 2021: No. 9 JD Rogers

December 22, 2021
Indiana Staff

Current freshman outfielder at Vanderbilt, JD Rogers (Carmel HS, 2021) had the ninth most viewed player profile in 2021. Rogers was ranked No. 4 in Indiana and No. 142 in the national rankings his senior year. At 5-foot-10, 185 pounds, Rogers has elite speed (6.53-60) with a strong arm from the outfield (94 mph). A left-handed hitter that is known for his plate discipline, he works gap-to-gap with flashes of power potential.

No. 9 JD Rogers

Scouting Report

2/07/21: CF JD Rogers (IN) checked all boxes with his performance at the Super 60, and is sure to have some scouts following him closely this spring. Well-known for his defensive prowess in center field, the Vanderbilt recruit posted one of the top 60-yard dash times (6.53) and unleashed strong (94 mph) throws with plenty of carry. But it was his offensive performance that stood out even more. The fall had seen Rogers, a left-handed hitter, more spread out utilizing a minimalist stride, but coming out of the winter he showcased more of a leg-hang that allowed him to build even more momentum through impact. That change helped the output metrics tick up including a max 105.26 mph exit velocity and max distance of 401 feet. Known more for his plate discipline and ability to work gap-to-gap from the top of the order, the flash of power potential and outputs in the batting practice setting should be enough to grab the attention of MLB scouts as to what Rogers’ upside might hold. Built with lean, defined strength throughout a 5-foot-10, 185-pound frame, there is still room to continue adding strength which should boost the power production even more. Overall, it was a crisp performance throughout that likely left scouts wanting to see more this spring.

9/13/20: Vanderbilt recruit. Rogers was ultra-conservative hitting in the leadoff spot for Team Indiana as he patiently waited for pitches deep into counts. Sporting an athletically-muscular, 5-foot-9, 178-pound frame, the left-handed hitter sets up wider in a crouched base. The hands flow freely down and back before stopping as the weight transfers to the front foot with a longer stride. There is impressive quickness to the hands with a direct path and intent to drive the ball to the back side gap. At times, the bat got out of the zone quickly which caused some swing-and-miss throughout the weekend, but there is still lots to like. A gifted athlete with speed and ball-skills, Rogers has a chance to stick in centerfield long-term. Making the most of his speed, Rogers swiped seven bags on the weekend.