Hayden
Durke

The talented 6-foot-3, 200-pounder, has always had a premier arm, but also has always needed to put all the pieces together. Command has been an issue at times in the past, but the talent level is clearly undeniable. Durke was electric at a recent exhibition against Houston, sitting 96-98 and up to 99 mph with a fastball that had spin rates up to 2400. He also showed feel for a mid-80s slider. Rice does not have many premier pitching options, so there’s zero doubt Durke will get an opportunity to start and to showcase his stuff in a big way. If it clicks, it’s top three-to-four round type of stuff.

Louisiana-Lafayette recruit. Currently ranked No. 4 in Louisiana’s 2020 class. Strong, developed 6-foot, 185-pound frame with athletic build. Right-handed pitcher with long, clean arm action into high-3/4 release, showing quick arm speed, and some effort. Athletic delivery with fluid rhythm, in-line direction, and lands square. Fastball is explosive through the zone at times, showing quality life to the arm side at 87-90 mph, touching 91 mph. Shows feel to spin a quality breaking ball at times, with 11/5 shape, quality spin, rotation, and depth.