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Official Adam4848 Baseball Preview Feb 10th (Prospects & SEC prediction)
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:14 am
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:14 am
Took forever but February is here
-Everything you will read in this preview is "my" opinion and as always other opinions are welcomed. The main reason I do this preview annually is to get out an in depth look regarding the team to the friends, family, and alumni who don't get a chance to see the team in action or the ones living out of state etc...
-The lineup I predict is based on what I have seen thus far and how I see the respective positions shaping up.
-At the end of each position is a final grade based on the entire unit.
Feb 1st-C
Feb 2nd-1B
Feb 3rd-2B
Feb 4th-SS
Feb 5th-3B
Feb 6th-OF
Feb 7th-DH
Feb 8th-SP
Feb 9th-RP
Feb 10th-Pro Prospects (Each class) & SEC Preview
-Everything you will read in this preview is "my" opinion and as always other opinions are welcomed. The main reason I do this preview annually is to get out an in depth look regarding the team to the friends, family, and alumni who don't get a chance to see the team in action or the ones living out of state etc...
-The lineup I predict is based on what I have seen thus far and how I see the respective positions shaping up.
-At the end of each position is a final grade based on the entire unit.
Feb 1st-C
Feb 2nd-1B
Feb 3rd-2B
Feb 4th-SS
Feb 5th-3B
Feb 6th-OF
Feb 7th-DH
Feb 8th-SP
Feb 9th-RP
Feb 10th-Pro Prospects (Each class) & SEC Preview
This post was edited on 2/10/15 at 9:18 am
19
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:14 am to Adam4848
CATCHER
Kade Scivique Sr.* 5’11 225lbs (22)
Mike Papierski Fr. 6’3 205lbs (2)
Chris Chinea Jr. 5’11 220lbs (26)
Who’s going to catch? Who’s going to get the most reps? Who will start the most games? All of these question marks have been up for debate since Houston eliminated LSU from postseason play last year in the regionals. Fortunately Mainieri is going to have three options, combined as a group they bring about leadership, veteran presence, power, and the youngest with seemingly exceptional potential. Playing devil’s advocate if there is one flaw to date it’s not one of catchers has separated himself in every aspect of the game that Mainieri is ready to pull the trigger. Kade Scivique and Chris Chinea return to the Tigers while Mike Papierski enters his freshman season.
I whole heartily expect one of either Scivique or Chinea to start opening night with the other at DH. Kade Scivique’s game is simple, he’s one of the strongest players on the team using his legs and hip action to drive balls to the gaps and out of the park. Where he gets in trouble is where he reaches, but with maturity and plate discipline he can remain a mainstay in the middle of the order especially with the new lower seamed balls with more carry. Kade doesn't possess a plus glove or arm behind the plate yet he's not a liability for the position.
We can argue Chris Chinea to date has not lived up to his potential and it motivated him last summer to earn all-star accolades in the famous Cape Cod wooden bat league. Also a strong bodied catcher, Chinea’s glove has improved since arriving to Baton Rouge in the fall of ’12, I look for him to platoon between all three positions C, 1B, and DH. Defensively Chris is currently behind the two others at the position, it may push him to DH early on or platoon 1B.
Then enters Mike Papierski, the highest selected high school catcher to be drafted and turn down a pro contract, coming in round 16 of the Toronto Blue Jays. When I say the sky is the limit for Mike, it is. Possessing a 6’3 frame and the ability to hit from both sides Mike has the ability to push for playing time early and if his bat gets hot won’t leave the coaches much of a choice but to pencil him in as a starter. Out of the three he has the best arm and most upside, it’s only a matter of when is he mature enough to take the load of being an everyday catcher in the SEC. I could easily envision a scenario ala. Micah Gibbs in ’08 in the way he was slowly brought in behind Sean Ochinko and starting around SEC play never looking back. If there is a position battle throughout the year it's going to be catcher.
With all this said at the end of the day the winner of the position will solidify playing time with the glove and the ability to keep runners at bay which will greatly aid the young arms on this staff. Last season in SEC play LSU as a unit threw out 40% of base runners which ranked third in the conference, a stat that may be surprising, but a testament to the group a season ago. Expect the catcher position to hit anywhere from the 4-8 hole in the lineup. Depth will not be an issue at this position and for good measure it will be needed. For the time being Scivique will be listed as the starter.
Kade Scivique
Power------65
Hitting------55
Speed------45
Fielding----50
Arm---------55
FINAL GRADE: 60
Kade Scivique Sr.* 5’11 225lbs (22)
Mike Papierski Fr. 6’3 205lbs (2)
Chris Chinea Jr. 5’11 220lbs (26)
Who’s going to catch? Who’s going to get the most reps? Who will start the most games? All of these question marks have been up for debate since Houston eliminated LSU from postseason play last year in the regionals. Fortunately Mainieri is going to have three options, combined as a group they bring about leadership, veteran presence, power, and the youngest with seemingly exceptional potential. Playing devil’s advocate if there is one flaw to date it’s not one of catchers has separated himself in every aspect of the game that Mainieri is ready to pull the trigger. Kade Scivique and Chris Chinea return to the Tigers while Mike Papierski enters his freshman season.
I whole heartily expect one of either Scivique or Chinea to start opening night with the other at DH. Kade Scivique’s game is simple, he’s one of the strongest players on the team using his legs and hip action to drive balls to the gaps and out of the park. Where he gets in trouble is where he reaches, but with maturity and plate discipline he can remain a mainstay in the middle of the order especially with the new lower seamed balls with more carry. Kade doesn't possess a plus glove or arm behind the plate yet he's not a liability for the position.
We can argue Chris Chinea to date has not lived up to his potential and it motivated him last summer to earn all-star accolades in the famous Cape Cod wooden bat league. Also a strong bodied catcher, Chinea’s glove has improved since arriving to Baton Rouge in the fall of ’12, I look for him to platoon between all three positions C, 1B, and DH. Defensively Chris is currently behind the two others at the position, it may push him to DH early on or platoon 1B.
Then enters Mike Papierski, the highest selected high school catcher to be drafted and turn down a pro contract, coming in round 16 of the Toronto Blue Jays. When I say the sky is the limit for Mike, it is. Possessing a 6’3 frame and the ability to hit from both sides Mike has the ability to push for playing time early and if his bat gets hot won’t leave the coaches much of a choice but to pencil him in as a starter. Out of the three he has the best arm and most upside, it’s only a matter of when is he mature enough to take the load of being an everyday catcher in the SEC. I could easily envision a scenario ala. Micah Gibbs in ’08 in the way he was slowly brought in behind Sean Ochinko and starting around SEC play never looking back. If there is a position battle throughout the year it's going to be catcher.
With all this said at the end of the day the winner of the position will solidify playing time with the glove and the ability to keep runners at bay which will greatly aid the young arms on this staff. Last season in SEC play LSU as a unit threw out 40% of base runners which ranked third in the conference, a stat that may be surprising, but a testament to the group a season ago. Expect the catcher position to hit anywhere from the 4-8 hole in the lineup. Depth will not be an issue at this position and for good measure it will be needed. For the time being Scivique will be listed as the starter.
Kade Scivique
Power------65
Hitting------55
Speed------45
Fielding----50
Arm---------55
FINAL GRADE: 60
This post was edited on 2/1/15 at 6:37 am
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:14 am to Adam4848
FIRST BASE
Conner Hale Sr.* 6’2 185lbs (20)
Chris Chinea Jr. 5’11 220 lbs (26)
Bryce Jordan Fr. 5’9 205lbs (25)
The first base position will be similar as in year’s pasts, dependent on what Mainieri decides to do at catcher, second base, and third base the spot will open up as needed. For all intents and purposes we’ll highlight Conner Hale, last year’s starting second baseman and a guy who has had success at first base as the starter. Hale split time last year at both first base and second base and is athletic enough to play both positions as well as third if called upon. I see guys such as Hale, Chinea, Scivique, Deichmann, and Bryce Jordan to all get looks and reps at the position in the weeks leading up to opening day.
Conner Hale is a role player, a veteran, and a sparkplug. Every successful team has two or three guys who you look down the lineup and they’re consistent, they don’t have to be flashy with any one tool. Last year Hale drew the fewest walks out of any starter yet he struck out the least, in a nut shell he was the one who made contact more than any other player and ranked third in total bases. Hale’s not a big power guy, his bread and butter is going where the ball is pitched, yet I do think he has the ability to hit 6-7 HR’s this season. As one of five returning starters who hit over .300 last year the type of season Conner has will determine how LSU can stack their lineup and protect Bregman. LSU will again have a potent heart of the order and Mainieri’s ability to place Hale anywhere before or after Bregman may reap many rewards. Conner has an above average glove and does not make mental mistakes in the field, he and Bregman formed a solid double play combo last year and he’ll excel at whichever position he ends up this spring. If there is one knack to his game it’s his base stealing where a season ago he did not have a single steal attempt however in his role it hasn’t been called upon. His base running is average and will not present a liability in the base paths.
