In the Weeds: Minnesota Part II

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. In the second of a two-part series, In the Weeds, takes a look at some of the talent that came out of PBR Minnesota’s Preseason All-State event. Though the season may be short, the talent is long coming out of the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Most kids play at least two sports with a high number competing in three, so there are many late-bloomers. With slew of excellent athletes, Minnesota is packed with talent waiting to be found.

Derek Shoen, RHP, Minnetonka HS, MN, 2018
Shoen’s thick, naturally strong 6-foot-3, 200-pound frame stood out at PBR Minnesota’s Preseason All-State event. The imposing right-hander with a fast arm delivered fastballs out of a high ¾ slot that approached being over the top, and sat 85-87 while touching 89 mph. There was some effort out front after a long arm swing, but Shoen remains linear down the mound with solid rhythm to his overall delivery. His secondary pitches are fringe average right now, which may hold him back in the minds of some schools. Shoen’s changeup was his best secondary pitch, and shows some fade at 77-78 while being thrown for strikes. On his curveball (70-71), Shoen slowed down his arm as well as dropping his elbow, some, before it just spun towards the plate. Being that the bullpen was so early in the season, it is likely that both pitches will be improved by the end of the spring. However, Shoen’s arm strength cannot be denied, and I would not be surprised if he was touching 90 mph at some point this summer. Overall, the frame and arm strength that Shoen possesses cannot be ignored, and should even one of his secondary pitches (possibly a switch to a slider?) click in the future, some school could have a top starter who can log innings in their program.