By Chris Valentine
PBR Ohio Scouting Director

Today, we take a look at the top rated class of 2016 prospects from the Northern Ohio Showcase. Previously, we recapped the top class of 2014 and 2015 prospects from the event. In the coming days, we will break down the best of the rest.

1. Jake Vance, RHP/3B, Canton Central Catholic, Class of 2016

The 6-foot-1, 170-pound prospect shows advanced skills his for his age. On the mound, the righty shows quick arm action through a high ¾ arm slot. His fastball shows good run at 81-84 mph. He shows excellent command of a late breaking 66-67 mph curveball. His best pitch may be a 68-69 mph changeup that shows excellent sink. At present, he likely projects as a pitcher at the next level, but the switch-hitting corner infielder shows nearly equal potential as a position player.  He shows soft hands and receives the ball well at third base. He needs to continuing improving his footwork and playing through the baseball. He reached a top velocity of 83 mph across the infield using short arm action. At the plate, he shows more quickness in his hands (83 mph exit velocity) and power. From the left side, he shows room for improvement with a choppy rhythm to his swing. From both sides, he uses rotational mechanics.

2. Bryce Marshall, IF, Walsh Jesuit HS, Class of 2016

The 5-foot-6, 130-pound infielder registered a 7.36 60-yard dash that should improve in time. In the field, he shows ability to play multiple positions. Shows quick actions. Throws from a ¾ arm slot and shows comfortability with all angles. Reached a top velocity of 76 mph across the infield. Needs to eliminate his glove tapping to decrease the time of his transfer. At the plate, the right-handed hitter takes a level path to the ball. Creates line drive production with good bat speed (86 mph exit velocity). Uses a short stride. Shows some small balance issues and head movement.

3. Mac Shinaberry, C, Walsh Jesuit HS, Class of 2016

The 6-foot-1, 180-pound catcher has a physically developed frame for a freshman. Registered a 7.46 60-yard dash. Behind the plate, he uses short arm action. Shows quickness with his hands. Needs to shorten up footwork to help decrease length of transfer. Registered 2.25-2.30 pop times and top velocity of 70 mph from the crouch. At the plate, the right-handed hitter uses a long stride. Starts hands from shoulder trigger and takes uphill path to the ball. Shows power potential. Consistently squares the ball up.