By Shooter Hunt
National Crosschecker

 

In a new segment at the state level called, In the Weeds, PBR National Crosschecker, Shooter Hunt, takes a look at uncommitted players regardless of class whose skills and intangibles sometimes get missed in a showcase setting, but whose value to a good team at the next level is immeasurable. Some of the players included in this segment are under the radar, others have been overlooked, and some are late bloomers and fast-rising. Whatever the reason, our boots-on-the-ground scouting staff has identified many uncommitted prospects who can thrive with the right fit at some collegiate level. This week, In the Weeds, takes a look at players from Kentucky who have shown advancements coming out of the winter, and have the skills necessary to play at some level in college.

 

Matthew Craven, RHP, Butler Traditional HS, KY, 2018
Craven has a long, lean pitcher’s build at 6-foot-3, 165-pounds with plenty of room to fill out in the future. While his body may still be developing strength, Craven’s arm produces a fastball that runs up to 90 mph that he shows command of to both sides of the plate with. Craven’s motion is efficient and repeatable, and he appears to get the most out his ability without being max effort, and actually does not show too much effort at all. Remaining linear down the mound, Craven immediately points his front shoulder up while his right arm reaches straight back before coming through, with quickness, out of a high ¾ slot. Right now, Craven’s secondary offerings are behind his fastball. His curveball (69-71) shows gradual 11/5 shape, and lacks the conviction that he throws his fastball with. However, there is some tightness to the spin, and has a possibility of becoming a better pitch in the future. Craven’s changeup (76-79) has solid speed differential from his fastball and is thrown with similar arm speed. It is still a developing pitch, but has a chance to find more movement in the future with some grip changes given his arm slot. Overall, Craven has the frame and arm strength that should intrigue many schools, and should he make strides with his secondary pitches, could become a starter at some level.