2025 MLB Draft Top 75 Collegiate Prospects: Conference Breakdowns (SEC - Part 2)

We recently released the top SEC college prospects within our Top 75 and throughout the fall we have been bringing you the top prospects within each conference. For this edition, we continue to dive into some top prospects with part two of our SEC breakdown.

35 players from 11 different schools hail from the nation’s premier college baseball conference with our Top 75 prospects list. Defending national champions Tennessee lead the way with six players while Arkansas is just behind the Vols with five. LSU and Texas A&M each had four. 

Full Top 75: https://www.prospectslive.com/prospects-live/2024/9/21/2025-mlb-draft-top-75-collegiate-prospects

HITTERS

C Easton Carmichael - Oklahoma

Prospects Live Ranking: #43

Easton Carmichael has been a mainstay behind the dish for the Sooners since he arrived on campus as a freshman in 2023, appearing in 112 games over two seasons. The talented backstop enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2024, slashing .366/.406/.563 with an impressive 31 extra base hits as Oklahoma earned an NCAA Regional hosting bid. The power seems to have improved over the last year, but Carmichael appears to be more of a gap-to-gap hitter than home run slugger. His 10 doubles in 127 at-bats up in the Cape this past summer was good for second in the league as his contact rate and gap power continued to be on display even with wood bats. Despite the contact rate, he’s an aggressive hitter that’s seen his chase rate rise over the last year. Defensively, he needs to improve his arm strength behind the plate if he hopes to remain a catcher at the next level.   

Returning All-American, Easton Carmichael 🫡@3aston_11 // #CHAOUS pic.twitter.com/UvgkW7fdh5

— Oklahoma Baseball (@OU_Baseball) June 14, 2024

2B/SS Jayden Davis - Vanderbilt

Prospects Live Ranking: #48

A former freshman All-American at Samford, Jayden Davis struggled with an injury throughout 2024 but still impressed over 46 games for the Commodores during his sophomore campaign as he hit .315 with 15 extra-base hits. Despite the drop in power numbers from 2023, Davis posted an 82% contact rate at Vanderbilt and features an above-average hit tool. His high ground ball rate both in the SEC and up in the Cape indicates that he’s unlikely to produce much more in terms of power, but if he can make an adjustment that results in lifting the ball more, we could see his draft stock rise. He displayed prowess for extra-base hits on the Cape this summer, mashing eight doubles and two home runs in just 125 at-bats for Chatham. He appeared to be a bit more aggressive as he struck out 25 times over the summer vs just 21 times at Vanderbilt last spring. Defensively, Davis does not project as a shortstop at the next level, but more as an average second base prospect with decent range.

C Lucas Steele - Auburn

Prospects Live Ranking: #49

Like Jayden Davis, Lucas Steele is another former All-American freshman from Samford who transferred into the SEC. Playing primarily as an outfielder during his freshman season, the Hoover, Alabama native hit .315 with 15 doubles and 16 home runs en route to winning the 2023 SoCon Freshman of the Year award. His transition to catcher as a sophomore may have led to a regression in his offensive numbers, but the bat also suffered from some significant bad BABIP luck and slashed just .245/.364/.520 in 2024. Expect Steele to have a bounce-back season offensively in 2025 as he transfers into the SEC. The switch-hitting backstop features explosive hips and good bat speed that should play well in his new conference. Defensively, Steele will compete for playing time behind the plate with fellow catcher Ike Irish, though both are expected to be in the lineup every day as valuable hitting prospects. Steele has seen a little bit of time in the outfield this fall, though he’s been primarily employed at catcher and first base.       

2B/SS Blake Cyr - Florida

Prospects Live Ranking: #61

Middle infielder Blake Cyr arrives in Gainesville as a transfer following an injury-plagued 2024 in which he only played 25 games for the Miami Hurricanes. As a true freshman in 2023, he hit .305 with 17 home runs and 63 RBIs in 60 games as Miami hosted an NCAA Regional. The highly touted second baseman appeared poised to stamp his name as a household draft prospect in 2024 when various injuries ended his season in early April. He still managed to slash .284/.397/.537 in 95 at-bats. Cyr earned ACC Player of the Week honors in early March following an 8-16 stretch that included 3 home runs and 11 RBIs highlighted by a go-ahead grand slam against Virginia that capped off a nine-run comeback for the Canes. At 5 '11, the smaller-framed slugger features impressive pull-side power and elite bat speed. Defensively, he doesn’t have physicality or the arm strength to play shortstop at the next level, but he’s got a solid first step and displays good range to play second. With Cade Kurland deployed at second base for the Gators, it’ll be interesting to see where Florida coach Kevin O’Sullivan decides to play Cyr.  

Your future ACC Freshman of the Year Blake Cyr with a MOONSHOT. 🔥👀

Canes blowing out Florida. pic.twitter.com/MBENNaokYT

— 11Point7 College Baseball (@11point7) March 5, 2023

2B Cade Kurland - Florida

Prospects Live Ranking: #64

Speaking of second base for the Florida Gators, Cade Kurland checks in as the last SEC position player on our Top 75. Another former Freshman All-American, Kurland saw his offensive numbers regress as a sophomore following his fantastic 2023 campaign. In 62 games in 2024, Kurland slashed .245/.457/.346 with 22 extra-base hits while striking out 73 times. His aggressive approach seems to have toned down in the Cape this summer, as he struck out just 20 times while reaching base on balls 15 times. He’ll need to continue to reign in that aggression and cut down on the chase rate to climb up the rankings. Despite the regression in 2024, his impressive power to all fields remained as he slugged 14 home runs while displaying quick hands and elite bat speed. Defensively, he’ll likely remain at 2B in 2025, even with the addition of Blake Cyr and projects to stay at the keystone at the next level.   

PITCHERS

RHP Chase Shores - LSU

Prospects Live Ranking: #41

Chase Shores was one of the most highly-touted prospects to reach campus in 2023, and he looked the part early as a freshman in Baton Rouge. The 6’8” righty appeared in just seven games for the Tigers during their National Championship season before being injured and required Tommy John surgery, impressing with a 1.96 ERA with 15 strikeouts in 18.1 innings pitched. Shores missed all of 2024 and hasn’t thrown in a live game since his injury, but he features all of the tools and physical attributes to become a star at the next level. His fastball routinely hit triple digits and even reached 102 MPH at times. As a freshman, he had some command issues with his pitches but had the least problems with the fastball. The Texas native employs a high 80s changeup and a low 80s breaking ball, but neither were particularly sharp during his freshman campaign. If he gets the chance to start and has a healthy 2025, Chase Shores could rocket up the rankings and into the first round with improved command and secondary pitches.

LHP Shane Sdao - Texas A&M

Prospects Live Ranking: #42

Shane Sdao underwent elbow surgery this past September and will miss the entire 2025 season, so his draft stock may plummet a bit. The 6 '2 lefty enjoyed a breakout campaign for Texas A&M in 2024, going 5-1 with a 2.96 ERA over 48.2 innings pitched while striking out 55 and only walking 9. Sdao features a low 90s fastball that is capable of reaching the mid-90s while a low 80s slider keeps hitters off balance and generates a ton of swing and miss. The Texas native also works in a good mid-80s changeup that he commands well. With three good pitches in his repertoire and his projectable attributes, a number of MLB organizations should be eager to draft him. 

LHP Cade Fisher - Auburn

Prospects Live Ranking: #44

After two up-and-down seasons at Florida, Cade Fisher arrives at Auburn with heightened expectations. After going 6-0 with a 3.10 ERA in 49.1 innings as a freshman in Gainesville, Fisher saw his numbers plummet as a sophomore, going 4-3 with a 7.13 ERA in 59.1 innings. He struggled with command and control and an inconsistent release height that must be addressed to succeed in 2025. He threw 5.2 innings for the Cotuit Kettleers on the Cape this past summer, and only gave up one earned run while striking out six. The low-slot southpaw features a low 90s fastball with slight carry and a devastating low-80s sweeping slider that has the potential to be his best pitch. He also has a changeup that he hides well and should see his draft stock rise with a bounceback season at Auburn in 2025.  

RHP Nate Snead - Tennessee

Prospects Live Ranking: #45

Nate Snead was a key piece of the Tennessee bullpen in 2024, going 10-2 with a 3.11 ERA in 75.1 innings pitched while striking out 61 hitters en route to the Vols’ National Championship win. He displayed a bit more swing-and-miss as a freshman at Wichita State in 2023 when he struck out 53 batters over 42.2 innings pitched but otherwise saw no regression from the jump in competition after transferring into the SEC. The Wisconsin native features a mid-90s fastball that reaches into the triple digits on shorter outings. He also employs a low 90s cutter and mid-80s breaking ball that needs some improvement to be more consistent. He supposedly has a changeup as well, though it's rarely utilized. Snead will likely be a starter for the defending champs in 2025, so he can improve his draft stock with improved command and consistency in his secondary pitches.   

LHP Zach Root - Arkansas

Prospects Live Ranking: #46

Zach Root enjoyed a breakout campaign as a sophomore for the ECU Pirates in 2024, teaming up with Trey Yesavage to create a lethal 1-2 punch atop Coach Cliff Godwin’s weekend rotation. In 11 starts last season for ECU, Root went 5-2 with a 3.82 ERA with 69 strikeouts over 63.2 innings pitched. He’ll make the jump in competition to the SEC, where he’ll join an Arkansas program known for developing top-class pitching. The stocky southpaw has a bit of a funky delivery, but has elite off-speed stuff. His fastball sits in the low 90s and can get up to 97, but the changeup is elite with good command. He also has a mid-80s cutter/slider combo and an upper 70s curveball. If Arkansas can continue to help Root develop those potential plus secondaries and improve his command, Root could find himself flirting with the first round next July. 

LHP Liam Doyle - Tennessee

Prospects Live Ranking: #50

Much like teammate Andrew Fischer, Liam Doyle spent one year in Oxford playing for Ole Miss before transferring to Tennessee. As a sophomore, he didn’t post the best numbers as he went 3-4 with a 5.73 ERA over 14 appearances, but he did strike out 84 hitters over 55 innings pitched. The New Hampshire native features an electric fastball that sits in the low-90s, but frequently touches 96-97 MPH with a lot of armside tail and vertical carry. He commands the heater well and generates a ton of whiffs with it. He needs to improve his secondaries, but the potential is there as he employs a low-80s sweeper and a mid-80s cutter that pairs well with the elite fastball. A fourth pitch, an upper-70s splitter, is developing and adds another dangerous weapon to Doyle’s arsenal. Improvement on those secondaries and a big season in Knoxville for the Volunteers should see Doyle shoot up draft boards ahead of July.

RHP Gage Wood - Arkansas

Prospects Live Ranking: #51

Gage Wood has yet to have standout numbers in Arkansas. However, he’s been a pretty reliable reliever over his first two seasons in Fayetteville, going 5-2 with a 4.61 ERA over 70.1 innings pitched. His command showed massive improvement between his freshman and sophomore years, reflected by the 56/8 strikeouts-to-walks ratio in 2024. He may get a chance to start at Arkansas in 2025 and his standout performance up in the Cape indicates he could be in for a breakout junior season. In five of his six outings for Falmouth this summer, Wood threw over 50 pitches and dominated with his fastball/slider combination. He throws his fastball almost 70% of the time. It sits in the mid-90s and generates a lot of swing and misses. He often complements the heater with a mid-80s slider and also boasts a splitter and a changeup. Gage Wood could fly up the draft rankings with command of the secondary pitches and consistency as a starter.

Gage Wood has begun pic.twitter.com/VDGQ2mAVzC

— Arkansas Baseball (@RazorbackBSB) April 16, 2023

RHP Christian Foutch - Arkansas

Prospects Live Ranking: #54

Christian Foutch is another Arkansas relief arm who enjoyed a breakout season as a sophomore in 2024. The Colorado native went 1-0 with a 0.81 ERA over 22.1 innings pitched while striking out twenty batters and only walking seven. He’s appeared in 34 games for the Razorbacks over two seasons but has yet to earn a start. He’s a 6’3 right-handed pitcher with a great frame and delivery, and he should see his draft stock improve if he gets a starting role. He displays a smooth delivery and hides the ball well. His arsenal features an upper-90s fastball with sinking action that can sometimes reach triple digits. While he’s primarily a fastball pitcher, Foutch mixes in a slider and splitter to complement the heater, but the command of those pitches is still being developed. Even without a starting role in 2025, the development of those secondary pitches could see Foutch rising into the late first/early second-round area.

