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By John Nolan
Virginia Assistant Director and Content Manager

Over the last few high school seasons, Kettle Run and Highland School have put together some very strong seasons, with both programs reaching a State Final Four in the last two years in their respective classifications. Both programs were led during their runs of dominance by cores made up of seniors in the Class of 2017. With their graduation, it will be time fro new players to take on bigger roles in both programs in the spring of 2018.

Both schools’ fall ball teams are off to strong starts, and we went out to see them face each other on Monday night to get an early look at the new players that will shape these programs’ rosters in the 2018 season. A full Scout Blog post will go up later on this week, but here are some quick notes on what we saw:

 

Highland
-2019 OF Luke Burner showed his usual good approach at the plate, working the count and using the entire field, working gap to gap with his short line drive swing. Has a knack for putting barrel on ball and picked up three hits in the game, including two extra-base hits.

-2020 SS Blake Fisher showed good actions in the infield and some speed. Quick bat from the left side with some power potential. Got up the line quickly and showed that he can drag bunt well. 

-2019 OF Dylan Fisher showed a short quick bat from the left side with some power potential. Good routes in the outfield with a clean exchange.

-2019 RHP Matt Michel is a transfer from Battlefield. Lanky frame with more in the tank, struck 8 in four innings of work, only walked two as he tired in the fourth. Michel did not allow any hits during his four innings. Fastball was 83-84 touching 86 in the early innings, curveball was 68-70 with sharp break.

-2021 C Garrett Pancione was very good blocking and receiving in game working with Michel. Between inning pop times were 2.28-2.39 with accuracy. Quick release. Has some batspeed and a short swing. 

 

Kettle Run
-2018 RHP Bailey Burke sat 75-76, touched 77 on the mound. Showed a change-up at 67-69 and a curveball at 60. Showed the ability to attack the zone and induce some weak contact.

-2018 1B Jacob Gladstone looks much stronger and should be able to supply more power in the spring as he moves up to the middle of the lineup.

-2018 SS Jared Johnson has added strength to his frame while keeping his speed. He has moved over to short after playing third base most of the 2017 season. He has soft quick hands and a very quick exchange. Line drive hitter should offer a high average and doubles power in the middle of the lineup.

 

Look for us to continue to check in on some of the top programs as the fall continues in preparation for the 2018 season.