2026 Prep Baseball All-American Game: Weekend Primer

Scouting Report
Stacking days and performances, any director or scout that was getting a first introduction to the 'Seward Show' did not leave the Team USA 18U Trials disappointed in July. Commanding the attention of the No. 1 prospect in the class, Seward hardly shied away from the spotlight and continued to display his five-tool status and collected a multitude of hits in game play including a loud home run from the right side. Having set the tools at peak status, the scouting of Seward has moved far beyond the raw data. He displayed a comfort in being heralded, but a killer instinct that allowed him to hover above the rest of the players in attendance, including many that will follow on this list as future first round picks. The most memorable moment of the event came in a left-handed at-bat against his current high school teammate, Jordan Ayala, who was pumping in fastballs at 95-97 mph with a vicious slider in the upper-80s. Seward worked the count full before nearly taking Ayala’s head off with a line-drive single. He then proceeded to straight steal home as it felt that the entire field, including the coaching staffs were left with gaping mouths as to the excitement that the SoCal native brings to the diamond. In short, Seward was not in attendance to compete with the best in the class, he was there to cement his alpha-status, and that is exactly what he did. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
We can go all the way back to 2023 when Butler earned an invite to the 14U Junior Future Games as a 13-year-old where he nearly led the squad in hits. We were always huge fans of the way Malachi played the game, with a calm, confident approach in the batter's box. Butler made stops at Top Prospect Games and our Preseason All-State events before earning a spot on Team Georgia at the 2025 Future Games. He would commit to Georgia Tech shortly after and he has now taken the country by storm as one of the nation's top prospects headed into the 2027 MLB Draft. And now, we can't wait to see him again down in Miami. - Hudson Graham, Georgia State Director

Scouting Report
The 5-foot-11, 175-pound, switch-hitting shortstop closed out the Team USA 18U Trials with a marquee final game that saw him collect both a double and triple in reaffirming a high-level hit-tool. Less impactful and physical, presently, than his shortstop peers, Houston’s bat-to-ball and patient, zone-tracking ability was on full display throughout the event, even if his physically-maturing frame was less equipped for the gauntlet of the North Carolina heat. This will not be an issue in coming years as he fills out, and his ability to impact the game on both sides was a pleasure to follow for the five days. Houston is a dynamic, sure-handed defender with adequate arm strength, and the intangibles only serve to elevate his high-level status in the class. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
The doubters are sure to come for Castillo being that he is less immediately appealing in uniform at a more compact 6-foot, 195-pounds, but if his performance at the trials is any indication of the next year, those doubters are set to promptly turn into his biggest fans. A high IQ player who comes equipped with a plethora of tools, Castillo’s biggest impact comes via the hit-tool as he nearly notched double-digits in that column while facing some of the top arms in the class at the USA 18U Trials. Even on days where he did not appear to be seeing the ball well down there, he still managed to battle deep in counts, covering the plate with ease, and stacking up multiple hits on Day Three. Getting on plane early from the right side his strong hands and forearms provide advanced bat speed, and the swing-decisions and zone discipline were evident with each long at-bat. Castillo drove the ball from gap-to-gap, and his two-strike approach stood out as the best of any player at the event. There was less defensive evaluations in Cary, but it should be noted that the Dallas native is an elite defender with a plus arm that also touched the mound in the low-90s with a sharp slider. A consummate winner who is equal parts “ballplayer” and “prospect," Castillo’s case for being a first-rounder got off to a great start this summer. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
At July's Team USA 18U Trials, it felt like Rincon was a loud home run away from the buzz overflowing into top-10 pick status as he racked up a multitude of hits while displaying a relaxed look from the left side. Patient at the plate, the 6-foot-3, 185-pounder has quickly added strength with more to come, and he exhibited a balanced look with a more direct path and strong bat-to-ball ability. Facing some tough arms, the Texan was on the barrel, and seemed comfortable with two strikes. He slowed things down defensively and played with pace while featuring above-average arm strength across. Less twitchy with the hands, the barrel remains in the zone for a long time, and should the power continue to trend up, Rincon has the frame and look of a shortstop version of Riley Greene (FL). - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
Looking to grab the spot of the top outfielder in the class, Wilson’s case was built on this bat-to-ball look in Cary, N.C., at the Team USA 18U Trials. There, the 6-foot, 190-pound toolshed boasted some of the louder max EVs and 90th% EVs, along with 6.40 speed. Though he did not deliver the “mega moment," he displayed a mature, professional approach including the ability to make mid-at-bat adjustments. Facing some wicked arms, the left-handed hitter nearly collected double-digit hits in four games, and displayed a willingness to shorten the swing while covering the plate. Batting practice allowed for a look at the potential plus power that he holds. Tight to the frame in the approach while featuring lag in the zone and thunder in the barrel, Wilson laid a sturdy foundation for a big summer in this look in which he did become the top-ranked outfielder in the country's senior class. He represented at the All-American Game last year and he'll be back again this weekend. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
The top right-hander in the class continued to ride the upward trend that began at the beginning of the spring for Jesuit. At 6-foot-5, 250 pounds, Mohammed carries a barrel-chested look with a low-pulse, commanding presence on the mound. Hardly in a rush, a longer arm stroke delivers to a near ¾ slot, and he comfortably worked 94-97 mph across his outing in Cary, N.C. this summer while hardly breaking a sweat. While there was less bite on the slider, 83-84, in this look, that mirrors many prior years’ looks at big-armed prospects and their secondary offerings in the same setting, and it is likely to regain its future-plus form in subsequent outings. In spite of the humidity restricting results on the slider, Mohammed’s plus-changeup (splitter maybe?) carried this look, and he utilized it against both left- and right-handed hitters with equal effect. As the right-hander continues to stack dominant performances in presenting himself as a strike-thrower, it will be the development of that slider that dictates how high the ceiling climbs. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  94-97 (T98🔥) mph

