10/25/2024 - All-Ripken Games - Broussard, LA Colton's performance as a member of Team United at the All-Ripken games in Louisiana highlighted his strengths and areas for continued growth, showcasing his potential both defensively and offensively. Defensively, Colton shows good fundamentals with a prep step that helps him establish rhythm and timing as a fielder. This is an important part of creating smooth, efficient movements and setting himself up to make clean plays. His ability to move with strength toward the baseball and follow through with an accurate throw to his target shows that he has a solid foundation. To take his defense to the next level, continuing to work on his footwork, especially his agility and lateral movements, will increase his range and allow him to cover more ground. Improving his first step quickness and lateral quickness will help him get to more balls, especially in challenging defensive situations. Offensively, Colton's stride steps into a closed stance, which can help with timing and balance when he's approaching the pitch. This is an effective technique for many hitters, as it allows them to focus on tracking the ball and finding their timing. However, at times, Colton can have a longer swing that causes him to work around the baseball instead of staying inside it. Working on drills to stay inside the ball and shorten his swing path will help him improve his bat speed and make his contact more consistent. By keeping the bat path more direct to the ball, he will increase his overall effectiveness at the plate. Finally, Colton's ability to drive the ball to the pull side-particularly to left field-shows that he has the potential for extra-base power. This is an exciting part of his offensive game, as the ability to drive the ball with authority to the pull side can make him a more dangerous hitter in game situations. As he works on refining his swing mechanics and adding strength, he should be able to increase his power production. Overall, Colton's athleticism and work ethic provide a solid foundation, and with further development in his defense (especially footwork) and offensive swing (staying inside the ball), he has the potential to become an even more complete player. His ability to drive the ball to the pull side and his defensive instincts suggest that he has a bright future as he continues to refine his skills.