Prep Baseball Report

Uncommitted Spotlight: '25 C/UTL Joshua Kaplan


Vinnie Alfino
Prep Baseball California Scouting Intern

  

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SAN DIEGO, CALIF.- The Uncommitted Spotlight Series returns as we stare straight ahead towards the 2025 CIF High School baseball season rapidly approaching for the '25 class.

Today we put the spotlight on ‘25 C/UTL Joshua Kaplan from University City High School in San Diego, California. 2025 will be the third year on varsity for Kaplan. In 2024, he had a slash line of .340/.440/.573 with 3 home runs and 27 RBIs in 34 games played. He was a key contributor to the University City lineup, showing his versatility by playing multiple positions with a .934 fielding percentage and impacting the game on both sides of the ball.

Kaplan, a 6’1” 170 lbs. athlete, has showcased his ability to play all over the field, playing positions at catcher, third base, and right field while maintaining a high level of defensive consistency.  In my first viewing, he started at third base before transitioning behind the plate, where he showed athletic and quick footwork, posting consistent pop times of 2.01-2.10. His strong arm played when watching him the following week where he once again flashed an impressive pop time at 2.00 and also back picked a runner at first. 

Offensively, Kaplan has proven to be a tough out, showing a mature approach and the ability to handle two-strike counts effectively. In my first game watching him, he went 3-for-4, including a no-doubt home run in his final at-bat, while also stealing a base and scoring two runs. He followed that up in my second viewing with an RBI double and two walks, once again reaching base safely multiple times. His ability to consistently barrel up the baseball in different situations highlights his strong bat-to-ball skills and developing power potential. 

Kaplan’s combination of defensive versatility, strong arm, and offensive production makes him an intriguing prospect in the 2025 class. His ability to impact the game from multiple positions while maintaining a disciplined approach at the plate should draw attention from college coaches looking for a well-rounded and versatile player. With his final high school season ahead, Kaplan is poised to take another step forward and be a player to watch in the 2025 season.

College coaches and fans be sure to click on Kaplan's profile to see full video and information.


Scouting Report

6/09/24

Joshua Kaplan, University City (CA), 2025
Positional Profile: C/3B
Body: 6-1, 170-pounds. Athletic frame with room to add strength.
Hit: RHH. Even stance with hands behind ear. Wide base, gets deep into lower half. Calm hands, quick through the zone.
Power: Projects as gap to gap power threat. Lines the ball to all parts of the field.
Arm: RH. C-79 mph. INF-72 mph. Concise over the top release. Accurate.
Defense: 2.01-2.12 pop times. Athletic footwork progressing throughout the play.
ATH: Wide strides. Stays low throughout.


 

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