RHP Anthony Eyanson - LSU

Prospects Live Ranking: #56

Anthony Eyanson, a transfer from UC-San Diego, is one of the biggest transfer names making noise this fall as he settles into his surroundings in Baton Rouge at LSU. Eyanson enjoyed a breakout sophomore campaign in the Big West, going 6-2 with a 3.07 ERA over 82 innings pitched for the Tritons while striking out 85 batters. Most impressive is that he held opposing hitters to just a .190 batting average over his 14 appearances on the mound. The California native’s arsenal features a low-90s fastball that can reach 97 MPH, but the breaking balls are his bread-and-butter. He commands a low-80s slider with bite and a mid-70s curveball well. Reports indicate he’s been very impressive during fall ball with LSU and should be in line for a rotation spot. If he continues his success against top competition in the SEC and adds velocity to the slider, Eyanson’s stock will only rise.

UC San Diego RHP Anthony Eyanson has entered the transfer portal, per source.

The 6’2 righty pitched last week at Collegiate Team USA Trials and is 2025 draft eligible with top three round buzz.

4-seam fastball 95-97, slider 83, curveball 77-79 pic.twitter.com/y3MwsNPR7d

— Kiley McDaniel (@kileymcd) July 2, 2024

LHP Myles Patton - Texas A&M

Prospects Live Ranking: #57

Like Eyanson, Myles Patton is another California arm who has found his way to the SEC after transferring to Texas A&M this past summer. His season ended in late April due to injury, but the southpaw was enjoying a fantastic season for Long Beach State before he went down. In 66.1 innings pitched, Patton went 4-3 with a 3.26 ERA while striking out 85 batters. He pitched into the 6th inning or later in 9 of 11 starts and amassed double-digit strikeout totals three times. He arrives in College Station with two years of starting experience and should slot into the Aggies’ weekend rotation. He boasts an effective fastball/slider combination that misses a lot of bats, even though his average fastball velocity hovers just on the wrong side of 90 MPH. Patton also features a changeup and curveball, but both pitches must be developed further to be as effective.    

LHP Landon Beidelschies - Arkansas

Prospects Live Ranking: #60

After an impressive freshman season as a reliever at Ohio State, Landon Beidelschies excelled for the Buckeyes in a starting role in 2024. In 15 starts on the mound, the lefty went 6-7 with a 4.15 ERA over 84.2 innings pitched while striking out 91 hitters. Beidelschies heavily relies on his fastball/slider combination, throwing them almost 90% of the time. The fastball sits in the low-to-mid 90s and has occasionally reached upwards of 98 MPH. The mid-80s slider is firm with good bite. Both pitches generate a ton of whiffs. He also has a mid-80s change-up that’s rarely utilized. He’ll need to develop that third pitch and improve overall command to improve his draft stock. A successful year transferring into the SEC will also help, however. 

LHP Ryan Prager - Texas A&M

Prospects Live Ranking: #62

Ryan Prager is the third Aggie arm in our rankings, but the only one that was drafted in 2024. After a monster season leading the Aggies pitching staff as they played for a National Championship, Prager was drafted in the third round of the 2024 MLB Draft for the Los Angeles Angels. The lefty ace went 9-1 with a 2.95 ERA over 97.2 innings pitched while striking out 124 and only walking 20 batters. Prager’s fastball isn’t particularly impressive, as it averages around 90 MPH with slight cutting action. And yet, it still finds ways to miss bats at a 30% rate. He also has a low-80s slider and a vulcan change-up in the upper-70s that generate whiffs. With the exceptional command ability he’s showcased in past years, Prager should continue to dominate at the college level. Whether or not he’ll be able to improve his draft stock, given his age and injury history, is a different question. 

On The Clock: Interview with 2025 MLB Draft Prospect Cam Cannarella

In this episode of On The Clock, hosted by Prospects Live's Jared Perkins and Monty Taylor, Clemson baseball player and top 2025 MLB Draft prospect Cam Cannarella shares his journey through the world of amateur baseball. Growing up in Hartfield, South Carolina, Cam describes his early love for the game, his dedication through high school, and how his hard work paid off with an opportunity to play at Clemson University. He recalls his recruitment experience with former Clemson coach Monty Lee and why the campus community and team culture at Clemson felt like the right fit. Known for his impressive athletic tools, Cam reflects on his favorite aspects of the game, from making web gem catches to big hits, like his memorable home run against Florida.

Cam also delves into the challenges he faced in 2024 due to an injury that required surgery, sidelining him for a season and preventing him from joining Team USA. The setback taught him resilience as he worked through physical therapy, leaned on friends and teammates for support, and stayed connected to the game mentally and emotionally. His friends, who kept him busy and motivated through recovery, were essential in helping him stay positive. With recovery progressing, Cam looks forward to returning to the field, resuming his training, and focusing on new goals for the upcoming season.

Looking ahead, Cam shares his aspirations for the 2025 season, setting sights on taking the Tigers to Omaha and building a stronger team connection. He’s also aiming for a top spot in the MLB draft and hopes to lead his team by example, influenced by former teammates who were dedicated on and off the field. Outside of baseball, Cam enjoys basketball, hanging out with friends, and spending time outdoors, especially at the lake. His passion for the game is clear, and his lighthearted, driven personality shines through as he looks forward to bringing his best to the field for Clemson and his future baseball career.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2025-mlb-draft-of-cam-cannarella-clemson/id1733326436?i=1000675891881

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2sXQ7lojyEyBMc5Cd0HXk3?si=3017fc2640bb48c4

2025 MLB Draft: Top 75 Collegiate Prospects Conference Breakdowns - ACC

We recently released our top 75 college prospects, and throughout the fall, we have been bringing you some of the top prospects within each conference. For this edition, we will dive into some of the top prospects across the ACC.

Florida State leads the ACC with three prospects, and Clemson, Virginia, North Carolina, and Wake Forest are all tied with two. Below are the top ACC players who ranked in the Top 75.

Full Top 75 List: https://www.prospectslive.com/prospects-live/2024/9/21/2025-mlb-draft-top-75-collegiate-prospects

HITTERS

CAM CANNARELLA, OF - clemson

Prospects Live Ranking - #2

One of the most balanced profiles in the class, it is incredibly difficult to not like Cannarella.  A former infielder turned outfielder; he flashes exceptional defense along with above-average instincts to balls off the bat.  The spray chart is balanced, having the stable approach to drive the baseball to all sides of the field while backing a .337/.417/.561 slash line in 2024.  He's got incredible eyes and awareness, setting the offensive tone and influencing the at-bat for the rest of the Clemson lineup.  Cannarella's whiff rates are quite attractive as well, specifically 13% vs fastballs and 9% vs sliders this past season while showcasing some of the best zone contact rates in Division I at 91%.  The chase rates, however, went up a touch, though not a cause for concern going into 2025.  Anticipate Cam to be flashier in 2025 thanks to a healthy right labrum while staying true to his established identity.

HENRY FORD, OF/1B - virginia

Prospects Live Ranking - #8

Coming off an incredible freshman campaign, Ford will look to become the centerpiece of Virginia's 2025 offense.  Listed at 6'5" and 220 pounds, Ford showcases impressive bat-to-ball skills with an 87% zone contact rate with swift hands through the zone.  He sees off-speed very well, hitting .349/.425/.651 with 9 of his 17 total home runs coming against them.  The operation isn't sexy, but it certainly performs.  Ford has proven his ability to drive the baseball to all parts of the field, but his power to the pull side is well above-average.  Playing 56 of his 58 games defensively at first base, Henry displays sufficient defensive skills with good instincts when the ball is put in play, as he committed only three errors in 2024.  That said, Henry mentioned to our Monty Taylor how he plans to play right field for the Cavaliers in 2025, making the transition from infield to outfield an intriguing follow to keep tabs on.  Ultimately, it will come down to Ford's offensive prowess that determines how high he gets drafted this coming July.

LUKE STEVENSON, C  - north carolina

Prospects Live Ranking - #10

A draft eligible sophomore, Stevenson has been a force to be reckoned with since joining the Tar Heels.  From an offensive standpoint, it's a physical presence, premier bat speed, and all sorts of advanced batted ball data.  Across all of Division I, Stevenson finished in or above the 90th percentile in hard hit rate, barrel rate, average exit velocity, and slugging percentage in 2024.  Furthermore, Luke was very efficient against fastballs as he hit .303 with a .969 OPS this past spring.  Although having 55 strikeouts, Stevenson led North Carolina with 48 walks, demonstrating his plate discipline and feel for the strike zone.  Behind the dish, Luke is an excellent receiver with proficient framing skills while being an established blocker, especially as the season progresses.  Though he threw out 20% of baserunners, he is not afraid to back-pick baserunners to keep them honest.  Stevenson holds one of the highest baseball IQs in this incoming class, understanding situations and not allowing critical moments in a game overwhelm him.  He checks just about all the boxes for teams considering him in the 2025 MLB Draft, and another successful season will establish him as a sure first-round pick.

ETHAN CONRAD, OF - wake forest

Prospects Live Ranking - #11

After a phenomenal summer in the Cape, Ethan Conrad will look to carry that momentum with his new program at Wake Forest.  During his two seasons at Marist College, Conrad ended with a .359/.425/.587 slash line while gathering 54 extra base hits and 239 total bases.  Obviously impressive, even more so considering he did that before turning 20 years of age.  In the box, it’s a quiet operation with an advanced feel of the strike zone, evidenced by his low 8% whiff rate. This past season with Marist, Ethan did incredibly well against fastballs, hitting .405 against them and recording 8 of his 9 triples off that pitch.  As previously mentioned, Conrad dominated in the Cape League, earning All-Star honors with Bourne and finishing with a .385 batting average and 19 stolen bases.  Defensively, Conrad still has room to grow, as he currently possesses an average arm and showcases plus range thanks to his speed.  That said, he is set to start in right field for Wake this Spring with the ability to transition to center if the arm improves.  It’s a fun profile with day one potential; with improved defensive skills, it could easily translate into a lottery pick.

HENRY GODBOUT, INF - virginia

Prospects Live Ranking - #15

 Arguably the most proven hit tool in the ACC, Henry Godbout will look to guide Virginia to Omaha for the third consecutive season.  The bat to ball skills are incredibly appealing, with a 92% zone contact rate and a .443 BABIP.  He was one of the top hitters in the country against fastballs, ending 2024 with just a 5% whiff rate against them.  Nearly all of his extra-base hits were to his pull side (22 of 28), so I’m curious to see if he becomes more balanced in 2025.  One of the top hitters against velocity, Godbout hit .500 off pitches 92 MPH or harder with just a 3% whiff rate.  Defensively, he looks to be the everyday man at second base for Brian O’Connor while flirting with some opportunities to play shortstop over the course of next season.  Godbout displays solid range and instincts, along with proficient arm strength on the diamond.  Don't expect him to steal many bases, if any, in 2025, despite his average speed.  Overall, Godbout is one of the most polished hitters in this upcoming draft class, expect him to be a key catalyst for the Cavaliers, who have a deep lineup from top to bottom.

MAREK HOUSTON, SS - wake forest

Prospects Live Ranking - #21

Marek Houston was one of the standout offensive breakouts this past season, establishing himself as one of the most refined bats in the 2025 class.  As the leadoff man for Wake, Houston displays a plus eye at the plate with the ability to spray the ball to all fields.  His whiff rates dropped significantly from his freshman to sophomore season, and he posted one of the nation's top zone contact rates at 93%.  Perhaps the best aspect of his game is his defense.  Houston has a plus arm and great range for the position that will keep him at shortstop come pro ball.  Over the recent summer, he played for Bourne in the Cape Cod League, where he stood out with a .306 batting average across 27 games and earned a spot as an All-Star.  His power is below average, though with adding roughly 10 pounds of weight, expect to see a jump in the extra base hits this coming season.

