Comments on: Arms Emerge In Southern California Invitational

By: Nick Holston

Nick Holston — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 05:04:26 +0000

Great report guys, but nevertheless as I read this report like I read the last one about the Jesse Flores game there is one standout that is never mentioned. Let's be real Kevin Franklin is one of the strongest high school players in the country. Granted it's BP but I've seen it time and time again at Area Codes, PG All American, Jesse Flores, and just this past weekend he absolutely demolishes the ball. His power is hard to find especially at the high school level. The rankings are great and all but let's be honest the most exciting thing in a baseball game is the home run. Kevin Franklin will be a name in the future mark my words.

By: Dave Perkin

Dave Perkin — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 20:43:04 +0000

Excellent and thorough report, but I would disagree in one area. Franklin has more power and bat speed than any player present Saturday. He had the best BP but struggled in the game, as did most of the kids. But that's a subjective opinion, so all's cool, everyone is entitled to their viewpoint.
However, this story contains one huge "whiff". Rivera did not catch in the game, but he did make some throws to second as a C in pre game. I timed his best throw at a staggering 1.77. Afterward, I asked some Bureau guys what they had recorded and they said 1.78. We all agreed that if Rivera comes out as a catcher he'll elevate his draft postion by at least 5 rounds. I talked to the kid afterwards and he said he was considering the switch. "It would be a viable career opportunity!" I told him.
For perspective, I've been scouting 12 years and I have timed only one other amateur (college or HS) catcher under 1.80. That would be Austin Hedges.

By: Matthew Gray @thechosenone95

Matthew Gray @thechosenone95 — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 17:17:36 +0000

I think Rivera will come around and get his hitting together. I think he has an overall good trigger mechanism but he does hit in part. This should turn around with a little more experience.