So you've signed up but now you're wondering how to get noticed at a baseball showcase when you're one of 200 players attending. It can be pretty nerve racking when you're surrounded by some of the best players in your area with a 100+ college coaches and MLB scouts watching. Not to mention, you feel like the entire recruiting process is hinged on one batting practice or one inning on the mound. Feeling overwhelmed? Not a problem. We have an entire showcase breakdown with useful tips that will get you noticed at whatever baseball showcase you're attending and make sure you get the most out of the short time you have to show off your skills.
Typically a showcase is broken out into the following events:
The 60 Yard Dash
This will be a timed 60 yard sprint is a baseball scout's measure of raw speed. You will likely be paired with another runner and the clocks will start on your first move. Normally you will run two separate times with your best time being your official 60 yard dash time. Anything under 7 seconds is considered above average D1 baseball player speed. 6.8 seconds is MLB average.
- Try to pair up with someone you know is faster than you so you will be chasing them
- Stay low out of the start as you're building up to top speed
- Pick a point 5 yards beyond the finish line and make sure you go all the way through
Position Throws
If you are an infielder you will take 3-4 ground balls from the short-stop position and throw to first base. This gives scouts a chance to evaluate how you field ground balls and a good measure of your arm strength. Outfielders will be herded to right field where you will field a ground balll single and make a throw to third base. This is to simulate a runner trying to take an extra base going from first to third on a routine single. They'll have a radar gun set up in both scenarios. If you throw it over 80MPH you will be considered to have an above average arm. 90MPH is MLB average.
- Scouts are more concerned about arm speed vs. how well you field the ball
- Be sure to get all momentum going towards your target so you can throw as hard as possible
- Be sure to take your time and do NOT rush your throws or getting back into position
- We reccomend intentionally air mailing the first throw over your target to grab attention
- Even if you don't play both postitions you should make throws from both to get more exposure
Batting Practice
Although this varies from shocase to showcase, most of the time you will recieve approximately 10 swings. If you are a home run hitter then cut loose but if you're not, then you shouldn't be trying to go deep every swing. Scouts are looking for bat speed, swing plane and most of all, consistent solid contact. If you're wondering how to get a baseball scholarship as a hitter, a great batting practice is a great way to get on the radar. I
- Focus on hitting the ball where it's pitched - Don't just try to pull the ball for home runs
- It's more impressive to hit line drives to the opposite field gap, that's considered true power
- If you have a bad BP thrower, take your time and only swing at strikes
- Don't overswing, it actually tenses up your muscles and slows your bat speed down
The biggest problems people have during showcases are putting too much pressure on themselves. Treat it as a normal game or practice and you'll perform well. The players that try to do too much or do things they just aren't capable of end up struggling and hurt their prospect status. If you end up having a bad showcase it's not the end of the world. Scouts understand people have a bad day or two but if you can stay focused, limit mistakes, and play within your capabilities the best version of you will show up on the big stage! If you're looking to get to the next level, check out our free How to Become a College Baseball Player Guide.
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