9 To Know: SoCal Preseason All-State (2021-2022)
January 10, 2019
While many states are digging in for harshness that winter brings with snow and cold forcing them indoors to increase their skills, the players in southern California are merely days away from stepping on the field for the first time with their teams for spring baseball. On the Hunt travelled to Orange County to check out the Preseason All-State event which featured close to 90 prospects for SoCal eager to open eyes heading into the spring. Below are nine underclass (2021-2022) players to know coming out of the event. Each showcased plenty of upside with intriguing skill-sets that could elevate over time. Among the nine are potential starters on the mound, two-way prospects, athletic outfielders, big bat infielders.
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Blake Butcher 3B / RHP / Corona Del Mar , CA / 2021Rankings StateRank: 35 / POS: 3
Butcher turned in one of the best all-around performances on the day with an easy stroke from the left side and a confident round fielding ground balls on the infield. Currently 5-foot-10, 170-pounds he features wide-shoulders on a projectable frame that shows signs of carrying much more strength in the future. Setting up slightly open in a minor crouch, Butcher’s hands load semi-deep down and back with a short stride. His strong bottom hand allows him to quickly work through the zone on a flat plane before culminating with a high, loose, one-handed finish. He showcased strength from gap to gap, and projects for more power in the future. On the infield, his strong, quick arm will allow him to stick on the left side of the diamond moving forward, and he showcased control of his body with efficient footwork. Given his balance and feel for the barrel at the plate, Butcher shows signs of progressing quickly, especially as his frame continues to fill out.
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