College Baseball Preseason First Team All-Americans

Harris Frommer by Contributor Written on February 03, 2009
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Blake Smith, Junior, California (Berkeley) – An interesting two-way player.  At the plate he reminds scouts of Ryan Klesko with his light-tower power.  On the mound he hits 93 mph on the gun and also features a sharp curveball. He currently profiles best as a rifle-armed, power-hitting right fielder.

 

Starting Pitchers

Stephen Strasburg, Junior, San Diego State – The most complete college pitching prospect since Mark Prior in '01. Throws a fastball which reaches the high 90's, a hammer curve and solid changeup, all with extraordinary command. Has a large, durable frame and sound mechanics.

 

Alex White, Junior, North Carolina – Another premier pitching prospect. Repertoire features a fastball in the mid 90's and a wicked slider, though he must work on his command and fine tune his changeup. Accomplished athlete with the stamina necessary to maintain his velocity deep into games.

 

Kyle Gibson, Junior, Missouri – The latest stud in a long line of Missouri aces. Already hits the low 90s with his fastball and should add a few more ticks once he fills out.  Also throws the best slider in the college ranks. However, he still needs to tighten his motion and refine his mechanics.

 

Andrew Oliver, Junior, Oklahoma State – Eligibility is in doubt due to alleged relationship with a pro agent. Still, his talent is evident every time he takes the mound.  Throws a heavy 92-93 mph two-seamer as well as a cutter. Curveball and changeup also show promise.  Pinpoint control.

 

Matt Harvey, Sophomore, North Carolina – Likely the No. 1 ranked pitcher in 2010.  Throws a lively 92-94 mph fastball with late, darting life, in addition to a first-rate curve and changeup. Excellent mound presence.  His lanky build and easy arm action leave plenty of room for projection.

 

Relief Pitcher

Kendal Volz, Junior, Baylor – Had far more success coming out of the bullpen for Team USA than as a starter for Baylor. Throws mid 90's heat with a power curveball. His lack of a changeup and intimidating mound presence could translate into a closer role in pro ball.

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written on February 03, 2009 Rankings/List


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