Tomahawk Nation - Countdown to 2020 FSU baseball: position playersFlorida State Seminoles football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer and athletics updateshttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/49409/tn-logo-fv.png2020-02-12T12:04:05-05:00http://www.tomahawknation.com/rss/stream/208921682020-02-12T12:04:05-05:002020-02-12T12:04:05-05:002 days till FSU baseball: Nander De Sedas looking to put it all together in 2020
<figure>
<img alt="Maine at Florida State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/pHaa9vtdkPdVroiozpR1oS048ao=/0x0:5094x3396/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66300822/190217_DHS_vs._Maine__In_the_Field_2-Nander_De_Sedas2.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Steve Johnson</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>De Sedas’ defense is key to Florida State’s 2020 success</p> <p id="AZYadx">After passing up on pro ball and the 2018 MLB draft, Nander De Sedas came to Florida State as the number one freshman position player in the nation for the 2019 season. Early in the season, the middle infielder showed why, hitting .328 through 20 games with three home runs. After the hot start, the season started to turn south for the Panama-native. De Sedas was moved to second after 27 starts at short stop as he struggled to make throws across the diamond at a consistent rate. The bat also started to struggle, as his batting average dropped as low as .220 by early May. De Sedas showed his potential late in the season, as he went 6-15 in the UGA regional and drove in the winning run in FSU’s opening game at the CWS. He finished his freshman season hitting .231 with a .353 OBP and .690 OPS.</p>
<p id="b7COMc">Since the end of the 2019 season, Nander has only shown signs of improvement. In the New England Collegiate Baseball League, De Sedas posted a .248 batting average with 14 XBH in 33 games. He also took home the defensive player of the year award while playing SS. The bat only got better during the fall in FSU’s exhibitions. In five games, De Sedas was 7-17 with 7 RBI, two doubles, one triple, three walks, three runs, and five strikeouts. More importantly, he made just one error while playing shortstop and looked fluid on the infield all of fall. </p>
<div id="lWNlMY"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lgjb8SM81Dg?rel=0&start=1" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="aTC2hP">Despite the low batting average and struggles in the field, De Sedas was still a key contributor for FSU last season. He’ll return to the lineup as FSU’s leading returner in runs and starts, as well third in RBI’s. The first step for the sophomore in getting back on track in 2020 will be lowering the K-rate. Last season he struck out in 29.3% of his at-bats and had the fourth most K’s on the team. If he can get the K-rate down, the XBH-rate will go up. I’d expect the swing to be a bit shorter and more direct in 2020, with a little less of a leg kick and more of a short stride towards the pitcher. He’s also added some weight this year, which should lead to some more power at the dish.</p>
<div id="YoP3y0"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; padding-top: 44px;"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/dependabledisastrousamericanquarterhorse" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="EB0JGr">Last year, De Sedas posted a .923 fielding percentage, making 18 errors in 62 games. Coming into FSU, his glove was really known as his best tool, so what happened? Often he did impress, with dazzling plays and ranging into the holes on the infield for jaw-dropping plays. Often, the issues were with routine ground balls where he would just get too fancy. This year, the infield actions have look extremely simplified and the smooth glove has been all the way back. There will still be errors, but I’d expect him to save more runs than giving up unearned runs for FSU’s pitching staff</p>
<div id="aIJ9jr"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IH1PV9Z0mc4?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="kRMtTB">Even after a down season in 2020, De Sedas is projected to be a top-five round draft pick in his sophomore draft-eligible season, but why? He has the pure strength to spray the ball to each gap, the arm to stick at short stop, the glove to be a plus-defender, and the athletic ability to stick in the middle infield with his rangy defense. For him to succeed at FSU and be the contributor FSU needs him to be, he just needs to simplify the game. If the K-rate goes down and the FLD% goes up, the Seminoles will be in good hands at shortstop in 2020. </p>