KANE KEPLEY, OF  - north carolina

Prospects Live Ranking - #52

A late transfer addition for Coach Scott Forbes, North Carolina adds one of the most stable players available in Kane Kepley.  Producing a .330/.482/.521 slash line for Liberty this past season, Kepley has incredible ability to make contact and spray the baseball to all fields.  Most of his extra base hits were hit to his pull side, though don’t expect much from a power standpoint with him.  Kepley’s strengths are both his on-base skills and speed, as he drew 53 walks against just 27 strikeouts while swiping 25 bags in 2024.  He has sufficient defensive instincts in both center and right field though having a fringe arm.  Kepley played this past summer in the Cape with the Hyannis Harbor Hawks, earning All Star honors thanks to a .449 on base percentage and swiping over 20 bags in 38 games played.  Kepley will be an intriguing prospect to follow this spring, as he will be set to face tougher competition in the ACC while aiming to keep both his contact and whiff rates consistent with 2024.

DREW FAUROT, SS - Florida state

Prospects Live Ranking - #65

Faurot started his career at UCF before transferring to Florida State where he’s been nothing short of impressive.  The Tallahassee native is a switch hitter that has the ability to play both positions up the middle.  Hitting .286 with 19 doubles in 59 games, Faurot was a vital contributor for Florida State over the course of their momentous season. He’s far more successful as a left-handed hitter, with a batting average of .314, compared to just .214 from the right side.  Faurot possesses decent bat speed and batted ball data, having a max exit velocity of 109 MPH in 2024.  Though his contact rates are fine, his pitch recognition skills could be improved, specifically against off-speed.  His defense has gotten better over his collegiate career, as well as his range up the middle when balls are hit in the pockets.  Expect Faurot’s offensive numbers to be a tick better while playing a healthy amount of both second base and shortstop for the Seminoles in 2025.

MAX WILLIAMS, OF - Florida state

Prospects Live Ranking - #66

After transferring from Alabama following the 2023 season, Max Williams has found a new home at Florida State.  The Michigan native hit .311 with 30 extra base hits in 64 games played.  The main strength in his game is consistently making hard contact as he had a max exit velocity of 114.2 MPH this past spring.  The operation is unique, specifically a low bent stance with quiet hands and a small leg kick.  Though with a 72% contact rate, there is clear room for improvement regarding his swing decisions.  The strikeouts are also a slight concern, as he had the second most on Florida State’s offense last season.  Defensively, there are a lot of things Williams does well.  He has a great arm and has strong instincts to balls both in the air and on a line.  He is a smart baserunner, though he’s an average runner and not expected to steal many bases, as he had five in 2024.  Overall, Williams is an exciting player; if the strikeouts can come down a touch, he ranks among the premier outfielders in the ACC, if not already.

CLAY GRADY, SS - Virginia tech

Prospects Live Ranking - #71

A career .323 hitter for Virginia Tech, Clay Grady will look to carry his success into year three as their starting shortstop.  It’s a simple operation in the box; a short and compact swing with above-average bat speed.  Grady features above-average contact and whiff rates, along with exceptional fastball recognition, as evident by his 7% whiff rate against the pitch.  Though having only 10 collegiate extra base hits, he can work counts and reach base quite often.  The most exciting part about Grady’s game though is his defense.  He can field on the run throwing from various arm slots while playing with an elite internal clock; it’s so fun to watch.  Although Grady hit in various spots in the lineup last season, expect him to be at the top for Virginia Tech, setting the offensive tone for Garrett Michel and company this spring.

KYLE LODISE, INF - Georgia tech

Prospects Live Ranking - #72

Regarded as one of the more notable transfers this recent cycle, Kyle Lodise shifted from Division II Augusta University to join Georgia Tech.  He was arguably the best hitter in the Peach Belt Conference in 2024, slashing .369/.498/.693 with 14 home runs.   A twitchy athlete, Lodise can play anywhere in the infield.  He’s a great defender, quick to react to the baseball, and maintains a strong internal clock while doing so.  A plus runner as well, Lodise stole 44 bags in 50 attempts during his two-year career at Augusta.  Over this past summer, Lodise played with the Chatham Anglers in the Cape.  In 37 games, he finished with a .239/.394/.358 line with seven extra base hits.  The key question regarding Lodise is whether he can consistently adapt to the quality of pitching in the ACC. If so, he and Drew Burress could formulate one of the most feared tandems in the ACC.

LUKE GAFFNEY, 1B/C - clemson

Prospects Live Ranking - #74

After earning Big 10 Freshman of the Year honors in 2024, Gaffney entered the transfer portal to join Coach Eric Bakich and the Clemson Tigers.  The strength of Gaffney’s game is centered around his offensive firepower.  Last season with Purdue, he finished with an impressive .359/.449/.646 slash line, hitting over 30 extra-base hits across 53 games.  Additionally, he ranked at or above the 90th percentile in exit velocity, barrel rate, hard hit rate, and slugging percentage among all Division I hitters.  He displays plus power with the consistent ability to show it to all fields.  Playing this past summer with Falmouth in the Cape, Gaffney hit .276 with 29 hits.  Gaffney primarily played first base for Purdue in 2024, displaying above-average defense as he only committed one error.  It will be fun  to follow his success with Clemson this year as he joins Cam Cannarella to bring stability to an already talented lineup, positioning them as one of the top preseason teams in the ACC.

PITCHERS

JAMIE ARNOLD, LHP - Florida state

Prospects Live Ranking - #5

 Arguably the best left-handed pitcher in this year's college class, Jamie Arnold is set to guide Florida State to a second straight trip to Omaha.  Arnold was the most dominant pitcher in the ACC not named Chase Burns, finishing top five in strikeouts (159), innings pitched (105.2), earned run average (2.98), and batting average against (.224).  Arnold currently attains two plus pitches with a mid-90's sinker and sweepy slider that attacks hitters with his 4.5" release height.  Believe it or not, the sinker plays better up in the zone while producing an average of 17" of arm-side run as well as a 31% whiff rate.  The slider is devastating, producing one of the highest whiff rates among qualified starters at 41%, with an average horizontal break of 12 inches.  Arnold occasionally throws a mid-80's changeup as a third offering but lacks command with the pitch.  There is still plenty to value about Jamie, both in his abilities on the mound as well as his physical attributes, making him likely to be one of the first picks selected in the upcoming 2025 draft.

Jamie Arnold is such a fun, fun arm.

Struck out nine across five innings last night, racking up 15 whiffs. FB command was iffy at times, sitting 90-94 with a ton of arm-side run from a low release. Mid-80s SL was the best pitch, tons of bite and sweep. Flashed CH. Top 2025 arm. pic.twitter.com/8lsQ4phzuy

— Tyler Jennings (@TylerJennings24) April 27, 2024

CAM LEITER, RHP - florida state

Prospects Live Ranking - #13

While only making seven starts for Florida State in 2024, there's a ton of fascination with Leiter.  From a data standpoint, the arsenal is top tier.  Starting off with his best pitch, the four-seam fastball.  Leiter finished in the 99th percentile amongst all Division I for fastball velocity, throwing 63% of them for strikes.  His main off-speed pitch is the curveball, having the ability to create impressive depth and held opponents to a .071 batting average last spring.  He follows that up with an upper 80s slider that has a short shape but eventually became his go-to pitch for generating swings and misses.  Leiter also possesses a changeup that he should arguably throw more but gives left-handed hitters something else to think about.  Given his arsenal along with a whiff rate in the 98th percentile and a strikeout rate in the 99th percentile, Leiter has the potential to develop into a power starter for years to come. That said, it's important to mention that Leiter recently underwent shoulder surgery and is expected to miss a significant portion of the upcoming 2025 season.

MATT SCOTT, RHP - stanford

Prospects Live Ranking - #31

The lone Stanford Cardinal on this list, Matt Scott attains some of the most electric stuff in this draft class.  Listed at 6’7 and 247 pounds, it’s immense aura on the mound.  His pitch arsenal is highlighted by a mid-90s fastball, ranking in the 95th percentile in velocity amongst Division I, that produces a ton of induced vertical break.  It’s been up to 98 and produces a ton of swing and miss when up in the zone.  Scott’s main off-speed offering is the slider.  It’s a plus pitch with some sweep as well as short depth, making it highly effective against right-handed hitters.  Scott also throws a split-change with good tumbling action, achieving a 48% whiff rate against lefties in 2024.  A member of the USA Collegiate National Team, Scott was very impressive holding opposing hitters to a .205 average while throwing 65% strikes.  From a stuff and physicality standpoint, Scott has the ideal profile.  Expect him to be the lead horse of a deep and talented Stanford pitching staff.

PATRICK FORBES, RHP - louisville

Prospects Live Ranking - #59

Patrick Forbes is another intriguing arm for the 2025 draft.  Though only logging 29 innings for Louisville last spring, Forbes has premium arm strength on the mound.  It’s no secret, he goes after hitters with his fastballs as he threw it 77% of the time in 2024.  Forbes’s four-seam fastball is violent, ranking 97th percentile in velocity as well as the 98th percentile in spin rate amongst all Division I.  It ranges from 92-95, topping out at 97, that generates both run and ride.  Forbes also incorporates a two-seam fastball that gets more sink inducing weak contact and is tough for batters to get their barrel around.  His best off-speed pitch is an upper 70’s slider, a plus offering that generates tremendous sweep.  It’s one of the best sliders in the ACC, producing a 41% whiff rate and holding opposing hitters to a .143 average.  Forbes also throws an upper 80’s changeup to lefties, though it’s not often and lacks consistency with the pitch.  A member of the Brewster Whitecaps this past summer, he pitched just over 13 innings, recording 22 strikeouts and limiting hitters to a .167 batting average.  Anticipate Forbes to step another step forward in 2025 that would make him a compelling  name to follow for the 2025 draft.

On The Clock: Interview with 2025 MLB Draft Prospect Ben Jacobs

In this episode of On The Clock, hosts Tyler Jennings and Jared Perkins interview Ben Jacobs, a rising left-handed pitcher from Arizona State University and 2025 MLB Draft prospect. Ben starts by sharing his journey from playing youth baseball in Southern California to becoming a top collegiate prospect. He discusses how he fell in love with baseball early on, choosing pitching as his primary focus during high school, and reflects on his experiences with Team USA, which he describes as a dream come true. Ben explains how playing for the national team allowed him to learn from some of the best pitchers in the country, picking up valuable tips and improving his splitter and other pitches along the way. He highlights the importance of seizing opportunities to learn and grow, noting how crucial it was to build confidence and enjoy the moment, especially on bigger stages like national tournaments.

Ben also emphasizes the mental side of baseball, describing how maturity and conversations with his coach at Arizona State, Willie "Bloomy” Bloomquist, helped him develop resilience. He details a pivotal meeting with Bloomy after a rough outing, where the coach encouraged him to trust the process and focus on daily improvements rather than dwelling on setbacks. This conversation marked a turning point for Ben, helping him build a stronger mindset that led to more consistent performances. Away from baseball, Ben finds balance through hobbies like surfing and pickup basketball, which offer him a break from the pressures of competition. He believes these activities help him stay grounded and maintain a positive outlook, both on and off the field.

Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Ben expresses excitement for the Sun Devils’ potential, citing improvements in the pitching staff and a strong lineup. He’s particularly eager about competing in a new conference and facing challenging teams like Oklahoma State. Ben wraps up the conversation by sharing some personal favorites: his top MLB pitchers, favorite strikeout moments, and dream batters to face, such as Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge. He also gives a nod to his go-to walkout song, “90210” by Travis Scott, which he plans to keep for the upcoming season. The episode offers an in-depth look at Ben's career, mental growth, and ambitions, providing fans with a glimpse into his personality and passion for the game.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2025-mlb-draft-lhp-ben-jacobs-arizona-state/id1733326436?i=1000674990484

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3pOtTEbIP2AhO1vhFhCaBd?si=dJHm71cET1KvPzLYPIVRNg

Jared's Fall Jottings Part 1: Georgetown vs. Rutgers

Nothing beats being at the ballpark in the fall for some college baseball scrimmage. My first stop was at a scrimmage between the Georgetown Hoyas and Rutgers Scarlet Knights at Capital One Park in Tysons Corner, VA. While both are smaller schools, they’ve both been sneaky programs that have produced some decent draft talent over the past couple of years. 

