Headed North: Players on the Climb
February 8, 2018
Welcome back to PBR New York’s Headed North - where we select members to discuss, highlight, and point out what is to be seen this coming spring and summer at the ballpark. In our last article we looked at three improving 2019 graduates in Noah Cabassa (North Rockland), Nate Chudy (Saratoga Springs) and Michael Geiss (Syracuse-CBA) to keep an eye on come April. Today, we feature two more rising 2019 graduates in Jayden Williamson (Ballston Spa) and Billy Sullivan (Nyack) with one 2018 prospect Anthony Nardelli (Baldwinsville), and expect them to put up solid numbers this spring and summer.
Jayden Williamson OF / Ballston Spa , NY / 2019Rankings StateRank: 162 / POS: 19
The Ballston Spa product recently flashed some good numbers to note this last fall. The 5-foot-10, 160-pounder recorded an 81 MPH exit velocity in November 2017, and with added strength and quickness look for this to increase. Williamson also shows a smooth swing with upside for future mechanical development. His swing plane is level throughout the zone with quick hands showing the ability to drive the ball into the outfield. Overall offensively, Williamson generates enough power with utilizing his whole body frame to be successful. With further strength development, look for his offensive numbers to increase, as well as his power potential. Defensively Williamson projects well with good arm strength. His top positional velocity is recorded at 80 MPH and shows signs of improvement with his route running and throwing mechanics. Williamson gets to the spot well, shows good crow hop mechanics, and has a good first step upon contact. Williamson has a lot of talent that if he can continue to develop, add speed and strength, will turn into a solid collegiate prospect. Make sure to keep an eye on Jayden Williamson and his Ballston Spa Terriers this spring as they look to have another successful season and make it back to sectionals. |
Billy Sullivan C / OF / Nyack , NY / 2019Rankings StateRank: 83 / POS: 9
The Nyack High School and Rockland A’s product flashed impressive and consistent numbers last summer. The 5-foot-8, 160-pounder is extremely athletic with good running ability for a catcher showing a 7.16 – 60 yard dash. Offensively, Sullivan recorded an 83 MPH exit velocity. His swing needs more development utilizing the lower half and getting more of a trigger which will increase his bat speed. At the plate his athleticism is evident with his hand speed and consistent contact. With future development, look for him to take off offensively. Defensively Sullivan is solid. He shows soft hands with a quiet body receiving the ball with the ability to stay low. Sullivan also has above average footwork and a solid transfer to get into the throwing position. His arm strength will continue to develop which will only allow him to get better. Already he flashes pop times sub 2.0 with consistency blocking the ball and keeping it in front. Overall Sullivan is a next level player which with strength development will allow him to potentially be a high level player. Be sure to keep an eye on the Sullivan this spring to see his hard work and continued development. |
Anthony Nardelli RHP / C / Baldwinsville, NY / 2018Rankings StateRank: 315 / POS: 86
Last we feature Anthony Nardelli. The Baldwinsville and Syracuse Sportszone product had a good outing at our Last Chance Preview in October 2017. The righty pitcher has a good frame standing 6-foot-2, 180-pounds with room to grow with added strength and core development. Nardelli’s fastball peaks at 81 MPH with decent arm side run utilizing a high ¾ arm slot. Change-up needs some adjustments but shows correct rotation, needing to gain a greater velocity different off the fastball. Nardelli features a splitter with late action that he is consistent with. Overall, Nardelli on the mound shows consistency, hides the ball well, and shows good body language. With a strong off-season, he could potentially have a strong senior season. Be sure to keep an eye on Anthony and his Baldwinsville team once the season starts up this April. |
As the calendar turned to February we are about a month away from the spring season starting up. This month is a big month with several PBR New York events throughout the state where players from near and far can start or continue their recruiting process and perform in front of college coaches. We urge everyone to take advantage of these events and be seen by our PBR New York Staff and several coaches from the Northeast and beyond. This will be a great opportunity to showcase your talent and prep for the start of the season. One thing to note - if you do attend one of our showcases this month; be sure to thank the parent or guardian that made it possible for you. Your support system runs deep. Now just work hard and make them proud.
See you at the yard…
RECENT HEADED NORTH ARTICLES
New York Winter Open | NY | 02/11 | Paul Gerry Fieldhouse - Loch Sheldrake, NY |
Rising Stars Winter Showcase | NY | 02/11 | Paul Gerry Fieldhouse - Loch Sheldrake, NY |
Preseason All-State West (NYS Games Trials) SOLD OUT | NY | 02/19 | Pinnacle Sports Campus - Victor, NY |
Preseason All-State Downstate (NYS Games Trials) | NY | 02/21 | House Of Sports - Ardsley, NY |
Preseason All-State East (NYS Games Trials) | NY | 02/22 | All-Star Academy - Latham, NY |
Preseason All-State Long Island (NYS Games Trials) | NY | 02/23 | All Pro Fieldhouse - East Setauket, NY |
Rising Stars Instructional Showcase | NY | 02/25 | Spencerport, NY |