Chris Chinea could also spend some time at first base where he will present a steady target. Chinea’s glove is less flashy than that of Hale’s but he presents the presence of more raw power to the gaps between the two. Last year Chris had a number of balls fall at the warning track, ones that this spring may carry out. Bryce Jordan the talented athlete out of Barbe will see reps here and third base. Greg Deichmann could also be used here in an emergency spot or late game shift.
Mainieri’s long line of athletic and interchangeable position players inserted at 1B doesn’t seem to be changing this year and for the most part players have excelled at this position when called upon. Again, depth at the time being does not pose a threat with younger players waiting in the wings. If Conner Hale remains in this starting gig first base is going to be locked down by a seasoned veteran who’s going to hit for average in the lineup.
Power------55
Hitting------60
Speed------50
Fielding----60
Arm---------55
FINAL GRADE: 60
Conner Hale Sr.* 6’2 185lbs (20)
Chris Chinea Jr. 5’11 220 lbs (26)
Bryce Jordan Fr. 5’9 205lbs (25)
The first base position will be similar as in year’s pasts, dependent on what Mainieri decides to do at catcher, second base, and third base the spot will open up as needed. For all intents and purposes we’ll highlight Conner Hale, last year’s starting second baseman and a guy who has had success at first base as the starter. Hale split time last year at both first base and second base and is athletic enough to play both positions as well as third if called upon. I see guys such as Hale, Chinea, Scivique, Deichmann, and Bryce Jordan to all get looks and reps at the position in the weeks leading up to opening day.
Conner Hale is a role player, a veteran, and a sparkplug. Every successful team has two or three guys who you look down the lineup and they’re consistent, they don’t have to be flashy with any one tool. Last year Hale drew the fewest walks out of any starter yet he struck out the least, in a nut shell he was the one who made contact more than any other player and ranked third in total bases. Hale’s not a big power guy, his bread and butter is going where the ball is pitched, yet I do think he has the ability to hit 6-7 HR’s this season. As one of five returning starters who hit over .300 last year the type of season Conner has will determine how LSU can stack their lineup and protect Bregman. LSU will again have a potent heart of the order and Mainieri’s ability to place Hale anywhere before or after Bregman may reap many rewards. Conner has an above average glove and does not make mental mistakes in the field, he and Bregman formed a solid double play combo last year and he’ll excel at whichever position he ends up this spring. If there is one knack to his game it’s his base stealing where a season ago he did not have a single steal attempt however in his role it hasn’t been called upon. His base running is average and will not present a liability in the base paths.
Chris Chinea could also spend some time at first base where he will present a steady target. Chinea’s glove is less flashy than that of Hale’s but he presents the presence of more raw power to the gaps between the two. Last year Chris had a number of balls fall at the warning track, ones that this spring may carry out. Bryce Jordan the talented athlete out of Barbe will see reps here and third base. Greg Deichmann could also be used here in an emergency spot or late game shift.
Mainieri’s long line of athletic and interchangeable position players inserted at 1B doesn’t seem to be changing this year and for the most part players have excelled at this position when called upon. Again, depth at the time being does not pose a threat with younger players waiting in the wings. If Conner Hale remains in this starting gig first base is going to be locked down by a seasoned veteran who’s going to hit for average in the lineup.
Power------55
Hitting------60
Speed------50
Fielding----60
Arm---------55
FINAL GRADE: 60
This post was edited on 2/2/15 at 7:36 am
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:14 am to Adam4848
SECOND BASE
Kramer Robertson So.* 5’10 165lbs (3)
Greg Deichmann Fr. 6’2 185lbs (7)
Conner Hale Sr. 6’2 185lbs (20)
As it appears today Kramer Robertson’s maturation process has come together smoothly and he’s ready to step into the second base position in the preparation to take over short stop next season or remain at second. Looking at potential candidates you have Kramer Robertson, Greg Deichmann, and Conner Hale. Assuming for now Hale stays at first base we’ll solely cover Robertson and Deichmann.
Kramer comes in as one of the most athletic guys in the lineup heading into spring. He doesn’t have every inch of range Jacoby Jones did in his prime but he can and will still make a few eye opening plays you just don’t think he has the chance to get to. All in all he's one of the premier defensive infielders LSU has this season. The key to success will be getting on point with Bregman to shore up the middle of the infield and having spent half of last season at second base he’s had time to work out any kinks. Robertson also has an extremely strong arm for his frame and has flashed this tool dozens of times in scrimmages. What Mainieri is hoping to see this year is an above average plate presence towards the bottom of the lineup as to play the second leadoff man role if he doesn't hit one or two. He did a great job working counts a year ago, this season will be about capitalizing on mistake pitches and driving the ball up the middle to get on base and flip it over to the top of the order. His motive to no surprise will be swinging for contact and getting on base any ways necessary. Robertson has above average speed and is an excellent baserunner, I would look for a big boost in stolen base production with the amount of work he’s put in with Andy Cannizaro as well as working the hit and run game with him on base.
Greg Deichmann, the star bat out of the freshman class would have been a top 3 round selection last June had he not made his intentions very blunt he was attending school. Deichmann is a true 5 tool player with a solid frame to build into as well as top line speed he possess currently. His power and left handed bat will get him at bats early in the season. His power will come in time, it may be this year it may be a year from now, but it will come. Whether or not Greg see’s time at 1B, 2B, 3B, or DH I think he will eventually find his way into the lineup by years end, it’s hard to keep a bat as potent as his on the bench for too long. As it appears Deichmann will be groomed into either the 2B or 3B position and even has the range to become a left fielder if push comes to shove. Although slowed by a foot strain in late January I don't see it as a nagging season long injury especially if
platooning DH.
The second base position when lineup cards are set won’t be asked to carry the team, more or so to add a spark in needed situations as well as play above average defense. What we’ve seen in years past is if you can manage the glove at any key defensive position Mainieri will hold that to a higher degree over a batting average. I expect Robertson to take the job running with Deichmann competing for playing time as the season wears on. If for any reason a defensive shift comes into play Conner Hale becomes an easy choice to slide into this position.
Power------40
Hitting------50
Speed------60
Fielding----60
Arm---------65
FINAL GRADE: 55
Kramer Robertson So.* 5’10 165lbs (3)
Greg Deichmann Fr. 6’2 185lbs (7)
Conner Hale Sr. 6’2 185lbs (20)
As it appears today Kramer Robertson’s maturation process has come together smoothly and he’s ready to step into the second base position in the preparation to take over short stop next season or remain at second. Looking at potential candidates you have Kramer Robertson, Greg Deichmann, and Conner Hale. Assuming for now Hale stays at first base we’ll solely cover Robertson and Deichmann.
Kramer comes in as one of the most athletic guys in the lineup heading into spring. He doesn’t have every inch of range Jacoby Jones did in his prime but he can and will still make a few eye opening plays you just don’t think he has the chance to get to. All in all he's one of the premier defensive infielders LSU has this season. The key to success will be getting on point with Bregman to shore up the middle of the infield and having spent half of last season at second base he’s had time to work out any kinks. Robertson also has an extremely strong arm for his frame and has flashed this tool dozens of times in scrimmages. What Mainieri is hoping to see this year is an above average plate presence towards the bottom of the lineup as to play the second leadoff man role if he doesn't hit one or two. He did a great job working counts a year ago, this season will be about capitalizing on mistake pitches and driving the ball up the middle to get on base and flip it over to the top of the order. His motive to no surprise will be swinging for contact and getting on base any ways necessary. Robertson has above average speed and is an excellent baserunner, I would look for a big boost in stolen base production with the amount of work he’s put in with Andy Cannizaro as well as working the hit and run game with him on base.
Greg Deichmann, the star bat out of the freshman class would have been a top 3 round selection last June had he not made his intentions very blunt he was attending school. Deichmann is a true 5 tool player with a solid frame to build into as well as top line speed he possess currently. His power and left handed bat will get him at bats early in the season. His power will come in time, it may be this year it may be a year from now, but it will come. Whether or not Greg see’s time at 1B, 2B, 3B, or DH I think he will eventually find his way into the lineup by years end, it’s hard to keep a bat as potent as his on the bench for too long. As it appears Deichmann will be groomed into either the 2B or 3B position and even has the range to become a left fielder if push comes to shove. Although slowed by a foot strain in late January I don't see it as a nagging season long injury especially if
platooning DH.