In 2024, Georgetown's ace left-hander Everett Catlett (Colorado Rockies) was selected in the 12th round, and Rutgers had guys like Joshua Kuroda-Grauer (3rd Round, Oakland Athletics) and Donovan Zsak (8th Round, Cleveland Guardians) go in the top 10 rounds. Georgetown even had their third-rounder in the 2023 MLB Draft, Jake Bloss (Houston Astros), who has already made his major league debut and was a big piece in the Yusei Kikuchi trade. Rutgers also had a second-rounder in Ryan Lasko (Oakland Athletics) in the 2023 MLB Draft. 

While Georgetown now doesn’t possess as significant an arm as it did in the past two years in Catlett and Bloss, it still had some names to watch. Rutgers was fully loaded with intriguing bats and a couple of arms worth monitoring. 

2025 MLB DRAFT - RUTGERS

1B Ty Doucette

Doucette has easily catapulted himself into the top 100 bats in all of college baseball with his performance last year. He had a max EV of 112 MPH last year, and his ability to get barrel with ease is quite impressive. It was another barrel party for him against the Hoyas as hit smoked a double and homerun. Georgetown pitchers were no match for him. The only negative to Doucette’s offensive profile is he can be quite aggressive and chase at times, but he offsets that with a pretty good feel for the strike zone. Defensively, Doucette is a first-base-only profile, which means he will really have to hit at the next level. He’s somewhat athletic over there, but there is definitely room for improvement. Either way the bat is good enough that teams will be calling and he could easily find success in pro ball. 

OF Trevor Cohen

Cohen is a very fun player at the top of the Scarlet Knights lineup. A truly scrappy player who sort of does just about everything right in terms of the little things. While he’s not loaded with tons of power, he does an incredible job at making contact and setting the table. It’s fairly quick hands that helps him to get the ball. Cohen can get a little bit chase happy at times, but his ability to make contact helps offset some of those concerns. You’d like to see some more consistent hard contact from Cohen and he’s likely a tweak or two away from making that happen. He’s got a good amount of speed that helps him make things happen on the base paths and gives him the ability to man the outfield. He has the ability to possibly be a centerfielder at the next level, although Rutgers had him in right field for this contest against Georgetown. He will be on the radar of a few teams on draft day. 

2025 MLB DRAFT - GEORGETOWN

RHP Andrew Citron

Citron will likely be the closer for the Hoyas after putting up stellar numbers in 2024 to a 2.45 ERA while striking out 36 batters in 43 innings pitched. Citron is an interesting development story as he came to campus as a two-year player and strictly focused on pitching last year. He’s currently a two-pitch pitcher that consists of a fastball and curveball, although he’s flashed a changeup here and there. The fastball has been in the 89-93 MPH and has topped out a 94 MPH. In this outing, he was 88-91. While the velo was a bit done compared to what we are used to, he still had some pretty good carry on the pitch up in the zone. The curveball is Citron’s go-to pitch outside of the fastball. It ranged from 73-78 MPH but had some good bite. Command of both pitches is still a work in progress. He walked 30 batters last year, so the command and control issues aren’t new, but they are expected from a guy who has just started to focus on pitching full-time. Citron is a reliever-only type profile and if he can find some more velocity in his fastball, he might suffice as a two-pitch guy. If not, he could benefit from the development of his changeup. 

C - Owen Carapellotti

Carapellotti played a massive role for the Hoyas last year and will likely be a steady producer in the heart of the lineup in 2025. He was draft eligible in 2024 and even competed in the MLB Draft League over the summer, but ended up going unselected and returns to Georgetown. He had the loudest base hit for the Hoyas in the scrimmage, reaching 104 MPH. It tracks with how hard he hit the ball in 2024 as he posted both solid average EVs and a really good max EV. Carapellotti is also fairly athletic behind the dish and has a strong arm to throw runners out. He easily looks like he is a guy who can stick behind the plate at the next level. Carapellotti will need to improve a bit on his ability to get barrel-to-ball, but overall he could be a really nice senior sign for a team on draft day.

2026 MLB DRAFT - RUTGERS

RHP Justin Shadek

A healthy Justin Shadek turned many heads in this fall appearance against the Hoyas. For me, he easily came away as the most impressive arm in game one. The fastball was consistently 93-94 in his outing, even though he ranged 90-94 MPH. He even topped out at 95. He paired that fastball with a curveball that had some serious bite. It ranged from 78-81 MPH and was definitely his go-to strikeout pitch during the game. He finished off his arsenal with a slider that was really tight and had some cutter-ish action to it. Overall, it was a very good two-inning outing for an arm who missed all of last year with an injury. He’s one I’ll definitely be monitoring and if he can stay healthy all year, he should play a massive role in the starting rotation for the Scarlet Knights. 

OF Peyton Bonds

Campbell transfer Peyton Bonds (nephew of San Francisco Giants legend Barry Bonds) looks like he will be playing a significant role for Rutgers in 2025. The outfielder was manning centerfield for the Scarlet Knights and hitting in the top of the order. Bonds is a physical, imposing presence in the box coming in at 6’5, 220lbs. When he is able to get barrel to ball, the sound is loud off his bat and he posted a very high max EV with Campbell last year. Bonds is a bit stiff with his stance in the box due to his side and could use an increase in his bat speed. It seems to hinder his ability to make solid contact, and he often misses the barrel. Regardless of the hit tool concerns, you can see how the power is real and Bonds has some athleticism on top of that. He’s far from a clog on the base paths and showed in this game he does have the ability to handle center. There are some building blocks to like here and if he can make some significant adjustments in the hit tool department, Bonds could make himself an intriguing bat for the 2026 draft. 

2026 MLB DRAFT - GEORGETOWN

INF Ashtin Gilio

Gilio is a guy who caught my eye over the weekend. Although he is a little undersized, he did show a solid ability to make contact and Rutgers arms had a hard time putting him away. He hit leadoff for the Hoyas and constantly was finding a way on base. The likelihood of him tapping into much power seems unlikely, but he has plenty of room to grow and could eventually put on some more strength. On top of trying to be a steady producer in the leadoff spot, Gilio is also learning a new position. The Hoyas have him at third base, and he’s quickly trying to find his way there. While nothing stands off the board a ton just yet, there is a lot worth monitoring to see if he takes steps to advance his game a bit more in 2025. 

2025 MLB Draft Top 75 Collegiate Prospects: Conference Breakdowns (SEC - Part 1)

We recently released our top 75 college prospects and throughout the fall we have been bringing you some top prospects within each conference. For this edition, we will dive into some of the top prospects across the SEC.

35 players from 11 different schools hail from the nation’s premier college baseball conference with our Top 75 prospects list. Defending national champions Tennessee lead the way with six players while Arkansas is just behind the Vols with five. LSU and Texas A&M each have four. Below are the eighteen SEC players who ranked in the Top 40 of our Top 75.

Full Top 75 List: https://www.prospectslive.com/prospects-live/2024/9/21/2025-mlb-draft-top-75-collegiate-prospects

HITTERS

OF Jace Laviolette - Texas A&M

Prospects Live Ranking: #1

Jace Laviolette is the prototypical left-handed power bat that MLB organizations love. He’s athletic enough to play centerfield, which is likely where he’ll remain for the Aggies as he anchors perhaps the nation’s best lineup. Strikeouts remain a small concern, but he’s improved since his freshman season in drawing walks and getting on base. The Texas slugger took the summer off following Texas A&M’s loss in the National Championship to Tennessee despite an invite to participate in Team USA for the second time. That rest will be critical as he looks to solidify his #1 overall pick potential. With his ability on the basepaths and in the field, Laviolette is a legitimate five-tool player at the college level. If the organization that drafts him can figure out a way to cut down on the strikeouts while maintaining his hit and power tool, the big lefty could be a future five-tool prospect at the pro level.

C/OF Ike Irish - Auburn

Prospects Live Ranking: #9

Ike Irish is the top-rated college catcher ahead of the 2025 draft. Unlike North Carolina’s Luke Stevenson, however, there are some questions as to Irish’s future at the position. The Michigan native is another left-handed hitter with a very good hit tool. As a freshman in the ACC, Irish hit .361 with 31 extra base hits. He struggled with a nagging injury at times during his sophomore campaign, but still managed to hit .319 and more than double his home run total from the previous season. Despite the plus hit tool and extra base hit numbers, there are concerns about his ability to hit for power given his tendency to hit ground balls at a high rate. Defensively, Irish has a strong arm and has improved his receiving skills, but it’s likely his future lies as a corner outfielder. Regardless of his future position, he’ll be the most feared bat in the Auburn lineup during the 2025 season. 

Ike, Ike, baby‼️

Just some Sunday yardwork for our guy.

B6 | Auburn 6, UConn 2 pic.twitter.com/4LK7rWT8xA

— Auburn Baseball (@AuburnBaseball) March 3, 2024

3B/OF Andrew Fischer - Tennessee

Prospects Live Ranking: #17

After a year at Duke and a year at Ole Miss, Andrew Fischer is in Knoxville to play for Tennessee in his draft eligible year. Fischer joins fellow top draft prospects Dean Curley and Gavin Kilen in a loaded infield. It remains to be seen exactly where Fischer will play as Curley and Kilen are better defenders due to Fischer’s limited range. He could see time at third and first for the Vols, but perhaps his future lies in a corner outfield position at the next level. The New Jersey native enjoyed a breakout season at the plate for the Rebs last season, slugging 17 home runs in 49 games while hitting .282. Fischer, who mashes fastballs and likes to pull the ball, will likely eclipse 20 home runs for Tennessee in 2025. He’s yet to hit .300 as a college player, but playing in a loaded lineup should help boost his offensive numbers next season.  

3B Dean Curley - Tennessee

Prospects Live Ranking: #16

Dean Curley is a draft eligible sophomore who played shortstop for Tennessee on the way to winning their first National Championship in school history last season. The California native hit .285 with 23 extra base hits as a true freshman while stealing 9 bases. He became the first freshman in school history to hit three home runs in a game on March 6th against Kansas State. Curley is projected to play the hot corner at the next level but will likely stay at shortstop for the Vols in 2025 unless Ariel Antigua forces Curley to shift to 3rd base. After his fantastic first year, the former freshman All American is poised to have an even bigger sophomore campaign. His pull-side power and impressive bat speed should see him improve on his home run total and I expect to see his average rise well above .300 in this loaded Tennessee lineup.    

Dean Curley tonight:

Grand Slam ✅
3 Run HR ✅
2 Run HR ✅

True freshman. Rumor has it that his roommate is Tungsten Arm O’Doyle pic.twitter.com/sU9DoU9bw9

— 11Point7 College Baseball (@11point7) March 6, 2024

2B/SS Gavin Kilen - Tennessee

Prospects Live Ranking: #17

Gavin Kilen enjoyed a breakout sophomore campaign for Louisville in 2024 as he hit .330 with 23 doubles and 9 home runs. He showed flashes of decent power last year, but is more of a gap-to-gap doubles hitter than a slugger. Five of his nine home runs last season came in a 10-day stretch between March 6th and March 16th. Kilen only hit three home runs in conference play but could improve on those numbers in a new environment. The Wisconsin native has the range, arm, and quickness to play shortstop at the next level, but it’s probable that Tennessee employs Kilen at second base with either Dean Curley or even Ariel Antigua manning shortstop. Don’t be surprised if Tony Vitello utilizes his high contact rate at the top of the order to serve as a table setter for the Vols’ big boppers. Wherever he hits in the lineup, he should produce solid offensive numbers while playing stellar defense at second.

UT RJ Austin - Vanderbilt

Prospects Live Ranking: #19

RJ Austin has been a mainstay in the Vanderbilt lineup since arriving on campus ahead of the 2023 season. In 122 career collegiate games Austin is a career .296 hitter with 39 extra base hits and 32 stolen bases. He has steadily improved since arriving on campus and has been showing signs of more power. The biggest mystery surrounding RJ Austin is determining what position he’s going to play. While representing Team USA and playing on the Cape this summer, he saw time at both third base and center field. He’s been dealing with a shoulder injury this fall, so Vanderbilt has been DHing him in scrimmages. Despite that lingering issue, he’s produced well at the plate with multiple hits. He’s athletic enough to play almost anywhere on the diamond for the Commodores but I really like the skill set he has for the outfield. Regardless of where he plays the field, his bat and baserunning capabilities will be essential to Vanderbilt’s success in 2025.

