DI Outfielder
60 Yard Dash: 6.9 or below
Home to 1st Time: 86 +
Throwing Velocity: 4.3 (RHH) 4.2 (LHH)
Ball Exit Velocity: 90 +
Division I corner outfield recruits are usually outstanding hitters. Some corner outfield recruits will hit for power, others will hit for average and steal a lot of bases. Qualities in a hitter’s swing that Division I coaches will look for are: bat speed, a short, compact stroke, and balance with the ability to hit all kinds of pitches. The ability to hit the ball to all fields is also important for a Division I hitter. If a Division I corner outfielder does not hit for power, then he must hit for a high average and run very well. The typical Division I centerfielder is very, very fast. Division I centerfield recruits must also possess a strong arm. The Division I centerfield recruit must also be a leader, so communication with other outfielders and middle infielders will be key. In terms of hitting, the Division I centerfield recruit is viewed more often than not as a top of the order type of hitter, with the occasional outlier being a centerfielder that hits for power and fits in better in the middle of the lineup. The ability to get on base, steal bases, and score from first on extra base hits will be important for Division I centerfield recruits. Size is not as important for centerfielders, but a prototypical Division I centerfield recruit is generally between 5’9’’ and 6’2’’ while weighing between 175 and 210 pounds.
DII Outfielder:
60 Yard Dash: 7.0 or below
Home to 1st Time: 4.4 (RHH) 4.3 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 82 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 88 +
Division II corner outfielders must excel in at least one phase of the game, whether it be hitting for power, hitting for average, or fielding his position at a high level. Most coaches in this tier will look for a corner outfielder that hits well, but may need to improve defensively. Division II centerfielder's will be expected to field their position exceptionally well. Similar to a MIF, defense is almost always the first priority for a Division II centerfielder. After defense, college coaches at the Division II level will look for centerfielders that can swing the bat well and hit at the top or the bottom of the lineup. A Division II centerfielder usually excels in one area of the game and shows the potential to develop in other areas.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO Outfielder:
60 Yard Dash: 7.2 or below
Home to 1st Time: 4.4 (RHH) 4.3 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 80 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 85 +
Corner outfielders at this level will posses one or two of the qualities of D1 corner outfielders. Power hitting corner outfielders may not have speed. Speed corner outfielders may lack a strong arm. The qualities are important parts to the baseball program and can have big impacts on the team. Speed, range, getting on base, and stealing bases are all qualities centerfielders at this level will possess. A power hitting centerfielder is a bonus, but might sacrifice some speed aspects of the game. Coaches will look for centerfielders who can cover ground and be a leader in the outfield.
DI 1st Baseman:
60 Yard Dash: 7.5 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 (RHH) 4.5 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 75 or better
Ball Exit Velocity: 90 +
Division I first basemen are generally very developed physically before getting to college. The biggest factor in evaluating a Division I first baseman is the ability to hit for power and drive runs in. Coaches evaluating the hitting skills of a first baseman will look for a short, compact swing, quick bat speed, and a load or hitting mechanism that generates a lot of power. Fielding ability is not as important for a first baseman, as long as he can make the routine play on a regular basis.
DII First Baseman:
60 Yard Dash: 7.6 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 (RHH) 4.5 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 75 or better
Ball Exit Velocity: 88 +
The most important factor in recruiting for 1B is the ability to hit for power or for a high average. While a 1B recruit in this tier may not be as polished, he should definitely show the potential to hit for power at some point in the near future.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO First Baseman:
60 Yard Dash: 7.7 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 (RHH) 4.5 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 75 or better
Ball Exit Velocity: 85 +
First basemen at this level will posses some qualities, but not all of high-level athletes at this position. Regardless, this is an offensive position at this level.
