Position: LHP
Height/Weight: 6’3”/175 lbs
Bats/Throws: R/L
DOB: 1/22/1994
High School: Camarillo (Calif.)
College Commitment: UCLA
Since picking up pitching as a sophomore, Hunter Virant has continually asserted himself as one of the top prep left-handed pitching prospects in the 2012 draft class.
Possessing excellent athleticism and a 6’3” frame that suggests he has room to fill out, the southpaw’s velocity has steadily climbed this spring. He spots his 89-93 mph fastball with conviction on both sides of the plate, while his smooth delivery and clean arm action cater to his deception.
His mechanics also disguise his changeup, which appears to be a pitch that may be equally effective against both right- and left-handed hitters. He also has a slider but hasn’t decided whether it will be a finesse pitch dependent on location or a swing-and-miss offering thrown with velocity.
Given his lack of experience, he may ultimately honor his commitment to UCLA. However, his elite athleticism and early feel for pitching has drawn comparisons to Andrew Miller and may get him drafted higher than most anticipate. Either way, don’t expect to see Virant any earlier than late 2016 or early 2017.
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