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I got my first glimpse of 2016 OF/LHP Matthew Acosta on Saturday, October 12th as Ayala faced off against Mission Viejo in a fall ball game.
I had heard about Acosta from a few college coaches who believe he has a legitimate shot at being a two-way guy at the next level, provided he continues to build on his current skill set.
At the plate he showed a good foundation that will serve him well. Facing off against 2015 LHP Patrick Sandoval, the left-handed hitting Acosta had a 9 pitch at-bat that ended with a laser base hit into right center field. He followed that up with another base hit in which his pitch recognition and ability to fight off tough pitches were on display.
On the mound he showed well although he only threw fastballs and curveballs. Sitting 82-84 with his fastball there appears to be room for more in his 5'9" frame. The curveball was a wipeout pitch for him which he threw in any count and sat 71-73.
I asked a college coach about Acosta and below are his thoughts.
"I like him a lot," said the Big West coach. "He's a pretty fiery competitor and he has a lot of room for growth. He's only scratching the surface on the type of player he'll be when he graduates high school."