DI Middle Infielder:
60 Yard Dash: 7.0 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.4 (RHH) 4.3 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 86 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 90 +
Division I middle infielders are evaluated first from a defensive standpoint, and then from a hitting standpoint. The most important factors when evaluating a Division I middle infielder defensively are speed, quickness, good hands, and arm strength. Coaches at the Division I level will look for middle infielders that display outstanding defensive ability in all of these categories. While having a fast 60 time is important, college coaches will also look for an agile middle infielder that can cover a lot of ground laterally, this is often referred to as range. Having great range allows the middle infielder to field ground balls that may be deep in the hole or up the middle. Division I middle infielders will also be able to hit at a high level. The prototypical Division I middle infield recruit can hit for a high average as well as steal a lot of bases and occasionally hit for power.
DII Middle Infielder:
60 Yard Dash: 7.1 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.4 (RHH) 4.3 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 82+
Ball Exit Velocity: 88 +
Division II middle infielders must be polished in at least one phase of the game (fielding or hitting), but more often than not they are more of an asset defensively and have things to work on from a hitting standpoint. Speed is still a quality that coaches will look for at this level.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO Middle Infielder:
60 Yard Dash: 7.2 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.5 (RHH) 4.4 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 78 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 85 +
Athleticism, knowledge of the game, and leadership skills are necessary for shortstops at this level. Defensive skills are the focus for shortstops, with offensive skills being a bonus. Shortstops at this level will be missing a few elements of the D1 shortstop, but they still make plays and contribute in the line-up.
DI Third Baseman:
60 Yard Dash: 7.2 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.5 (RHH) 4.4 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 86 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 90 +
Division I recruits at third base must possess a mixture of skills both defensively and offensively. Important factors on a defensive basis are arm strength and footwork. While Division I third basemen do not have to be particularly fast, they do have to show the ability to move side to side quickly in order to cover a lot of ground at third base. Being able to field the ball and also being able to throw the ball at a high velocity can give the recruit a chance to play at the Division I level. From and offensive standpoint, third basemen must show the ability to hit for power and average. Division I third base recruits are often times looked at as power hitters in the middle of the lineup.
DII Third Baseman:
60 Yard Dash: 7.4 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.5 (RHH) 4.4 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 82 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 88 +
Division II third baseman must be polished in at least one phase of the game and possess the potential to develop in all other areas. 3B in this tier must swing the bat and field their position adequately in high school in order to play at this level in college. 3B at this level must also be able to run adequately, anywhere below a 7.4 60 time will suffice.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO Third Baseman
60 Yard Dash: 7.5 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.5 (RHH) 4.4 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 82 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 85 +
Third basemen at this level will posses some qualities, but not all of high-level athletes at this position. Regardless, this is a position requiring a mix of defensive and offensive talents.
DI Catcher:
60 Yard Dash: 7.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Throwing Velocity: 80 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 90 +
Pop Time: 1.95 or better
Division I catching recruits are evaluated on several levels, most importantly, college coaches will look at the defensive and leadership skills that the catcher possesses. Prototypical Division I catching recruits are developed physically and usually stand anywhere between 5’10’’ and 6’4” and weigh between 185 and 220 pounds. While pop time is important, coaches will take a closer look at the catch and throw mechanics the catcher possesses as well as the arm strength shown while throwing to 2nd and 3rd base. While defense comes first for a catcher, Division I coaches will also look for a player that demonstrates outstanding leadership skills and has the ability to work with an entire pitching staff. Another important factor in evaluating a Division I catcher is hitting. Division I recruits at the catching position swing the bat well. Catchers are usually guys that can hit for power or average at a high level.
DII Catcher:
60 Yard Dash: 7.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Throwing Velocity: 78 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 88 +
Pop Time: 2.05 or better
Catchers in this tier are usually polished in at least one phase of the game and show the ability to improve in all other areas of the game. Whether it is defensively or offensively, a solid Division II catching prospect demonstrates the ability to excel at the plate as a potential power threat or has the ability to hit for a high average.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO Catcher:
60 Yard Dash: 7.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Throwing Velocity: 76 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 85 +
Pop Time: 2.10 or better
Catchers at this level possess leadership skills. Size is important, along with the abilities to block, receive, handle a pitching staff, and catch/throw.
