ESPN High School Top 100

[Donald Boyles]

Looks like ESPN is getting into the business of ranking high school baseball players.

Nick Williams is the highest rated at 23;

Williams is what one scout calls a "ridiculously gifted kid," possessing plus speed -- he's been time in the 6.4s in the 60-yard dash -- and has hit 90 mph off the mound. His athleticism and power lefty swing come from a 6-foot-3, 195-pound frame that may profile in center field, a la the likes of Ken Griffey Jr., Bernie Williams and a young Andruw Jones. Williams has shown big power on pitches middle-in, and an improving ability to hit the ball hard to the opposite field. He's destined for the top 50 and could hit his way into the first round if he's not set on heading to Austin to play for the Longhorns.

High School News, Videos, Photos, and PodCasts - ESPNHS

 

[Donald Boyles]

C.J. Hinojosa at 25;

Hinojosa was originally slated to enroll early at Texas, but he'll be draft-eligible after all. He ranks No. 4 here thanks to terrific hands and feet and a strong arm, as well as an ability to square up pitches regularly. He's a plus shortstop at present but may profile better at second base or even at the hot corner. His hands are lightning quick and he attacks pitches on the inner half. The belief around the industry is that his commitment to the Longhorns is strong, so that is likely to impact his draft stock and keep him out of the top 50.

High School News, Videos, Photos, and PodCasts - ESPNHS

 

[Donald Boyles]

Courtney Hawkins at 26;

Hawkins is more of a prospect as a bat, but he also consistently hits the low-90s on the mound. He runs well and handles right field, but his power bat is his calling card. At the Area Code games in August, he displayed big, raw power in batting practice. The Longhorns could be adding a future star to their lineup, but Hawkins is a first-round talent with a backup plan as a pitcher.

High School News, Videos, Photos, and PodCasts - ESPNHS

 

[Donald Boyles]

Austin Dean at 40;

Dean is developing physically, showing corner strength despite measuring out at 6-foot-1 and 190 pounds. Has above-average power, but his best attribute is his hit tool, which grades above-average. He also has good feet and a strong, accurate arm. Dean could sneak into the sandwich round with a big year, and if the power continues to develop he could be some club's starting third baseman in the mold of a David Freese. Deane does have the option to play at the University of Texas, however, so a pro contract is no sure thing.

High School News, Videos, Photos, and PodCasts - ESPNHS

 

[Donald Boyles]

Wyatt Mathisen at 41;

Mathisen's sound approach at the plate and strong arm highlight a solid package of skills for a prep catcher. He's an accurate thrower as well and has quick hands that help him generate bat speed. Mathisen will head to Austin to play for the Longhorns if he doesn't sign a pro deal this coming summer. He projects as a potential second round as a high-water mark as the 2012 schedule begins.

High School News, Videos, Photos, and PodCasts - ESPNHS

 

[Donald Boyles]

Spencer Edwards at 75;

Edwards, who's headed to Austin to play for the Longhorns if he passes on pro ball, possesses oodles of athleticism, which allow him to play shortstop in high school. He may fit better as an outfielder, and is a two-sport star, also serving as a star defensive back and wide receiver in football. He's run 60-yard dashes in under 6.7 seconds and 40-yarders in the 4.4 range. His swing and overall plate skills are a bit raw, but if he focuses on baseball, he could be an everyday player in time.

High School News, Videos, Photos, and PodCasts - ESPNHS

 

[Donald Boyles]

Texas has 6 of the top 100.

to see the full list;

High School Baseball Recruiting - Player Rankings - ESPNHS

 

[bbdude]

ESPNHS? These guys are coming up with everything. On the baseball note, thanks for posting this - good information. Here is a link to the Texas rankings (in-state players) - Mitchell Traver highlights 2012 Texas class - ESPNHS Baseball - ESPNHS.

ANd what's the status with Hinojosa? I thought he got hurt recently.

 

[Donald Boyles]

ESPNHS? These guys are coming up with everything. On the baseball note, thanks for posting this - good information. Here is a link to the Texas rankings (in-state players) - Mitchell Traver highlights 2012 Texas class - ESPNHS Baseball - ESPNHS.
ANd what's the status with Hinojosa? I thought he got hurt recently.

I have his status in another thread further down.