Scouting Report
Turner will be Nevada's first two-time Prep Baseball All-American as he makes his way back to Miami as part of the '27 squad. It has been a pretty incredible journey to follow along over the past four-plus years, beginning at a Rising Stars event in 2022 where he shined as only a seventh-grader, earning his spot to represent Team Nevada at the Junior Future Games. His game has only continued to trend each year since, holding down the top spot in the Nevada’s 2027 Class Rankings since our initial release in 2024. Now up to No. 9 overall in the national rankings, he has solidified himself as one of the premier prospects in the country with an elite hit tool and a 97 mph (and climbing) fastball, making him a legitimate two-way prospect at the next level, wherever that may be. We could not be more excited to have Turner representing our state at the highest level on the biggest stage yet again this weekend in Miami.

At the plate

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  93-95 (T95.2) mph · 2,432 rpm · 6.3 ft ext · 5.9 ft rel. height

SL: 78-82 mph (2,754 rpm) | CB: 67-72 mph | CH: 87-88 mph

FB   SL   CB   CH

Scouting Report
Bullying his way through hitters with a powerful, heavy 94-97 mph (2,600-plus rpm) fastball, Ferguson looked the part of a potential early Day One talent with impressive raw stuff. The square-shouldered, 6-foot-3, 210-pound right-hander features a short, power arm stroke and some herky-jerky action throughout the delivery, namely when driving down the mound, but he still managed to sync with ease while pounding the zone. His usual demon changeup was ripped at 86-88 mph with diving power/life as a swing-and-miss offering, and the slider ticked up at least a full grade since the spring, now showcasing plus potential at a firm 84-85. The uniqueness of the delivery combined with the power stuff presents a tough look for hitters, and he he collected a slew of whiffs in the zone in looking the part of an elite arm. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  94-95 (T96) mph · 2,422 rpm · 6.4 ft ext · 6.3 ft rel. height

SL: 79-81 mph (2,661 rpm)

FB   CT   SL   CB   CH

Scouting Report
Back at the Team USA 18U Trials, we got a quick look at Witcher who threw just 27 pitches in Cary, N.C., though he still flaunted an explosive fastball that's hard to forget, even in a small-sample size. The re-classed pitcher/catcher prospect offers big raw power at the plate at 6-foot-5, 210 pounds, but the stuff on the mound might just be too good to let him do anything but. He followed that performance up with an even livelier one at Area Codes where he was up to 97 mph on a high carry fastball that looks like it'd get big league outs today - and if the fastball didn't, the slider would. The breaking ball spins at 2,800-plus rpm at 82-83 mph with sharp, biting action, and he flashed a different breaker, a curve, at 77 that looked like it could be its own unique offspeed weapon too. The cherry on top here is the way Witcher moves and the compact and athletic arm stroke he wields. The South Carolina recruit feels capable of becoming the first prep righty selected in the '27 Draft if everything breaks right for the Bakersfield, Calif., native. - Prep Baseball Staff

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  95-97 (T98🔥) mph

Scouting Report
While Hawpe’s positional value is not going to capture much attention, the eye-opening hit/power potential stands out as elite. Even more so, the upward trend that those two tools have maintained over the past two years, lends well to the fact that there still might be even more on the way from the 6-foot-4, 210-pound, barrel-chested left-handed slugger. A unique setup sees and almost low, hitchy hands play get to a sturdy launch position before plus-hands and bat speed whip the barrel through the zone with intent to do damage. Hawpe has a freakish ability to cover the plate in an instant, and any testing of his ability to cover the inner-half, no matter the count, is likely to be met with an instinctual crack of the barrel. He drove the ball to all fields in game play, and was pleasantly at home against the highest velocities, both left and right-handed, at the event. In short, Hawpe is one of the highest ceiling hitters in the class, and the adjustments and advancements of the last year have taken his game to new heights. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
Sarmiento had a first team all-league season at Ayala High after going 9-1 with a 1.52 ERA over 50.2 innings pitched this past spring. He allowed just 11 earned runs and finished with 74 strikeouts for the Bulldogs last spring. A true two-way prospect for the Bulldogs, Sarmiento hit .400 in 88 plate appearances finishing with 1.031 OPS with more walks than strikeouts. He was committed to UC Santa Barbara so he was not a complete unknown, but in the eyes of MLB Scouts he wasn't a priority name on their 2027 lists. That all changed at the 2026 SoCal ProCase where Sarmiento was one of the top arms in attendance. Sarmiento features a true four pitch mix with a fastball, curveball, slider, and a Big League changeup. He runs the fastball up to 92 mph and moves it around all quadrants of the strike zone. His slider has flashed plus at times at 79-82 mph with it's sharp diving action. However, it's the changeup at 85-86 mph that is his biggest weapon. He'll throw it in any count to hitters on either side of the plate. The pitch is devastating to left handed hitters because it tunnels perfectly off his fastball then just dives to their back foot generally inducing whiffs. After the ProCase Sarmiento went on to have a huge summer on the national circuit leading to a decision to decommit from UC Santa Barbara and making him one of the most sought after pitchers in the 2027 class. His outstanding showing at the ProCase, along with the summer circuit, earned him an invitation to the 2026 Prep Baseball All-American Game. - Les Lukach, California Scouting Director

