Rookie Review: '25 SS Tanner Cunningham (Pine-Richland)
May 25, 2023
As we make our way through the spring and into the summer months, our staff will be rolling out a series of in-depth pieces on uncommitted talent across the keystone state.
An upwards of 50 players joined on February 4 for the annual Pittsburgh Spikes scout day at Battleground Baseball Group, where newcomer '25 SS Tanner Cunningham impressed with plus barrel skills and efficient pound-for-pound juice.
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Tanner Cunningham SS / 2B / Pine Richland , PA / 2025Rankings StateRank: 41 / POS: 9
What We Liked: After a bursty 1.71 10YD split to start the day, Cunningham followed with one of the more noted rounds of BP. The RHH showed loose, bent elbows and a tight turn through the zone for some ringing gap-to-gap contact (90MPH AVG EV). Generated a mostly line-drive approach with ability to match plane and even drove a few swings past the 300FT mark. A T94.3MPH EV was good for top-5 overall, as was a 23MPH hand-speed that could steal the pitch out of the catcher's mitt if he wanted. Upside/athletic movements defensively, which should keep the MIF put long term. What to Improve: Though the frame suggests a home at 2B, there's a chance at SS in the future if he gains additional size and arm-strength. Still throws on the side of the ball occasionally (79MPH) with room to reach back further. Likewise, varied steepness from the box has effected carry off of the bat. Hitting for average already with the next step of how to include more power production. Spring Update: One of the tougher outs in the WPIAL with a .410 AVG, .519 OBP, 25 H, 21 R, 15 RBI, 4 2B, & 14 SB over 21 GP. Only made (3) errors all season across 51 TC while spinning three double plays. Received 2nd Team All-Section honors. Video: February 4, 2023. Pittsburgh Spikes Scout Day. |
UPCOMING EVENTS
| SHOWCASE | STATE | DATE | LOCATION |
| 2023 Summer Open: Northeast | PA | 06/05 | Volpe Field / Scranton, PA |
| 2023 Summer Open: Southeast | PA | 06/08 | Phillies Urban Youth Academy / Philadelphia, PA |
| 2023 JR PA State Games | PA | 06/20 | In the Net Sports Complex / Palmyra, PA |
| 2023 Top Prospect Games: East | PA | 07/11 | Cooper Park (Millersville University) |
| 2023 Top Prospect Games: West | PA | 07/12 | Seton Hill University |
| PBR Junior Future Games | NATIONAL | 07/25 | LakePoint |
| 2023 Summer Open: West | PA | 08/01 | Westminister College / New Wilmington, PA |