High School: Casteel   
Coach: Matt Denny
AIA Classification: 5A
Conference: San Tan 

Casteel High School's baseball team enters the 2024 season as the undisputed favorite, holding the prestigious No. 1 ranking in the State. Under the guidance of Head Coach Matt Denny, the Colts are poised to build on their remarkable success in 2023, where they clinched the 5A State Title with a stellar 27-6 record and secured the top spot in the competitive San Tan conference with a 9-1 standing. The team boasts an impressive roster, with the majority of the 2023 lineup returning, making them a formidable force in the upcoming season.

‘24 Mason Russell (AZ)

FB: 88-91 (2500+ w/ cut at times)
CB: 76 (2280) gradual for K. Depth.
SL: 77

Composed mound presence. Quick arm. @ArizonaBaseball #MLBDraft24 || @PBRArizona pic.twitter.com/NJWRYNgId4

— Shooter Hunt (@ShooterHunt) June 27, 2023

Anchoring the pitching staff is left-handed ace Mason Russell, an Arizona commit and the No. 3 prospect in the 2024 class. Russell's repertoire includes an upper 80s to low 90s fastball and a formidable three-pitch mix, making him a daunting presence on the mound. The Colts' battery is further strengthened by the return of catcher Kade Thompson, an Arizona commit, ensuring a solid defensive foundation.

24’ C Kade Thompson
(Casteel)

Casteel offense came to play tonight @ArizonaBaseball commit puts this one out to left on a rope out to left. Casteel leads 9-0 after 3.#BESEEN ll @KadeThompson24 pic.twitter.com/qhu92Ay4nq

— Prep Baseball Arizona (@PBRArizona) May 5, 2023

The lineup showcases a wealth of offensive talent, featuring middle infielder Tyler Hatch, committed to BYU, and the powerful bat of first baseman and outfielder Landon Hairston, an Arizona State commit. The Colts' rotation is complemented by the presence of Washington State commit Gabe Schneider, a right-handed pitcher who adds depth to their pitching arsenal. Additionally, outfielder Ryan Harwood, the #1 prospect in the 2026 class, adds speed and skill to the outfield.

Back at it in game play, uncommitted ‘26 OF Ryan Harwood (AZ) gets off a couple good swings early before lacing this one for a 2K single.

Balanced approach w/ strength generated from ground up. @PBRArizona pic.twitter.com/3lAIbiciNy

— Shooter Hunt (@ShooterHunt) January 28, 2024

Casteel High School also boasts promising young talents, including catcher Logan Reber, middle infielder Baylor Denny, and middle infielder Ryne Barker. With such a dominant and experienced roster, the Colts are unquestionably the team to watch as they embark on the 2024 season, aiming to defend their top-ranking and make a lasting impact in Arizona high school baseball.

27’ MIF Baylor Denny
(Casteel)@PBR_Uncommitted exciting stuff from the freshman Driving one to CF with nothing to show for it. Above avg build with quick twitch at the place & mature presence. High follow as one of the top 27s in the class. @CasteelBaseball pic.twitter.com/cyzqJlfUS9

— Prep Baseball Arizona (@PBRArizona) September 16, 2023

UPCOMING EVENTS

SHOWCASE	STATE	DATE	LOCATION
Arizona Rising Stars ID	AZ	04/13	Grand Canyon University - Phoenix, AZ
Arizona Rising Stars ID - Session 2	AZ	04/27	Grand Canyon University - Phoenix, AZ

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