Ethan
Anderson

Cape Cod: Don’t be fooled by Anderson batting just .195 in 82 at-bats this summer with Harwich, the guy is a hit machine from both sides of the plate, as shown by his .375/.469/.649 slash line with the Cavaliers last season. More than just a basher, he’s also a solid defender at first base. As 2024 approaches, it will be interesting to see what kind of chance he gets to be an everyday catcher for Virginia after the departure of Kyle Teel. He made some cameo appearances there for Virginia last season and had a cup of coffee at the position this summer, but he’s never been a full-time backstop at this level. He’s already a quality prospect because of his bat, but if he can prove to be at least a serviceable catcher, his value will increase. 

VA/DC Scout Blog

Anderson has a strong athletic frame. The UVA commit is a switch hitter with a high contact rate from both sides. Is a little bit more upright from the right side, shorter flat path to contact, and more ground ball line drive tendencies from that side. From the left side the hands separate a little bit more, gets on plane, and in my opinion has a better chance to produce power from the left side. Had three at bats from the right side and one at bat from the left side on the day. Behind the plate Anderson has average arm strength, but uses a quick exchange and release with accuracy around the bag. Is pretty active in the run game and is not afraid to throw behind runners.

About as physical of a frame as you will see especially on a junior. Switch hitting catcher that has advanced barrel and zone awareness and does not swing and miss much. Similar stance from both sides. Sets up open and strides forward landing on line. Hands load back in rhythm and has some uphill tilt to the swing. Led off the first game with a double down the line, had a sac fly to deep right in his second at bat, and later on in the day stayed inside a fastball and barreled it up right at the short stop. Behind the plate shows some hand strength at the bottom of the zone and on pops it is a quick exchange and short arm action to release.

Anderson has continued to develop nicely since his commitment over a year ago to Virginia. Offensively advanced and physicality is present in the freshmen catcher. From the right side, his hands are free at the plate with nice extension through contact. Looks like he will develop some nice gap power at the plate as well.  Will stick as a switch hitter. Left handed stroke is more compact and bat speed is present. Might end up developing more power from the right side and better average from the left. Excellent balance at the plate for his age and will continue to progress well in the 2021 class.

9.16.17:

Anderson has a physically mature athletic frame that is projectable. He hits form the right side with a good short swing and some batspeed. He is quick to the ball with a knack for getting the barrel and has a lot of power potential. He is still in middle school but looks like he belongs on a varsity field this spring