July 11, 2019
Photo credit: Radford Athletics
Prospect Spencer Horwitz is enjoying his first taste of professional baseball with the Bluefield Blue Jays. Horwitz, who was drafted in the 24th round out of Radford University has found the transition from Radford to Bluefield to be an easy one so far.
“Bluefield has been great so far,” said Horwitz. “Bluefield is only 45 minutes from Radford. The guys here have been very welcoming and awesome teammates. It almost feels like home.”
But it’s more than the close proximity that has made Horwitz exciting to watch in Bluefield – it’s his great numbers at the plate and in the field.
Currently slashing a .352/.413/.521 line with a .934 OPS in 71 at-bats; has been a great place to start in pro ball.
His great numbers at the plate comes from his aggressive plate approach, and his ability to recognize pitches that he can drive.
“My plate approach is developing well,” explained Horwitz. “I’m doing the best I can to be aggressive at pitches I can drive. The coaching staff here has been very helpful at being positive and giving me constructive feedback at what I need to get better at moving forward.”
But Horwitz is also finding success in the field. Currently splitting his time between first base and left field has worked out well for the prospect.
Logging 51 2/3 innings in left, and another 51 innings at first has been great for Horwitz who hasn’t committed an error at either position in 2019.
Drafted as a first baseman, Horwitz is working hard on his flexibility and footwork with Bluefield Manager Luis Hurtado.
“Defensively at first we are working hard on my flexibility and footwork,” said Horwitz. “Coach Hurtado has made this a priority for me, and constantly works with me. I have never felt more comfortable on the defensive side.”
Still adjusting to playing in the outfield, Horwitz admits that his range is getting better with more reps, batting practice, and increased communication with his teammates.
“My range in the outfield is improving,” explained Horwitz. “Getting more reps out there and in batting practice has been very helpful for me. My teammates have also been helping me a lot with routes and communication out there.”
Be sure to follow Spencer Horwitz this season in Bluefield, and for years to come, as he continues to succeed in both phases of the game.