In the Weeds: Maryland
March 6, 2017
By Shooter Hunt
National Crosschecker
In a new segment at the state level called, In the Weeds, PBR National Crosschecker, Shooter Hunt, takes a look at uncommitted players regardless of class whose skills and intangibles sometimes get missed in a showcase setting, but whose value to a good team at the next level is immeasurable. Some of the players included in this segment are under the radar, others have been overlooked, and some are late bloomers and fast-rising. Whatever the reason, our boots-on-the-ground scouting staff has identified many uncommitted prospects who can thrive with the right fit at some collegiate level. This week, In the Weeds, heads into Maryland where there was some solid talent in the 2018 class waiting to be discovered at the Underclass Preview. Included in the list of five are two infielders, an outfielder, a catcher, and a left-handed pitcher.
Matthew Day, OF, Riverdale Baptist HS, MD, 2018
Day’s athleticism stood out at PBR Maryland’s Underclass Preview where he was one of the top players in attendance. With a proportionally strong 5-foot-11, 185-pound frame, Day fills out a uniform well, and went through the showcase with workmanlike diligence. Still, relatively, young in the face, Day looks like he may grow more in the next year which could lead to another jump in the power in his bat that currently produces a 91 mph exit velocity. Balanced is the best way to describe Day in all aspects of his game. No tool really jumps out, but he is solid in his overall game, and he shows off controlled athleticism. At the plate, Day shows quickness to the ball with some strength out front. At times, his swing can somewhat restrained, but his balance allows him to be consistently on time, and his strong hands allow him to produce firm contact and line drives. In the field, Day charges the ball well, and is sure-handed. He produces carry on his throws (82 mph) with a long arm swing, and easily looks the part of a future corner outfielder at some level. Overall, Day looks like a player who has a chance to blossom at the next level. He is a hard worker with a strong frame who has a chance to evolve into a key contributor at some level given the right situation.