Al Leiter’s son Jack made his college debut on Tuesday for Vanderbilt, and he was extremely impressive.
Jack Leiter, who is a top prospect, pitched five no-hit innings against South Alabama. He struck out 12 batters, and only a walk in the fourth prevented him from pitching a perfect game. He struck out the side in the first, third and fifth.
Here’s a look at some of his stuff:
Jack Leiter coming out of the chute strong pic.twitter.com/RN5Xo0Gq3Z
— Teddy Cahill (@tedcahill) February 18, 2020
Jack Leiter…12th K in 5 IP…in his Freshman debut. pic.twitter.com/PcJ7EpDR78
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) February 18, 2020
Leiter was pulled after 80 pitches and though he was surprised to be done so quickly, he said he understood given that the conditions were cold and windy, and it was only his first start. The team won 3-0 to even their record at 2-2.
The freshman from New Jersey was selected in the 20th round by the Yankees last year. Those within the scouting community believe Leiter likely would have been a top-10 pick if he weren’t committed to attending Vanderbilt first.
The 2019 New Jersey Gatorade Player of the Year, Leiter isn’t currently in Vanderbilt’s weekend rotation, which includes aces Kumar Rocker, Mason Hickman, and Jake Eder, all of whom are also top prospects. If Leiter keeps it up, he’ll probably crack the rotation in some form, and likely work his way into top-5 draft pick status or higher.
Leiter’s father Al pitched 19 seasons in MLB and made two All-Star teams. Jack’s uncle Mark and cousin Mark Jr. also both pitched in MLB. You can say that pitching runs in the family.