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  90-91 (T91.4) mph · 2,256 rpm · 6.7 ft ext · 6.2 ft rel. height

SL: 79-82 mph (2,447 rpm) | CH: 85-86 mph

FB   SL   CH

Scouting Report
Hadnot, as it stands, is the top-ranked uncommitted shortstop in the country and he still somehow separated himself from his unsigned peers this summer. The Aquinas senior has long been known for his elite glovework and bouncy actions and athleticism, and now his swing from both batter's boxes appears to be catching up to his acclaimed defense. He was all over the barrel this summer with added strength and size, all while maintaining his claim as one of the country's top defenders. Hadnot is a quintessential breakout player who takes advantage of the national environment at the All-American Game. - Prep Baseball Staff

Scouting Report
Nockley is set to be the most polarizing prospect in this class because of his smaller frame that goes against the fact that his left-handed stick plays like he is 6-foot-5 instead. Featuring a Kevin McGonigle-lite look at the Team USA 18U Trials in July, Nockley waterfalls a rocking hands load from the ear to a power position where quick hands and strong wrists provide an adjustable, impactful look with aggressive swings getting off in all counts. He saw the ball well in this look, and in spite of the smaller frame, he does not need much movement in the box to get off loud barrels. A natural hitter, he exhibited a fringe average defensive look in Cary, N.C., as a second baseman. Ultimately, Nockley will have to perform at all turns to amplify his draft status, but he has already built a strong portfolio on the circuit in previous years, and this look continued to show the look of a polished hitter. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
Mason was once a sophomore standout Huntington Beach's JV squad, one of the nation's powerhouse programs. His spring production and early summer performance at a California ID event, Mason earned an invite to Team SoCal at the 2025 Future Games soon after. It was at the Future Games that Mason burst on the scene nationally, running a 6.66 in the 60-yard dash while collecting seven hits over three games, including against two against a couple other Prep Baseball All-American Game participants. The breakout at last year's Future Games led to a commitment to Oklahoma State. It was more of the same last spring as Mason established himself as a key cog in the Oilers lineup and locked down the center field position. Mason grew up playing shorstop and will very likely get a shot to play there at the next level. The instincts, hands, speed, and internal clock are ideal for the position. Above all, the hit tool will carry Mason very far. It looks a bit unorthodox, but the results cannot be disputed. There's power in the bat, but it's the ability to work deep into counts and drive balls to all fields that led him to a team high .385 batting average and 1.027 OPS last spring. With the addition of 15 pounds since the end of spring, it's easy to envision the power numbers climbing next season, at just the right time. - Les Lukach, California Scouting Director

Scouting Report
If you are looking for the biggest winner from the event in the form of a lesser heralded prospect coming in, Grant was the hands down talk of the scouting community. The wiry-athletic 6-foot, 180-pound left-handed hitter showed off a loose-wristed stroke with a handsier setup that elicited some similarities to Jojo Parker in ‘25. On the barrel throughout batting practice and in game play, the barrel accuracy was enticing, and the only thing that was missing was the strength that will assuredly be added in the near future. Grant’s sure, soft hands provided for an ease of action at shortstop, and the arm played athletically with above average strength across. The foot speed is presently closer to average, but plays up a step with instincts. It was a strong showing for Grant as he kicked in the door to demand attention next to all the other talented shortstops in this class. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
Cueto is a lean athlete at 6-foot, 180 pounds, and he made huge gains within his toolset in 2026, lifting him into becoming one of the top prospects in Florida's senior class all of a sudden. He carries big left-handed bat speed offensively, combined with explosive twitch in the form of 21.8g of rotational acceleration captured at the 2025 Future Games while a member of Team Florida. In 2026, Cueto's taken it a step further by looking more and more like he's capable of producing game power in addition to the lockdown center field-type profile he previously established. Things are clicking at just the right time for the Miami recruit, who will be right at home this weekend at loanDepot Park. - Prep Baseball Staff

Scouting Report
Grasso is built at a strong 6-foot-5, 200 pounds, and he gets to 92-94 mph velocity comfortably, leaving a 3/4 slot that generates prominent, natural sink and run while spinning at nearly 2,400 rpm. It's inside his secondaries where Grass begins to separate himself from his peers, starting with a slider, 80-82, with biting sweep spinning at nearly 2,900 rpm. He kills spin on the change, 86-88, that tunnels well alongside the fastball and breaker, giving him three starter-like pitches in a build and a delivery that feels like it's checking practically every box. - Prep Baseball Staff

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  90-92 (T93) mph · 2,208 rpm · 5.5 ft ext · 5.7 ft rel. height