RJ Austin gets every stitch of this center-cut FB and hammers it over the Monster in LF for a 3-run HR. Easy bat speed, extends beautifully though the baseball, and does a nice job of really rotating and finishing his swing. pic.twitter.com/Ky45TYqmny

— Peter Flaherty III (@PeterGFlaherty) February 16, 2024

SS/3B Jalin Flores  - Texas

Prospects Live Ranking: #25

Jalin Flores opted to come back to school instead of entering last year’s draft as an eligible sophomore. After struggling over 45 games as a freshman in which he hit .175 with just 6 extra base hits, Flores broke out in a big way in 2024. The San Antonio native started 60 games for the Longhorns and hit .340 while slugging 22 doubles and 18 home runs as Texas once again reached an NCAA Regional. He’s become a more aggressive and pull-happy hitter, but it’s led to major success. Flores will continue to play shortstop for the Longhorns and has the ability to play there at the next level, though he could shift to third base as a pro as well. New Texas head coach Jim Schlossnagle must be ecstatic to have Flores and the reigning Big 12 Player of the Year Max Belyeu back on the team ahead of 2025. 

OF Max Belyeu - Texas

Prospects Live Ranking: #26

Much like teammate Jalin Flores, Max Belyeu enjoyed a breakout campaign as a sophomore in 2024. He only played in 15 games as a freshman, amassing just 20 at-bats, but won a starting job heading into his second year and flourished. The slugging outfielder hit .329 with 34 extra base hits and captured the Big 12 Player of the Year Award for his efforts. He’s an aggressive hitter that tends to lift the ball at a high rate, resulting in quite a few fly balls. Belyeu had a decent summer playing for Team USA and up in the Cape Cod League. He played center field for the Cotuit Kettleers while hitting a double and two home runs in 18 games. He’s likely a corner outfielder at the next level, but needs to continue to improve his defense heading into 2025. I expect to see even better offensive numbers from him in 2025 as he headlines a talented Texas lineup joining the SEC.

SS Wehiwa Aloy - Arkansas

Prospects Live Ranking: #28

Wehiwa Aloy transferred to Arkansas after an incredible freshman year at Sacramento State where he slashed .376/.427/.662 with 34 extra base hits enroute to winning the WAC Freshman of the Year Award. He took a bit of a step back as a sophomore in his debut season for the Razorbacks, slashing .270/.355/.485 with just 23 extra base hits. Aloy is a very aggressive hitter with great bat speed and above-average power that could lead to better numbers in 2025. The Hawai’i native flashed that power this summer in the Cape Cod League for the Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox as he clubbed eight home runs in just 81 at-bats. His performance on July 4th against the Hyannis Harbor Hawks was the first three-homer game in the Cape since 2021 and the first YD three-homer game since 1982. It’s possible that Aloy has the tools and physicality to play shortstop at the next level, but it’s more likely he’ll shift to third or second base in the future. Given the adjustments to his stance ahead of the Cape season and the results that ensued, it’s reasonable to expect improvements on Aloy’s numbers in 2025.  

3B Tre Phelps - Georgia

Prospects Live Ranking: #30

Tre Phelps is a draft eligible sophomore who had a fantastic debut season in Athens for the Georgia Bulldogs in 2024. In 42 games, he slashed .355/.442/.686 with 23 extra base hits. While his incredible bat speed and power potential is impressive, what stands out is his ability to put the ball in play. He’s a little over aggressive in his approach and yet rarely strikes out– K-ing just 15 times in 136 at-bats in 2024. Phelps has the physique and tools to play at a number of positions, including third base where he’s spent most of his time with Georgia. There’s a good chance he could be a corner outfielder at the next level. The Bulldogs have an impressive roster heading into next season, but with Charlie Condon moving on to the next level, it’ll be Tre Phelps who becomes the most feared bat in the Georgia lineup. 

TRE PHELPS HOME RUN!!!!

📺 https://t.co/QaF81Klywx (ESPN+)#GoDawgs | @TrePhelps1 pic.twitter.com/8CmpHVOfw6

— Georgia Baseball (@BaseballUGA) June 3, 2024

2B Daniel Dickinson - LSU

Prospects Live Ranking: #32

Daniel Dickinson is one of the latest blockbuster transfers that have made their way to Baton Rouge to play for Jay Johnson and LSU. In two years at Utah Valley, the middle infielder slashed .369/.458/.627 with 63 extra base hits and 42 stolen bases in 113 games. Dickinson will be making a jump in competition from the WAC to the SEC, but don’t be surprised to see him be a spark plug atop the LSU lineup. The Washington state product has elite contact ability and lines the ball to all fields with gap-to-gap power. When he gets on, his speed enables him to wreak havoc on the bases though I’d expect to see his stolen base numbers dip as the SEC has some elite defensive catchers. Michael Braswell will likely remain at shortstop for the Tigers while Dickinson– who projects as a second baseman at the next level anyways– will be his double play partner on the right side.    

1B/OF Ethan Petry - South Carolina

Prospects Live Ranking: #37

Ethan Petry has been known for his gaudy home run numbers since arriving in Columbia as a freshman in 2023 and he’s continued to produce for the Gamecocks throughout his career slashing .341/.471/.686 with 44 home runs in 124 games. It should be noted that some of Petry’s numbers dipped as a sophomore and his strikeouts rose. This regression could be attributed to some holes in his swing as pitchers adjusted to his weaknesses. The power will always be there, but the hit tool looks to be average at best. If his Cape Cod performance is any indication, however, he could play himself into a higher ranking with a big 2025. Over the summer Petry led the Cape in homers, on-base percentage, slugging, and OPS enroute to winning both the MVP and Best Prospect Awards. In 31 games up north he slashed .360/.480/.760 with 7 doubles and 11 home runs. Defensively, he’s probably not a corner outfielder at the next level but could transition to a role at first base.

Folks, Ethan Petry has done it again.

Gets a breaking ball down in the zone and absolutely does not miss it for a grand slam to blow this game wide open. Easy swing, easy juice.

Dare I say it....1.1 2025? pic.twitter.com/x5JbrcyPPK

— Tyler Jennings (@TylerJennings24) April 7, 2023

2B Ryan Black - UGA

Prospects Live Ranking: #40

Ryan Black is another big name transfer heading from the WAC to the SEC for his draft eligible season. In two years at UT-Arlington, Black slashed .308/.413/.476 with 51 extra base hits in 113 games. He’s a line drive hitter with decent bat speed that puts the ball in play. He has decent pop for a college bat but provides value as more of a gap-to-gap doubles hitter. The Texas native’s tools make him an ideal tablesetter in a really good Georgia lineup. It’s worth noting that his numbers dipped significantly over his sophomore season as he hit and walked less. The jump in competition from the WAC to the SEC will be something to keep an eye on. Black doesn’t have the arm strength or the range to play shortstop at the next level, but he should be able to provide adequate defense at second base.

PITCHERS

RHP Kyson Witherspoon - Oklahoma

Prospects Live Ranking: #27

Kyson Witherspoon had a good debut season for the Oklahoma Sooners in 2024 as a sophomore, going 8-3 with a 3.71 ERA over 11 starts. The Jacksonville native amassed 90 strikeouts in 80 innings while allowing 40 walks. In a short stint over the summer in the Cape Cod League, Witherspoon pitched 9 innings and gave up just one earned run while featuring the fastball/slider combo that’s been so successful. The righty ace’s fastball sits at 95 and reaches upper 90s, while the mid-80s slider features a tight break. When he misses with the fastball, it tends to sail up, which could get him in trouble. Witherspoon also has a solid changeup that sits in the high 80s. The arm action is a bit clunky and there are some command issues, but overall, Witherspoon is currently the top pitching prospect in the SEC ahead of 2025. He’ll need to continue to improve his command as Oklahoma joins the tougher SEC gauntlet.

RHP Kolten Smith - Georgia

Prospects Live Ranking: #33

Kolten Smith enjoyed a breakout sophomore campaign under pitching guru and first year head coach Wes Johnson. While he had opportunities as a freshman in 2023 and threw 25.2 innings over 12 appearances, Smith was a bonafide key member of the staff in 2024. The Florida native went 9-3 while striking out 105 batters in 69.2 innings pitched last year. He walked just 20 hitters. Smith utilizes both a mid-80s slider and a low-80s curveball to complement a fastball that’s risen into the mid-90s. He also mixes in a decent changeup when necessary. The improvement of Smith’s command between his freshman and sophomore seasons might indicate the potential for another jump in production in 2025. Smith is the best pitching prospect in a loaded Georgia staff and has the mentorship of one of the best pitching minds in the country in Wes Johnson. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Smith emerge as a dark horse candidate for SEC Pitcher of the Year before the season is said and done.

RHP AJ Russell - Tennessee

Prospects Live Ranking: #35

AJ Russell had a disappointing 2024, as an elbow hampered him throughout the year. After an incredible freshman campaign that saw him go 2-0 with a 0.89 ERA and 47 strikeouts in 24 appearances, Russell was supposed to be a key member of the weekend rotation. He dazzled with 10 strikeouts in 4.1 innings against Texas Tech on opening weekend, and went three shutout innings against Albany a week later. But after just two SEC appearances, Russell didn’t pitch again until the SEC tournament when he pitched against Vanderbilt and LSU. He did not take the mound during the CWS run. The big righty has an impressive fastball with armside life and a low 80s sweeping slider that complements the fastball well. Russell has a changeup as well, but needs to improve command and the pitch itself to make it more effective. If he can get healthy and take the mound in 2025, it’ll be a big boost both for the defending National Champions and his personal draft stock.

AJ Russell. 29 pitches. 25 heaters.

6 Ks to start the game 👀👀 pic.twitter.com/dyTDlNe2nZ

— 11Point7 College Baseball (@11point7) February 17, 2024

LHP Kade Anderson - LSU

Prospects Live Ranking: #38

Kade Anderson is a draft eligible sophomore that became a key piece on LSU’s pitching staff as a freshman when he went 4-2 with a 3.99 ERA and 59 strikeouts in 18 appearances. He was at his most impressive on March 6th, his third outing for the Tigers. Against Southeastern Louisiana, Anderson went five innings and gave up zero earned runs while striking out 13 hitters. His low 90s fastball can touch 96 and I wouldn’t be surprised if he starts sitting closer to mid-90s as he continues to improve his craft. Anderson also features a high-70s curveball that could turn extremely lethal as he improves command. If you’re looking for a potential breakout sophomore pitcher that could vie for postseason awards, here is the guy as he looks to be part of LSU’s weekend rotation. A big sophomore season as a starting pitcher could propel Anderson into the first round of the 2025 MLB draft.

LHP JD Thompson - Vanderbilt

Prospects Live Ranking: #39

JD Thompson was a key member of Vanderbilt’s rotation as a sophomore last year, going 5-2 with 74 strikeouts versus just 18 walks in 52 innings pitched. His arsenal features a low-90s fastball from the left side that batters have trouble picking up on due to his ability to hide the ball. If he adds a little more consistent velocity to that pitch, it’s going to be one of the best fastballs from the left side in the country. The native Texan pairs the fastball with low-80s cambio and two breaking balls- a low 80s sweeping slider and a mid-70s curveball. It’s a legitimate four pitch mix that he can throw for strikes and all four pitches generate whiffs at a high rate. If he maintains his production for 2024 or improves on it, there’s no doubt Thompson will be a day one pick in the 2025 MLB draft.

On The Clock: Interview with 2025 MLB Draft Prospect Matt Scott

In this episode of On the Clock, Jared Perkins and Tyler from ProspectsLive host Matt Scott, a top 2025 MLB Draft prospect standout pitcher from Stanford University. Matt shares his journey from Connecticut to becoming a prominent pitcher at Stanford. He discusses his early days playing multiple sports before fully committing to baseball in high school. His recruitment process, which included a focus on East Coast schools, led him to Stanford, where he was drawn to the program's values and the campus atmosphere. Despite the distance, Matt is excited about Stanford’s transition to the ACC, which will allow him to play closer to home and give his family more opportunities to watch him play in person.

The conversation dives into Matt's pitching development and plans for the upcoming season. Matt aims to refine his pitch arsenal, focusing on better consistency with his fastball, slider, and splitter to remain effective throughout the long season. He discusses the physical and mental challenges of a grueling schedule, including cross-country travel and balancing schoolwork. Matt credits the support of his family and upperclassmen for his growth as a player and values the opportunity to be part of a talented pitching rotation at Stanford. He’s optimistic about the team’s chances in the ACC and sees this as a major challenge that will enhance his skills.