The second base position when lineup cards are set won’t be asked to carry the team, more or so to add a spark in needed situations as well as play above average defense. What we’ve seen in years past is if you can manage the glove at any key defensive position Mainieri will hold that to a higher degree over a batting average. I expect Robertson to take the job running with Deichmann competing for playing time as the season wears on. If for any reason a defensive shift comes into play Conner Hale becomes an easy choice to slide into this position.
Power------40
Hitting------50
Speed------60
Fielding----60
Arm---------65
FINAL GRADE: 55
This post was edited on 2/3/15 at 7:59 am
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:14 am to Adam4848
SHORTSTOP
Alex Bregman Jr.* 6’0 185lbs (8)
Grayson Bryd Fr. 6’3 180lbs (10)
Barring some unforeseen circumstances the shortstop position will be anchored down by Alex Bregman for the entirety of 2015. In two years he has started all but one game in this spot and I look for more of the same. Grayson Byrd will back up the position for the time being.
Not many people sit back and reflect how many different things working in motion that it took to get Bregman on campus back in the summer of 2012. By the time Alex was a freshman in high school his name was already exploding through showcases as well as being a part of the U.S. national 18U team. Early in his senior year while taking ground balls during pre-game warmups Alex suffered a broken middle finger, and the rest is history. As Bregman was forced to sit out scouts were forced to travel to see other players, weeks later Bregman made a statement stating it would be first round or LSU…he got a call from a team in round 2 but sticking to his word he respectfully declined. He’s the heart of the team and the spoken leader, if you listen intently when LSU takes the field you’ll hear Alex shouting instructions as well as words of encouragement to the young pitchers. It's a luxury young teams simply do not posses. There is nothing to lead me to believe he won’t have a much better season than that of last year where it was visually obvious at times he was pressing. The lineup is strong around him and much like 2013 opposing pitchers aren’t going to be given the luxury of pitching around Alex. His swing is compact and short to the ball, he rarely gets tied up on a pitch anywhere in the strike zone, and because of this he can hit the ball on a line to any part of the park at any given time. His power numbers will go up this year because he knows what to do with mistake pitches. On the base paths he is an extremely aggressive baserunner who uses his above average speed to time the pitchers reaction and force throws over to first base. What Alex has most improved on since entering the collegiate game is his glove, the arm has always been there. What people don’t know is a year ago Bregman finished with a .966 fielding clip which was equal to or better than Austin Nola’s first three seasons. I fully expect this to be Alex Bregman’s final season at LSU and I encourage anyone who has not made the trip to do so at the chance to see a future major league player.
Grayson Byrd, the son of former Tiger great Paul Byrd, is another top prep standout beginning his college career. A 39th round draft choice of the Atlanta Braves, Grayson heads into spring practice backing up Bregman. Both Byrd and Deichmann two top 300 overall prospects who continually informed clubs that their intentions were to play at LSU leaving nothing to be desired from draft positions. Both were graded out as round 3-8 picks on tools alone. With both of them on campus it’s going to create competition at the spots they are respectively backing up which will in turn diminish any room for the starters to get complacent. While studying under Bregman both Deichmann and Byrd will have the opportunity to be groomed and brought along at their own pace before working into a starting spot whether it be this year or next which mentally will pay huge dividends. Byrd is a natural high energy character, he knows the game well, and he perfects it. I look for him to get at bats from whichever position he finds a place to get reps. In comparison to Deichmann, Grayson uses his long arms to spray balls and is more of a line drive hitter than a natural pull hitter of Deichmann. His defense and arm will improve over the next coming years although he has flashed leather on some amazing pickups in the scrimmages and it looks like his natural fit will be shortstop.
At the end of the day Alex Bregman is still one of the premier position players in college and expectations will continue to be through the roof. I could see his stat line reading something in the range of .350 12 HR’s and 55 RBI’s given he has steady protection behind him. As the team’s top natural hitter I think he’ll stay around the 2-3 hole for a majority of the year.
Power------65
Hitting------75
Speed------60
Fielding----65
Arm---------65
FINAL GRADE: 75
Alex Bregman Jr.* 6’0 185lbs (8)
Grayson Bryd Fr. 6’3 180lbs (10)
Barring some unforeseen circumstances the shortstop position will be anchored down by Alex Bregman for the entirety of 2015. In two years he has started all but one game in this spot and I look for more of the same. Grayson Byrd will back up the position for the time being.
Not many people sit back and reflect how many different things working in motion that it took to get Bregman on campus back in the summer of 2012. By the time Alex was a freshman in high school his name was already exploding through showcases as well as being a part of the U.S. national 18U team. Early in his senior year while taking ground balls during pre-game warmups Alex suffered a broken middle finger, and the rest is history. As Bregman was forced to sit out scouts were forced to travel to see other players, weeks later Bregman made a statement stating it would be first round or LSU…he got a call from a team in round 2 but sticking to his word he respectfully declined. He’s the heart of the team and the spoken leader, if you listen intently when LSU takes the field you’ll hear Alex shouting instructions as well as words of encouragement to the young pitchers. It's a luxury young teams simply do not posses. There is nothing to lead me to believe he won’t have a much better season than that of last year where it was visually obvious at times he was pressing. The lineup is strong around him and much like 2013 opposing pitchers aren’t going to be given the luxury of pitching around Alex. His swing is compact and short to the ball, he rarely gets tied up on a pitch anywhere in the strike zone, and because of this he can hit the ball on a line to any part of the park at any given time. His power numbers will go up this year because he knows what to do with mistake pitches. On the base paths he is an extremely aggressive baserunner who uses his above average speed to time the pitchers reaction and force throws over to first base. What Alex has most improved on since entering the collegiate game is his glove, the arm has always been there. What people don’t know is a year ago Bregman finished with a .966 fielding clip which was equal to or better than Austin Nola’s first three seasons. I fully expect this to be Alex Bregman’s final season at LSU and I encourage anyone who has not made the trip to do so at the chance to see a future major league player.
Grayson Byrd, the son of former Tiger great Paul Byrd, is another top prep standout beginning his college career. A 39th round draft choice of the Atlanta Braves, Grayson heads into spring practice backing up Bregman. Both Byrd and Deichmann two top 300 overall prospects who continually informed clubs that their intentions were to play at LSU leaving nothing to be desired from draft positions. Both were graded out as round 3-8 picks on tools alone. With both of them on campus it’s going to create competition at the spots they are respectively backing up which will in turn diminish any room for the starters to get complacent. While studying under Bregman both Deichmann and Byrd will have the opportunity to be groomed and brought along at their own pace before working into a starting spot whether it be this year or next which mentally will pay huge dividends. Byrd is a natural high energy character, he knows the game well, and he perfects it. I look for him to get at bats from whichever position he finds a place to get reps. In comparison to Deichmann, Grayson uses his long arms to spray balls and is more of a line drive hitter than a natural pull hitter of Deichmann. His defense and arm will improve over the next coming years although he has flashed leather on some amazing pickups in the scrimmages and it looks like his natural fit will be shortstop.
At the end of the day Alex Bregman is still one of the premier position players in college and expectations will continue to be through the roof. I could see his stat line reading something in the range of .350 12 HR’s and 55 RBI’s given he has steady protection behind him. As the team’s top natural hitter I think he’ll stay around the 2-3 hole for a majority of the year.
Power------65
Hitting------75
Speed------60
Fielding----65
Arm---------65
FINAL GRADE: 75
This post was edited on 2/4/15 at 7:48 am
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:15 am to Adam4848
THIRD BASE
Danny Zardon So.* 6’0 190lbs (27)
Bryce Jordan Fr. 5’9 205lbs (25)
Greg Deichmann Fr. 6’2 185lbs (7)
The third base position was one of the few highlighted question marks Mainieri addressed during the offseason position wise. With the loss of Christian Ibarra to graduation Danny Zardon has emerged as the leading candidate to take the position with a solid summer in the Cape Cod league as well as monstrous fall practice. Behind him could be a whole committee of youngsters Bryce Jordan, Greg Deichmann, or even Conner Hale if this experiment deteriorates rapidly.