SL: 75-78 mph (2,727 rpm) | CB: 71-71 mph (2,454 rpm) | CH: 82-84 mph

FB   SNK    SL   CH

Scouting Report
Katke is making his way back to Miami for the 2026 Prep Baseball All-American Game, representing the state of Michigan again after doing so at last year's event as well. Broder was on the circuit once this summer spending much of his time outside the state playing and playing well. In addition to this latest All-American Game invite, Katke earned a roster spot on Team USA's 18U roster after showing out Cary, N.C., earlier this summer. Katke is looking for a big senior campaign in 2027 and will be a major piece to a Warriors club that is looking for a return trip to MSU in June. - Adam Goodwin, Michigan Scouting Director

Scouting Report
If you ever wanted to find Teagan Leach at August's East Coast Pro, all you had to do was look on the bases. With present above-average raw power the 6-foot-3, 220-pound Virginia Tech recruit has a chance to become a monster threat in the middle of the Hokies lineup for years to come. He totaled 3-for-5 at the ECP with his best bolt a 105 mph double to the opposite-field gap. Defensively, he didn’t look to be the most fluid defender at first base, but the ball found his mitt consistently. He also moves well for his size, clocking a 7.03 time in the 60 and a 4.42 down the line from the left side. - David Seifert, Director of College Scouting

Scouting Report
Roberts' rise to where he is now was one of the more fun stories of the 2025 summer in Illinois, really catapulting himself into the spotlight at the Future Games with one of the more electric showings from our state's loaded 2027 group. He continued his helium rise into our State Games a couple weeks later, earning 'MV-Pitcher' honors after dominating in his two innings with about half a dozen strikeouts, committing to Kentucky soon after. He has done nothing but continue to elevate himself since, boasting all sorts of upside to pair with dynamic shapes in his arsenal and a mid-90s fastball. The ceiling is immense and we only expect him to keep getting better, making him one of the top draft follows in the state for next spring. - Peter Hamot, Illinois & Wisconsin Asst. Scouting Director

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  91-94 (T95) mph · 2,370 rpm · 5.7 ft ext · 6.2 ft rel. height

SL: 80-82 mph (2,596 rpm) | CB: 73-75 mph (2,620 rpm) | CH: 83-85 mph

FB   SL   CB   CH

Scouting Report
The 6-foot-4, 240-pound right-hander battled against a string of future first-rounders at the Team USA Trials back in July, and while the results were not dominant, the ceiling and stuff have a chance to be. Featuring a power arm stroke while throwing over a semi-high front side, Cheatham used his sturdy frame well, especially in the lower-half. Driving strong late with a minor open landing leg he worked mostly 94-97 mph, touching 98 and 99 to the final two hitters of an inning he battled through well. He mixed in a firm cutter, 88-90, that was confidently thrown with short shape along with a tilted slider, 81-82. The ability to separate those three offerings was impressive as they did not blend in shape, and the tightness of the slider promises a future plus offering. The ball jumped out of the hand, and while he dealt with miscues behind him, it only provided ample viewing of a tough young arm whose bulldog frame matches his bulldog competitiveness. In short, Cheatham currently carries massive arm talent that puts him at the top end of the class, but the multiple shapes that he is likely to produce from it will have him closely followed in the lead-up to the '27 Draft. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  96-98 (T99.1🔥) mph · 2,477 rpm · 7 ft ext (⭐) · 6.5 ft rel. height

SL: 79-81 mph (2,339 rpm) | CH: 91-92 mph | CT: 94-95 mph

FB   SI   CT   SL   CB

Scouting Report
Boehm really extends down the mound well, giving an already impressive four-seam fastball additional life out of his hand, sitting in the low-90s and up to 94 mph in our looks. The extension and high release point play well together, generating top-of-the-zone whiffs regularly. The heater only benefits from a well-tunnelled curveball that has big depth to it, and he has feel for a third pitch, a changeup, too. He was electric back at LakePoint at the start of the summer for the NPI, where he K'd 13 batters over five frames in front of us. - Prep Baseball Staff

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  89-94 (T94) mph · 1,831 rpm · 7.2 ft ext (⭐) · 5.7 ft rel. height

CB: 73-75 mph (1,896 rpm) | CH: 76-79 mph (1,360 rpm)

FB   CB   CH

Scouting Report
To kick off the summer at June's NPI in Georgia, Scott built a strong case as the top '28 in the country with his performance at LakePoint. A true 6-foot-3, 215-pounds with a pristine frame that should carry considerable strength in coming years, the young Texan touched 98 mph in his start for Team Elite while belting a full collection of extra-base hits including a resounding opposite field grand slam. Country strong with a young look, the fastball was eye-openingly impressive, especially the ease of its gaudy radar reading. Working exclusively out of the stretch, the arm worked loose out of the glove with a controlled arm stroke; Scott gets down the mound with efficient, dynamic action before quickly working out front with impressive extension. The slider varied a bit in shape and speed at 80-86, flashing a short, tighter out-pitch, and promising significant jumps to come. Beyond the pure stuff on the mound, the quiet, assuring confidence that Scott displayed was impressive, and there is a general look of tunnel-vision with sights set on becoming the best. Still more, the right-handed hitter showcased some thunder in the barrel at the plate while playing a solid shortstop with some athletic actions. Reverse toe-tapping to a simple, sturdy, and athletic setup, there was advanced bat speed and strength through the zone as the barrel worked more direct to the ball while working long through the zone. His contributions to the 2028 squad in Miami will be his last as a member of that class, having re-classed into a '27 to start the academic year. Scott was already young for the '28 class, so he'll be extremely young by the time the '27 Draft rolls around. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