https://www.tomahawknation.com/2020/2/12/21123344/2-days-till-fsu-baseball-nander-de-sedas-looking-to-put-it-together-in-2020-florida-state-universityBrettNevitt2020-02-11T16:46:25-05:002020-02-11T16:46:25-05:003 days till FSU baseball: Danny Andzel brings depth to middle INF
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zUFHFFEQEpkf7NfRJzfvXvnDMgA=/102x0:1790x1125/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66295682/andzel8.0.jpg" />
<figcaption><a class="ql-link" href="http://Seminoles.com" target="_blank">Seminoles.com</a> / Haylee Blitch</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Tallahassee-native has the bat to make an impact as a freshman if called upon</p> <p id="i8cELX">After spending his first three years in high school at Chiles in Tallahassee, Danny Andzel spent his senior year at the TNXL Baseball Academy with fellow freshmen Tyrell Brewer and Doug Kirkland. Coming into FSU, Andzel was rated the 65th shortstop in the state of Florida by Perfect Game. Since stepping foot on campus, the freshman has played mostly second and third base as he was in the middle of two separate position battles. Andzel has a pretty good frame for a middle INF, standing 5’11 and 185 pounds. As a freshman, he may not get many opportunities, but he has the ability to make an impact when called upon.</p>
<p id="ivOOED">Andzel has a pretty advanced bat for a freshman and middle INF. He doesn’t have consistent home run power, but he has powers to all parts of the field and consistently drives balls to the left and right-center field gaps. He gets low in his stance and takes a short stride and load for a quick and compact swing. He put together a couple of good at-bats in FSU’s scrimmage the other day, including one of just five hits. One weakness so far has been the K-rate, but that should drop as he develops and sees more college pitching. In the fall, the Tallahassee-native went 2-11 with 5 K’s at the dish.</p>
<div id="EsOt8E"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; padding-top: 44px;"><iframe src="https://gfycat.com/ifr/piercinglegitimateargentineruddyduck" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div></div>
<div id="COSABo"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mTmG2BEjSRw?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="HfkDj5">In the field, Andzel has smooth actions but can sometimes pull his head too early leading to some errors with the glove. In the fall he committed two errors while playing second base. He has the arm strength and athletic ability to play second base, shortstop, or third base. </p>
<div id="qcKwrO"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UOSstqBw65s?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="zZ6V7k">In 2020, Andzel will likely be the backup at second and short stop. The fielding and strikeout rate will likely keep him from being an everyday starter, but it wouldn’t surprise me to see him get a couple spot starts and pinch hitting opportunities. The freshman is a piece that should be one of the favorites to start at SS next year if De Sedas is drafted. Andzel is a hitter I could see being a doubles machine with the deep gaps in the outfield at Dick Howser Stadium. If the contact rate can come up a bit, he’ll be a starter in the future at FSU. </p>
https://www.tomahawknation.com/2020/2/11/21123322/3-days-till-fsu-baseball-danny-andzel-brings-advanced-bat-middle-inf-florida-state-university-noleBrettNevitt2020-02-06T10:00:00-05:002020-02-06T10:00:00-05:008 days till FSU baseball: Caleb Cali brings strong bat to roster as a freshman
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ZqVdNMROvWDONfb8WELzIAob8zk=/0x0:2000x1333/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66261570/cali3.0.jpg" />
<figcaption><a class="ql-link" href="http://Seminoles.com" target="_blank">Seminoles.com</a> / Haylee Blitch</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Cali comes to FSU as 56th-rated player in state of Florida</p> <p id="rpt2SL">Caleb Cali brings a large frame and a powerful bat to Florida State as a freshman. The freshman is the third biggest position player on the time, behind fellow freshman Dylan Simmons and Robby Martin. Cali stands 6’2 and weighs 211 pounds as he is an imposing figure in the right-handed batter’s box. The corner infielder comes out of Montverde Academy in Montverde, FL. The Florida-native was FSU’s second-rated position player in the 2019 recruiting class, as he was ranked the 404th overall player in the nation and the sixth best third baseman in Florida. Entering his freshman season, Cali is ranked the 63rd best freshmen in the ACC</p>
