MLB : “Over the past few years, the mid-Atlantic states have produced some high quality high school bats that have gone in the first couple of rounds. In 2021, Jackson Merrill was a first-rounder from Maryland while James Triantos went in the second from Virginia. Last year, Bryce Eldridge went in the first round while Jonny Farmelo went No. 29 overall. This year, the top prep hitter from the region is Burkholder, a speedy outfielder who seemed to have an up arrow next to his name as the spring progressed.
Burkholder already looks like he belongs with a strong and athletic frame that is “what they look like.” And he has some tools to match. The right-handed hitter was one of the best performers at last summer’s East Coast Pro Showcase and has the chance to have real impact at the plate. He has plus raw power and can get to it in games at times, though he doesn’t always square the ball up, relying on strength at times more than finding the barrel. When he is on time, he can drive the ball.
The West Virginia recruit’s standout tool is his well-above-average speed. His 70-grade wheels help him on the basepaths and in center field, where he has every chance to stick, with an average arm. He missed a little time with a hamstring injury this spring, but when he’s healthy, he looks like he could be a plus defender up the middle. The speed is key -- if he slows down, that could make him more of a fourth outfielder type.”
Prospects Live : “Burkholder burst onto the scene late this summer, boasting a highly physical body with a pronounced lower half. He's an incredible runner, grading out as the fastest runner at PBR's 2024/2025 event with a 6.29 60 during athletic testing. His swing is well-connected with a lofted/uphill swing path that is meant for damage. The power potential is quite robust thanks to explosive bat speed and a heavy barrel through the zone. The plate discipline is solid, as well. He's got the tools to handle center field, though given his size, he may be a better fit for right field, where his strong arm plays well. He's a West Virginia commit.”
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