Commitment Corner: 2016 RHP/SS Thomas Koide (West Morris Mendham)

January 28, 2016

Dan Cevette
Director, New Jersey

Name: Thomas Koide
High School: West Morris Mendham
State Rank: 174
Position: RHP/SS
Commitment: Dickinson

Scouting Report
Koide is 5-foot-9 RHP/SS who displays excellent athleticism in all aspects of his game, starting with a 6.92 60-yard dash. Offensively, Koide hit from a slightly open stance and a small leg kick. He had some back load and a short compact stroke. He had a level swing-plane and good extension and showed well in batting practice; spraying gap-to-gap line drives. He did cut off some swings, pulling off the baseball but when he stays through the hitting zone, he made hard contact. He displayed solid foot work and soft hands at shortstop. His first step may limit his range some but he makes all of the routine plays.

On the mound, Koide pitches with a long, clean arm action and good arm speed. He has directional mechanics which allow him to repeat locations and only occasionally loses the direction by falling glove side. He pitched at 80-83 miles-per-hour with some late arm side bite. He also showed a tight 11-to-5 breaking ball at 71-73 MPH and a straight changeup with fastball hand speed at 74-75. Koide has the makings of a solid 2-way prospect but his upside may be on the mound.