By Mike Penn
Michigan Director of Scouting

The Midwest Futures Tryouts had a lot of big name players walk through the door and they all lived up to their billing.  In fact there were a few surprise performances that grabbed the attention of everyone in attendance.

It was Tyler Schmidt (OF/LHP, Crosswell-Lexington HS, 2015) that stole the show and eventually took top prospect honors.  Schmidt was impressive from the outset.  He started the day off right by running at 6.74 in the 60.  He then followed up his performance in the 60 by proceeding to throw 93 mph from the outfield.  But Schmidt was certainly not done.  During his BP round he showed good looseness in the swing and backspin carry as he peppered balls around the yard.  Finally Schmidt proved he has a chance to be a legitimate two-way player by stepping on the mound and airing out his first pitch at 86mph.  He then sat comfortably between 84-86mph.  

Freshman Drew Blakely laid claim to a spot on the Midwest Futures roster by posting some good numbers in the 60 and showing above average arm-strength behind the plate.  But perhaps his most impressive feat was sitting 87-88 mph during his bullpen.  Blakely nearly did not throw a bullpen but opted to do so last minute.  We are glad he did.

All-in-all speed was on display with six runners below 7.0.  Another 10 runner were 7.2 or better in this impressive group of athletes.

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