At the plate

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  95-97 (T98🔥) mph · 2,294 rpm · 6.2 ft ext · 5.8 ft rel. height

SL: 86-89 mph (2,354 rpm) | CB: 72-75 mph (2,407 rpm) | CH: 86-88 mph

FB   SL   CB   CH

Scouting Report
On a Georgia team filled with future high-level Division-I (and professional) players, everyone stopped and got quiet when Hemphill stepped into the box at the Future Games' Workout Day in July. The 6-foot-3, 215-pound, left-handed-hitting slugger did not disappoint, and put on a majestic showing that included exit velocities north of 108 mph and a max distance of 408 feet. Somewhat barrel-chested with lean, imposing strength throughout, he posted a 6.70 time in the 60-yard dash, and while the power bat more than qualifies for a corner profile, his athleticism warrants a close look in center field, as well. However, it is the bat that will drive close attention from the professional scouting community moving forward, and while the gaudy batting practice displays are tantalizing, it is his ability to track and swing decisions in game play that ultimately have him in the conversation as the best prospect in the entire class. Leg hanging with a near-drift look as the hands rock down and back to a power launch, Hemphill controls the relaxed forward move and was perpetually on-time against some premium arms, including late in counts with an advanced two strike approach. The performances of past have stacked up nicely for Hemphill, and this Future Games look may ultimately push him to the top of the class. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
Loose and easy with a dynamic delivery, Bell’s displayed the silkiest delivery at the event while showcasing an impressively high ceiling at this year's Future Games. The wiry-athletic, 6-foot-2 southpaw worked 89-92 with a four-seam fastball, countering in on right handers with a short, firmer cutter at 85-86 and getting big depth out of a curveball at 77-80 that has a floor of at least above average. Getting nearly 7-feet of extension while gliding down the mound, the arm worked whippy with exciting layback that promises jumps in the future. Between the cutter and breaking ball, there is clear aptitude for spin, and Bell appeared comfortable in changing shape and direction while attacking holes in hitters' swings. Younger for the class as a cold weather arm, there is reason to believe that the talented left-hander is merely scratching the surface and has impressive room to develop in coming years. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  89-92 (T92) mph · 2,309 rpm · 6.2 ft ext · 5.6 ft rel. height

SL: 80-82 mph | CB: 77-79 mph (2,355 rpm) | CH: 84-85 mph | SNK: 90-91 mph | CT: 84-85 mph

FB   SI   CT   SL   CB   CH

Scouting Report
Swafford heads to Miami as the No. 1-ranked player in the Prep Baseball California's 2028 class, and No. 4 nationally. With one of the purest hit tools not only in the state of California, but across the country, Swafford is polished in the box with a knack for finding his barrel to all fields while adding impact to the pull-side. While his hit tool is a standout one, don't discount his athleticism and actions at the shortstop position. Swafford entered high school as a known commodity and I had a unique connection to the family going back to my own days as a youth, but I got my first official live look at him on the high school scene during a winter scrimmage game where the advanced toolset at the plate was easily noticeable. He spent most of his freshmen campaign as a utility defender seeing action all over the diamond to ensure his bat was in the Sierra Canyon lineup on a daily basis. This past spring he encountered an injury that limited his throwing, but his bat still spent the spring in the top third of the Trailblazers lineup. Once Swafford returned to throwing full go it may be the improvements he has made as a defender that are the largest amongst all of his continued development as he looks the part of a long term defender at the spot with bounce, sure hands, solid internal clock, and the athleticism to make the wide variety of plays necessary for the spot. In addition to his defensive uptick the frame for Swafford has steadily continued to add strength from a lean wiry build as a freshman to an athletic frame with emerging strength that's steadily appearing. Between an advanced offensive skillset from the left sid and the real potential to stick at short, Swafford's pedigree of performance against elite competition made him an easy addition to the Prep Baseball All-American Game's 2028 roster. - Steven Hardesty, California Asst. Director

Scouting Report
Poplin set the bar not just for the event, but for all subsequent events to be held to, and delivered the most electric performance in the rich history of the Future Games. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound right-hander struck out four in two perfect innings of work - and he nearly shattered two bats to get the other two outs - cementing himself as the preeminent right-hander in the class. Working 94-96 mph with two shapes of fastballs that included an explosive 2,600 rpm four-seamer that exploded through the zone, the young right-hander displayed at least three plus offerings with a strong chance of a fourth. The curveball, a sharp, near 12/6 pitch thrown firmly, 82-83 (2,900 rpm) was dropped in at will and was equally as impressive as a wipeout slider that turned in at a tight 2,900 rpm as well, at 85-86, with shorter, vicious life. Still more, Poplin ripped off plus changeups, 89-90, with demon depth, life for whiffs. Yet, the most exciting about the Floridian is the elastic athleticism and dynamic movement patterns that he displays throughout the delivery. In closing, this moment while facing a lineup with a handful of top-50 players in the country was a historical one for the event, and it should only serve as a jumping off point for Poplin assert his dominance on the class en route to approaching a ceiling that is as high as any in recent memory. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  94-96 (T96.3) mph · 2,578 rpm · 6.4 ft ext · 5.3 ft rel. height

