LATEST PG SHOWCASE REPORT
2004 Midwest Top Prospect Showcase
Mark James is a lean and athletic 6'1" right handed pitcher from Canada. A 2005 prospect, we saw James pitch 5 innings against the University of Iowa, a pretty stern test for a young pitcher. James held the Hawkeyes to 3 hits over the first 4 innings before the older hitters began to figure him out. James throws from a high ¾ release point with a short arm circle in back and a stiff front side that limits his extension somewhat. His fastball was steady at 82-84 mph and touched 85 mph, and James maintained his velocity and command well. His fastball showed some cutting action at times. James’ downfall was that he threw 85-90% fastballs. He showed a 73-77 mph slider that was effective at times with a short, late break and also had a 74 mph change up, and a little better pitch selection would have kept the college hitters off balance. James showed us he could pitch against college hitters and college coaches should take note.