LATEST PG SHOWCASE REPORT
2004 World Showcase
Van Kirk was one of the most impressive hitters at the Showcase and really helped himself with the pro scouts and in the Perfect Game rankings. His batting practice was a clinic, as he laced rocket after rocket off and over the left field fence. Van Kirk has an open stance with a nice big load and a full aggressive swing that generates excellent bat speed. More impressively, Van Kirk took the same swing and approach into the games and continued to crush the ball. Third basemen have to be on their toes with Van Kirk at the plate. His line drive pull approach is similar to a young Craig Biggio’s. In fact, Van Kirk’s catching is similar to Biggio’s too. His arm strength is fringy big league average but he throws accurately and is an intense competitor. While Van Kirk is a strong runner, especially for a catcher, at 6.96, the Biggio comparison ends there, as Brian is 6'1/200. His bat speed is right up there with anyone in the country. He has committed to Florida Atlantic.