SL: 85-86 mph (2,850 rpm) | CB: 82-83 mph | CH: 89-90 mph

FB   SL   CB   CH

Scouting Report
Before officially taking over as Utah Scouting Director in June of 2025, I got a head start on evaluating talent by proactively attending the 5A/6A state playoffs that took place the week prior. My very first look at Welch came during a bracket play game, where I pulled out my camera to capture some video - only to watch him execute a textbook sac bunt. At the time, Jake was playing on a smaller frame of around 130 pounds and was not yet a full-time starter for Lehi, logging just 33 plate appearances on the season. Even in that limited role those few days gave me a clear, first-hand look at all-around knack for the game, showing me exactly what kind of player and teammate he was, along with the obvious athletic movement patterns and tools projecting rapid improvement. And what Welch has done since May of 2025 is nothing short of incredible. He has put on 30 pounds of physical strength while somehow getting even faster, sharper, and more fluid both at the plate and up the middle at shortstop. Throughout the summer, his natural instincts and playmaking ability began making other top shortstops look fairly average by comparison. Consistency is his calling card, alongside a legitimate tooled-up skill set, complemented by a explosive arm that makes 96 mph on the mound look completely effortless. Given his high-level athleticism and projectable ceiling, Jake has fully earned his place among the top national prospects in the 2028 class and his historic selection to the Prep Baseball All-American Game in Miami for the state of Utah. - Taylor Berg, Utah State Director

Scouting Report
In a class that is steadily revealing freakish athletes, Groeschel is at the head of that table after the Future Games. The wiry, 5-foot-10, 160-pounder is equal parts impact and acceleration and bolted balls up to 104.6 mph in batting practice after blazing a 6.50 time in the 60-yard dash earlier. A right-handed hitter, there is some rawness to his simple approach, but the hand trigger and electric bat speed give way to unassuming impactfulness with innate barrel accuracy that includes the ability to adjust and change planes. An impact defender with a quick first step in center field, there is five-tool potential, and Groeschel appeared to only be scratching the surface towards an impressively high ceiling while at LakePoint in July. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
My first look at Hall came during our Summer Top Prospect Games in July of 2025 at BYU, and he made an immediate impression as an elite physical athlete. At 6-foot-2, 200 pounds, his physicality stood out, but it was his explosive tools that set him apart. Following his freshman year, Hall was already running a 6.60 times in the 60 while running his fastball into the low 90s - a rare combination of dynamic speed and arm talent for a player his size and age. His raw tools were completely off the charts, and he carried an apparent confidence and natural presence that made it clear he knew he belonged on the biggest stages. Since that event, Jeremiah’s development has been substantial as he continues to steadily climb the rankings, landing at No. 10 overall in our latest national update, deservedly so. His physical metrics have reached an elite territory, featuring a power arm that has now touched 97 mph on the mound and prominent bat speed that has helped generate massive EVs. Possessing legitimate two-way ability at the highest level, he put together a dominant summer circuit playing alongside and competing against the very best prospects in the country. Hall and fellow Utah junior Jake Welch are helping give the state one of its most memorable grad classes in recent times. - Taylor Berg, Utah State Director

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  90-95 (T95) mph · 2,344 rpm · 6.4 ft ext · 5.5 ft rel. height

CB: 72-77 mph (2,156 rpm)

