Top 10 Profiles of 2019: No. 2 Max Clark

6/02/19: Clark is establishing himself as one of the top players in the Midwest’s 2023 class, if not, the country’s. He combined to go 6-for-7 at the plate over the weekend with three walks and a pair of doubles. At 5-foot-11, 158 pounds, Clark is an elite athlete with quick-twitch ingrained in his game. In the left-handed batter’s box, Clark hits from a balanced/open setup with pre-pitch rhythm. His hands load back, small front foot hang to help his quick trigger. His hands are ultra-quick and his bat speed is electric through the zone, and he demonstrates a mature feel for the barrel – he knows when to unload and when to take what he’s given. When he’s not on the mound, he patrols center with confidence where his footspeed helps him track down fly balls on efficient routes. He’s also a highly talented pitching prospect. From the left side, Clark pitched the Bulls’ first game on Friday night. He has a smooth, repeatable, and easy delivery with a quick arm from a high ¾ slot that surprises hitters. Fastball, 82-84 mph, touching 85 mph multiple times and even reaching 86 mph once, with little effort. Curveball, 1/7 plane, with above-average depth, flashed bite occasionally. He knows how to hold a baserunners, too, and can incorporate an effective slide step when he needs.