Team Preview: Fayettville High School
January 31, 2017
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 move through the 7A West, we turn our focus the Fayetteville High School.
The Purple Dogs, had a step back last year after a dominant four year run over the 7A West. Though they took a step back, the young roster in 2016 competed at a high level and qualified for the State Tournament. They fell to Central High School in the first round. 2017, maybe the reward for Fayetteville, as they look to have the deepest pitching staff and the one of the more experienced group of position players.
Pitching
They have three arms that have shown to be tracking in the right direction. 2017 RHP Jackson Sloan is a projectable 6-foot-4 with a quick arm and works off his fastball in the upper 80s and a feel for the breaking ball. Sloan has battled injury in the past, if he can stay healthy he will be an impactful player. 2018 RHP Miller Plieman is one of the hottest names in a deep pitching class of 2018 class. He commands his fastball 85-87 mph and has a feel for his curveball and changeup, he will be one of the elite arms in the league. 2017 MIF/RHP Hayes Cox has shown to be a quality two prospect. 2018 RHP Jacob Davenport and 2020 RHP Luke Davenport will add quality depth to the pitching staff, and may be the difference in the conference race.
Offensively
Similar to the pitching the staff, this group was thrust into action in 2016 and learned as they went. They have some depth that will allow Coach Scott Gallagher options to make moves necessary to win close games. Names to know this spring will be 2017 MIF Hays Cox, 2017 INF Logan Carr, 2017 OF/INF Cody Smith and 2018 CIF Weston Tate. They should be a fun group to watch this spring
Overall
The most complete team in the 7A West, with plenty of depth on the mound and experienced position players. After a down year in 2016 I expect the Purple Dogs back on top of the 7A West and in the mix to win the 7A State Title. This spring should be back up to the standard that has been set.