<p id="6yTWiR">The Montverde-native has a quick, compact swing that allows him to get around on fastballs at a consistent rate. With his large frame and present strength, he can still hit for power to all parts of the field. Cali looked like he may need some more time before being an everyday starter, as he struggled to lay off some breaking balls out of the zone in fall, as a lot of freshmen do. With a short swing and a large frame, the offensive ceiling for Cali is quite high if he can lower the swing-and-miss rate throughout the year. During fall, the freshman went 3-13 with a double, two walks, and five strikeouts at the plate.</p>
<div id="S5PkF6"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UfPUYryOG_M?rel=0&list=PLSIp_mQFsKnNCR2PN14avrg-sO05aeByq" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="KkNO2c">Cali mostly played the hot corner in fall, but also saw some action at first. After Tyler Martin was added to the roster and Cooper Swanson permanently moved over to third, Cali was switched over to first permanently. Still long term, Cali has the athleticism and arm strength to play third base. Since getting to FSU, the freshman has put on nearly 20 pounds to fill out his frame, which likely had something to do with the move to first. He could play either corner INF position down the road.</p>
<div id="i9gxyy"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dXLHpu4oyXM?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="viQ6cj">With the numbers on the infield, Cali will likely be a redshirt candidate in 2020. The Florida-native will still likely make an impact with his bat at some point at FSU. The pop in the bat is there and he is athletic enough to play either corner INF spot. Depending on the 2020 draft and graduation status, Cali could be an everyday starter for the Seminoles in 2021. A year of development could be good for the freshman as he learns how to recognize pitches and lower the K-rate. Besides Simmons, Cali likely has the highest ceiling with the bat of any FSU freshmen. </p>
https://www.tomahawknation.com/2020/2/6/21122925/8-days-till-fsu-baseball-caleb-cali-brings-strong-bat-to-roster-as-freshman-florida-state-universityBrettNevitt2020-02-05T10:00:00-05:002020-02-05T10:00:00-05:009 days till FSU baseball: Cooper Swanson aiming to put it all together in 2020
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/EdKhsN8FXnGaDr6F5aqaz045mik=/390x0:2000x1073/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66254369/Swanson.0.jpg" />
<figcaption><a class="ql-link" href="http://Seminoles.com" target="_blank">Seminoles.com</a> / Haylee Blitch</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Swanson returns with highest HR% on team after 7 HR’s in 88 at-bats</p> <p id="MUCUUb">Cooper Swanson has the tools to be a productive college hitter, but he hasn’t really ever been given a consistent opportunity since arriving at FSU. Through two seasons, Swanson has started 43 games, while being used mostly as a platoon hitter. The Fort Myers-native came to FSU as the 93rd overall player in Florida before hitting .255 in 55 at-bats through his freshman year. Swanson’s average tumbled to a team low .159 in 2020 after finishing the season hitless in his last 22 at-bats. In his last 61 AB’s, Swanson produced just five hits. Despite the struggles to produce hits, Swanson still produced a slugging percentage over .400 and an OPS of .771. When he put the bat on the ball, he did good things such as hitting the ball nearly 500 feet.</p>
<div id="RGhx09">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Cooper Swanson just smoked that one!<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/7x8WeCAdFU">https://t.co/7x8WeCAdFU</a> <a href="https://t.co/0CdvDcXLud">pic.twitter.com/0CdvDcXLud</a></p>— FSU Baseball (@FSUBaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/FSUBaseball/status/1101957766724419585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="ZbqbAT">Out of his 14 hits in 2019, eight were extra base hits including seven homers. Of FSU’s returning hitters, Swanson had the highest HR% in 2019, homering in eight percent of his AB’s. The junior also homered in 26% of his 27 starts last season. Swanson has one of the most powerful bats in the ACC. The raw power is evident in one round of BP for the corner INF. Swanson can easily flick the ball over the RF fence at Dick Howser and generates a lot of top spin on the ball to the pull-side of the field. I’d expect him to attack fastballs early in the count to try and get the strikeout rate down in 2020. On the basepaths, Swanson is a surprising burner. The 6’1, 211 pound Swanson runs 60 times in the 6.6 range and showed the ability to steal bags with ease in fall. </p>
