Recruiting Metrics and Video for Hitters
Also known as: recruiting metrics for hitters, baseball recruiting metrics, baseball recruiting video, college baseball recruiting video, hitting recruiting video, showcase numbers for hitters, metrics college coaches want
The numbers most often measured for hitters are exit velocity, 60-yard dash time and throwing velocity from your position. Showcases such as Perfect Game time the 60 with lasers and radar every throw from the infield, outfield and catcher's spot. Coaches use those numbers alongside video and game performance.
Measurable numbers help a coach decide who to watch. Exit velocity shows strength and bat speed. The 60-yard dash shows running speed. Throwing velocity shows arm strength at your position, and catchers are timed on pop time.
Perfect Game showcases also run a short batting practice round for scouts and play full games. That lets scouts see how the numbers carry into real at-bats.
A recruiting video should be short and clear. Show your name, grad year and position first. Then show swings from the side and from behind, and fielding and throwing at your position. Compare your numbers only with others measured the same way.
Tips by skill level
Keep a simple profile with your measured numbers, where they were measured and a link to a short video.
Get measured at a trusted event. Numbers from a known showcase carry more weight than home readings.
Example
A junior attends a showcase and posts his exit velocity, 60 time and outfield throwing velocity. He sends a short video with game swings to college coaches. Two coaches ask to see him play.
Why it matters
Numbers and video get a hitter noticed. Knowing what is measured helps a player prepare and send the right information.
Common mistakes
- Sending a long video with no name or position
- Comparing exit velocities from different devices
- Focusing only on numbers and ignoring game performance
Frequently asked questions
What metrics do college coaches want for hitters?
Exit velocity, 60-yard dash time and throwing velocity from your position are the most common. Catchers are also timed on pop time.
What should a baseball recruiting video include?
Start with your name, grad year and position. Show swings from the side and behind, then fielding and throwing at your position. Keep it short.
Is exit velocity important for recruiting?
Yes, it is one of the main hitting numbers showcases measure. Coaches still want to see you hit in games.
Sources
Related terms
- Showcase EventAt a showcase event, players all do the same drills and tests for college recruiters or pro scouts. It is separate from any regular game.
- Exit Velocity by AgeThere is no official exit-velocity standard by age, and charts online disagree widely for any given age. Compare a reading only with ones taken under matching conditions: drill, device and bat type. As a top-level reference, MLB's Statcast counts a ball hit 95 mph or harder as hard-hit.
- Travel BallTravel ball is club youth baseball played outside local rec and school leagues. It usually means multi-city tournaments and higher-level, more selective play.
- Scouting Report (Player)A scouting report is a written evaluation of a player. It grades their tools, describes current skill and physical projection, and gives a future outlook.
- Pop Time (Catcher)Pop time is the time from a pitch hitting the catcher's mitt to the throw reaching the glove at second base. It measures a catcher's throw on a steal attempt.
Related guides & benchmarks
Work on the cause
Video shows how you move, not the ball itself. Film one swing to find the movement behind this result — free to start.
See a sample Baseball report first