All week long here at 1045theteam.com, I've helped prep the public for the big Niskayuna-Shen baseball showdown that took place this afternoon.

It was the biggest game in Section II in recent memory due to the amount of talent on the field -- and the names in the stands. At least 25-30 scouts were reported to be there, including reps from the Yankees, Diamondbacks, Royals and Orioles.

Garrett Whitley bats vs. Ian Anderson (Brady Farkas).
Garrett Whitley bats vs. Ian Anderson (Brady Farkas).
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On the field for Niskayuna was CF Garrett Whitley. Whitley, already committed to Wake Forest, is thought to be a potential first round draft pick in this year's MLB draft. On the mound for Shen was junior Ian Anderson, a potential draft pick in next year's draft. He's already committed to reigning national champion Vanderbilit.

Shen won the game 9-1. Whitley went 0-2 with an HBP while Anderson went 6 innings, striking out 8, allowing 1 unearned run.

My thoughts and analysis:

For Whitley, you knew it was going to be a tough day. It was freezing outside, and while that's tough to throw in, it's extra tough to hit in. He went 0-2, but he showed some true "pro-style" qualities.

1. He had great bat speed. Anderson was pumping as high as 90 MPH, and Whitley pulled a hard grounder to 3rd to start the game.

2. Pitch recognition and plate approach: Whitely swung at the first-pitch fastball in both of his official at-bats. He was aggressive early in the count and went after the fastball, which is what pro hitters do. In the second at-bat, he was started with a curveball, and understood to take it.

3. Speed in CF: Whitley robbed Connor Douglas of extra bases. He showed the ability to go left, track the ball, and showed great speed to get to the ball.

Scouts and fans watch from behind home plate (Brady Farkas).
Scouts and fans watch from behind home plate (Brady Farkas).
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For Anderson:

1. It was incredibly impressive that he was able to hit 90 MPH in this weather. That's the highest reading I've heard of him ever hitting on the gun.

2. He worked the ball down all day. He got ahead in the count and pounded the strike zone. That' s exactly what you want out of an elite arm.

3. He wasn't phased by the scouts, or the attention on Whitley. What poise.

4. USA Baseball was there scouting him. I wouldn't be shocked if he's invited to their summer circuit.

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