Video Spotlight: Uncommitted 2018 C Raul Ortega (St. Joseph's Montvale HS, NJ)

Preseason All-State Showcase (February 11th, 2017)
Ortega has a strong, physical build at 6-feet 210-pounds. Was one of the top performers of the entire event. Switch hitting catcher ran a 7.27 60 yard dash. Exit Velocity recorded at 91 mph from the right side and 92 mph from the left side. Offensively- Righty: starts in a wide stance with a crouch and emphasis on weight on back side prepitch. Hands are just below shoulder. As pitch comes in, Ortega uses a small leg lift and stride. Hands load down and then back up above the shoulder. Explosive hips and hands in swing, produces gap to gap power with lift on finish. Lefty: Starts in a wide stance with hands above shoulder. Uses a small leg kick to start swing, hand load is minimal. Creates lift in finish and is equally explosive from the left as he is from the right side. Defensively- short, quick arm action - compact movements help him stay efficient and directional on throws. Registered pop times between 1.91-1.97. Throws topped at 77 mph to 2B, one of the top velocities of the event. High follow prospect. 


10/3/15 -- Ortega had a very impressive day one showing at Selectfest Underclass. He has impressive arm strength and solid direction; popped a 1.90 down to second base. He hit from both sides in batting practice; showing bat speed from both sides. From the right side, he showed a flatter bat through the zone and made a ton of line drive contact. From the left-side, he had an uppercut swing plane, showing some pop to his pull side. There is a ton to like about Ortega and I am interested in seeing him again soon.