By Chris Fuller
TN Director of Operations

Collin Hopkins (2016, Ensworth HS) had a decent showing on an abnormally cold early November day at last year’s Fall Top Prospect Games at Lipscomb University, but recently the solidly built 5-foot-11, 190-pound catcher showed significant improvement in his overall game at the West Tennessee Prospect Games held at USA Baseball Stadium on August 16.

Hopkins’ most impressive improvements came defensively where he showed a big jump in arm strength from behind the plate as he reeled off strong and accurate throws during the pregame workout. His velocity jumped from 71 mph last fall to 76 mph, and subsequently, his pop times improved to 1.95-2.03 at the event. Hopkins showed a quick transfer and release, and his improved footwork was key in producing extremely accurate throws to the bag.

Offensively, Hopkins has a solid approach, and while he has some initial minor pre-pitch hand movement, he quiets down and keeps things simple with a short stride and good balance. Hopkins keeps the barrel in the hitting zone a long time and finishes well through the baseball with a  solid, line drive approach. He went 1-for-4 at the event, making consistent hard contact.

collin hopkins video 8/16/15