<div id="CxH4Kb"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5PmeP-Sj93w?rel=0&list=PLSIp_mQFsKnNCR2PN14avrg-sO05aeByq" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="5EQKWW">On the infield, Swanson is likely the favorite to start at third base in the fall. Last season, Swanson had a .965 fielding percentage and five errors, mostly at first base. The glove is sure-handed for Cooper, but the arm isn’t very reliable. Most of the errors last season came on throws to second base from first. The former short stop has looked comfortable at third, but the throws still need some work. He also played 1B, LF, and RF during fall. </p>
<div id="CAY16Q"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2httmQze52w?rel=0&list=PLSIp_mQFsKnN-DQZxgGDFhxajNb8cta0d" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="M12h9W">If Swanson starts for a full season, he’ll likely hit double digit home runs and steal double digit bags. For him to start everyday and win over a job, the strikeout rate will have to go down. A more aggressive approach at the plate in 2020 could help the junior finally hit his stride at the plate. The junior is in a four-way battle with Tyrell Brewer, Dylan Simmons, and Carter Smith for three spots in the opening day lineup. If the K-rate goes down, the raw tools will show in a productive season for the junior. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="TiXIAk">
<p id="TB0BBn">The ‘Noles will have plenty of national coverage in Mike Martin Jr.’s first year at the helm:</p>
<div id="ubjN5N">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We've got 1️⃣4️⃣ games on national TV this season, including 2️⃣ vs. and 3️⃣ vs. .<br><br>Full ESPN schedule: <a href="https://t.co/t8Rr4tbXGQ">https://t.co/t8Rr4tbXGQ</a></p>— FSU Baseball (@FSUBaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/FSUBaseball/status/1224797034257027075?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2020</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="Dd2ltd">Parker Messick will be headed to the prestigious Cape Cod League this summer:</p>
<div id="l5ABVd">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Parker Messick, highly-regarded LHP from <a href="https://twitter.com/FSUBaseball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FSUBaseball</a>, will pitch for <a href="https://twitter.com/WhitecapsCCBL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WhitecapsCCBL</a> this summer. As a senior in '19 with <a href="https://twitter.com/plantcityhighBB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@plantcityhighBB</a>, Messick posted an 11-1 record with a 1.06 ERA and 125 K in 86 IP. See some of his many accomplishments: <a href="https://t.co/D52m2o1Jar">https://t.co/D52m2o1Jar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/813Preps?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@813Preps</a></p>— CodBall (@codball) <a href="https://twitter.com/codball/status/1224829494302793728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2020</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
https://www.tomahawknation.com/2020/2/5/21122897/9-days-till-fsu-baseball-cooper-swanson-aiming-to-put-it-all-together-2020-florida-state-universityBrettNevitt2020-02-04T14:41:51-05:002020-02-04T14:41:51-05:0010 days till FSU baseball: Tyrell Brewer battling to be an everyday starter in 2020
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SIqIvv2nUwxZJBTHnF6vX3QQTQY=/0x0:5472x3648/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66249470/IMG_7798.0.jpg" />
