By Greg Williams
PA Director of Scouting

The 2013 Elite Prospect Showcase has seen 16 prospects go on to announce college commitments, none more quickly than 2014 RHP Justin Vardian. Of the 25 pitchers to throw a bullpen session at last year's inaugural event, six were uncommitted seniors. That number very quickly became five, as RHP Justin Vardian (Bishop McCort) committed to Penn State within hours after the completion of the event. The 6-foot, 175-pound righty, who finished his high school career ranked No. 32 in the PA Class of 2014, created a stir by sitting 88-89 with a very loose arm. 

The 2014 Elite Prospect Showcase will take place on November 1 and promises to bring together many of the top prospects the state has to offer shortly before the early signing period that begins on November 12. As we approach the premier Invitation Only event of the summer we will take a periodic look at some of the prospects scheduled to attend.

2016 C/1B James McConnon (The Haverford School)

McConnon impressed with his performance this summer at the PA Underclass Games. The 5-foot-10, 185-pound right-handed hitter made consistent solid contact in game play and showed some gap power out of a square stance during his round of batting practice. He displayed good feet and solid glove work around the bag at 1B and turned in a 7.21 60-yard dash. McConnon flashed a very accurate throwing arm, repeatedly putting the ball on the bag with pop times of 2.12-2.21 on throws of 71 mph from the crouch. 

McConnon has been a major contributor for the Fords in each of his first two varsity seasons. The junior was an Inter-AC League 2nd Team selection in 2014 and was the only catcher recognized by the ultra-competitive league.