Off the field, Matt emphasizes the importance of maintaining a life outside baseball, with hobbies like golf, which helps him clear his mind. He's pursuing a major in Science, Technology, and Society (STS) at Stanford, reflecting his broad interests beyond the sport. Matt also shares personal highlights, such as his favorite strikeout moment against Utah and his “Mount Rushmore” of pitchers, including stars like Gerrit Cole and Justin Verlander. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions, offering a fun look at Matt’s personality, preferences, and plans, including his walkout song choice for the upcoming season.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2025-mlb-draft-rhp-matt-scott-stanford/id1733326436?i=1000674135056

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/47gV253cyGm2bk3WDuSYup?si=35isP0iNR02tadM2_DRMpA

On The Clock: Interview with 2025 MLB Draft Prospect Gavin Turley

In this episode of On the Clock, Jared Perkins and Tyler Jennings interview Gavin Turley, a standout outfielder from Oregon State and 2025 MLB Draft prospect. Gavin shares his journey from a small town in Utah to a top-level baseball program, detailing how moving to Arizona in high school helped him face stronger competition. Now at Oregon State, Gavin reflects on his freshman year and playing alongside talented teammates like Travis Bazzana, who went first overall in the MLB Draft. Gavin credits Bazzana’s work ethic and focus for shaping his own approach, particularly around the importance of self-evaluation and process-oriented improvement.

Gavin talks about his time in the Cape Cod League, where he worked on refining his hitting, particularly a more disciplined approach with two strikes. He explains how keeping a detailed notebook of his at-bats and performance has helped him make faster adjustments and improve his swing. Heading into the 2025 season, Gavin is eager to adapt his refined approach to metal bats and focus on using the opposite field more effectively. He also discusses the uncertainty of Oregon State’s schedule now that the Pac-12 has dissolved, but remains confident in facing strong competition and maintaining Oregon State's presence in the baseball landscape.

Off the field, Gavin is passionate about ranching and outdoor activities, which help him maintain a balanced lifestyle. He shares stories about his love for working on projects around his home in Corvallis and exploring Oregon’s natural beauty. He also plays piano to unwind. In rapid-fire questions, Gavin reveals his favorite spots in Corvallis, his dream to one day own a ranch in Montana or Idaho, and his admiration for MLB players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Manny Ramirez, and Aaron Judge. The episode concludes with Gavin’s optimism for the upcoming season and his aspirations for a successful career.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2025-mlb-draft-of-gavin-turley-oregon-state/id1733326436?i=1000669920563

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4k3FNlbi1BqPPp6CTuB1EK?si=4ba9a3193f10412c

On The Clock: Interview with 2025 MLB Draft Prospect Tyler Bremner

In this episode of On the Clock, Jared Perkins and Tyler Jennings interview Tyler Bremner, a right-handed pitcher from UC Santa Barbara who has become possibly the top pitching prospect for the 2025 MLB Draft. Tyler shares his journey from San Diego, where he tried various sports before focusing on baseball at the start of high school. He describes his experience playing for the USA Collegiate National Team over the summer, which included being part of a combined no-hitter—an experience he considers a highlight of his career. Tyler also talks about meeting other top players from across the country, particularly those from SEC and other major schools, noting how special it was to compete alongside them.

The discussion delves into Tyler's pitching arsenal, emphasizing his standout changeup, which is considered one of the best among his peers. He explains how he grips and throws the pitch, highlighting the tweaks he's made to increase effectiveness against top hitters. Tyler also talks about his efforts to improve his slider, a pitch that has been a major focus in bullpen sessions. He acknowledges the mental aspect of his development, emphasizing the need for confidence and aggressiveness on the mound as he heads into the 2025 season.

Off the field, Tyler enjoys downtime in Santa Barbara, playing guitar, going to the beach, and spending time with teammates. He shares insights into his training regimen, which emphasizes strength building and tailored routines to prepare for starts. In rapid-fire questions, Tyler reveals his favorite local spots, potential walk-up songs, and pitchers he admires, such as Rhett Lowder and Walker Buehler. The episode ends on an optimistic note, with Tyler discussing his goals for the upcoming season and excitement about his baseball future.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2025-mlb-draft-prospect-rhp-tyler-bremner-joins-the-show/id1733326436?i=1000668071861

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/34ZkCIuJ10n5oAUFhi5D0q?si=UPmrTBKzQOmFdg8v_qopTQ

On The Clock: Interview with 2025 MLB Draft Prospect Brendan Summerhill

In this episode of On the Clock, hosts Tyler Jennings and Jared Perkins sit down with Brendan Summerhill, a standout baseball player from the University of Arizona and one of the top prospects for the 2025 MLB Draft, to discuss his journey through amateur and college baseball. Brendan shares how he fell in love with the game during his early years, initially playing competitively in travel ball. He details his recruitment process, which started in Kentucky before he ultimately ended up at Arizona. During his freshman year, he made significant adjustments, particularly in his batting stance, which helped him become one of the top hitters in his class. Brendan talks about the challenges of adapting to the college level of play and how he embraced a simpler approach at the plate that emphasizes consistency over power.

As the conversation progresses, Brendan reflects on some of his most memorable moments on the field, including a key at-bat against Oregon State that helped Arizona clinch the Pac-12 Championship. He describes the intense mindset required to excel in clutch situations and how his brother Colin, a fellow baseball player and current minor leaguer with the Los Angeles Angels, has been a pivotal influence on his development. Brendan explains that having his brother as a mentor and hitting coach has been invaluable, providing a support system that keeps him grounded and focused. They often exchange insights on their swings and mental approaches, which has fostered a unique and supportive relationship between them.

Looking ahead, Brendan expresses his aspirations for the 2025 season, aiming for team success in the College World Series and a possible Big 12 championship. He is excited about the culture and camaraderie within the Wildcats' locker room, which he believes is a critical element in the team’s success. Brendan’s off-field interests include spending time with his teammates, enjoying Tucson’s warm weather, and relaxing by the pool. To wrap up, he shares his love for hockey, his go-to food spots in Tucson, and his favorite baseball walk-up songs, leaving listeners with a sense of his competitive spirit and passion for the game.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2025-mlb-draft-of-brendan-summerhill-arizona/id1733326436?i=1000673286069

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7nDtAPciPGBPozwddiVP5g?si=v9vUj76JQBSfCus_VE_P6g

2025 MLB Draft Top 75 Collegiate Prospects: Conference Breakdowns (Big 12/B1G)

Photo Credit: Sun Devil Athletics

Joint article by Jared Perkins and JD Cameron

Tyler Jennings has been crushing it with the 2025 MLB Draft boards and recently released his top 75 college prospects. Over the next few weeks, we will bring you some top prospects within each conference. For this edition, we will dive into some of the top prospects for the Big 12 and B1G Conferences. 

You can dive into our full Top 75 Collegiate Prospects for the 2025 MLB Draft list here: https://www.prospectslive.com/prospects-live/2024/9/21/2025-mlb-draft-top-75-collegiate-prospects

HITTERS - Big 12 (by Jared Perkins)

OF Brendan Summerhill - Arizona

Prospects Live Ranking: #6

Summerhill is a kid who has been rising up draft boards after an incredible year with Arizona last year and a strong performance in the Cape Cod league this summer. Our very own Brian Switzer covered much of his Cape performance in one of his latest article. Summerhill flashes solid tools across the board, starting with the bat. He tore it up with the Wildcats last season, slashing .324/.399/.550, and continued that performance in the Cape this summer, where he slashed .286/.358/.441 with eight extra-base hits in 95 plate appearances. His ability to put up numbers comes from his elite contact rates, 87% in 2024, and his ability to hit the ball hard as he had a max exit velocity of 109.6 MPH in the spring. Defensively, Summerhill has plus speed to help him track down balls in centerfield and he couples that with a solid ability to track and read balls and good route running, which should help him stick there. He’s going to be a fun one to watch as he goes into his junior year and he should play a massive role for a strong Arizona team. 

OF Brendan Summerhill (@ArizonaBaseball): Long & lanky athlete with fun raw tools. Summerhill captured attention in college baseball in the last calendar year, starting with his outstanding summer in 2023 at Rockford (Northwoods League) that translating into Arizona this spring… pic.twitter.com/E3CMTH4Muo

— Brian Switzer II (@BrianSwitzerII) June 24, 2024

1B/OF Nolan Schubart - Oklahoma State

Prospects Live Ranking: #23

Power is the name of the game for the Cowboys left-hander. Coming in at 6’5, 233 pounds, Schubart is an absolute presence in the box, and some projection remains. Schubart possesses some of the best exit velos in the country as his 90th percentile exit velo was 111 MPH, and his max exit velo was 114.7 MPH—just insane juice from the lefty. Most of that pop is to his poolside. On top of that, he was in the 99th percentile in barrel percentage. Contact is where Schubart struggles as he had a 63.3% contact rate last year. He’s struggled with velocity up in the zone, and Whiff’s is much more than desired. He offsets that with a good feel for the strike zone and generates a good amount of walks. Defensively, Schubart played some outfield and has the arm to stick there. Given his size, he lacks the needed route-running ability and might be destined to play first base. Schubart will quickly find himself rising up boards if he can improve the hit tool department. 

OF Brandon Compton - Arizona State

Prospects Live Ranking: #58

Arizona State is absolutely loaded with MLB draft talent going into the 2025 season and on the offensive side of the ball, that list is led by OF Brandon Compton. He was another Big12 bat that had a breakout on the Cape and our Brian Switzer also covered him in his latest article. Compton tore it up for Cotuit, slashing .331/.414/.489 with nine extra-base hits and 30 RBI in 38 games—some insane numbers. Compton’s biggest weakness was his ability to get on-base via the walk, but he improved on those numbers over the summer and it will be interesting to see if that continues going into 2025. An improvement in his ability to make contact will benefit Compton offensively as well as he sported a 71% contact rate last year. Defensively, Compton played mostly left field in the Cape and held his own due to efficient route running and a solid ability to track the baseball. He’s not super-rangey but makes up for it with a fairly strong arm. The power is real, and if he can make real improvements in the hit tool department, it will be hard to ignore Compton on draft day. 

2B Mason White - Arizona

Prospects Live Ranking: #63

White just hits the ball hard. It is some of the best pop in the entire country. With a max EV of nearly 114 MPH, White is just powerful. He has some legit bat speed and can drive the ball all over the field. The biggest issue with White is his ability to make contact as he sported a contact rate below 70% last year. He tends to chase too much out of the zone. He’s very aggressive and has a lot of movement to his swing, which he could benefit from toning it down just a bit. He really struggled with the strikeout in the Cape this summer as he struck out 39 times in 118 plate appearances. Defensively, White is likely to stick at 2B due to his limited range. He also lacks speed and isn’t a massive threat on the base paths. 

OF Damian Bravo - Texas Tech

Prospects Live Ranking: #68

As Tyler Jennings noted in his Top 75 list, Bravo was originally a two-way player when he arrived at Texas Tech but has shifted to hitter only. The most impressive part about Bravo’s offensive game is his ability to hit the ball all over the field. He covers the field with the best of the best. He pairs that with an excellent ability to get barrel-to-ball and solid exit velocity numbers. His 90th percentile EVs 105 MPH. Bravo does chase and whiff a bit more than you’d want to see, but there is plenty of time to improve in those areas. Defensively, Bravo played all three outfield positions last year and is likely destined for a corner OF spot. His above-average speed and decent route running should help him stick there. If he can polish up his abilities in the hit department, Bravo will become even more intriguing. 

OF Isaiah Jackson - Arizona State

Prospects Live Ranking: #69

Another Sun Devil bat, Jackson has been an intriguing prospect regardless of being so polarizing. Jackson was taken by the Houston Astros in the 18th round of the 2022 MLB Draft out of high school but opted to head to Arizona State. He’s full of athleticism and has a strong, well-built frame already. He has sold out a bit for power and has reached 110 MPH with his exit velos. While his ability to make contact and high chase rates are somewhat concerning, his bat and hand speed are a scout's dream. On the defensive side of the ball, Jackson has the athleticism and abilities to handle center field. It’s an average arm, but he possesses above-average speed that helps him track down the ball. He will need to improve the hit tool quite a bit, but if he makes any solid adjustments to his approach, the sky is the limit for Jackson. 

