By: Zac Bottoms
Arkansas Scouting Director

The 2017 season is rapidly approaching. As we get closer to season, I begin my preview of each team and stories that will affect the overall results of the high school season, and who will ultimately end their season in Baum Stadium on the campus of the University of Arkansas. We will begin with the 7A Central and Central High School.

The Tigers had a strong campaign in 2016 in the mix for 7A East Championship until the last week of the season. A move in conferences and the departure of 7 starters from last year’s team, leave this group in a rebuilding mode. Youth doesn’t always mean noncompetitive it just leave several question marks. 

On The Mound

2018 CIF/RHP Aaron Mann will be the leader of this staff, Mann is a physical player with a strong arm and a competitive spirit. He will work 84-87 mph, locating with his fastball and shows command of a quality breaking ball. 2017 RHP Ben Farzley and 2017 LHP Zach McCormack will be next in line to throw meaningful innings followed by 2019 RHP Ty Barrett who has shown promise through the fall.

Offensively

Similar to the situation on the mound the Tigers offense will work around CIF/RHP Aaron Mann. Look for 2018 INF Jared Turner and 2018 Charles Pyron to protect Mann and be two players to drive in runs. 2019 Javii Goins Jr and 2020 Garrett Hatfield are two young players that could help provide an offensive spark.

 Overall

 Overall Central High School will be a younger team with quality athletes up and down the line up. If they can harness their athleticism and play consistently they will give some teams issues. Coach Rusty Passini always has his teams playing with high energy, I expect nothing less from them in 2017.

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