By: Cory Welch – June 6-7, 2023
-Clear skies, college coaches & players flood River Bluff HS-
As we do each year during the first week of summer break, DP becomes guests of River Bluff HS as we execute our DP Summer Showcase for a couple of days. One thing we were fortunate with was not being concerned about the weather. Though a little toasty, clear skies and that caused the radar to stay at the back of our minds as our team was able to execute our plan and focus solely on the players on the diamond.
Once again, this event sold out, 35+ college and professional scouts checked in to lock on in players from all over the Palmetto State. As explained to the players, this open event allows them to get viewed by college coaches but also serves as a huge tool for the DP evaluation process. It allows players to be evaluated for summer rankings, gives us a better understanding for the program they represent and also serves as an opportunity to punch a ticket to DP’s “Grand Daddy of Them All”, The Palmetto Games!
Though we took in well over 100 games this spring, we are bound to miss a player or two and this event ensures the players have their “moment in the sun”. The event encompasses 60’s, defensive workouts, BP, bullpens and a game setting that allows players to display all of the tools in their toolbox. Just to name a couple of highlights: Jace Stancil‘s 1.77 pop time, Will Craddock flashing some leather and freshman Banks Wickersham stealing the show in his exhibition game for the second consecutive year!
Some of the keynote performances in the workout portions came from all uncommitted players. A top 60 time of 6.81 was turned in by Summerville’s Banks Knight. Two arms eclipsed the 90 MPH mark (Jace Stancil – 91; Andrew McLaughlin – 90). From the infield, Will Cradock flashed the hands we saw all spring the fired 88 MPH across the dirt. And finally, a new name (as well as others) popped up that was impressive in a variety of ways, Colby Richardson of Pee Dee Academy.
Event Data / Top Prospects: Classes of 2024 & Beyond / Player Accolades / Trackman Data: Pitching / Trackman Data: Hitting
-The Extras-
Mark Bonnette: Just after winning a state title, River Bluff HS provided us with a top-notch facility to run the event. We thank Mark for his support of DP and allowing us to use his field to run the event!
Buzzy Myers: Once again, Buzzy comes through by delivering Chic-Fil-A for our staff and the college coaches on hand. On days like this nothing is better than a pick me up like the “Original” Chicken Sandwich!
Taylor Purrus & Diamond Elite: Moving forward, Trackman data will be avaible to our staff from Taylor and the guys at Diamond Elite. Adding this tool is huge for our players in the state and the data is key for college coaches. Adding this is a huge asset and Taylor did a great job jumping right into the fire and the event didn’t miss a beat!
JJ Joye: When you come to a DP event, the music never misses a beat and this is because of USC Salkehatchie’s head man and athletic director! The tunes never disappoint and are always right on cue. You know you have arrived when you have your own logo! Thanks coach!
College Coaches: Right after a long season, countless schools were present to evaluate players going into the summer season. We cannot thank these guys enough for trusting DP to be a resource in identifying prep talent in our state!
DP Staff: As always, these guys never disappoint. Though down a few due to prior commitments, day one went as always planned and even finished 75 minutes ahead of schedule. Day two had no hiccups either. Even with a couple guys down, our team steps up and the job is done. Without a doubt, would put this team against anyone!