Middle Infielder

Tier 1 Middle Infielder:

Physical Measurables:

  • A Division I middle infield recruit will generally run between a 6.5 and a 6.8 60 yard dash. This time needs to be verified by a 3rd party for college coaches to truly believe it.
  • In terms of arm strength, Division I middle infield recruits will throw the ball across the diamond anywhere between 85 MPH and 95 MPH.

Stats: 

  • OB %: .500; Slugging: .600 (Minimum 2 AB’s per game)

Scouting Notes:

Division I middle infielders are evaluated first from a defensive standpoint, and then from an 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 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.

Tier 2 Middle Infielder

Physical Measurables:

  • Prototypical Division II MIFs stand anywhere between 5’8” and 6’2”
  • Weight is between 165 and 190 lbs.
  • 60 Yard Dash: 6.9 or below.
  • Infield Velocity: Low 80s and above from SS.

Stats: 

  • OB%: .550;
  • Slugging: .450 (Minimum 2 AB’s per game)

Scouting Notes:

Division II MIFs 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

Tier 3 Middle Infielder

Physical Measurables:

  • Height: 5’11”
  • Weight: 170 lbs.
  • 60 Yard Dash: 7.0 or below
  • Velocity from the INF: 78+ MPH from SS

Stats: 

  • OB%: .400
  • Slugging: .500

Scouting Notes:

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.

Tier 4 Middle Infielder

Physical Measurables:

  • Height: 5’10”
  • Weight: 165 lbs.
  • 60 Yard Dash: 7.1 or below
  • Velocity from the INF: Upper 70’s MPH from SS

Stats: 

  • OB %: .350
  • Slugging: .450

Scouting Notes:

A good shortstop is always in need for a college coach and this tier is no different. This should be the best athlete on the field, but these shortstops aren’t playing at higher levels because of a lack of speed and lateral quickness. They make the plays, but don’t have the best range. A batting average may be sacrificed for a great leader in the field.