Top Performer Spotlight: 2022 SS/RHP Michael Mancini (Maine-Endwell)

April 27, 2020
Tim Hunter
VP of Operations

It was a historic preseason here in New York with our boots-on-the-ground scouting staff covering 700+ players at showcase events, all February long. The dust has settled and we are now ramping up our efforts in player rankings, scouting reports, and recap articles. While the outcome of the 2020 HS season is on hold, the Prep Baseball Report (NY) will continue to provide unrivaled coverage for the amateur baseball players in the Empire State.

As we continue our follow up of the Preseason Tour, we will be highlighting "Top Performer Spotlights" on players who recently stood-out at our preseason events. Stay tuned with us for the latest information on the 2020 spring season and beyond.

Scouting Report

Physical: 5-foot-9, 158-pounds. Strong athletic build.
Run: 7.4 runner in the 60.
Hit: LHH. Wide open narrow stance: toe tap for timing; smooth separation between hands and stride Quick but controlled hands through the zone; strong contact.
Power: 90 MPH raw exit velocity. Effortless power, strong two-handed finish through contact.
Defense: Quick reads on ground balls, smooth footwork.
Arm: Fluent, strong 3/4 arm slot. INF - 77 MPH.

Pitching Delivery: Slow repeatable delivery; quiet leg lift; uses legs to generate power .
Arm Action: Short quick arm motion.
FB: T81, 78-81 MPH. Sinking fastball.
CB: 65-67 MPH. Sweeping curve with tight spin; locates very well.
CH: 72-73 MPH. Firm change with some late movement.

Standout Skill

I enjoyed watching Mancini take ground balls during the fielding portion of the workout. He made it look all very effortless, but having a strong arm while doing so. Not much of a shuffle after transfer he just fields it and gets rid of it. Can move laterally as well as on the run fielding the baseball. Approaches the ball straight up and uses his active feet to get in position to make the play.

Player Projection

Mancini has the possibility to be a dual player as he moves forward with his carrier. If so I would like to see him do some more work on the mound. Go through a arm program to strengthen up his arm which will also help defensively. He can spin the ball exceptionally well and fill the zone with secondary pitches. He has solid pop off his bat and keep the ball low with gap to gap approach. Overall, he could be a threat to pitch and play SS as he develops.

Quick Hit
"Solid frame with an athletic build. Open stance to start then slowly comes back to even falling into contact. Does show some tendencies of cutting himself off when closing his stance up. Controlled swing, but has some loud contact with low line drives. Works low with the ball, smooth fielding mechanics, and quick transfer. Ability to plan on the run with slow roller. Slow and controlled delivery on the mound and is very capable of throwing secondary pitches for strikes. FB comes out with sinking movement."

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