<figcaption><a class="ql-link" href="http://Seminoles.com" target="_blank">Seminoles.com</a> / Haylee Blitch</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Freshman brings elite athleticism to the lineup</p> <p id="22dEyG"><a href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/2020/1/21/21075623/four-potential-breakout-players-for-fsu-baseball-in-2020-florida-state-university-mike-martin-jr">Tyrell Brewer</a> came to FSU as the 14th rated second basemen in the state of Florida and FSU’s highest rated middle infielder. Heading into 2020, the freshman finds himself in a heated battle for a starting spot at third base or DH. Brewer comes from TNXL Academy, along with <a href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/2020/1/20/21074040/25-days-till-fsu-baseball-doug-kirkland-to-start-fsu-career-in-the-pen-florida-state-university">Doug Kirkland</a> and Danny Andzel. Brewer is a preview of more athletes to come with Mike Martin Jr. at the helm. Whether it’s a drag bunt or just a routine ground ball, the freshman puts pressure on the opponent with his speed getting down the baseline. If he can simply put the ball in play, he’ll create havoc for a lot of defenses.</p>
<p id="4igCpi">The 5’10, 150 pound right-handed hitter often looks to hit the ball to the opposite field. He doesn’t do too much with the swing because he knows himself at the plate. Brewer isn’t a guy that is going to hit home runs, but he’ll turn routine ground balls into singles and singles into doubles. In FSU’s five fall ball games, Brewer went 4/16 and scored three runs, often from the top of the order. </p>
<div id="c0pWf4"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3GPuBxoDUro?rel=0&list=PLSIp_mQFsKnNCR2PN14avrg-sO05aeByq" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="O0M4oN">In the field, Brewer has the best chance of starting at third base, but has looked uncomfortable at the position. The freshman played third, second, LF, and CF in fall. With FSU being depleted at third, he got the most reps there, but looked more comfortable in the other spots. The Orlando-native will likely need some more time at the position before being an everyday starter at third. He can still provide flexibility with the lineup, as he can play any of the three outfield positions, second, and third. </p>
<p id="jxnyut">Three of Brewer, Dylan Simmons, Cooper Swanson, and Carter Smith will likely start on opening day. The decision will likely come down to Brewer’s athleticism or Simmons’ power at the dish. Either way, you’ll likely see Brewer nearly every game, either starting or pinch running. The freshman has shown the ability to get on base and be a game changer with his legs. Whether it’s from the bottom of the lineup or off the bench, Brewer will be an impact freshman for the Seminoles in 2020. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="KvB5ss">
<p id="AbUXKV">After winning the coach of the year award in his last season at the helm, the NCBWA has named their National Coach of the Year award after Mike Martin. </p>
<div id="qoaITl">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Proud to announce we have named our Division I National Coach of the Year Award for the legendary Mike Martin <a href="https://t.co/eHh74R0cqo">https://t.co/eHh74R0cqo</a> <a href="https://t.co/ugIrCWClS6">pic.twitter.com/ugIrCWClS6</a></p>— NCBWA (@NCBWA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCBWA/status/1224731929133690882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2020</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="spOCzZ">Matheu Nelson was named the #8 catcher in the nation in D1Baseball’s first positional rankings of the year. </p>
<div id="pIrhlp">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"> POWER RANKINGS: Catchers <br><br>Who are the nation's Top 30 Catchers entering the 2020 campaign?<br><br>Here's how they stack up:<br><br>>> <a href="https://t.co/XqFyZqLqih">https://t.co/XqFyZqLqih</a> <a href="https://t.co/LHWPl95jiX">pic.twitter.com/LHWPl95jiX</a></p>— D1Baseball (@d1baseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/d1baseball/status/1224721785540763650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2020</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
https://www.tomahawknation.com/2020/2/4/21122673/10-days-till-fsu-baseball-tyrell-brewer-battling-be-everyday-starter-2020-florida-state-universityBrettNevitt2020-01-29T17:46:47-05:002020-01-29T17:46:47-05:0016 days till FSU baseball: Tyler Martin brings INF depth to roster as a walk-on
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_xQgcpeCSRHaMinomIsTZy1KHN4=/0x1:4096x2732/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66216726/IMG_5968.0.jpeg" />
<figcaption>Haylee Blitch</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Third-generation Seminole brings dependable glove to the infield</p> <p id="YfOHmA">Tyler Martin is now the third generation of Martin’s to play baseball at Florida State. Mike Martin Jr.’s son joined FSU’s roster at the beginning of the spring semester as an early enrollee after graduating from Chiles high school in Tallahassee. The freshman joined the team as a walk-on to bring some extra infield depth to the roster. Martin has been around the team and gone through practices for the last couple years, so the transition from high school ball to college ball should be pretty smooth for him. The 6’1, 160 pound freshman will be a backup at third in 2020. </p>
