Blake Hunt

Hunt was one of the highest risers of any prospect this spring. Scouts were familiar with him as an underclassman, but he asserted himself as a pro prospect after adding significant muscle in the weight room during the fall and winter. Hunt's best attributes are on defense, where he has the tools to become an above-average catcher. Hunt sets a low target behind the plate and has natural instincts, blocking balls to either side and showing above-average hands. Hunt is able to steal low strikes by coming up on balls or positioning his feet well and swiping his glove toward the zone. He shows comfort getting into and out of his crouch and he has a loose, mobile lower half that allows him to move well laterally. Hunt flashes plus arm strength, with a fluid loose arm action and carry on his throws. His pop times are typically in the 1.95 second range. Hunt shows power potential in his righthanded swing. He has a compact stroke with minimal pre-pitch load. When his swing is in sync, Hunt is able to drive the ball with authority to right center field or pull it over the fence. He has above-average power potential in his broad-shouldered, 6-foot-3 frame. National evaluators don't have as much history of scouting Hunt, who didn't make the southern California Area Code Games roster last summer, and he's also battled through some arm injuries. He's not expected to come cheap because of his Pepperdine commitment, but Hunt's late rise and the dearth of catchers in the class could push him into the top three rounds.