12/05/2010 - College PREP - Oakland, CA Ben is a two-way player as a catcher plus at 1B with a solid, thick frame that is well suited for his positions and shows projection as he continues to polish and firm up. Currently, he projects best at 1B for the next level. Foot speed is well below average as he needs to get on a speed / agility program to improve foot quickness for the next level. He is light on his feet and displays proper foot work around the bag. Feet are active in coming to get and playing through the ball with his body. Glove action is soft, clean, and sure as he makes the plays. Throws are accurate, flashing carry as he will benefit by getting on a long toss program to aid in further developing more arm strength with carry. Behind the plate, feet work direct in line with his target but needs work on his transfer / exchange. Pop times show a range of 2.37-2.52 with a means of 2.40. Receiving and blocking skills are average, needing further development to be quality tools at the next level. Offensively is where Rhoades shows best through an aggressive approach. Hands are quick, flashing bat speed to and through the baseball. He shows a feel for the barrel with baseball jumping off his bat when centered. Power is a plus as he utilizes his lower half well through the swing. Swing path is long with power showing best to the pull side. Ben has a lot of potential and will catch the eyes of the collegiate coaches as he continues to improve.