<p id="yhs1SF">The 160-pound frame sticks out when first seeing Martin on the diamond. He’s just out of high school and needs quite a bit of time to add on muscle and weight to add pop in the bat. At the dish, the bat lags a little bit and he looks like a high school hitter that is in college a year early. Martin’s load and bat wrap needs to be shortened a bit to be able to catch up to a college fastball. You can check out the freshman’s swing here:</p>
<div id="ygjeCV"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iP0Pwqgx6-4?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="OCcdoL">The early-enrollee wasn’t added to the roster for his bat though. The third baseman looks like the most dependable third baseman with the glove at the hot corner. The arm is slightly weak for the position, but with added muscle it shouldn’t be an issue. Martin could also play second base.</p>
<p id="D7LCI6">Martin won’t be an everyday starter and he probably won’t see much action in 2020. He could be a late-game defensive substitution in certain situation for the Seminoles. Infield defense is key to FSU’s success in 2020 and that’s what Martin brings to the roster. It doesn’t hurt to have Martin on the roster as he doesn’t take up a scholarship, but I wouldn’t expect him to make an impact in 2020. Down the line with added muscle and a fine-tuned swing, he could battle for an every-day spot on the infield. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="SrMS1k">
<p id="8eiPyp">Another day, another preseason conference preview and honors for the ‘Noles, this time from D1Baseball.</p>
<div id="VME9HH">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FSU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FSU</a> proj. 2nd in the Atlantic. Top 2020 prospects: <a href="https://twitter.com/cjvaneyk17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cjvaneyk17</a> (2), <a href="https://twitter.com/shane_dro5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shane_dro5</a> (8), Reese (9), <a href="https://twitter.com/nander2ds?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nander2ds</a> (12), Elijah (35), <a href="https://twitter.com/matheu_nelson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@matheu_nelson</a> (40). Top 2021: Robby (11), <a href="https://twitter.com/Jack_Ander99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jack_Ander99</a> (45). Top FR: <a href="https://twitter.com/brycehubbart?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@brycehubbart</a> (6), <a href="https://twitter.com/d0ugkirkland?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@d0ugkirkland</a> (30), <a href="https://twitter.com/Tyrell_Brewer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Tyrell_Brewer</a> (37), <a href="https://twitter.com/brandon_walk6?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@brandon_walk6</a> (40) <a href="https://t.co/Rjb7EoHUNb">https://t.co/Rjb7EoHUNb</a></p>— Brett (@brettpn) <a href="https://twitter.com/brettpn/status/1222554485412761601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2020</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="YSbmEN"></p>
https://www.tomahawknation.com/2020/1/29/21113826/16-days-till-fsu-baseball-tyler-martin-brings-inf-depth-to-roster-walk-on-florida-state-universityBrettNevitt2020-01-26T18:01:26-05:002020-01-26T18:01:26-05:0019 days till FSU baseball: Elijah Cabell looking for major bounce back in sophomore season
<figure>
<img alt="Maine at Florida State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-4rnYrF9n_mfMCSnsVEN9nljhjA=/0x0:5201x3467/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66171057/190216_DHS_vs._Maine__At_the_Plate_19-Elijah_Cabell_1_.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Steve Johnson</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Cabell looking to put all his tools together in a breakout 2020</p> <p id="2Cz25P">Elijah Cabell came to FSU as the second-rated outfielder in Florida in the 2018 class and the 34th rated freshmen in the nation. Cabell showed why he was so highly thought of in the beginning of the season, as he hit five homers and posted a .351 batting average through the Seminoles’ first 12 games. After that, the season took a nose dive on Cabell. The freshman started to slump, and could just never find his swing again. Over the next 21 games, Cabell’s average dropped down to .208. The slump led to the outfielder being benched for the stretch run as Tim Becker brought magic to the lineup. The Florida-native finished his freshman year hitting .220 over 58 games.</p>
