Quote:UNDER-THE-RADAR RECRUITING CLASSES

Western Kentucky

After a last-place finish in Conference USA this spring, Western Kentucky brought in a large crop of junior college transfers who should be able to help spur a quick turnaround. Lefthander Troy Newell was drafted this year in the 33rd round by the Rangers and provides plenty of upside for the Hilltoppers. He was sidelined for the 2016 season, but got stronger as his redshirt-sophomore season went on, running his fastball up to 92 mph to go with a good breaking ball. Righthander Malcolm Grady also offers solid upside if he can get a bit more consistent. At his best, his fastball sits around 90 mph and he mixes in a hard slider. Outfielders Dillon Nelson and Jacob Rhinesmith are coming off strong seasons at Indian Hills (Iowa) JC and have similar skill sets. Rhinesmith is toolsier, while Nelson has more polish, but both have intriguing power-speed combinations and figure to hit in the middle of the order. Catcher Colin Butkiewicz has good catch-and-throw skills, and should solidify the Hilltoppers defense behind the plate. Righthander Maddex Richardson stands out among the freshman class. He is projectable and his fastball-slider combination gives him a chance to immediately work out of the bullpen as he further develops.


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