The MLB Draft Combine is a time to show off on the biggest stage. It’s the last chance to make an impression on scouts. And for many players, it’s the final chance to make your name known in hopes of hearing it called on draft day.
From June 23-26 at Chase Field in Phoenix, plenty of athletes made the most of that opportunity.
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From newly 17-year-old Rocco Maniscalco showcasing elite arm strength to Noah Wilson setting a new Combine record in the 30-yard dash, the next generation of talent did not disappoint at Chase Field.
Among the 140 high school players in attendance, here are six players who stood out with exceptional performances.
Genson Veras | OF | TNXL Academy
The 6-foot-6, 225-pound outfielder put on one of the most impressive power displays of the Combine during Day 2’s batting practice. The son of former big league reliever Jose Veras launched three of the day’s 10 furthest home runs, highlighted by a 443-footer. He also produced elite exit velocities, becoming the only player to reach 114 mph on the day while recording three additional batted balls at 113 mph.
Rocco Maniscalco | SS | Oxford HS
Maniscalco came in as the youngest prospect at Combine, but you would never know by the talent he displayed. The shortstop, who turned 17 in May after reclassifying to become draft-eligible, stole the spotlight with a 97 mph throw from shortstop – one of the strongest infield throws of the week. The switch-hitter also showed off offensive tools, barreling 22 balls at 100 mph or harder.
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Dominic Santarelli | 1B/OF | St. Joseph Catholic Academy
Santarelli’s power was impossible to miss this week. The 6-foot-2, 230-pound first baseman and outfielder led all participants with a 110.9 average exit velocity – more than 4 mph better than the next closest player. He also reached up to 115.1 mph, the fifth-highest exit velocity of the Combine. His strength allows him to generate effortless power to all fields.
Ethan Wachsmann | RHP | Grandview HS
No pitcher threw harder than Wachsmann this week. The Colorado native touched 100 mph twice, making him the hardest thrower at this year’s Combine. He averaged 98.8 mph on his four-seam fastball, leading the pitching group once again. The Wake Forest commit also recorded the top three fastball spin rates on Day 1, further cementing his status as one of the premier arms in the class.
