JR Future Games Spotlight: 2025 1B/OF Derek Smail (Clarion Area)

Physical: Strong, well put together 5-foot-11, 195-pound frame with advanced physicality throughout the build. 7.58 runner in the 60-yard dash. Offensively: RHH. Was easily the most advanced offensive performer at the Jr. Future Games. Extremely mature approach at the plate for his age. The righty started from a tall, slightly open stance with plenty of rhythm in the hands pre-load. Utilized a controlled lift and replace stride allowing the hands to launch through a fluid, uber-efficient flat path into the hitting zone. Had no issues lifting the ball with authority to all fields and displayed sink into a powerful lower half generating loud contact at the front of the plate with legitimate home run pop to the pull-side. Recorded a peak bat-exit velocity of 88 mph according to Trackman Baseball / 346 max batted ball distance / 60% line drive rate. Hit two home runs in game action at the Jr. Future Games; a grand slam and three-run shot. Defensively: The primary outfielder showed long movements during defensive evaluations with a methodical, downhill pace in which he was timing up fielding the baseball off of the left foot on the approach. Adequate feel for transfers and a live, high ¾ arm-slot from a lengthy arm circle. Stayed behind the baseball well in the air keeping momentum. OF - 75 mph Pitching: RHP - Started from the left side of the rubber with a moderate pace throughout the delivery, side rocker step into a repeatable medium leg lift, good drive through a strong backside, landed directional towards the target with solid posture, high ¾ arm-slot on the release with minor downhill plane. Commanded a 76-77 mph FB with an upwards of 2051 spin per Trackman Baseball, mixed in a sharp 63-65 mph breaker with late 11/5 depth and swing and miss ability.

Physical: 5-foot-11, 192 pounds; strong, sturdy frame. 7.52 runner in the 60. Offensively: RHH. Slightly open shoulder width stance with bat waggle; short take back, small stride. Strong effortless lower half with slight lift with quick hands. Middle to pull side approach; peak Trackman exit velocity of 93 MPH. Defensively: Upright; laid back with fluid movements. seamless transfer; long arm swing with standard 3/4 slot. OF - 76 MPH.