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16-year-old Edwardsville slugger already hits like a pro

A lot of eyes are on Drake Westcott, and he just keeps putting on a show.

EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – Drake Westcott was just 15-years-old when he hit more home runs than most high schoolers do their entire careers. Now 16, he's proving that was just a warm-up.

“His approach at the plate is very advanced, he has plus power," said Tim Funkhouser, Edwardsville head baseball coach.

Westcott hit 12 bombs last year as a freshman, leading the area in the category. He also hit .435 with 11 doubles en route to the teams' Class 4A Illinois state runner-up finish.

“When the lights are on he’s a clutch performer and there hasn’t been a moment bigger than him," said Funkhouser.

Is it genetics? He is 6-foot-3-inches, 230 pounds. But he also puts in the work.

“Genetics obviously helps, the size and everything helps, but probably all the training and all the hours in the weight room and practicing hitting and ground balls," said Drake during a team practice this week.

Even during this spring's brutally cold and windy weather, Drake has still been crushing the baseball.

“He’s contributed with doubles and big clutch hits. Had a big walk off grand slam when we were down 3-nothing earlier in the season in a conference game," said Funkhouser.

And the scouts knew early-on of Drake's talent. Just three games into his freshman year he was offered a scholarship to play collegiately for Louisville.

He accepted.

Drake also credits his knowledge in the batter's box for his success.

“If I’m looking for a particular pitch, if I know a guy likes to work all the hitters away, I’m looking for a pitch away that I can drive that’s left over the plate. Not chase anything bad. And just be really selective," said Drake.

The teen has also participated in a national prep home run derby showcase at Marlins Park the last two years, raising thousands of dollars for charity.

“He raised over five thousand dollars one year and last year he raised over three thousand dollars too. So, he’s using his skills to help other people as well," said Funkhouser.

It's easy to see Drake has endless potential. For now, that potential is being used for one thing only.

“Play the best I can and help the team go as far as we can," said Drake. "Hopefully have another run like we did last year.”

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