Nobody knew the extent of what Jake Brentz’s arm could do … until the leftie pitched a 96 mph fastball last fall at the 2012 WWBA World Championship in front of hundreds of college and pro baseball scouts. Baseball greats can come from anywhere. They can be anyone, and Jake has the potential to be a great baseball player. He has the potential to “go all the way.” But where does that potential come from? It’s a gift you’re born with, but it has to be fostered.

The excitement surrounding Jake Brentz’s future is contagious every time he walks into practice at The Sandlot. When the Parkway South senior walked into The Sandlot training facility for the first time in the Fall of 2012, he was on the radar as a hitting prospect, but he wasn’t a pitcher. Sandlot owner Rick Strickland asked him if he had ever pitched before, and Jake said he hadn’t pitched very much because he had a wild pitch. Rick saw potential, though, and got him in the bullpen. Sandlot coaches slowly eased Brentz into his new role, and after 6 or 7 weeks, Brentz’s velocity started improving. After seeing what he could do, baseball scouts have been watching Brentz with eager attention and visiting his practices at the Sandlot.

When Jake threw that 96-mph fastball in front of the best college and pro baseball scouts in the business, it was the culmination of not only recognizing his potential but also maximizing his gifts. Talent – even 96 mph fastballs – has to be recognized and fostered. Jake Brentz trains with Sandlot pitching coach Brian DeLunas to refine his pitching mechanics and with Sandlot owner Rick Strickland to tighten up his hitting stroke.

The Sandlot provides private lessons, camps, classes and tournaments intended to foster each student’s potential. We are the premiere baseball training facility in the region, creating a superior environment to generate superior athletes. We are also passionate about connecting our players with the scouts who need to see them play. On January 29, The Sandlot is hosting its annual pro day, where scouts can show up to see our athletes at their best. For more information about The Sandlot baseball training facility, visit our website or “Like” us on Facebook.

Watch Rick Stickland talk to KSDK.com about Jake Brentz.