LATEST PG SHOWCASE REPORT
2006 National Showcase
Curtis Casali is a 2007 right hand hitting catcher from New Canaan HS, residing in New Canaan, NJ. Casali has a long, strong, well-proportioned build on a plus 6'3" 208 lb. frame that is not only athletic, but also has room to fill out. Casali has the body and the look of the budding professional catcher that he is. He is one of the nation's top '07 high school catchers and performed well in Fayetteville. Casali was ranked #55 among PG National Top 100 position players but because of his position and his hitting/defensive abilities, he could rate even higher come next June. Casali is a good hitting prospect, regardless of the position plays. He would be valued if he were a corner outfielder or corner infielder. He makes a lot of barrel contact and has good timing with his swing. His has good hands and a quiet approach, keeping it fairly simple. His barrel can be long through the zone, which when he is really on with his timing makes him a threat to leave the yard on those days. Casali does have good present day power (particularly to the pull side) and should continue to develop even more as he gets older. Catchers that are capable of hitting in a run producing spot in the order are quite valuable commodities, and Casali is one such player. Behind the plate he flashes plus catch/throw skills and there is little doubt that he is going to be an above average collegiate or professional catch/throw prospect. His arm is strong and accurate. Even better is his exchance from glove to hand, which is a plus ability for Casali. His footwork is excellent and his hands are quick. What may be the most impressive thing about Casali as a thrower is that even with those plus attributes, he does not go to fast. His throwing motion is efficient and fluid. He ran 4.50 home/1st with a 7.44 60 yard time. Casali is one of the top tier D1 prospects and will also get upper round consideration next June, particularly if he shows his power stroke next spring.