On Deck Preview: 2020 1B Sam Portnoy (Eastern Regional HS, NJ)

2017 New Jersey State Games (July 26-27, 2017)
Portnoy has a broad shouldered, athletic build at 6-foot-2 205-pounds. Ran the 60 yard dash in 8.00 seconds, and recorded an exit velocity of 94 MPH, one of the highest recordings of the whole event. Portnoy was one of the top hitters at the event, and has risen as one of the top power threats in the 2020 class in NJ. Homered to deep left field in game play. Offensively – starts in a tall, wide stance with hands above back shoulder. Uses a small leg kick to start swing. Hands load up and back. Shows some bat speed through the zone and produces advanced gap to gap pop for his age with extension in arms at contact point. Finishes tall with an uphill swing with balance maintained throughout. Defensively – took reps at 1B. Throws across the infield topped at 74 MPH. Shows sound footwork and plays through throws to the bag on double play feeds. Replaces feet with some quickness, shows clean glove exchange. Pitching – Fastball topped at 80 MPH and sat mostly 76-79. Flashed an 11/5 curveball at 66-67 as well. Up tempo start to delivery into a tall, stiff balance point. Tall/fall type pitcher going down the mound. Shorter stride length, lands stiff on front landing leg. High-3/4 slot with a long arm action. Creates some armside run on fastball on finish. Will fall toward first base side after release. One of the top 2020s in the state.

Preseason All-State Showcase (February 11th, 2017)
Portnoy has a strong, physical build at 6-foot-1 205-pounds. Took one of the best batting practices of the day as one of the youngest players at the event. Rana 8.23 60 yard dash. Offensively- starts with a wide stance and slight crouch with hands above shoulder and close to his head. Bat rests on shoulder, parallel to the ground. As pitch comes in, uses a foot stride to start swing, hands load up and back. Explosive hips and hands to the ball. Creates some lift on finish. Bat speed and power are present, gap to gap type of hitter. Exit Velocity topped at 92 mph. Defensively- Heavy, choppy feet at 1B, throws topped at 78 across the infield. Long, loose arm action, throws had some arm side run. One of the top 2020s to follow this spring.

WHAT TO EXPECT
Portnoy exudes next-level talent with his power at the plate, and really raised some eyebrows in July as one of the top overall prospects at the event while also being one of the younger players in attendance. His short, quick and explosive swing with loft in his finish and strength in his lower half help him produce excellent gap to gap power for his age. Expect Portnoy to continue to impress with his prowess at the plate.