Danny Zardon now in his second season as a Tiger is looking to replace one of the best gloves in the SEC the past two seasons. It’s not going to be an easy task by any stretch of the imagination with his experience on the college level and the emphasis Mainieri places on defense. What Danny does have is a strong background of the game and the muscle memory of playing the position at the high school level although at a slower pace. If Danny is going to succeed and stay in the lineup it will be without any hesitation due to the fact he is trusted in the field. Zardon’s strength is the bat, it’s his meal ticket for now. With an average build he surprisingly has very strong hands and great extension in the zone allowing him to create lift on the ball. With this he can pull inside pitches with great drive as evidenced in the fall when he led LSU in HR’s. The ball seems to jump off his bat differently at times and for that reason along with the new balls anywhere in the range of 6-11 HR’s given that he plays the entirety of the season could be expected. One thing he needs to stay consistent is keeping the bat level throughout the zone, when he dips he has a tendency to create pop outs. As he matures he'll learn to not pull on outside pitches. Zardon’s speed is average, a season ago he did not have a stolen base attempt, I don’t expect him to be an asset in the ground game. His glove needs work hence the extra reps he’s been taking at the hot corner, he had his struggles at times last year manning first and second base although the score sheet didn’t necessarily reflect. One thing that needs to be watched during spring practice is how he adjusts to slow rollers and his ability to throw accurately on the run. With this being said in the past weeks he has fielded a number or hot shots cleanly so the glove is coming along. Others who could contend for the spot include both Deichmann and Hale as well as Jordan.
Bryce Jordan, the brother and twin of Beau Jordan figures to backup either third base or first base to start off the year and will push for playing time. With the injury to Deichmann, Bryce has a leg up in securing that backup spot although for both parties each seem comfortable where they are respectively. Jordan's tools don't jump off the screen yet he continues to hit and the competitiveness he brings in ever plate appearance is that of a three year letterman.
The good news here is Zardon is and will improve and grow more comfortable at the position, the bad news he still has a learning curve to adjust to and he simply doesn’t have the luxury of sitting behind anybody for any longer. If all indications of his progress since last summer hold true then Zardon will do wonderful things at LSU before his career is over with. If there was a most improved award Danny would be in that top three group on the team. He’ll probably provide pop anywhere from the 6-8 hole in the lineup.
Power------60
Hitting------55
Speed------50
Fielding----50
Arm---------55
FINAL GRADE: 50
Danny Zardon So.* 6’0 190lbs (27)
Bryce Jordan Fr. 5’9 205lbs (25)
Greg Deichmann Fr. 6’2 185lbs (7)
The third base position was one of the few highlighted question marks Mainieri addressed during the offseason position wise. With the loss of Christian Ibarra to graduation Danny Zardon has emerged as the leading candidate to take the position with a solid summer in the Cape Cod league as well as monstrous fall practice. Behind him could be a whole committee of youngsters Bryce Jordan, Greg Deichmann, or even Conner Hale if this experiment deteriorates rapidly.
Danny Zardon now in his second season as a Tiger is looking to replace one of the best gloves in the SEC the past two seasons. It’s not going to be an easy task by any stretch of the imagination with his experience on the college level and the emphasis Mainieri places on defense. What Danny does have is a strong background of the game and the muscle memory of playing the position at the high school level although at a slower pace. If Danny is going to succeed and stay in the lineup it will be without any hesitation due to the fact he is trusted in the field. Zardon’s strength is the bat, it’s his meal ticket for now. With an average build he surprisingly has very strong hands and great extension in the zone allowing him to create lift on the ball. With this he can pull inside pitches with great drive as evidenced in the fall when he led LSU in HR’s. The ball seems to jump off his bat differently at times and for that reason along with the new balls anywhere in the range of 6-11 HR’s given that he plays the entirety of the season could be expected. One thing he needs to stay consistent is keeping the bat level throughout the zone, when he dips he has a tendency to create pop outs. As he matures he'll learn to not pull on outside pitches. Zardon’s speed is average, a season ago he did not have a stolen base attempt, I don’t expect him to be an asset in the ground game. His glove needs work hence the extra reps he’s been taking at the hot corner, he had his struggles at times last year manning first and second base although the score sheet didn’t necessarily reflect. One thing that needs to be watched during spring practice is how he adjusts to slow rollers and his ability to throw accurately on the run. With this being said in the past weeks he has fielded a number or hot shots cleanly so the glove is coming along. Others who could contend for the spot include both Deichmann and Hale as well as Jordan.
Bryce Jordan, the brother and twin of Beau Jordan figures to backup either third base or first base to start off the year and will push for playing time. With the injury to Deichmann, Bryce has a leg up in securing that backup spot although for both parties each seem comfortable where they are respectively. Jordan's tools don't jump off the screen yet he continues to hit and the competitiveness he brings in ever plate appearance is that of a three year letterman.
The good news here is Zardon is and will improve and grow more comfortable at the position, the bad news he still has a learning curve to adjust to and he simply doesn’t have the luxury of sitting behind anybody for any longer. If all indications of his progress since last summer hold true then Zardon will do wonderful things at LSU before his career is over with. If there was a most improved award Danny would be in that top three group on the team. He’ll probably provide pop anywhere from the 6-8 hole in the lineup.
Power------60
Hitting------55
Speed------50
Fielding----50
Arm---------55
FINAL GRADE: 50
This post was edited on 2/5/15 at 7:52 am
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:15 am to Adam4848
OUTFIELD
Jake Fraley So.* 6’0 180lbs (23)
Andrew Stevenson Jr.* 6’0 185lbs (6)
Mark Laird Jr.* 6’2 175lbs (9)
Jared Foster Sr. 6’0 200lbs (17)
Chris Sciambra Sr. 5’9 185lbs (5)
Beau Jordan Fr. 5’9 205lbs (24)
The outfield is going to be without question the strength of this team, you look at it from left to right without any glaring weaknesses if at all. The 2015 outfield core will not only be the fastest in the SEC but in the country. If Mainieri sticks with the lineup he settled on a year ago it will be Jake Fraley in left, Andrew Stevenson in center, and Mark Laird in right. I do have concerns about leaving Laird in right due to always wanting your best arm at this position but as that saying goes if it aint broke don’t fix it. The outfield also has a security blanket with great depth of veterans Jared Foster and Chris Sciambra as well as freshman newcomer Beau Jordan. Mainieri in his 9th year has recruited extremely well in the outfield over the years yet this squad potentially could be the best all-around, without a doubt the fastest he’s ever assembled. All three starters both bat and throw from the left side and all three have extremely fast straight line speed. Likewise all three started on their respective teams in the Cape-Cod league and each player lead the team in stolen bases over the summer. The only knack I see is a lack of power outside Fraley, but this group is built around speed and defensive along with hitting for an above average.
From a draft standpoint Jake Fraley is the most complete package, he’s shown his ability to use all 5 tools in the short amount of time he spent in the starting lineup late last season. When he got his chance it was obvious it was going to be hard to keep him out. Even using an exaggerated open stance pre pitch Jake is able to square up on most balls in the zone and uses his hands extremely well when going to the opposite field. The dark horse tool of his that has yet to reach its full potential is his power and it should start to show signs of life this season. If the power ever arrives Fraley will only be a three years in an LSU uniform. The speed and glove in Jake are both plus plus tools and I see no weakness whether he’s in left or right field. In the Cape-Cod league Fraley stole 11 bases and was caught stealing 0 times.
Andrew Stevenson is the fastest of the group and has the best closing on fly balls although Laird is right behind him. Andrews batting average and on base percentage made a complete 180 turn in the right direction after changing his load approach at the plate during summer ball. With this approach he’s much shorter to the ball and thus disallowing room to create a curved bat angle. Again more of the same, Stevenson has plus plus tools in both speed and glove with a slightly above average arm for a center fielder. In the Cape-Cod league Stevenson stole 21 bases and was caught stealing 3 times.
Mark Laird has been ole reliable and the guy you want at the plate in crucial situations, he’s learned what his role is on this team is and rather than trying to pull every pitch over the intimidator he uses a slap approach and works the ball to the opposite side of the field better than anyone else on this team. There have been situations where he’ll foul off so many pitches consecutively that it gets the pitcher rattled both mentally and physically. Laird is not a power threat, he may hit a ball in the air that carries on a breezy spring afternoon. His speed is what makes him dangerous out the box as a left handed hitter and almost anything on the infield puts immediate pressure leaving the fielder no room for error to make the play. Although his arm is below average he tracks down almost anything that stays in the air. In the Cape-Cod league Laird stole 17 bases and was caught stealing 0 times.
Jared Foster a seasoned veteran will be the first guy off the bench and platooning against left handed pitchers. Jared is going to push every player for a starting gig and has the poise to play well in big situations.
Chris Sciambra another senior is very smart and knowledgeable about the game. Every team needs a guy like Chris who can be used at will and be a key piece in late game situations in the way Mainieri can sub in without missing a beat. Beau Jordan the other Barbe HS twin will be groomed under these three for a starting gig in the year 2016.