FB   CB   CH

Scouting Report
Bonner’s shorter stature may not immediately pass the eye test, but what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for in tools and production. The left-handed hitter exhibited a dynamic look at the NPI in June, getting off big swings early on in counts while showing a willingness to spread out late to let the hands (and his speed) work. Bouncy out of the box with quick burst, the future plus runner gets to full speed in an instant while still displaying an ease of operation. Relaxed in the box with innate tracking ability, the DFW native faced some elite arms throughout week and hardly flinched in battling through some professional at-bats (even on some tough sun fields). Sure to elicit some similarities to recent undersized standouts like Slade Caldwell (AR) and Slater de Brun (OR), Bonner is in contrast to those two in the sense that he is an infielder and can really pick it on the dirt. The spring season saw the Texas shortstop elevate his already high ceiling, and the performance at the NPI audibly announced his presence on the national scene. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
Johnson’s strong toolset and high motor are sure to excite recruiting coordinators, and his loud barrels permeated LakePoint throughout the Future Games. The 6-foot-1, 180-pound left-handed hitter posted a 6.70 time in the 60-yard dash before belting max EVs over 105 mph. Tightly-connected at the plate with a somewhat segmented look to a leg lift that shifts the weight and hands back, the barrel gets on plane early and maintains a flat path before delivering heaviness to the ball with triple digit exit velocities, also, being seen in game play. Still more, the glovework and strong arm were on display on the defensive side, and Johnson looked the part of a prospect who will have a chance to stick at shortstop. Crisp on both sides of the ball, Johnson cemented himself as a must-follow in the class. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
A threat to leave the yard with each swing, Motley secured his spot as one of the class’ most feared hitters with his showing at the Future Games. At 6-foot-5, 205 pounds, the left-handed-hitting slugger engulfed the box while showcasing tantalizing metrics on the Workout Day that included a max EV of 105.3 mph, all while putting on a light show with the power. Quietly separating the hands back, semi-deeper to a power-launch position, there was a bit more drift in the batting practice look, but gameplay saw even more fluid, controlled movements that allowed the plus bat speed and lag to impact the baseball to all fields. Motley still holds considerable room for strength additions, and while he is a clear power bat with a strong hit tool, there is enough athleticism to at least warrant some consideration in center field to start. In short, Motley checked the boxes and asserted himself as a premier prospect in the class and one who will be given plenty of professional attention moving forward. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
Some guys can flat-out hit, and Cabrera appears that dude in this class. An undeniable summer of barrels at LakePoint culminated in a Future Games look that continued the trend. The 6-foot, 205-pound left-handed hitter showed off an explosive array of tools including top-end bat (85.5 mph) and hand speed (23.9 mph) that were put to good use with elite bat-to-ball and impact capabilities. On a Florida squad that was littered with premium bats, Cabrera stole the show during workouts including bolting balls up to 106.5 mph with a max distance of 416 feet. Also a 6.70 runner whose 1.60 split at the 10-yard mark provided even greater context to his explosive upside, Cabrera stamped his status as an elite bat in the class, and one to be followed closely in coming years. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
Driver not only lived up to the hype surrounding his unicorn status coming out of Saratoga, but surpassed it in setting an already high ceiling even higher at the Future Games. The long-limbed, wiry-athletic 6-foot-5, 190-pound right-hander tossed in several warm up pitches before a dark cloud unleashed a ten minute downpour that sent the game into delay. It would have been warranted if Driver was disrupted and thrown off, but instead, the New Yorker strolled right back out to the mound and unleashed fury on an ill prepared lineup. Whippy his fastball to the bottom of the zone at a sizzlingly electric 91-94, the tall right-hander found a low slot and release height while still generating some carry while procuring middle/middle misses. It was the slider, however, that graduated him from any notion of “raw upside northeast arm” to “premier must-follow in the class”. A “now pitch” that tunneled the fastball at 79-82, it took true-slider action with short, late-breaking action and tilt. Still more, he countered to the arm side with a faded changeup in the low 80s that should play as above average in coming years. Beyond the pure stuff and loose, whippy arm action, Driver’s mound presence was both stoic and alluringly confident. He crowded hitters with the big stuff, and as he continues to build strength on the wiry frame there is a chance he makes an even bigger jump in coming years. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  92-95 (T96) mph · 2,343 rpm · 6.2 ft ext · 5.2 ft rel. height

SL: 78-82 mph (2,438 rpm) | CH: 81-88 mph | SNK: 88-90 mph 

FB   SNK    SL   CH

Scouting Report
Covington was a known commodity entering this year's Prep Baseball Future Games, but the difference between being a very good player and one who earns an invitation to the Prep Baseball All-American Game can come down to how a player performs on that national stage, surrounded by prospects held in similar regard. After performing well at the NPI to kick the summer off in June, Covington returned to LakePoint to represent Team North Carolina at the Future Games where he put on a show throughout his four days in Georgia. The swing and athleticism immediately stood out during the workout, and his performance across the three-game set helped separate him from an extremely talented field. An elite athlete, Covington posted a 6.52 laser-timed 60 while jumping an impressive 28.1 inches on the VALD jump mat. His arm strength was equally impressive, producing a 97 mph throw from the outfield with relative ease. That arm strength translated to the mound, where he worked at 93-95 mph with the fastball and paired it with a 76-79 mph slider that spun north of 2,400 rpm. Covington is scheduled to patrol the outfield in Miami at the Prep Baseball All-American Game, but his combination of athleticism, offensive upside and arm talent continues to create intrigue as a legitimate two-way prospect. - Brandon Hall, Mid-Atlantic Director

At the plate

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  92-94 (T95) mph · 2,166 rpm · 5.7 ft ext · 6 ft rel. height

SL: 76-79 mph (2,481 rpm) | CH: 83-84 mph

FB   SL   CB   CH

Scouting Report
Price’s dynamic two-way ability should make him a coveted piece of any recruiting class, and his ability to spin the baseball on the mound might ultimately carry Friday night upside. The 6-foot, 175-pound southpaw comes equipped with some natural, defined strength and a power arm stroke that delivered fastballs at 88-90 mph before ripping off 3,000-plus rpm breakers from a ¾ slot, 75-76, mostly with big 1/7 depth. He also displayed feel for killing spin on an advanced changeup, 74-75 (1,200 rpm). A bulldog on the mound, Price looks to apply pressure in the zone, and the breaking ball provides a plus-weapon that is sure to grow into multiple shapes in coming years. Walking away there was a strong similarity to what lefty Gage Jump (CA) exhibited at the same age, except that Price is further along at the same point. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  89-91 (T92) mph · 2,167 rpm · 5.6 ft ext · 5.8 ft rel. height

