RENO, NV – Head Coach, Levi Matherly, has the Reed Raiders competing at a high level.  Their record is not indicative of how they played on Thursday afternoon. Starting pitcher, ’20 Casey Burfield (RHP) did everything he could to give his team a chance to win. Burfield threw 5.1 yielding three earned runs, scattering seven hits. Unfortunately for Burfield, Reno starter ’19 August Souza (Santa Clara) was equal to the task. Souza pitched six strong innings, giving up two runs and striking out seven. The Huskies out hit the Raiders nine to three and were paced offensively by ’19 Ryan Hess with 3 hits and 3 RBI. In addition, Hess relieved Souza, recording the final three outs for the save.

The Reno Huskies improved to 18-2 (6-0), while the Raiders fall to 8-9 (2-4).  In spite of the tough loss, several of the Reed players caught the eye of PBR Nevada. Senior catcher, '19 Greg Oltman, right fielder, '19 Jordan Oliver and starter Casey Burfield.  More on these Raiders below.

’19 Greg Oltman, C (Reed)

Strong, 5-foot-11 185, Oltman is a sturdy bodied receiver with durability for the position.  His hand strength was noticeable, receiving pitches with minimal to no glove drag. He showed leadership characteristics, directing the defense and his pitchers. He had instincts for block and recovery and plenty of arm strength for the position.  At the plate, he maintains a good combination of strength and bat speed in a short quick stroke. His setup and swing could benefit from work and polish but there is plenty to work with. He has a solid tool set and is a nice find for a two year or small college looking for a defensive first backstop.

 

 

’20 Casey Burfield, RHP (Reed)

Lean, 6-foot-1 155, Burfield has plenty of room for weight and strength gains.  He is a 3-pitch mix with area control.  His fastball ranged 80-83 and his arm worked through a tight box and his simple repeatable delivery. His curveball was 67-72, changing velocities to coordinate with counts as needed.  At the top end of velocity, the breaking ball flashed better bite.  He has a solid feel for a changeup that he located down in the zone.  Physical development will play a huge part in his velocity improvement, but the young man knows how to pitch, locating his pitches and competing in the strike zone.

 

 

’19 Jordan Oliver, OF (Reed)

Projectable, 6-foot-2 150, Oliver has a high waisted, athletic build. He looked the part and moved around the outfield well with solid carry on his throws and developing arm strength. He is a better runner underway as strength will be a key to create a more explosive first step. At the plate, he had an aggressive approach with good swing plane, showing the ability to adjust on off speed, crushing a ball to left field that got held up in a steady head wind.  Oliver is a prototypical two-year college player that given the time to add weight and strength could be a real find down the road.