Cole Phillips

Few prep arms in the country shot out of the gate this spring quite like Phillips. Over the course of a year, the 6-foot-3 198-pound righty transformed himself from a projectable college prospect into one of the country’s elite, launching himself up draft boards. In April, Phillips joined the rather large group of pitching prospects in this year’s draft class whose season ended prematurely, as he needed Tommy John surgery. Phillips has begun his road back to dominance that still may take place within a pro organization, as the impression he left still weighs heavily in the minds of scouting directors. On the mound, Phillips’ classic pitching frame is complemented with an athletic delivery. Phillips is under control to his balance point, and his long, loose takeback with good extension out in front produces life on his 95-98 mph fastball, generating run both up and down in the zone. Phillips throws a mid-80s slider that will flash plus when properly executed. The traditional downward three-quarter break is sharp and late, giving him another knockout pitch in his arsenal that still has room to develop further. Phillips does have a changeup in his mix, but he rarely had to use it this spring. The potential is there for the 85-88 mph offering to become a solid-average pitch for him, if not better, as he will begin to use it more at the collegiate or pro level. The overall command Phillips displayed this spring impressed evaluators. He’s not just a thrower, as he showed a feel for the craft and pitched with a purpose. Phillips will have to decide between an Arkansas commitment or entering the pro game. He’s expected to go among the top three rounds.