DI Pitcher:
RHP (87 + Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH slower than average fastball
LHP (84 + Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH Slower than average fastball
The first thing a Division I coach will look for when evaluating a pitcher is fastball velocity. Prototypical Division I pitching recruits throw anywhere between 87 and 95 MPH on a consistent basis. It is important to remember that coaches are looking for pitchers to consistently throw at this velocity, not just touch it every once and a while. While velocity is very important in evaluation, for a Division I pitcher, command and control are also factors that determine if a recruit can play at this level. Division I pitchers must also display command of at least 2 pitches. Having a great fastball will only get a Division I pitcher so far, having a repertoire of 2-4 pitches gives the pitcher the ability to keep hitters off balance. Pitch movement will also be important for pitchers with aspirations to play at the Division I level. Throwing a fastball at 87 MPH with a lot of movement can often times be more effective than throwing a straight fastball at 90 MPH.
DII Pitcher:
RHP (85+ Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH slower than average fastball
LHP (82 + Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH Slower than average fastball
While pitchers in this tier may not be as polished as a D-I recruit, they definitely show the capability to pitch at a high level down the road. Pitchers in this category usually throw anywhere from the low 80s to high 80s in high school, and have the potential to gain more velocity down the road. Pitchers in this category will also have secondary pitches that can become "out pitches" with continued development and practice.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO Pitcher:
RHP (82 + Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH slower than average fastball
LHP (78 + Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH Slower than average fastball
While pitchers in this tier are still developing arm strength and off-speed pitches, they can still control at least their fastball and one off-speed pitch. Movement on the fastball and off-speed pitches along with the ability to locate these pitches will be important
60 Yard Dash: 6.9 or below
Home to 1st Time: 86 +
Throwing Velocity: 4.3 (RHH) 4.2 (LHH)
Ball Exit Velocity: 90 +
Division I corner outfield recruits are usually outstanding hitters. Some corner outfield recruits will hit for power, others will hit for average and steal a lot of bases. Qualities in a hitter’s swing that Division I coaches will look for are: bat speed, a short, compact stroke, and balance with the ability to hit all kinds of pitches. The ability to hit the ball to all fields is also important for a Division I hitter. If a Division I corner outfielder does not hit for power, then he must hit for a high average and run very well. The typical Division I centerfielder is very, very fast. Division I centerfield recruits must also possess a strong arm. The Division I centerfield recruit must also be a leader, so communication with other outfielders and middle infielders will be key. In terms of hitting, the Division I centerfield recruit is viewed more often than not as a top of the order type of hitter, with the occasional outlier being a centerfielder that hits for power and fits in better in the middle of the lineup. The ability to get on base, steal bases, and score from first on extra base hits will be important for Division I centerfield recruits. Size is not as important for centerfielders, but a prototypical Division I centerfield recruit is generally between 5’9’’ and 6’2’’ while weighing between 175 and 210 pounds.
DII Outfielder:
60 Yard Dash: 7.0 or below
Home to 1st Time: 4.4 (RHH) 4.3 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 82 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 88 +
Division II corner outfielders must excel in at least one phase of the game, whether it be hitting for power, hitting for average, or fielding his position at a high level. Most coaches in this tier will look for a corner outfielder that hits well, but may need to improve defensively. Division II centerfielder's will be expected to field their position exceptionally well. Similar to a MIF, defense is almost always the first priority for a Division II centerfielder. After defense, college coaches at the Division II level will look for centerfielders that can swing the bat well and hit at the top or the bottom of the lineup. A Division II centerfielder usually excels in one area of the game and shows the potential to develop in other areas.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO Outfielder:
60 Yard Dash: 7.2 or below
Home to 1st Time: 4.4 (RHH) 4.3 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 80 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 85 +
Corner outfielders at this level will posses one or two of the qualities of D1 corner outfielders. Power hitting corner outfielders may not have speed. Speed corner outfielders may lack a strong arm. The qualities are important parts to the baseball program and can have big impacts on the team. Speed, range, getting on base, and stealing bases are all qualities centerfielders at this level will possess. A power hitting centerfielder is a bonus, but might sacrifice some speed aspects of the game. Coaches will look for centerfielders who can cover ground and be a leader in the outfield.