As it sets up there won’t be many balls that are going to find the grass if they’re in the air for longer than 3 seconds. Fraley, Stevenson, and Laird combined to only force 4 errors in 360 chances last year for a fielding percentage of .989. In layman’s terms they do not make mistakes and are smart about keeping the ball in front of them. I’m seeing Laird as the leadoff guy with Stevenson batting directly behind him or middle of the order is Mainieri pleases. Fraley is a guy who would set up perfectly in the 5-6 hole range.
Fraley
Power------60
Hitting------55
Speed------75
Fielding----65
Arm---------60
Stevenson
Power------35
Hitting------60
Speed------75
Fielding----70
Arm---------55
Laird
Power------30
Hitting------60
Speed------75
Fielding----70
Arm---------45
FINAL GRADE: 70
Jake Fraley So.* 6’0 180lbs (23)
Andrew Stevenson Jr.* 6’0 185lbs (6)
Mark Laird Jr.* 6’2 175lbs (9)
Jared Foster Sr. 6’0 200lbs (17)
Chris Sciambra Sr. 5’9 185lbs (5)
Beau Jordan Fr. 5’9 205lbs (24)
The outfield is going to be without question the strength of this team, you look at it from left to right without any glaring weaknesses if at all. The 2015 outfield core will not only be the fastest in the SEC but in the country. If Mainieri sticks with the lineup he settled on a year ago it will be Jake Fraley in left, Andrew Stevenson in center, and Mark Laird in right. I do have concerns about leaving Laird in right due to always wanting your best arm at this position but as that saying goes if it aint broke don’t fix it. The outfield also has a security blanket with great depth of veterans Jared Foster and Chris Sciambra as well as freshman newcomer Beau Jordan. Mainieri in his 9th year has recruited extremely well in the outfield over the years yet this squad potentially could be the best all-around, without a doubt the fastest he’s ever assembled. All three starters both bat and throw from the left side and all three have extremely fast straight line speed. Likewise all three started on their respective teams in the Cape-Cod league and each player lead the team in stolen bases over the summer. The only knack I see is a lack of power outside Fraley, but this group is built around speed and defensive along with hitting for an above average.
From a draft standpoint Jake Fraley is the most complete package, he’s shown his ability to use all 5 tools in the short amount of time he spent in the starting lineup late last season. When he got his chance it was obvious it was going to be hard to keep him out. Even using an exaggerated open stance pre pitch Jake is able to square up on most balls in the zone and uses his hands extremely well when going to the opposite field. The dark horse tool of his that has yet to reach its full potential is his power and it should start to show signs of life this season. If the power ever arrives Fraley will only be a three years in an LSU uniform. The speed and glove in Jake are both plus plus tools and I see no weakness whether he’s in left or right field. In the Cape-Cod league Fraley stole 11 bases and was caught stealing 0 times.
Andrew Stevenson is the fastest of the group and has the best closing on fly balls although Laird is right behind him. Andrews batting average and on base percentage made a complete 180 turn in the right direction after changing his load approach at the plate during summer ball. With this approach he’s much shorter to the ball and thus disallowing room to create a curved bat angle. Again more of the same, Stevenson has plus plus tools in both speed and glove with a slightly above average arm for a center fielder. In the Cape-Cod league Stevenson stole 21 bases and was caught stealing 3 times.
Mark Laird has been ole reliable and the guy you want at the plate in crucial situations, he’s learned what his role is on this team is and rather than trying to pull every pitch over the intimidator he uses a slap approach and works the ball to the opposite side of the field better than anyone else on this team. There have been situations where he’ll foul off so many pitches consecutively that it gets the pitcher rattled both mentally and physically. Laird is not a power threat, he may hit a ball in the air that carries on a breezy spring afternoon. His speed is what makes him dangerous out the box as a left handed hitter and almost anything on the infield puts immediate pressure leaving the fielder no room for error to make the play. Although his arm is below average he tracks down almost anything that stays in the air. In the Cape-Cod league Laird stole 17 bases and was caught stealing 0 times.
Jared Foster a seasoned veteran will be the first guy off the bench and platooning against left handed pitchers. Jared is going to push every player for a starting gig and has the poise to play well in big situations.
Chris Sciambra another senior is very smart and knowledgeable about the game. Every team needs a guy like Chris who can be used at will and be a key piece in late game situations in the way Mainieri can sub in without missing a beat. Beau Jordan the other Barbe HS twin will be groomed under these three for a starting gig in the year 2016.
As it sets up there won’t be many balls that are going to find the grass if they’re in the air for longer than 3 seconds. Fraley, Stevenson, and Laird combined to only force 4 errors in 360 chances last year for a fielding percentage of .989. In layman’s terms they do not make mistakes and are smart about keeping the ball in front of them. I’m seeing Laird as the leadoff guy with Stevenson batting directly behind him or middle of the order is Mainieri pleases. Fraley is a guy who would set up perfectly in the 5-6 hole range.
Fraley
Power------60
Hitting------55
Speed------75
Fielding----65
Arm---------60
Stevenson
Power------35
Hitting------60
Speed------75
Fielding----70
Arm---------55
Laird
Power------30
Hitting------60
Speed------75
Fielding----70
Arm---------45
FINAL GRADE: 70
This post was edited on 2/6/15 at 8:52 am
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:15 am to Adam4848
DESIGNATED HITTER
Chris Chinea Jr. 5’11 220lbs* (26)
Greg Deichmann Fr. 6’2 185lbs (7)
Jared Foster Sr. 6’0 200lbs (17)
Bryce Jordan Fr. 5’9 205lbs (25)
Beau Jordan Fr. 5’9 205lbs (24)
The designated hitting spot quite frankly is going to be a game of musical chairs until the lineup starts to mold by SEC play. As I look at it now if Scivique plays C and Hale is at 1B then you have the option of leaving either Chinea, Deichmann, Foster, or one of the Jordan twins. If Hale is a 2nd and Scivique at C you could have any combination of Chinea, Deichmann, Foster, or Robertson filling in the two open spots at 1B and DH respectively. For all intents and purposes I’ll list Chris Chinea as the starter opening day.
Chris Chinea as discussed during the catcher position may wind up seeing time at designated hitter because he’s much more of a weapon with the bat. What I want to see from him if assigned to this role is the ability to hit in the middle of the order with gap power. If Chris is able to increase his doubles and RBI’s the job will be satisfied. The problem Chris faced last season was the inability to find a starting gig after non-conference play and was unable to find any form of rhythm when constantly in and out of the lineup.
Then we look at Greg Deichmann in this spot and why I like him here. You plug in a freshman like Greg at DH and he instantly adds another bat with power to the left side of the plate. Even if Chinea holds this spot a potential platoon opportunity may open up for the freshman to get at bats vs right handed pitching. Deichmann had as much power as any middle infielder in the nation of last year’s high school class. I can’t reiterate this enough, if he’s slow to put up gaudy numbers immediately; it’s not a cause for panic. With the foot injury he may not get at bats till weeks in but they will come.
In Jared Foster you have an extremely athletic baserunner who when he’s hot is a dangerous hitter and sets the table for the top of the lineup. He pressed last year when Mainieri hit him in the cleanup role to start the year, you could see it from day one. Maybe he’s more comfortable when inserted into late game situations? If Foster doesn’t beat Fraley out for left field look for him to get a few at bats here as well.
Both Jordan twins remind me of the Energizer Bunny/Michael Meyers, they never stop...they play with absolutely everything in their respective tank until the pitch, game, or season is over. Like I’ve mentioned before you look at them in a lineup and nothing wows you and yet their game never lets you down. I’ve been impressed with both of their athleticism to date. Anyone who has watched the little World Series may have noticed Trey Quinn (LSU football), Kennon Fontenot (ULL baseball), Beau Jordan, and Bryce Jordan (LSU baseball) formed quite an explosive lineup growing up over the years.
For now I’ll grade both Chinea and Deichmann at the position as I think both can and will see time here.
Chinea
Power------55
Hitting------55
Speed------45
Fielding----50
Arm---------55
Deichmann
Power------60
Hitting------60
Speed------75
Fielding----50
Arm---------50
GRADE: 50
Chris Chinea Jr. 5’11 220lbs* (26)
Greg Deichmann Fr. 6’2 185lbs (7)
Jared Foster Sr. 6’0 200lbs (17)
Bryce Jordan Fr. 5’9 205lbs (25)
Beau Jordan Fr. 5’9 205lbs (24)
The designated hitting spot quite frankly is going to be a game of musical chairs until the lineup starts to mold by SEC play. As I look at it now if Scivique plays C and Hale is at 1B then you have the option of leaving either Chinea, Deichmann, Foster, or one of the Jordan twins. If Hale is a 2nd and Scivique at C you could have any combination of Chinea, Deichmann, Foster, or Robertson filling in the two open spots at 1B and DH respectively. For all intents and purposes I’ll list Chris Chinea as the starter opening day.
