Prep Baseball Report

Bullitt East LHP/1B Chase Patton Discusses his Commitment to Spalding



By Chris Fuller
Kentucky Scouting Directorpatton

 

Chase Patton, a 6-foot, 185-pound LHP/1B from Bullitt East HS, showed well at multiple PBR events, including the Pre-Season All State Showcase in February in Lexington. 

Patton’s arm is loose and projectable.  In February, his fastball topped at 81 mph, and he showed good command of both his curveball at 68-71 mph with sharp 1-7 action, and his changeup at 71-73 mph.  I would expect significant velocity gains from Patton as he takes the mound for Bullitt East this spring.

In addition, Patton shows good athleticism with soft hands as a first baseman.  He has a line-drive producing stroke from the left side and showed good bat speed with an 86 mph exit velocity off the tee.

Patton, currently ranked No.70 in the 2014 class, recently committed to Spalding University, and we caught up with him to discuss his decision.

PBR: Why did you choose Spalding?

Patton: I chose Spalding because of the great coaching staff they have.  Coach Sheets and Coach Downs are driven individuals with the desire to succeed and develop a national championship program. Academically I felt like Spalding University was the best fit for me with a 13 to1 student teacher ratio. Therefore, I am able to be closer with my professors and to be successful in the class room my self.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Patton: Eastern Kentucky University, Bowling Green State, Centre College.

PBR:  Where did the coaching staff first see you compete?

Patton:  At a home game when they came to watch Jacob Woodruff and at the Prep Baseball events that I have been to.

PBR: What role does Coach Sheetinger expect you to play during your first year on campus?

Patton: Coach Sheets as well as the other coaches expect me to compete to be in the starting rotation and compete for first base.

PBR:  Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?

Patton: Coach Newton at Players Dugout for helping me develop my hitting and pitching. Coach Ching at Ninja Sports Perfomance has also helped me with the tremendous off season conditioning. Coach Bowles and Coach Sharp for teaching me how to carry my self on and off the field.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?

Patton: I play for Coach Alphin and Coach Corky with Louisville Baseball Club.  My most exciting experience was when I threw a complete game shutout against the Indiana Irish at Butler University.


PBR: Bullitt East got off to a tremendous start last season. What are your goals for your senior season, and do you feel you have the team to duplicate or exceed last year’s win total?

Patton: One goal I have for my senior season is to be a leader. Help my team to another 30+ win season and first ever state title.

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher and hitter you have faced in Kentucky?

Patton: the toughest pitcher I have faced would be Kyle Olliges. From Pleasure Ridge Park. He is always keepin you off balance  and changing his speeds. The toughest hitter I have faced would be Clayton Kelly from North Bullitt.

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