How to Read a Scouting Report Without Falling for Clichés

A scouting cliché is not simply a familiar phrase. It is a conclusion whose supporting evidence has disappeared. “Productive,” “athletic” and “experienced” can all be useful descriptions, provided the report identifies what was produced, what was tested and what the experience involved. The problem begins when an adjective is asked to do the work of an argument.

There is no verified basis here for saying that a particular percentage of scouting language is filler, or that nearly every prospect needs to gain strength. Those numbers would imitate the false precision this guide is meant to expose. Instead, use five concrete checks.