DI 1st Baseman:
60 Yard Dash: 7.5 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 (RHH) 4.5 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 75 or better
Ball Exit Velocity: 90 +
Division I first basemen are generally very developed physically before getting to college. The biggest factor in evaluating a Division I first baseman is the ability to hit for power and drive runs in. Coaches evaluating the hitting skills of a first baseman will look for a short, compact swing, quick bat speed, and a load or hitting mechanism that generates a lot of power. Fielding ability is not as important for a first baseman, as long as he can make the routine play on a regular basis.
DII First Baseman:
60 Yard Dash: 7.6 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 (RHH) 4.5 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 75 or better
Ball Exit Velocity: 88 +
The most important factor in recruiting for 1B is the ability to hit for power or for a high average. While a 1B recruit in this tier may not be as polished, he should definitely show the potential to hit for power at some point in the near future.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO First Baseman:
60 Yard Dash: 7.7 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 (RHH) 4.5 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 75 or better
Ball Exit Velocity: 85 +
First basemen at this level will posses some qualities, but not all of high-level athletes at this position. Regardless, this is an offensive position at this level.
DI Middle Infielder:
60 Yard Dash: 7.0 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.4 (RHH) 4.3 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 86 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 90 +
Division I middle infielders are evaluated first from a defensive standpoint, and then from a hitting standpoint. The most important factors when evaluating a Division I middle infielder defensively are speed, quickness, good hands, and arm strength. Coaches at the Division I level will look for middle infielders that display outstanding defensive ability in all of these categories. While having a fast 60 time is important, college coaches will also look for an agile middle infielder that can cover a lot of ground laterally, this is often referred to as range. Having great range allows the middle infielder to field ground balls that may be deep in the hole or up the middle. Division I middle infielders will also be able to hit at a high level. The prototypical Division I middle infield recruit can hit for a high average as well as steal a lot of bases and occasionally hit for power.
DII Middle Infielder:
60 Yard Dash: 7.1 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.4 (RHH) 4.3 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 82+
Ball Exit Velocity: 88 +
Division II middle infielders must be polished in at least one phase of the game (fielding or hitting), but more often than not they are more of an asset defensively and have things to work on from a hitting standpoint. Speed is still a quality that coaches will look for at this level.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO Middle Infielder:
60 Yard Dash: 7.2 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.5 (RHH) 4.4 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 78 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 85 +
Athleticism, knowledge of the game, and leadership skills are necessary for shortstops at this level. Defensive skills are the focus for shortstops, with offensive skills being a bonus. Shortstops at this level will be missing a few elements of the D1 shortstop, but they still make plays and contribute in the line-up.
DI Third Baseman:
60 Yard Dash: 7.2 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.5 (RHH) 4.4 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 86 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 90 +
Division I recruits at third base must possess a mixture of skills both defensively and offensively. Important factors on a defensive basis are arm strength and footwork. While Division I third basemen do not have to be particularly fast, they do have to show the ability to move side to side quickly in order to cover a lot of ground at third base. Being able to field the ball and also being able to throw the ball at a high velocity can give the recruit a chance to play at the Division I level. From and offensive standpoint, third basemen must show the ability to hit for power and average. Division I third base recruits are often times looked at as power hitters in the middle of the lineup.
