USC has picked up its first commitment from a catcher for the 2014 class from Hunter Taylor (5-11 190) of Onley, VA. John Whittle of TheBigSpurcom reported that Taylor committed to the Gamecocks shortly after visiting for the East Carolina football game and chose the Gamecocks over North Carolina, Virginia and Virginia Tech. Last season Taylor batted .571 with 4 home runs and 35 RBIs. Taylor also plays third base and the outfield, and he also pitches. He's the 12th commitment for the 2014 class.
Scouting report on Taylor from PerfectGame.com.
Hunter Taylor is a 2014 C/3B/RHP with a 5-11 190 lb. frame from Onley, VA who attends Nandua HS. Strong compact build, fairly physically mature. Very good arm strength, quick exchange, sound footwork, arm stroke a bit long, 1.94 best pop, high energy game actions, gets after it behind the plate. Right handed hitter, long loose swing with good weight shift, stays balanced and directional, bat speed, shows pull power and power to the gaps. Also pitched, "Virginia" style pitching mechanics, starts pre-loaded and open, over the top release, fastball to 87 mph with good sink, big downer curveball, threw strikes and got quick outs. Talented and versatile player, plays hard. Named MVP of the event. Good student.
link: http://www.goupstate.com/article/20120919/PSPORTS02/120929996/-1/psports
Scouting report on Taylor from PerfectGame.com.
Hunter Taylor is a 2014 C/3B/RHP with a 5-11 190 lb. frame from Onley, VA who attends Nandua HS. Strong compact build, fairly physically mature. Very good arm strength, quick exchange, sound footwork, arm stroke a bit long, 1.94 best pop, high energy game actions, gets after it behind the plate. Right handed hitter, long loose swing with good weight shift, stays balanced and directional, bat speed, shows pull power and power to the gaps. Also pitched, "Virginia" style pitching mechanics, starts pre-loaded and open, over the top release, fastball to 87 mph with good sink, big downer curveball, threw strikes and got quick outs. Talented and versatile player, plays hard. Named MVP of the event. Good student.
link: http://www.goupstate.com/article/20120919/PSPORTS02/120929996/-1/psports