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The Elite Prospect Showcase annually brings together top prospects from across the state as well as from neighboring states. With under a week until the 2017 edition of this event, October 28th at Keystone State Baseball Academy, we look back on highlights from previous years.

The 2013 version of this event, which was also the inaugural year, brought together 68 prospects from two states. The day included players participating in three waves with a number of impressive performances. Following is a look back at the top performers in each of the measurable categories evaluated. CLICK HERE for complete results for all prospects in attendance.

CLICK HERE to view the finalized roster for the 2017 Elite Prospect showcase along with pitching rotations.

Top Bat Exit Velocity / Top Catcher Pop Times & Arm Strength

94 mph bat exit / 2.00 pop time / 82 mph arm strength - Zach Minnick, C, Logan HS (WV), 2015

11/3/13 Minnick is a C/3B that also pitches. If he were to concentrate solely on being a pitcher the results could be interesting. The 6-foot, 215-pound righty, ranked No. 1 in the WV Class of 2015, sat 85-87 out of a high 3/4 arm slot. Minnick commanded a 72 mph 11/5 breaking curveball and a 72 mph splitter that shows down action at the plate. While Minnick's abilities as a power hitting catcher are well documented, it is likely that he will also be recruited for his potential on the mound. He showcased pop times of 2.00-2.09 with the top arm strength of all catchers at 82 mph from the crouch. We have seen Minnick in the 1.80-1.90 range at past events. Minnick has a very strong lower half that he uses to generate bat speed and power from the right side of the plate. He showcased quick hands and power potential to all fields with a bat exit velocity of 94 mph. Minnick also sat 85-87 from the mound during his bullpen session. Minnick is currently a junior at Campbell University where he has been an every day starter for the past two years.

 

TOP FASTBALL VELOCITY

89 mph - Justin Vardian, RHP, Bishop McCort HS (PA), 2014

11/3/13 was the 23rd pitcher to toe the rubber out of a total of 25 bullpen sessions on the afternoon. The wait was more than worth it. The 6-foot, 175-pound righty sat 88-89 with a loose arm action and total command of the strike zone. He showed a 77 mph slider and a 75 mph curveball that he threw for strikes and his 76 mph changeup showed arm side run. Vardian made a verbal commitment to Penn State University shortly after the completion of the event. 

 

TOP IF/OF ARM VELOCITY

84 mph - Nick D'Amore, 3B, Neumann-Goretti HS (PA), 2016

11/3/13 D'Amore is a 6-foot, 185-pound right-handed hitter with a strong frame and some pop in his bat. He hits from a slightly open stance and uses all fields well. D'Amore made consistent hard contact in his round of batting practice with a bat exit velocity of 84 mph. Defensively he showed an 84 mph arm across the infield with good carry to his throws. His feet work well and he showed the ability to make plays on the move. Although he played shortstop as a freshman in high school, D'Amore is most projectable at 3B. D'Amore started 30 games as freshman last year at Wagner University and is now a sophomore at Harford CC in Maryland.

 

UPCOMING PBR EVENT SCHEDULE

• PA 2017 Elite Prospect Showcase (Invite Only) 
  Oct 28 • Keystone State Baseball Academy - Manheim, PA
• PA PBR Evaluation & Measurables Showcase
  Dec 30 • Keystone State Baseball Academy - Manheim, PA
• PA Northeastern Pennsylvania Winter Review
  Jan 6 • ProProspects Training Center - White Mills, P
• PA 2018 Preseason Preview
  Jan 13 • Keystone State Baseball Academy - Manheim, PA
• PA 2018 Preseason All-State Showcase Day One (INVITE ONLY)
  Jan 27 • Keystone State Baseball Academy - Manheim, PA
• PA 2018 Preseason All-State Showcase Day Two (INVITE ONLY)
  Jan 28 • Keystone State Baseball Academy - Manheim, PA