Chris Chinea as discussed during the catcher position may wind up seeing time at designated hitter because he’s much more of a weapon with the bat. What I want to see from him if assigned to this role is the ability to hit in the middle of the order with gap power. If Chris is able to increase his doubles and RBI’s the job will be satisfied. The problem Chris faced last season was the inability to find a starting gig after non-conference play and was unable to find any form of rhythm when constantly in and out of the lineup.
Then we look at Greg Deichmann in this spot and why I like him here. You plug in a freshman like Greg at DH and he instantly adds another bat with power to the left side of the plate. Even if Chinea holds this spot a potential platoon opportunity may open up for the freshman to get at bats vs right handed pitching. Deichmann had as much power as any middle infielder in the nation of last year’s high school class. I can’t reiterate this enough, if he’s slow to put up gaudy numbers immediately; it’s not a cause for panic. With the foot injury he may not get at bats till weeks in but they will come.
In Jared Foster you have an extremely athletic baserunner who when he’s hot is a dangerous hitter and sets the table for the top of the lineup. He pressed last year when Mainieri hit him in the cleanup role to start the year, you could see it from day one. Maybe he’s more comfortable when inserted into late game situations? If Foster doesn’t beat Fraley out for left field look for him to get a few at bats here as well.
Both Jordan twins remind me of the Energizer Bunny/Michael Meyers, they never stop...they play with absolutely everything in their respective tank until the pitch, game, or season is over. Like I’ve mentioned before you look at them in a lineup and nothing wows you and yet their game never lets you down. I’ve been impressed with both of their athleticism to date. Anyone who has watched the little World Series may have noticed Trey Quinn (LSU football), Kennon Fontenot (ULL baseball), Beau Jordan, and Bryce Jordan (LSU baseball) formed quite an explosive lineup growing up over the years.
For now I’ll grade both Chinea and Deichmann at the position as I think both can and will see time here.
Chinea
Power------55
Hitting------55
Speed------45
Fielding----50
Arm---------55
Deichmann
Power------60
Hitting------60
Speed------75
Fielding----50
Arm---------50
GRADE: 50
This post was edited on 2/7/15 at 10:00 am
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:15 am to Adam4848
STARTING PITCHING
Jared Poche So. 6’1 205lbs (16)
Alex Lange Fr. 6’3 200lbs (35)
Jake Godfrey Fr. 6’3 215lbs (29)
Jake Latz Fr. 6’2 200lbs (67)
Kyle Bouman Sr. 6’0 210lbs (28)
Sometimes you know when a freshmen class is going to be special, this is that class. The six arms Mainieri brings in will decide how long the Tigers play ball into the summer. Alex Lange, Jake Godfrey, Jake Latz, Doug Norman, and Austin Bain will join Jared Poche and Kyle Bouman in what will be dry erase board pitching rotation for the first month leading up to the Houston Classic. Norman and Bain I’ll focus more in depth as relievers.
Heading the group is Jared Poche who earned All-American honors as a freshman and quietly put up better numbers than that of Aaron Nola his freshman year disregarding strikeouts. While Poche is not what I would define as a finesse lefty he pitches to contact almost exclusively with occasional strikeouts when he is locating his changeup. His strikeout numbers will slightly improve as his changeup becomes more and more refined. When spit balling where I think he best fits it’s the Saturday guy, a role he excelled at last year and a spot this year that could end up being a weapon if one of the freshman flamethrowers matures into a Friday role. Poche has the makeup and poise to be a solid Friday night guy, with that being said Mainieri has the options of going with other harder throwing righties if he feels that’s what is best for the club.
Alex Lange the first of the freshman and the 2014 Gatorade player of the year out of Missouri is the most matured of the group. He reminds me of the slimmer Lance Lynn who empowers a big presence on the mound and has a good feel of his fastball, curve, and an improving changeup. Lange already is hitting 94mph on the gun this spring. I’m not one for expecting too much out of players when they transition into different competition stages but its obvious he’s ready to do big things and if that Friday night slot is open I think he’ll grab it.
Next is Jake Godfrey a late LSU commit a year ago and a huge get as it turned out recruiting wise. Heading into the fall of 2013 it was believed Godfrey would be a first rounder, long story short after a subpar beginning to his senior season he ended up slipping and fell right into Alan Dunn’s lap. Godfrey’s the biggest and most physical of the group, and I think he’ll end up with the best velocity by the time he’s a junior. Jake has been steady in the 91-92mph range on his four seam and a plus sinker, I’m interested to see how much its picks up by the time both his arm and weather heats up. Godfrey is going to push for that Friday night starting spot as well and I believe will round out the weekend rotation when it’s all said and done.
Jake Latz is the high school teammate of Mike Papierski and 2014 Illinois Player of the Year as well as the only southpaw of the group. When play begins this month Jake Latz will be the highest selected player from the 2014 high school class to turn down a pro contract (11th round to the Blue Jays) and play at a four year university. Latz has a smooth delivery from the left side, he’ll work his fastball from 88-90mph when he has his best stuff. His changeup has great bite on it and can be used as an out pitch. I think Jake can and will compete for one of the starting spots, he was shut down in the fall due to precautionary reasons and has had a flare in the elbow last week. It remains to be seen if this will be a season ending injury, but this doesn't detract from the talent Latz will be when healthy. When Latz does heal up he’ll be one of the first guys out the pen.
Kyle Bouman is the wild card here, while Kyle a year ago showed flashes of greatness he would sometimes get swept under the rug and not be seen for games at a time. Another lefty who pitches to contact he’s a needed veteran arm in the poise he brings everyday as well as the ability to make pitches in key situations. Kyle is the definition of a pitch to contact lefty and when he does it well he can eat up innings at a rapid pace.
Overviewing the weekend rotation, I see 5 arms that I look at with a sense of confidence no matter the opponent. Obviously Jared Poche will start the season opener, he’ll be in the weekend rotation and I don’t see him leaving. This leaves two spots open for the time being, I’m thinking Mainieri will end up rotating Lange, Godfrey, Latz (will be rested), and Norman in the three weekends and even weekdays leading up to the Houston classic, by that time the rotation will need to have some sort of foundation. I do think Bouman will either etch out a Sunday start spot or man the weekday games with the sense that he can be of use in the pen on weekends if needed. Doug Norman is the guy having a great spring and I think would have phenomenal potential out of the pen. Rather than spot guessing rotations I’m leaving this position open to what should be a very interesting non-conference lineup in which these very young and very talented arms will get to show off why they formed the best freshmen class in college baseball.
Poche
Arm Strength----------55
Movement--------------60
Stamina----------------60
Control-----------------60
Lange
Arm Strength---------65
Movement-------------65
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------65
Godfrey
Arm Strength---------65
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------60
Latz
Arm Strength---------55
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------65
Bouman
Arm Strength---------50
Movement-------------50
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------65
FINAL GRADE: 55
Jared Poche So. 6’1 205lbs (16)
Alex Lange Fr. 6’3 200lbs (35)
Jake Godfrey Fr. 6’3 215lbs (29)
Jake Latz Fr. 6’2 200lbs (67)
Kyle Bouman Sr. 6’0 210lbs (28)
Sometimes you know when a freshmen class is going to be special, this is that class. The six arms Mainieri brings in will decide how long the Tigers play ball into the summer. Alex Lange, Jake Godfrey, Jake Latz, Doug Norman, and Austin Bain will join Jared Poche and Kyle Bouman in what will be dry erase board pitching rotation for the first month leading up to the Houston Classic. Norman and Bain I’ll focus more in depth as relievers.
Heading the group is Jared Poche who earned All-American honors as a freshman and quietly put up better numbers than that of Aaron Nola his freshman year disregarding strikeouts. While Poche is not what I would define as a finesse lefty he pitches to contact almost exclusively with occasional strikeouts when he is locating his changeup. His strikeout numbers will slightly improve as his changeup becomes more and more refined. When spit balling where I think he best fits it’s the Saturday guy, a role he excelled at last year and a spot this year that could end up being a weapon if one of the freshman flamethrowers matures into a Friday role. Poche has the makeup and poise to be a solid Friday night guy, with that being said Mainieri has the options of going with other harder throwing righties if he feels that’s what is best for the club.
