LATEST PG SHOWCASE REPORT
2007 Atlantic Coast Underclass Showcase
RJ Barnes is a 2010 3B/C/P with a 6'2'', 195 lb. frame from Crozier, VA who attends Goochland HS. He has a very strong, athletic build, especially in his hips and legs. Barnes played a number of positions at the showcase but it was very evident that catcher was the best place for him. Along with having the strength for the position, Barnes received the ball cleanly, showed good side to side mobility and his arm worked much better than it did at third base or on the mound. We would encourage him to play behind the plate as much as possible. Barnes is a 7.27 runner but didn't show the kind of mobility or actions to think of him at third base in the long term. Offensively, Barnes hits from a very spread stance with a very complicated, multipiece swing. He has raw bat speed and some lift at contact and his strength is a plus. He needs to make some adjustments and simplify his approach to improve his contact but the raw tools are there. Barnes also pitched and threw 75-77 mph off the mound with both a curveball and slider. Barnes played hard and enjoyed being on the field and should be a good bet to keep improving with some good coaching. He is a good student, too.