<p id="7IvJ2J">To me, batting average doesn’t always tell the story in baseball, there were still some positives for Cabell. Despite hitting in the low .200’s, he still produced an on base percentage over .400 and an OPS of .819, both above average numbers. He also was second on the team with nine steals in 10 attempts. 17 of his 36 hits were extra base hits (nine doubles, a triple, and seven homers), and his batting average on balls in play was a ridiculous .473. </p>
<div id="xrbbIQ"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XdYdtT00w9Q?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="Zb7LGg">So what does he have to do differently in 2020? Put the ball on the bat, plain and simple. Cabell struck out in 53.7% of his at-bats throughout his freshman year. Mike Martin Jr. has emphasized a new-and-improved aggressive approach at the plate, and it may stand with Elijah more than any other player on the team. He’s a fastball hitter, so go hunt fastballs early in the count. Pitchers often took advantage of him with breaking balls low and away and he just couldn’t lay off of them. In 2020, if he can get to fastballs early and not let pitchers attack him there, the strikeout rate will drop and the average will go up. When he puts the bat on the ball, he’s a special player. When he gets on base and in the outfield, he’s a special athlete. </p>
<div id="QxDxCo">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Elijah Cabell had a 466-foot homer to extend the Noles' lead in the bottom of the third. <br><br> <a href="https://t.co/f5NwWcg3z9">https://t.co/f5NwWcg3z9</a> <a href="https://t.co/7LuhW5b8sU">pic.twitter.com/7LuhW5b8sU</a></p>— FSU Baseball (@FSUBaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/FSUBaseball/status/1102283814456446976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="0sPjft">Cabell will be given the same opportunity as last year at the beginning of the season, as an everyday starter hitting in the cleanup spot. Where he plays between center and left is still an ongoing battle between him and Reese Albert, he has the speed and arm strength to play anywhere in the outfield. The most important thing for the sophomore will be getting his confidence back in his swing. He needs to trust that his hands are quick enough to get to a fastball and send it in the opposite direction, instead of getting out in his swing early and not being able to adjust to the fastballs. I think if we see a opposite-field and an aggressive approach from Cabell, it could be a really productive season in his draft-eligible sophomore year. </p>
<p id="Cs7VVS"></p>
https://www.tomahawknation.com/2020/1/26/21082818/19-days-till-fsu-baseball-elijah-cabell-bounce-back-sophomore-season-florida-state-university-nolesBrettNevitt2020-01-22T13:01:33-05:002020-01-22T13:01:33-05:0023 days till FSU baseball: Reese Albert looking for a healthy junior year
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/bPUs3ygiyJtvNkuBRUp2MEXSqhc=/0x0:2046x1364/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66147373/IMG_2604.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Courteney Korosec</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Albert returns as FSU’s leading returner in home runs</p> <p id="bokaG8">Reese Albert is the leader on the offensive side of the ball for FSU, plain and simple. Last year, Albert made 46 starts while missing 19 games due to a shoulder injury. When the outfielder played, FSU was 32-14 compared to a record of just 10-9 when he was sidelined. When Albert is healthy, the ‘Noles have a dangerous lineup that can strike from anywhere in the order. The junior will return to the lineup as FSU’s leading returner in home runs, as he hit nine homers last year to go with a .518 slugging percentage. Albert finished the season with a .283 average after a rough stretch in the College World Series. But throw away what you think of Albert from that CWS, he was playing with one shoulder.</p>