HITTERS - B1g (by JD Cameron)

OF Devin Taylor - Indiana

Prospects Live Ranking: #4

Taylor followed up an exceptional freshman campaign with an even better sophomore season in Bloomington, flourishing to become one of the standout college bats in the 2025 class. He followed up his 1.109 OPS, 20 home run season with an impressive performance (.907 OPS) on the Cape for Cotuit. An explosive, left-handed bat headlines Taylor’s profile. A thickly built lower half helps deliver plenty of bat speed and his swing is direct to the ball, allowing Taylor to access his plus power to all fields in games. His hit tool and pitch recognition skills have improved too, he posted a contact rate just south of 80% in 2024, although he can be tempted to chase at times (particularly fastballs).

While Taylor’s other tools are less exciting, it’s still average speed and an average arm. There’s a chance Taylor finds time in center field for the Hoosiers in 2025. If he manages the position effectively, it can be another asset in his already robust draft stock, although he’s likely a left fielder as a professional given the limitation of his supplementary tools and raw route running. The appeal is the bat here, and Taylor has a chance to have a mightily impressive resume by next summer that will likely position him for consideration as one of the first college bats off the board in July.

Got some open-side cuts to post now.

.@IndianaBase OF Devin Taylor looked very solid at the plate in the first game, notching two hard-hit singles. Solid bat speed with thump, didn't chase often, and worked deep at-bats. He's one of the top prospects in the 2025 class. pic.twitter.com/JTwCektVym

— Tyler Jennings (@TylerJennings24) June 27, 2024

2B Jasen Oliver - Indiana

Prospects Live Ranking: #53

Oliver had an outstanding 2024 campaign as a true freshman in a formidable Indiana lineup, hitting .285/.362/.529 (.891) while sneakily launching ten home runs (20 extra-base hits) in a well-rounded offensive profile. Oliver’s production is backed up by his advanced numbers. He posted a 90th percentile exit velocity of 105 mph, paired with a 94% in-zone contact rate, buoying a toolset that marries a rare blend of extra-base impact with excellent bat-to-ball skills.

Oliver sets up in a low, crouched position at the plate, with some bat waggle in his stance. A mid-sized leg kick makes the operation at the plate a little noisy, but Oliver has fast hands and twitchy rotation in his swing, allowing him to be consistently on time and adjust when needed. Defensively, Oliver looks strong at second base. It’s a quick first step, good lateral movement, and enough arm strength to allow him some positional versatility and certainly afford him the luxury of staying on the dirt. Oliver is a draft-eligible sophomore who can climb even higher than his current ranking with another strong campaign in Bloomington.

3B Bryce Molinaro - Penn State

Prospects Live Ranking: #75

Molinaro redshirted at St. Johns before transferring to Penn State ahead of a 2024 season in which he came out hot. He mashed his way to a .329/.409/.560 (.970) with 11 home runs (25 extra-base hits) in 53 games. It’s hard to ignore batted ball events that reach 112 mph as a portent of plus power as a professional. Molinaro has an upright stance in the batter's box with a swing that’s loft-oriented and can handle fastballs in the upper third of the strike zone. Molinaro can look a little stiff at the plate, struggling more against breaking pitches, albeit without chasing at a concerning level.

Defensively, Molinaro looks solid, if not spectacular, at third base. He has the arm and range to stick at the position as a pro. The offensive profile has swing-and-miss and an excess of strikeouts. If Molinaro can refine his approach and adjust more effectively against spin, he could be a top-100 pick in July.

PITCHERS - Big 12 (by Jared Perkins)

RHP Gabe Davis - Oklahoma State

Prospects Live Ranking: #24

Davis is the best arm on this list, and it is apparent that it is because of his stuff and size. Coming in at 6’9, 225lbs, Davis is a massive presence on the mound, giving you a lot to dream about. The pitch mix is highlighted by a mid-90s fastball that gets tons of extension. The pitch has been up to 99 mph and has some cutter action to it. He pairs that with a solid slider which is easily his best pitch. It’s in the upper-80s and has more cutter action when it gets near the 90s. He generates a ton of Whiff and Chase on the pitch. He also has a change-up and a more looping curveball in the low-80s. Command is his most significant issue, but if he makes some improvements there, Davis quickly becomes one of the top arms on the board. The burgeoning stuff will still have many likely thinking about him in the first round. 

LHP Ben Jacobs - Arizona State

Prospects Live Ranking: #36

Jacobs represents the highest-ranked Sun Devil on our Top 75 list, and it is for good reason. He saw limited time at UCLA, which led him to transfer to ASU, where he struck out 102 batters over 66.1 innings pitched—absurd numbers. The fastball is obviously Jacobs’ best pitch, and while the velocity sat in the low 90s, there is tons of carry to the pitch. He’s able to miss bats like crazy with that pitch. It’s a plus pitch, for sure. He’s got a solid slider to go along with his fastball. His curveball is better than his slider and has a ton of sweep. He also has a splitter in the low 80s and misses bats like crazy with that pitch. It’s just a solid four-pitch mix, and he commands all of them fairly well, although there is room for improvement. He’s a really fun arm and will likely be the Friday night guy for the Sun Devils this year. If he continues to improve his command on all his pitches, he could see himself being taken in the first round. 

Ben Jacobs set the tone with the high heat in today's scrimmage. The pitching staff striking out nineteen while only walking three in today's scrimmage. 🔥🔥🔥

MPH: 93.4
Spin Rate: 2481 RPM
IVB: 23.1 In.
HB: -8.25 In. pic.twitter.com/qj9i9qC9iE

— ASU Baseball Analytics (@Devs_Analytics) October 19, 2024

LHP Ben Abeldt - TCU

Prospects Live Ranking: #70

Ben Abeldt is another intriguing lefty in the 2025 MLB Draft class. It’s a very funky delivery that is Chris Sale-esque. It’s a sinker that ranges from 91-94 MPH but has topped out at 95 MPH, which comes from a low release angle. He gets a ton of chase with this pitch. He is a fastball-heavy arsenal, but he has an excellent slider that he pairs with it. It’s a bullet-style slider with a ton of bite and sweep on it. He also has a changeup he uses a lot less and mostly for righties, but rounds out his arsenal reasonably well. Abeldt struggles with his command and control, which has pushed him chiefly to a relief roll. If he can improve there, there could be a higher ceiling, but if not, there is still much to like as a reliever profile. 

On The Clock: Interview with 2025 MLB Draft Prospect Xavier Neyens

In this episode of On the Clock, hosts Jared Perkins and Tyler Jennings sit down with 2025 MLB Draft prep prospect Xavier Neyens from Mount Vernon, Washington, to discuss his journey and experiences in amateur baseball. Xavier shares insights into his baseball beginnings, playing with Cascade Crush, and later joining Trotsky, which marked his entry into the national circuit. He describes how participating in various tournaments, including Perfect Game National and events in Arizona and California, helped him grow as a player. His commitment to the sport is evident as he reflects on the excitement of being invited to the MLB All Star Game High School Home Run Derby and his time spent competing alongside top talent from across the country.

Xavier talks about his summer, packed with tournaments like WWBA in Georgia and the USA Baseball events. He recounts notable moments, such as hitting a home run at USA trials and learning from both his successes and struggles on the field. Emphasizing the importance of mental resilience, Xavier mentions how conversations with mentors like Austin Shenton helped him stay grounded during tough games. He highlights the camaraderie he shares with fellow players and how these experiences not only develop his skills but also allow him to create lasting memories with his teammates.

In addition to baseball, Xavier discusses his off-field interests and how they provide balance in his life. He shares that he enjoys basketball, building Lego sets, and spending time outdoors, which help him reset mentally. Looking ahead to 2025, he aims to continue improving his athleticism and refining his skills, with a particular focus on sticking at shortstop. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions, where Xavier reveals his favorite local food spot, his all-time favorite home run, and a playlist of potential walk-up songs for his final high school season. The hosts express excitement for his future and wish him success as he continues his baseball journey.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2025-mlb-draft-3b-of-xavier-neyens/id1733326436?i=1000672492319

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3HgZel1eTql4v287U0ACzq?si=3bd2047f323d4628

2025 MLB Draft Top 75 Collegiate Prospects: Conference Breakdowns (Mid-Majors/Independents)

Tyler Jennings has been crushing it with the 2025 MLB Draft boards and recently released his top 75 college prospects. Over the next few weeks, we will bring you some top prospects within each conference. For this edition, we will dive into some of the top mid-major prospects across the NCAA.

You can dive into our full Top 75 Collegiate Prospects for the 2025 MLB Draft list here: https://www.prospectslive.com/prospects-live/2024/9/21/2025-mlb-draft-top-75-collegiate-prospects

HITTERS

SS Aiva Arquette - Oregon State

Prospects Live Ranking: #7

Arquette, a standout from Saint Louis High School and a rising star in college baseball, has captured the attention of scouts for his performance at the University of Washington and in the Cape Cod League. He’s been a massive get for Oregon State in this years transfer portal. He has been one of the biggest risers in the college ranks. Arquette is a huge physical presence at shortstop at 6’4, 220lbs adding another name to the “tall shortstops” category. Given his size and stature, he could move to third base in the future as he gains more physicality.  His offensive game saw major strides in his sophomore season, showcasing a balanced approach, impressive exit velocities, and the ability to hit to all fields. He’s got imense raw power, especially to the opposite field, but his patience at the plate needs some more development as he can get a tad aggressive. Regardless, there are a ton of tools to dream on and a solid season at Oregon State will likely have his name being called super early in the 2025 MLB Draft.

🚀Liftoff on Montlake🚀

INF Aiva Arquette takes Stanford RHP Matt Scott deep to LCF on a chilly night. Reaches for 93 up on the black.

Arquette ranks as the No. 107 prospect in the 2025 Draft at @FSS_PLUS. pic.twitter.com/QPGNm6n6N6

— Joe Doyle (@JoeDoyleMiLB) March 9, 2024

C Caden Bodine - Coastal Carolina

Prospects Live Ranking: #12

Bodine is one of the most impressive bats at the plate due to his ability to get barrels easily, and he does it at an excellent level from both sides. He ran up some absurd contact rates and had a good feel for the strikezone. He can get overly aggressive sometimes, but he does a good job keeping that mostly in check. Bodine has started to tap into more power but has maxed out at 11 home runs in his freshman year. He struggled in a small sample size in the Cape Cod League this summer, but he was limited to six games, given he also spent some time with the USA Collegiate National Teams. Defensively, Bodine has all the tools to stick behind the plate. He’s a force behind the plate as he does a good job keeping the ball in front of him and has a decent arm to throw guys out. There is a lot to like here for teams looking at him in the 2025 MLB Draft, and another strong season should keep him high on draft boards. 

3B Trent Caraway - Oregon State

Prospects Live Ranking: #18

As you can see, Oregon State is chock-full of offensive studs in their lineup in 2025, just like they were in 2024. Trent Caraway is an athletic and versatile infielder who stands out for his strong defensive instincts and reliable glove work, particularly at shortstop and third base. He has solid arm stroength and thinks he should be able to handle the hot corner long-term in the future. Offensively, power is the name of the game for Caraway. He hits the ball HARD! He’s already maxed out at 113.1 mph with his exit velos. He has shown developing power potential but can be quite aggressive at times and is working on making more consistent contact. He’s shown some swing-and-miss and hits the ground on the ball too much, but he has improved his approach some recently. He has a decent amount of speed on the base paths and is far from a clog out there. His maturity and baseball IQ set him apart as a player with high upside and a promising future.

OF Nick Dumesnil - Cal Baptist

Prospects Live Ranking: #20

Dumesnil really popped off as one of the best mid-major bat prospects in the entire nations after his sophomore season at Cal Baptist. The outfielder slashed an absurd .362/.440/.702 with a 1.142 OPS, including 19 2B, 19 HR, and 45 RBI. While he had some solid production he can be pretty aggressive at the plate. Dumesnil excels at punishing fastballs but can struggle with spin, leading to higher ground ball rates on breaking pitches. His speed and strong defensive instincts make him a versatile outfielder, with center field being his most likely position. After impressing in the WAC and continuing his success on the Cape, he’s now a legitimate Day 1 prospect with first-round potential. His power, speed, and defensive ability give him a robust toolset, though cutting down on his aggressiveness at the plate will be key as he faces tougher pitching.