Alex Lange the first of the freshman and the 2014 Gatorade player of the year out of Missouri is the most matured of the group. He reminds me of the slimmer Lance Lynn who empowers a big presence on the mound and has a good feel of his fastball, curve, and an improving changeup. Lange already is hitting 94mph on the gun this spring. I’m not one for expecting too much out of players when they transition into different competition stages but its obvious he’s ready to do big things and if that Friday night slot is open I think he’ll grab it.
Next is Jake Godfrey a late LSU commit a year ago and a huge get as it turned out recruiting wise. Heading into the fall of 2013 it was believed Godfrey would be a first rounder, long story short after a subpar beginning to his senior season he ended up slipping and fell right into Alan Dunn’s lap. Godfrey’s the biggest and most physical of the group, and I think he’ll end up with the best velocity by the time he’s a junior. Jake has been steady in the 91-92mph range on his four seam and a plus sinker, I’m interested to see how much its picks up by the time both his arm and weather heats up. Godfrey is going to push for that Friday night starting spot as well and I believe will round out the weekend rotation when it’s all said and done.
Jake Latz is the high school teammate of Mike Papierski and 2014 Illinois Player of the Year as well as the only southpaw of the group. When play begins this month Jake Latz will be the highest selected player from the 2014 high school class to turn down a pro contract (11th round to the Blue Jays) and play at a four year university. Latz has a smooth delivery from the left side, he’ll work his fastball from 88-90mph when he has his best stuff. His changeup has great bite on it and can be used as an out pitch. I think Jake can and will compete for one of the starting spots, he was shut down in the fall due to precautionary reasons and has had a flare in the elbow last week. It remains to be seen if this will be a season ending injury, but this doesn't detract from the talent Latz will be when healthy. When Latz does heal up he’ll be one of the first guys out the pen.
Kyle Bouman is the wild card here, while Kyle a year ago showed flashes of greatness he would sometimes get swept under the rug and not be seen for games at a time. Another lefty who pitches to contact he’s a needed veteran arm in the poise he brings everyday as well as the ability to make pitches in key situations. Kyle is the definition of a pitch to contact lefty and when he does it well he can eat up innings at a rapid pace.
Overviewing the weekend rotation, I see 5 arms that I look at with a sense of confidence no matter the opponent. Obviously Jared Poche will start the season opener, he’ll be in the weekend rotation and I don’t see him leaving. This leaves two spots open for the time being, I’m thinking Mainieri will end up rotating Lange, Godfrey, Latz (will be rested), and Norman in the three weekends and even weekdays leading up to the Houston classic, by that time the rotation will need to have some sort of foundation. I do think Bouman will either etch out a Sunday start spot or man the weekday games with the sense that he can be of use in the pen on weekends if needed. Doug Norman is the guy having a great spring and I think would have phenomenal potential out of the pen. Rather than spot guessing rotations I’m leaving this position open to what should be a very interesting non-conference lineup in which these very young and very talented arms will get to show off why they formed the best freshmen class in college baseball.
Poche
Arm Strength----------55
Movement--------------60
Stamina----------------60
Control-----------------60
Lange
Arm Strength---------65
Movement-------------65
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------65
Godfrey
Arm Strength---------65
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------60
Latz
Arm Strength---------55
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------65
Bouman
Arm Strength---------50
Movement-------------50
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------65
FINAL GRADE: 55
This post was edited on 2/8/15 at 12:02 pm
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:15 am to Adam4848
RELIEF PITCHING
Bugg
Norman
Devall
Person
Russell Reynolds So. 6’2 190lbs (45)
Hunter Newman So. 6’3 195lbs (55)
Hunter Devall Jr. 5’8 180lbs (12)
Zac Person Sr. 6’1 180lbs (49)
Doug Norman Fr. 6’3 190lbs (21)
Jesse Stallings Fr. 6’2 195lbs (37)
Parker Bugg So. 6’6 210lbs (46)
Alden Cartwright So. 6’0 190lbs (32)
Austin Bain Fr. 6’1 185lbs (18)
Collin Strall So. 5’10 170lbs (30)
Brady Domangue Sr. 6’0 170lbs (13)
Ryan May Fr. 6’1 155lbs (40)
The bullpen loses Joe Broussard and Nate Fury, two flamethrowers who were consistent to a T last spring. Yet when I glance over the depth chart I see depth, depth that was not a luxury Mainieri had out of the pen a year ago. It was a gift having Nola and Poche eat up innings, the bullpen was a weakness he could easily cover up. As a whole this group is talented but unproven. Guys I see getting a good deal of innings include but is not limited to Doug Norman, Colin Strall, Hunter Devall, Zac Person, Parker Bugg, Alden Cartwright, Jesse Stallings, Russell Reynolds, Hunter Newman, and Austin Bain.
Russell Reynolds and Hunter Newman are two hard throwing righties who showed a great deal of promise in 2013 before both sustaining injuries which sidelined both in 2014. Reynolds is going to be rusty after hurting his non-throwing arm in an off the field incident, Mainieri has already made this known. Because of this and the lack of pitches I’ve seen out of him I can’t make a true estimate on how he’s going to be used or how many innings he’ll get a look at. Newman was that freshman that worked his way into gigs late in the year even having a stellar performance in the SEC tourney two years ago earning a win against Arkansas. His tools are there, same story as Reynolds but I think he’s further along in the healing process.
Hunter Devall has impressed me a ton and he's going to show up big in SEC play. He’s developing his 12-6 curve ball into a go to pitch and is able to locate it efficiently, one he can use to pitch backwards in counts setting up his fastball. As one of the main lefties out the pen he’s going to be a late inning reliever who is going to be used in situational events either to get one to two guys out or stretch an inning. Don't expect him to go more than an inning at a time in appearances.
Zac Person the other lefty uses his long frame and arm action to hide the ball along with a sweeping curve he uses as an out pitch. Person will sit in the upper 80’s on his fastball who can touch 90mph with added adrenaline. Expect more of the same this year as one of the first guys in relief with the ability to go 1-2 innings if needed.
Doug Norman is that fourth freshman arm who may still wind up in a starting gig when it’s all said and done; however I chose to focus in on him in a specific role. In the windup he uses his momentum to bring the ball and glove to his head before a slight little hitch where the ball is hidden for a split second. Pairing this with a fastball he runs up to 91mph on a consistent basis and control of his pitches and you come up with the ideal makeup of a shutdown reliever. The mature nature Norman has shown is rare and he’s starting to shine a light on how deep this freshmen crop really is. Norman might not be the most heralded of the power arms but he's going to impress...watch out for this name.
Jesse Stallings a local Louisiana native hurt his arm his senior season and received a medical redshirt in 2014, to date he’s a bit of an unknown to tiger nation. His recovery and velocity have both far exceeded expectations to where he’s reaching 92-93mph on a consistent basis only weeks into spring practice. He’s going to have a major role in the pen if he’s pitching the way he’s been as of late. Definite dark horse to emerge into something big and by the looks of it Mainieri may give him the first shot at a closer role.
We get to Parker Bugg and Alden Cartwright, both returning sophomores from the right side, both who figure to be share prominent roles in relief. Two totally different looking players who eerily bring the same type stuff to the plate. Both sit in the mid to late 80’s with an above average changeup. Cartwrights velocity has improved, he's been hitting low 90's on occasion. I look for both Bugg and Cartwright to be long relievers out of the pen, arms plugged in to eat up innings.
Austin Bain is the true two way player out of the freshmen class who throws absolute gas from the right side reaching up to 92mph as well as the glove to play a middle infield spot. After a discussion with coaches it was mutually agreed upon that the mound would be his fastest way to playing time. He won’t be thrown into the lion’s den too early and I fully expect Dunn to develop him in bullpen sessions to get a feel on when he’ll be ready and how his off speed stuff is improving. Still with this being said his fastball will get him playing time.
Colin Strall is the JUCO transfer and sidewinder, he's your typical junkie off speed arm who will make hitters look like absolute fools on a few swings as long as he doesn't need to rely purely on his fastball.
Brady Domangue and Ryan May figure to see relief in mop up duty.
Bottom line, the bullpen is not proven and until then it will receive its doubts until results arrive. I think we’ll see a majority of Bugg, Cartwright, Devall, Newman, Person, Stallings, Reynolds, and Norman with the closer spot going to one of the hard throwing freshmen or Stallings. I’ll rate the 4 in Bugg, Norman, Devall, and Person.
