Area Code Underclass: Instant Reaction (2021)

Blake Mitchell C / RHP / Sinton, TX / 2023

When it comes down to it: Blake Mitchell can do it all. The 6-foot, 192-pounder stole the show at the Area Code Underclass event where he showcased a sweet left-handed stroke, a premium defend-tool behind the plate, and was up to 94 mph on the mound on the final day of games. It all seems to come easy to Mitchell who has an innate ability to slow the game down at the plate where he utilizes the entire field while working short-to-long through the zone. Getting into his legs and remaining balanced, he peppered both gaps for multiple extra-base hits throughout the weekend, and gave a glimpse at exciting upside power potential during batting practice while leaving the yard to the pull side on multiple occasions. Behind the plate, Mitchell is already a plus-defender with carry on accurate throws and smooth footwork/transfer that enable the arm to play at a high level. Even more than the catch-and-throw, he is a premium receiver of the baseball with the softest of hands and crisp attention to detail while maintaining quietness. While the verdict is still out, and discussions to be had on whether he is liked more as a position player or pitcher, my leaning is almost always to the everyday ability, his hit-tool might have the highest upside in the entire class.