2019 Preseason Preview: Catcher Analysis
February 1, 2019
The 2019 Preseason Preview took place January 26th at Keystone State Baseball Academy. Today we continue a series of articles analyzing the prospects in attendance with a look at those players that participated as catchers.
+ CLICK HERE for complete results for all prospects in attendance.
Top Prospects
Mark Black, Serra Catholic HS (PA), Class of 2020, C/OF
St. John's commit has added 25 pounds of good weight to his frame in the past 18 months and stood out as the top prospect in attendance. The right-handed hitter starts from a square stance and initiates his swing with a quiet, lift-and-replace stride. Showcased an explosive lower half and present power with an event best 94 mph bat exit velocity. Flashed an event best pop time of 1.93 on throws of 78 mph from the crouch with an efficient transfer and straight line carry to the bag. Also showed an event best 94 mph arm strength from the outfield. While he has added significant strength to his frame his foot speed continues to improve, running a 7.01 60-yard dash on this date.
Eric Genther, The Haverford School (PA), Class of 2021, C
6-foot-1, 165-pound left-handed hitter starts from a slightly open stance and incorporates a lift-and-replace stride to begin. Displayed advanced feel for the barrel and an ability to stay behind the baseball during a very good round of batting practice. Registered an 85 mph bat exit velocity and ran a 7.16 60-yard dash. Flashed pop times of 2.12-2.21 on throws of 76 mph from the crouch and displayed a soft glove hand defensively.
Christian Kreiser, Palmyra Area HS (PA), Class of 2020, C
6-foot, 175-pound left-handed hitter starts from a square stance and utilizes a lift-and-replace stride to initiate his swing. Displayed a feel for the barrel while routinely staying behind the baseball and using the middle of the field well. Registered an 86 mph bat exit velocity and ran a 7.32 60-yard dash. Flashed pop times of 2.14 -2.22 on throws of 72 mph from the crouch with a clean transition and quick feet.
Additional Catchers (in alphabetical order)
Jake Holt, Dallastown Area HS (PA), Class of 2021, C
5-foot-9, 180-pound right-handed hitter starts from a slightly open stance and utilizes a lift-and-replace stride to initiate his swing. Tends to get to his front side early at times. Showcased a feel for the barrel with an 84 mph bat exit velocity. Displayed pop times of 2.48-2.53 on throws of 65 mph from the crouch and ran a 6.99 60-yard dash.
Aidan Nye, Tri-Valley HS (PA), Class of 2023, C
5-foot-6, 140-pound right-handed hitter starts from a square stance and utilizes a short lift-and-replace stride to initiate his swing. Displayed rhythm to his swing with a feel for the barrel and a bat exit velocity of 69 mph. Showcased pop times of 2.44-2.64 with developing 63 mph arm strength. Ran an 8.06 60-yard dash.