Bugg
Arm Strength---------50
Movement-------------55
Stamina----------------50
Control-----------------65
Norman
Arm Strength--------- 60
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------60
Devall
Arm Strength--------- 45
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------45
Control-----------------55
Person
Arm Strength--------- 50
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------50
FINAL GRADE: 55
Bugg
Norman
Devall
Person
Russell Reynolds So. 6’2 190lbs (45)
Hunter Newman So. 6’3 195lbs (55)
Hunter Devall Jr. 5’8 180lbs (12)
Zac Person Sr. 6’1 180lbs (49)
Doug Norman Fr. 6’3 190lbs (21)
Jesse Stallings Fr. 6’2 195lbs (37)
Parker Bugg So. 6’6 210lbs (46)
Alden Cartwright So. 6’0 190lbs (32)
Austin Bain Fr. 6’1 185lbs (18)
Collin Strall So. 5’10 170lbs (30)
Brady Domangue Sr. 6’0 170lbs (13)
Ryan May Fr. 6’1 155lbs (40)
The bullpen loses Joe Broussard and Nate Fury, two flamethrowers who were consistent to a T last spring. Yet when I glance over the depth chart I see depth, depth that was not a luxury Mainieri had out of the pen a year ago. It was a gift having Nola and Poche eat up innings, the bullpen was a weakness he could easily cover up. As a whole this group is talented but unproven. Guys I see getting a good deal of innings include but is not limited to Doug Norman, Colin Strall, Hunter Devall, Zac Person, Parker Bugg, Alden Cartwright, Jesse Stallings, Russell Reynolds, Hunter Newman, and Austin Bain.
Russell Reynolds and Hunter Newman are two hard throwing righties who showed a great deal of promise in 2013 before both sustaining injuries which sidelined both in 2014. Reynolds is going to be rusty after hurting his non-throwing arm in an off the field incident, Mainieri has already made this known. Because of this and the lack of pitches I’ve seen out of him I can’t make a true estimate on how he’s going to be used or how many innings he’ll get a look at. Newman was that freshman that worked his way into gigs late in the year even having a stellar performance in the SEC tourney two years ago earning a win against Arkansas. His tools are there, same story as Reynolds but I think he’s further along in the healing process.
Hunter Devall has impressed me a ton and he's going to show up big in SEC play. He’s developing his 12-6 curve ball into a go to pitch and is able to locate it efficiently, one he can use to pitch backwards in counts setting up his fastball. As one of the main lefties out the pen he’s going to be a late inning reliever who is going to be used in situational events either to get one to two guys out or stretch an inning. Don't expect him to go more than an inning at a time in appearances.
Zac Person the other lefty uses his long frame and arm action to hide the ball along with a sweeping curve he uses as an out pitch. Person will sit in the upper 80’s on his fastball who can touch 90mph with added adrenaline. Expect more of the same this year as one of the first guys in relief with the ability to go 1-2 innings if needed.
Doug Norman is that fourth freshman arm who may still wind up in a starting gig when it’s all said and done; however I chose to focus in on him in a specific role. In the windup he uses his momentum to bring the ball and glove to his head before a slight little hitch where the ball is hidden for a split second. Pairing this with a fastball he runs up to 91mph on a consistent basis and control of his pitches and you come up with the ideal makeup of a shutdown reliever. The mature nature Norman has shown is rare and he’s starting to shine a light on how deep this freshmen crop really is. Norman might not be the most heralded of the power arms but he's going to impress...watch out for this name.
Jesse Stallings a local Louisiana native hurt his arm his senior season and received a medical redshirt in 2014, to date he’s a bit of an unknown to tiger nation. His recovery and velocity have both far exceeded expectations to where he’s reaching 92-93mph on a consistent basis only weeks into spring practice. He’s going to have a major role in the pen if he’s pitching the way he’s been as of late. Definite dark horse to emerge into something big and by the looks of it Mainieri may give him the first shot at a closer role.
We get to Parker Bugg and Alden Cartwright, both returning sophomores from the right side, both who figure to be share prominent roles in relief. Two totally different looking players who eerily bring the same type stuff to the plate. Both sit in the mid to late 80’s with an above average changeup. Cartwrights velocity has improved, he's been hitting low 90's on occasion. I look for both Bugg and Cartwright to be long relievers out of the pen, arms plugged in to eat up innings.
Austin Bain is the true two way player out of the freshmen class who throws absolute gas from the right side reaching up to 92mph as well as the glove to play a middle infield spot. After a discussion with coaches it was mutually agreed upon that the mound would be his fastest way to playing time. He won’t be thrown into the lion’s den too early and I fully expect Dunn to develop him in bullpen sessions to get a feel on when he’ll be ready and how his off speed stuff is improving. Still with this being said his fastball will get him playing time.
Colin Strall is the JUCO transfer and sidewinder, he's your typical junkie off speed arm who will make hitters look like absolute fools on a few swings as long as he doesn't need to rely purely on his fastball.
Brady Domangue and Ryan May figure to see relief in mop up duty.
Bottom line, the bullpen is not proven and until then it will receive its doubts until results arrive. I think we’ll see a majority of Bugg, Cartwright, Devall, Newman, Person, Stallings, Reynolds, and Norman with the closer spot going to one of the hard throwing freshmen or Stallings. I’ll rate the 4 in Bugg, Norman, Devall, and Person.
Bugg
Arm Strength---------50
Movement-------------55
Stamina----------------50
Control-----------------65
Norman
Arm Strength--------- 60
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------60
Devall
Arm Strength--------- 45
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------45
Control-----------------55
Person
Arm Strength--------- 50
Movement-------------60
Stamina----------------55
Control-----------------50
FINAL GRADE: 55
This post was edited on 2/9/15 at 8:40 am
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:15 am to Adam4848
Pro Prospects
Seniors
1 Conner Hale 2B
2 Kade Scivique C
3 Jared Foster RF
4 Zac Person LHP
5 Kyle Bouman LHP
Juniors
1 Alex Bregman 2B
2 Andrew Stevenson CF
3 Mark Laird CF
4 Chris Chinea C/1B
5 Hunter Devall LHP
Sophomores
1 Jake Fraley CF
2 Jared Poche LHP
3 Hunter Newman RHP
4 Parker Bugg RHP
5 Danny Zardon 2B
Freshmen
1 Greg Deichmann SS
2 Jake Latz LHP
3 Mike Papierski C
4 Jake Godfrey RHP
5 Alex Lange RHP
SEC East
1. Vanderbilt (21-9)
2. South Carolina (18-12)
3. Florida (17-13)
4. Georgia (15-15)
5. Tennessee (14-16)
6. Kentucky (12-18)
7. Missouri (9-21)
SEC West
1. LSU (18-12)
2. Ole Miss (18-12)
3. Alabama (16-14)
4. Arkansas (15-15)
5. Texas A&M (14-16)
6. Mississippi St (14-16)
7. Auburn (10-20)
SEC champ-Vanderbilt
Seniors
1 Conner Hale 2B
2 Kade Scivique C
3 Jared Foster RF
4 Zac Person LHP
5 Kyle Bouman LHP
Juniors
1 Alex Bregman 2B
2 Andrew Stevenson CF
3 Mark Laird CF
4 Chris Chinea C/1B
5 Hunter Devall LHP
Sophomores
1 Jake Fraley CF
2 Jared Poche LHP
3 Hunter Newman RHP
4 Parker Bugg RHP
5 Danny Zardon 2B
Freshmen
1 Greg Deichmann SS
2 Jake Latz LHP
3 Mike Papierski C
4 Jake Godfrey RHP
5 Alex Lange RHP
SEC East
1. Vanderbilt (21-9)
2. South Carolina (18-12)
3. Florida (17-13)
4. Georgia (15-15)
5. Tennessee (14-16)
6. Kentucky (12-18)
7. Missouri (9-21)
SEC West
1. LSU (18-12)
2. Ole Miss (18-12)
3. Alabama (16-14)
4. Arkansas (15-15)
5. Texas A&M (14-16)
6. Mississippi St (14-16)
7. Auburn (10-20)
SEC champ-Vanderbilt
This post was edited on 2/10/15 at 9:16 am
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:17 am to Adam4848
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:18 am to Summer of George
It's happening 
Posted on 2/1/15 at 6:29 am to Adam4848
Can't wait to see this years team & look forward to your preview Adam! 
Posted on 2/1/15 at 7:14 am to Adam4848
Woohoo , now its baseball season !!!
Posted on 2/1/15 at 7:16 am to Adam4848
In!
Posted on 2/1/15 at 7:28 am to Adam4848
:|
Posted on 2/1/15 at 7:44 am to Adam4848
Great stuff as always Adam.
Posted on 2/1/15 at 8:05 am to tigers32
Posted on 2/1/15 at 8:22 am to Adam4848
Good evaluation of the catchers. I thought after fall practice exactly the way you do now. However this spring, Chinea's bat has cooled off and Scivicque's has been almost nonexistent. Pap has continued to improve his offense as well as defense since fall ball.
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