Athletic 2020-2021 Infielders
December 22, 2017
Athletic infielders are always at a premium on the recruiting circuit. Coaches value the versatility and ability of this type of player, and it makes it easier to envision and project their future. This week, On the Hunt, takes a look at seven athletic infielders who are already showing signs of becoming high-level bats and gloves at the next level. Their easy, natural movements project to produce even more as they get stronger including a couple who could be premier shortstops. Others look to have a chance to be power-hitters in the future while some could be top of the order speed players. All will likely be followed closely by recruiters in the next couple of years. Players from Illinois, Louisiana, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, and Texas are included.
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Reynaldo Angeles SS / RHP / Benjamin Cardozo , NY / 2021Just a freshman, Angeles already looks the part of a polished, high-level defender at shortstop. The 5-foot-8, 140-pounder is smooth in everything that he does, and his twitchy, confident hand-play at shortstop could end up making him an elite defender in the future. Angeles has a natural rhythm and balance to his movements on the infield, and combined with a quick, stronger arm, he should have scouts continuing to monitor his development over the next few years. Still developing physically with a wiry-athletic frame, Angeles sets up tall and open from the right side with his hands held by the ear and back elbow high. He squares off with a leg hang that initiates slight hand movement back before working uphill through the zone to produce line drives to all fields. He also demonstrates a polished delivery and quick, whippy arm on the mound where the ball jumps out of his hand, and he shows above average feel for three pitches. Overall, Angeles shows all the makings of becoming a high-level player in the future, and as he matures and adds strength, should take big steps forward. |