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Massachusetts Mailbag: January 5th

January 8, 2015

Follow @PBR_MA

By Dennis Healy and Dylan Hefflinger
Massachusetts Scouting Director and Massachusetts Editor in Chief

Every week, PBR Massachusetts holds an interactive chat through Twitter with our followers. Our goal is to be accessible. This is your chance to take advantage of our expertise. Ask questions to Dennis Healy, Massachusetts Scouting Director, about the recruiting process, upcoming high school season, specific prospects, PBR events, or anything else that may be on your mind.

We would like to thank all who participated, we enjoy bringing you knowledge and expertise on players and programs in your area.

Next week, we will be answering questions on either Tuesday or Wednesday, stay tuned. 

10 of the top questions from the Ask.FM Q&A session on January 5th


Do you have to attend a PBR event to be considered for the Top Prospect Games?

PBR: Actually, it is imperative for us to get you to an event so we can see you workout live and go about your business.

How do you find out about/know all the kids you rank? Especially the 2017 class who are so young?

PBR: We haven't ranked the 2017 class yet, because of the fact they are young and we haven't seen enough guys. The '15 and '16 rankings are based on a combo of many factors.

What do you think are the disadvantages for on the Cape Cod High School ball players? There are a few great players in the 2017/18 class like Chris Holcomb (Evocanes), Mike Doherty (Baseball U), and Griffin Burke (East Cobb Astros) that seem to understand they need to leave the Cape and play great teams?

PBR: I think getting different schools outside of Massachusetts to see them play becomes the issue. The travel teams you are referring too, all go all over the place to play. Those kids get seen by all schools.

I hear Franklin Pierce likes to over-recruit and load up their fall roster and get kids to commit without knowing what they're getting into, you opinion on this?

PBR: I don't know if Franklin Pierce over-recruits or not, but it is the responsibility of the player and his parents to know what situation they are getting themselves into. Walking into a college decision blindly is not very smart.

Your thoughts on Aaron Soucy and what schools are looking at him?

PBR: I like Soucy a ton, he can receive and throw from a short throwing slot. I like his bat and he works at his game. There is a ton to like. I know he has some offers but I will need to confirm that.

What year does a HS player have to make the varsity to be a college prospect?

PBR: Being on the varsity as junior is probably the best scenario, if not earlier. However some players mature differently or might have different aspirations as a freshman-junior. So I don't think there is an exact year, it is all about talent, potential, work ethic, and grades among other things.

What is the best drill/workout for a pitcher to do at home every night?

PBR: I would say getting in front of the mirror and tracking your shoulders into foot strike. Also working on equal and opposite at foot strike. Initiating the backside first is important as well. All these things can be practiced and should be practiced without the ball.

What are scouts looking for in a catcher?

PBR: Catch and throw tools and the ability to swing the bat. Usually the higher draft picks can do both, hit in the middle of the order, catch and throw.

What does early in the process mean?

PBR: Early in the process means you are just starting to hear from schools and you have made no visits and are new to being recruited.

How much emphasis do college coaches put on someone playing at a small public HS versus attending a private/prep school? Does playing on a solid travel program help offset any of those concerns?

PBR: I don't think its a huge concern, scouts want to see guys play regardless of the conference or the team. If you can play, coaches will find you.

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