DII Third Baseman:
60 Yard Dash: 7.4 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.5 (RHH) 4.4 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 82 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 88 +
Division II third baseman must be polished in at least one phase of the game and possess the potential to develop in all other areas. 3B in this tier must swing the bat and field their position adequately in high school in order to play at this level in college. 3B at this level must also be able to run adequately, anywhere below a 7.4 60 time will suffice.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO Third Baseman
60 Yard Dash: 7.5 or better
Home to 1st Time: 4.5 (RHH) 4.4 (LHH)
Throwing Velocity: 82 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 85 +
Third basemen at this level will posses some qualities, but not all of high-level athletes at this position. Regardless, this is a position requiring a mix of defensive and offensive talents.
DI Catcher:
60 Yard Dash: 7.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Throwing Velocity: 80 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 90 +
Pop Time: 1.95 or better
Division I catching recruits are evaluated on several levels, most importantly, college coaches will look at the defensive and leadership skills that the catcher possesses. Prototypical Division I catching recruits are developed physically and usually stand anywhere between 5’10’’ and 6’4” and weigh between 185 and 220 pounds. While pop time is important, coaches will take a closer look at the catch and throw mechanics the catcher possesses as well as the arm strength shown while throwing to 2nd and 3rd base. While defense comes first for a catcher, Division I coaches will also look for a player that demonstrates outstanding leadership skills and has the ability to work with an entire pitching staff. Another important factor in evaluating a Division I catcher is hitting. Division I recruits at the catching position swing the bat well. Catchers are usually guys that can hit for power or average at a high level.
DII Catcher:
60 Yard Dash: 7.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Throwing Velocity: 78 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 88 +
Pop Time: 2.05 or better
Catchers in this tier are usually polished in at least one phase of the game and show the ability to improve in all other areas of the game. Whether it is defensively or offensively, a solid Division II catching prospect demonstrates the ability to excel at the plate as a potential power threat or has the ability to hit for a high average.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO Catcher:
60 Yard Dash: 7.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Home to 1st Time: 4.6 or better (often irrelevant)
Throwing Velocity: 76 +
Ball Exit Velocity: 85 +
Pop Time: 2.10 or better
Catchers at this level possess leadership skills. Size is important, along with the abilities to block, receive, handle a pitching staff, and catch/throw.
DI Pitcher:
RHP (87 + Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH slower than average fastball
LHP (84 + Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH Slower than average fastball
The first thing a Division I coach will look for when evaluating a pitcher is fastball velocity. Prototypical Division I pitching recruits throw anywhere between 87 and 95 MPH on a consistent basis. It is important to remember that coaches are looking for pitchers to consistently throw at this velocity, not just touch it every once and a while. While velocity is very important in evaluation, for a Division I pitcher, command and control are also factors that determine if a recruit can play at this level. Division I pitchers must also display command of at least 2 pitches. Having a great fastball will only get a Division I pitcher so far, having a repertoire of 2-4 pitches gives the pitcher the ability to keep hitters off balance. Pitch movement will also be important for pitchers with aspirations to play at the Division I level. Throwing a fastball at 87 MPH with a lot of movement can often times be more effective than throwing a straight fastball at 90 MPH.
DII Pitcher:
RHP (85+ Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH slower than average fastball
LHP (82 + Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH Slower than average fastball
While pitchers in this tier may not be as polished as a D-I recruit, they definitely show the capability to pitch at a high level down the road. Pitchers in this category usually throw anywhere from the low 80s to high 80s in high school, and have the potential to gain more velocity down the road. Pitchers in this category will also have secondary pitches that can become "out pitches" with continued development and practice.
DIII/NAIA/JUCO Pitcher:
RHP (82 + Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH slower than average fastball
LHP (78 + Fastball) Off-speed should be 6-15 MPH Slower than average fastball
While pitchers in this tier are still developing arm strength and off-speed pitches, they can still control at least their fastball and one off-speed pitch. Movement on the fastball and off-speed pitches along with the ability to locate these pitches will be important
