John
Rogers

 CF JD Rogers (IN) checked all boxes with his performance at the Super 60, and is sure to have some scouts following him closely this spring. Well-known for his defensive prowess in center field, the Vanderbilt recruit posted one of the top 60-yard dash times (6.53) and unleashed strong (94 mph) throws with plenty of carry. But it was his offensive performance that stood out even more. The fall had seen Rogers, a left-handed hitter, more spread out utilizing a minimalist stride, but coming out of the winter he showcased more of a leg-hang that allowed him to build even more momentum through impact. That change helped the output metrics tick up including a max 105.26 mph exit velocity and max distance of 401 feet. Known more for his plate discipline and ability to work gap-to-gap from the top of the order, the flash of power potential and outputs in the batting practice setting should be enough to grab the attention of MLB scouts as to what Rogers’ upside might hold. Built with lean, defined strength throughout a 5-foot-10, 185-pound frame, there is still room to continue adding strength which should boost the power production even more. Overall, it was a crisp performance throughout that likely left scouts wanting to see more this spring.

Vanderbilt recruit. Rogers was ultra-conservative hitting in the leadoff spot for Team Indiana as he patiently waited for pitches deep into counts. Sporting an athletically-muscular, 5-foot-9, 178-pound frame, the left-handed hitter sets up wider in a crouched base. The hands flow freely down and back before stopping as the weight transfers to the front foot with a longer stride. There is impressive quickness to the hands with a direct path and intent to drive the ball to the back side gap. At times, the bat got out of the zone quickly which caused some swing-and-miss throughout the weekend, but there is still lots to like. A gifted athlete with speed and ball-skills, Rogers has a chance to stick in centerfield long-term. Making the most of his speed, Rogers swiped seven bags on the weekend.

Rogers looked the part of an elite, top-of-the-order talent throughout the week at the Future Games. A 6.59-runner, his speed and athleticism will allow him to remain in centerfield moving forward, and given his athleticism, ball-skills, and strong arm (90mph positionally), there is a chance that he excels defensively at the next level. The left-handed hitter showcased the ability to keep the barrel in the zone for a long time, working line drives to all fields before circling the bases. Rogers is confident in his abilities which helps them to play up in-game, and should continue quickly progressing as he gains more experience against high-level competition. He collected multiple hits over the course of three games with a propensity to work the back side gap, and his pitch recognition stood out throughout. Overall, as a left-handed hitting, premium centerfielder, the 5-foot-9, 178-pounder will likely be pursued by a large collection of colleges moving forward.

2019 INDIANA STATE GAMES: 5-foot-9, 180 pound high intensity player. Outfield showed decent range and read on balls to both sides. Plays with obvious passion. Popped up in the INF and was 4.26 down the line on the turn. Was standing on second when the 3B caught the ball. At the plate starts wide with a slight stride. Likely will be a gap-gap line drive hitter with plus speed that can stretch doubles.

5-foot-9, 178 pound strong, athletic frame. Shows athletic twitch in all facets of his game. Glides on the base paths. Had a top home to first of 4.06. Left-handed hitter hits from an athletic crouch setup, high back elbow. Stride is short, smooth load. Above average bat speed with gap-to-gap potential. Interesting follow this summer.