Andrew,
If he's 1100 miles away, that's another fly in the ointment.
While a 14 lb-er may be a step in the right direction, will he want it? Egos for us old fogeys can be delicate. Has he indicated he wants to step down in weight?
Is the V2 a solid or the pearl?
The Igniter and the Messenger Ti are pearls, if the V2 is a pearl, he may need another, depending on their age and what he thinks of them.
I like ak57's idea of the Inferno, as well as a polished Nemesis or a Punisher, all relatively generic, fast revving balls for anyone, especially a low revver. If he faces mostly lighter oil, then the Punisher; otherwise, the Inferno. (Teach him how the Inferno does not act like a pearl resin ball, though.)