On the Hunt: 2020's Put Their Stamp On Winter Showcases
February 24, 2017
By Shooter Hunt
National Crosschecker
As the winter winds down, On the Hunt, takes a look at some of the big name 2020’s who jumped on the scene at PBR events over the past couple of months. Each player shows exciting athleticism, and has a chance to be a high-level prospect in the near future. As we move towards the spring, and then onto the heavily recruited summer season, expect for these players to be monitored closely by college recruiters. Represented this week are four pitchers including two southpaws, a catcher, shortstop, and outfielder from Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New Jersey.
Luke Wagner, LHP/OF, Red Land HS, PA, 2020
Wagner is a 5-foot-11, 155-pound left-handed pitcher with a quick arm and plenty of upside. After running a 7.06 60-yard dash, showing off his athleticism in the outfield (87 mph), and creating serious upward angle at the plate with some power, Wagner was at his best when he hopped on the mound. Starting off methodical in his motion, Wagner reaches his balance point, and aggressively strides out on a linear plane with feel for an advanced movement pattern. His, short, quick arm releases out of a ¾ slot, and he sat 84-85 at Pennsylvania’s Preseason All-State Showcase. Sitting behind the catcher, I was able to witness up-close how the ball jumped a quarter of the way before it reached the catcher. Wagner’s 2/8, sharp breaking ball (70-73) was thrown hard with fastball hand speed, and shows the makings of a, possible, plus-pitch in the future. The pitch had tight spin, and he threw it for strikes as well as showing off the ability to back leg it. He also flashed feel for a changeup at 77-78, though he slows his arm down a tick when he throws it. Overall, Wagner is a frontline arm who will have his pick of schools to attend in the future.