SL: 72-79 mph (2,966 rpm) | CB: 71-73 mph | CH: 76-79 mph

FB   SL   CB   CH

Scouting Report
Already a well-known name in the class, this look at Garcia saw him take a big step forward in pushing his way into the upper echelon in the class. Featuring tight-window quickness from the right side, there was some electricity to the hands throughout a loud batting practice session that included a new look at fast developing power including 103.5 max exit velocities and a max distance of 400 ft. A dynamic, wiry-athlete with a 5-foot-11, 160-pound frame that should add strength in the future, Garcia posted a 6.5 60-yard dash time while also showing off an above average arm at shortstop with a strong chance at sticking long term. The tools carried over into game play, and Garcia took some sensational at-bats that were equal parts adjustable and impactful. Clearly, the Future Games provided the biggest stage for Garcia to make a loud statement as a must-know name in the class moving forward. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
Marzullo impressed in the spring, and followed it up to close out the summer at the Future Games with screamingly loud performance for Team Florida. At 6-foot-1, 225 pounds, the right-handed-hitting backstop is an imposing presence in the box with a powerful swing to match. He was on the barrel throughout workouts with notable bat speed that helped produce exits of 103-plus mph, but it was the game at-bats that provided the loudest statements. Specifically, the final day, on which he unveiled his top-end power potential that included two home runs, one of which cleared the batter’s eye in center field. Still more, Marzullo possesses soft hands behind the dish with nimble agility that is surprising given the size. Add to that a plus arm (83 mph) from the crouch, and he has a chance to be the premier catching prospect in the '28 class. - Shooter Hunt, VP of Scouting

Scouting Report
After winning a state championship with the Lions this past spring while hitting in the middle of its lineup, Rhodes continued to showcase his abilities in front of our staff at Vanderbilt for the Prep Baseball Tennesee Top Prospect Games before doubling down at the Future Games later on in the summer. In between, the No. 2-ranked prospect in Tennessee's junior class starred on a couple occasions at LakePoint, namely at the 16U National Championships. Rhodes has an impressive 6-foot-3, 195-pound build with a rhythmic left-handed swing that is his best in-game trait. He showed well defensively in-game at the Future Games, and the athleticism is plenty enough to work out in the outfield should he need to move away from the position one day. Regardless, the bat will play. - Prep Baseball Staff

Scouting Report
Strong and long levers at 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, Williams really broke out late this summer for his work on the mound at Area Codes. There, he was up to 95 mph on a riding fastball that played live through the zone, earning some ugly whiffs and swings thanks in part to the way his hip turn hides the ball down the mound until the last moment of release. A sharp slider, 79-81 mph (2,700-plus rpm), separated his next-level stuff from an already prestigious prospect category, and that's why he'll be at the All-American Game this weekend. - Prep Baseball Staff

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  90-93 (T95) mph · 2,400 rpm

SL: 79-81 mph (2,700 rpm)

Scouting Report
Elmore has been on the Prep Baseball Alabama radar since June of 2023, and his steady progression over the last three-plus years has ultimately earned him an opportunity to represent the state on one of Prep Baseball's biggest stages this week in Miami. Elmore attended his first in-state event at the Birmingham Rising Stars ID in 2023, where he made an immediate impression with the bat. Even at a young age, the ability to hit stood out, providing an early glimpse of the offensive skill set that would become a constant throughout his development. He continued to look like one of Alabama's throughout the next couple years, and in 2025 he elevated himself to one of the best sluggers in the country at events like the Southeast Super Sophomore Games. The progression continued into 2026 where Elmore returned to the Yellowhammer State Games in June and again performed as one of the state's top players before representing Team Alabama at the Prep Baseball Future Games in July. Each stop provided another opportunity for Elmore to perform against high-level competition, and he continued to answer the challenge. While the bat has remained the calling card throughout his rise, Elmore's overall transformation has been equally impressive. He has completely changed his body while improving his athleticism, which has opened additional opportunities defensively and added another dimension to his overall profile. - David Sharp, Deep South Supervisor

Scouting Report
A former Junior Future Games standout back in 2024, Postma really took a big step forward at our Preseason All-State in the winter of 2025, showing off a loud arsenal with a fastball up to 89 mph at the time. He has continued to elevate himself as a prospect, equipped with a 6-foot-5 frame and one of the highest ceilings in the country. The fastball shape alone makes him a special talent, with a low release height and sizzle down in the zone in the low-90s. Do not be surprised to see his velocity continue to climb into some eye-opening numbers in the near future - maybe even as soon as this weekend in Miami. - Peter Hamot, Illinois & Wisconsin Asst. Scouting Director

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  90-92 (T92.4) mph · 2,288 rpm · 7.0 ft ext (⭐) · 4.8 ft rel. height

CB: 78-78 mph (2,309 rpm) | CH: 76-80 mph

FB   SL   CB   CH

Scouting Report
Heller is trending up just as he heads into this year's Prep Baseball All-American Game. The uncommitted 6-foot-1, 208-pound left-handed pitcher is the top arm in Iowa's junior class now. Ranked No. 82 nationally with an arrow-up yet, he is ready to show off his arsenal coming off a stand-out summer high school season where he pitched 32 innings with a .158 BAA, allowing only 18 hits along with 69 Ks. Heller's poise, explosiveness, and premium arm on the mound sets him apart as the lefty is now up to 92.1 mph in-event and he topped 93 during the summer season. The over-the-top action creates carry on the heater with slight run and useable offspeed in and around the zone where the changeup has late, plus action down arm-side. Iowa's latest Prep Baseball All-American Game has earned the chance to show his stuff on the national stage and prove why he is trending up at the right time. - Tyler Cropley, Iowa State Director

The Arsenal

FASTBALL:  91-92 (T92.1) mph · 2,088 rpm · 6.3 ft ext · 5.9 ft rel. height

SL: 80-83 mph (2,427 rpm) | CB: 79-81 mph | CH: 84-85 mph

FB   SL   CB   CH