By Doug Hall
Tennessee Director of Scouting

Carmelo Venero, OF/RHP, R/R, Farragut HS, 2016

The 5-foot-11, 155-pound OF/RHP prospect registered a solid performance at the recent Fall Top Prospect Games event held at Lipscomb University on Saturday, November 1 as he showcased his skills in the outfield, at the plate, and on the mound.

Venero displayed athletic defensive actions in the outfield with an accurate arm.  His throws to third base registered at 80 mph with line carry to the bag, and he showed quick feet with good speed and range in the field. 

At the plate, Venero showed a good setup with a balanced stance and uses his hand quickness to get through the zone.  He showed line drive ability with a gap to gap approach that could lead to some power production down the line.  In addition, Venero posted a 4.39 home-to-first time, a number that was the top right-handed time of the event. 

On the mound Venero displayed a quick arm, and while he has some head-snap in his delivery, he is able to repeat his mechanics well.  His fastball was consistently in the high 70's topping out at 79, and he showed good arm speed on his 70-72 mph breaking ball and 71 mph changeup. 

Venero is a prospect who should continue to add size and strength to his frame.  He has established himself as one to keep a close eye on in the 2016 class.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW VENERO’S PROFILE AND VIDEO