<p id="60pROV">Albert played a majority of last season with practically a dead right shoulder and would feel pain on basically every swing. After the season, the junior had a shoulder surgery that held him out of action in the fall. From all indications, Albert should be fully healthy and ready to go for the 2020 season. A healthy shoulder will get the lefty back to his normal swing and likely see his strikeout rates drop. Last season, Albert produced a .908 OPS and was 5th on the team with 35 RBI’s, despite missing 19 games. The Jupiter-native only stole two bags last year, but I’d expect that number to go up as he hits from the top of the order and FSU plays a more aggressive style of ball in 2020. </p>
<p id="jKvEuI">After playing RF for the majority of 2019, the junior will likely slide to CF in 2020 with the departure of JC Flowers. Since coming to Tallahassee, the outfielder has played all three outfield positions and shown the range to play all three effectively. Albert won’t glide around the outfield like Flowers did, there aren’t many that can, but he will be a reliable CF for the Seminoles. </p>
<p id="dyLkkv">The junior enters his draft-eligible season as the 72nd ranked college prospect by Perfect Game. If he can get healthy and have another productive season, I’d fully expect him to go within the top five rounds of the 2020 MLB draft. Hopefully for Albert and FSU, the shoulder can stay strong in 2020. If it does, FSU will have a lethal leadoff man that make pitchers work from pitch one. A healthy Reese Albert will make for a productive 2020 season for Florida State and maybe more moments like Baton Rouge. </p>
<div id="HfMgsX">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">23 days till <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FSU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FSU</a> baseball <a href="https://t.co/89BgjauwZ3">pic.twitter.com/89BgjauwZ3</a></p>— Brett (@brettpn) <a href="https://twitter.com/brettpn/status/1220027947836485633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="XpbxP5">
<p id="ABKkxa">After releasing their top 25 earlier this week, Baseball America dropped their breakdown of #12 FSU on Wednesday morning. </p>
<div id="akeDz4">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">It's the dawn of a new era for <a href="https://twitter.com/FSUBaseball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FSUBaseball</a>. <br><br>But one thing that hasn't changed?<br><br>The Seminoles should again be a College World Series contender. <a href="https://t.co/9hmzi0SoaZ">https://t.co/9hmzi0SoaZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/S5XiCLkTC4">pic.twitter.com/S5XiCLkTC4</a></p>— Baseball America (@BaseballAmerica) <a href="https://twitter.com/BaseballAmerica/status/1219988117668663296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="0OmteU">The honors keep coming for FSU’s ace as CJ Van Eyk was named one of the top five pitchers to watch in 2020 by D1Baseball.</p>
<div id="iSggWV">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">There are college baseball names and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MLBDraft?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MLBDraft</a> prospects you MUST know entering the 2020 campaign.<br><br>Here's the list with analysis:<br><br>>> <a href="https://t.co/dsPsy1vgvH">https://t.co/dsPsy1vgvH</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ovl2TmH7X0">pic.twitter.com/Ovl2TmH7X0</a></p>— D1Baseball (@d1baseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/d1baseball/status/1220015794253332481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="OeS1lG">FSU’s third-rated commit in the 2021 recruiting class, <a href="https://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=17912">Satchell Norman</a>, had himself quite the weekend at the PG East MLK tournament. Norman is currently rated the 79th best player in the class.</p>
<div id="o6DeK0">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FSU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FSU</a> commit Satchell Norman (2021 FL) had a big weekend. Strong arm from behind the dish, good rhythm & balance in the box, crushes a liner to pull here. Generates notable impact. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Noles?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Noles</a> <a href="https://t.co/WaRrDttRua">pic.twitter.com/WaRrDttRua</a></p>— Vinnie Cervino (@vcervinoPG) <a href="https://twitter.com/vcervinoPG/status/1220040528819113984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="hwK3jh"></p>
https://www.tomahawknation.com/2020/1/22/21077028/23-days-till-fsu-baseball-reese-albert-looking-for-a-healthy-junior-year-florida-state-universityBrettNevitt