OF Gavin Turley - Oregon State

Prospects Live Ranking: #22

ATHLETE! That sums up the skillset Turley brings to the table. There is a lot to like with his toolset across the board. He’s got a ton of bat speed that generates a massive amount of raw power. Turley’s weakness has always been his ability to make contact, but he showed a new approach in the Cape Cod League over the summer that led to much success. He cut down on his whiff and did a good job of laying off struff out of the zone. It was pretty impressive to see how quickly the new approach worked, and I’ll be curious to know if he can carry that success into the 2025 season. Defensively, Turley’s athleticism plays well in the outfield. Thanks to his speed, he gets good jumps and reads and can track almost anything down. He has a plus arm, and his throws have a ton of carry and accuracy. The key for Turley is going to be to continue refining his approach and cutting back on the swing-and-miss. If he can do that, there is a good chance he could see his name called early on day one. 

3B Triston “Murf” Gray - Fresno State

Prospects Live Ranking: #34

Triston 'Murf' Gray gets your attention right away.

The 6-foot-4 3B has plus bat speed, above-average power and advanced in-zone contact skills.

The @FresnoStateBSB star was one of the top prospects on the Cape this summer. https://t.co/Prvk3posXR pic.twitter.com/drsOeyq4Ce

— Baseball America (@BaseballAmerica) August 19, 2024

Coming in at 6’4, 220lbs, Murf Gray is a DUDE physically as he is built like a horse. The 2023 Mountain West Player of the Year earned this accolade because of his performance at the plate where he slashed .296/.358/.504 with 12 2B, 10 HR, and 52 RBI. He continued to produce at the plate this summer in the Cape Cod League against some of the better competition in the US. The power and contact skills combine make him an absolute threat at the plate. He couples excellent contact rates with solid exit velos thanks to his above-average bat speed, strength, and feel for the strike zone. Gray will eat up any fastball that comes his way, but can struggle with spin from time-to-time. He handles the hot corner pretty well and has a strong arm that helps him stick there. As of now, he will likely stick at third base, but there could be a possibility that he moves to the outfield in the future. Gray has day-one draft potential with his offensive upside if he refines his hit tool and maintains his value in other areas of the game.

C Brooks Bryan - Troy

Prospects Live Ranking: #47

Bryan is an absolute force at the plate. Bryan broke the RBI record at Troy with 85, which ranked fifth in the entire NCAA. He is one of the most powerful bats in the 2025 class as he combines explosive bat speed with plus raw power, especially from the left side. He posted significantly good exit velos his entire sophomore season as well. Bryan has some swing-and-miss to his game, but he does offset with a solid, disciplined approach at the plate. Behind the plate, he's a strong athlete with solid blocking skills and average arm strength, though he still needs to refine his framing and throwing out baserunners. Despite these areas for improvement, Bryan’s mix of power and athleticism make him a solid long-term catcher prospect.

OF Dallas Macias - Oregon State

Prospects Live Ranking: #55

Macias has transformed his profile since arriving at Oregon State, adding significant strength and bat speed to go along with his already impressive hit tool. Initially seen as more of a table-setter, he now boasts solid average raw power, especially from the left side, though his swing is more adjustable from the right. While Macias excels at making contact, his quality of contact against off-speed pitches, particularly from the left side, remains inconsistent, though he handles fastballs with ease. As a switch-hitter, he showcases versatility at the plate with an 86% contact rate and a chase rate below 25% during his time on the Cape. Defensively, Macias has experience across all outfield spots and has even played second and third base in spurts, but his average speed and arm strength suggest a future in left field. With his improved power and consistent contact ability, Macias is shaping up as a potential day-one pick in the 2025 draft.

1B/3B Michael Dattalo - Dallas Baptist

Prospects Live Ranking: #67

After a standout freshman season at Northwestern State, Dattalo transferred to Dallas Baptist and continued to showcase his offensive prowess, slashing .345/.395/.517 with eight home runs. His power and bat speed are undeniable, with aggressive swings producing high exit velocities, sometimes reaching 110 MPH. Though Dattalo occasionally expands the zone on breaking balls, his mature approach and ability to consistently make contact—evident in his 84% contact rate on the Cape—set him apart as one of the more promising hitters in his class. While primarily a third baseman, his defense can be inconsistent at times, and he’s also seen time at first base, where his athleticism and footwork face less of a challenge. Despite the defensive polish needed at the hot corner, Dattalo’s bat-first profile, with a mix of raw power and excellent barrel control, has firmly placed him on the radar as a prospect with considerable upside.

PITCHERS

RHP Tyler Bremner - UC Santa Barbara

Prospects Live Ranking: #3

After a solid sophomore year and an impressive showing at USA Collegiate National Taem, Bremner has skyrocketed to the top of list for pitching prospects in the 2025 MLB Draft. It’s been a contest between him and Jamie Arnold, but Bremner has set himself apart thus far. The stuff is electric. He’s got a mid-90s fastball that has topped 98 mph, which our Tyler Jennings caught at USA Collegiate this summer. The pitch has a ton of carry up in the zone and gets on batters quick. The changeup is his best pitch. It is a double-plus pitch with high spin rates and plays exceptionally well off his fastball. He’s also got a slider that has made many improvements since his freshman year and now has become a filthy third offering. Bremner has the makings of a solid three-pitch mix that are all above-average to plus offerings. It’s clear to most everyone why he might be the first arm off the board in the 2025 MLB Draft, especially if he has a solid junior season. 

RHP Justin Ellwanger - Dallas Baptist

Prospects Live Ranking: #29

Dallas Baptist always seems to be loaded with talent on the mound. Ellwanger was draft-eligible in 2023 and was selected by the Washington Nationals in the 19th round. He didn’t sign and made his way back to Dallas Baptist. Ellwanger followed his draft selection by absolutely dominating hitters in the box in the Cape Cod League where he struck out 22 batters in 13 innings to the tune of a 2.77 ERA. He’s got some electric stuff on the mound, led by his fastball, which touched 99 mph and sits in the mid-90s. He’s constantly missing bats with it. He pairs it with a mid-80s slider and low-80s curveball. He does better at throwing his slider for a strike than his fastball. He lacks chase with his curveball, but the pitch has some good depth to it. 

LHP Grant Richardson - Grand Canyon

Prospects Live Ranking: #73

As a fellow Arizonan, I always love seeing Grand Canyon guys on this last. GCU has been a sneaky good baseball program for years now. Richardson provides them with another intriguing prospect for the MLB Draft to continue the guys they’ve been able to produce in the past. Richardson underwent elbow surgery in July after transitioning into the rotation for the Lopes. The lefty is a physical presence on the mound coming in at 6’3, 220lbs. He’s got a solid fastball that sits in the mid-90s (92-95), but has been up to 97 mph. He isn’t afraid to work the pitch up in the zone on batters. He’s got a sharp slider with plenty of bite that he pairs with his fastball as it averages 85-87 mph and has been up to 89 mph. He’s flashed a changeup from time-to-time but the pitch is very inconsistent and still a work in progress. Command has always been a struggle for Richardson, but there is enough there for him to become a potential reliever. If he can polish his secondaries and hone some of his command issues, there could be a potential starter. 

Another masterclass on the mound from @grant_rich22 with 8 K's in a one-run effort. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/MecalyBbWZ

— Grand Canyon Baseball (@GCU_Baseball) May 4, 2024

On The Clock: Interview with 2025 MLB Draft Prospect Devin Taylor

Photo Credit: Indiana Athletics

In this episode of the On the Clock podcast, Devin Taylor, an outfielder from Indiana and one of the top 2025 MLB Draft picks, shares his journey in baseball and the steps he's taken to become a standout player. From a young age, Devin and his brother practiced hitting daily with their father, instilling a work ethic that shaped his career. Devin also played basketball in high school but eventually focused on baseball. Off the field, he enjoys spending time with his teammates, playing video games, and exploring the beautiful Indiana campus, emphasizing the importance of balance between work and relaxation.

Devin discusses his experience playing for Team USA and his performance in summer leagues like the Cape Cod League. He highlights how playing with top-tier athletes helped him improve his game, especially as he focused on refining his outfield skills and maintaining consistency at the plate. Devin also mentions how his mentors, particularly his father and hitting coach Lance Durham, have been crucial in his development. Even during rough patches, such as struggling at the Cape Cod playoffs, he credits Durham for helping him regain his confidence and swing.

Looking ahead, Devin is excited for the upcoming college baseball season with Indiana University. With back-to-back regional appearances, the team is focused on advancing further, with hopes of reaching the Super Regionals or even Omaha. Devin also shares some personal insights through rapid-fire questions, from his favorite home run memory to his dream of facing MLB pitcher Zack Wheeler. The episode wraps up with Devin expressing his gratitude for his mentors and teammates, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and continual growth.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2025-mlb-draft-of-devin-taylor-indiana/id1733326436?i=1000671537786

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7alpOxYzAyu12RhXPKsISq?si=861605ea18634b53

On The Clock: Top 75 College Board and 2025 MLB Draft Prospect Miguel Sime, Jr. Joins the Show

In this episode of On the Clock, the hosts, Jared Perkins and Tyler Jennings, dive into college and MLB draft news, starting with Georgia Bulldogs' recent transfer acquisition, Devin Obee. Obee, a standout outfielder from Duke, turned down a significant offer during the MLB Draft to complete his education and transferred to Georgia. His defensive skills, power, and ability to fill a key center field position make him a crucial addition to Georgia's lineup. The hosts also discuss how Obee’s arrival, along with returning talent, positions the Bulldogs for a strong run in the upcoming season. They then discuss Shane Sdao of Texas A&M, who will miss the season due to Tommy John surgery, and how the Aggies' strong bullpen will need to compensate for the loss.

Lastly, they dive into a discussion of Florida State's top draft prospect, Cam Leiter, whose status remains unclear due to injury. They wrap up with a sneak peek of their top 75 college prospects for the 2025 MLB draft, showcasing standout players from across the country and offering insight into how fall ball will shape the spring season.

Finally, the Jared and Tyler are joined by Miguel Sime Jr., a highly touted right-handed pitcher from Queens Village, New York. Miguel shares his journey, starting from tee-ball at age three to becoming a top MLB draft prospect. He highlights a turning point in his career at 14 when he hit 92 mph at a tournament, which opened doors for him in college and professional baseball. Now throwing up to 100 mph, Miguel talks about his training regimen and goals, including refining his pitch arsenal and improving his command to go deeper into games. Committed to LSU, Miguel expresses his excitement about the coaching staff and the welcoming environment at the school, as well as the influence of his father and trainer in shaping his work ethic. The interview provides a personal glimpse into the life of an elite pitching prospect as he prepares for the next stage of his career.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/break-down-of-the-top-75-college-prospects-and/id1733326436?i=1000671274399

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1F1bXI4uPM0pfUD4AvMW8r?si=b88db01297804675

2025 MLB Draft Risers: Top prep hitters whose stock keeps rising

This past summer was the most significant summer so far for the 2025 prep class. It served as one of their last chances to play against elite competition, get in front of scouts, and raise their draft stock as the focus shifts to the 2025 draft that’ll take place next summer. Some late risers always rush on the scene during the spring high school seasons, but at this point, we do generally have a solid understanding of this prep class as a whole. Here, we’ll be looking at some prep hitters that caught my attention and cemented themselves as top-of-the-class players this past summer.

Carson Brumbaugh, MIF/RHP, Uncommitted

Brumbaugh played in minimal events this summer due to an injury, but he took full advantage of his time on the diamond. He has a strong 6’2” 190lb frame with noticeable strength already present in the lower half. There’s a lot going on with the swing with a medium leg kick and active hands, but this doesn’t stop him from consistently getting the barrel to the ball. He shows an excellent feel at the plate with impressive barrel dexterity that allows him to cover all parts of the zone and impact the baseball with authority to all parts of the field. He comfortably possesses an above-average hit tool with present average raw power that could blossom into an above-average tool. In the field, he showed rhythmic feet and soft hands, indicating that he could handle the six spot at the highest level. In the one event that he did play, he was recovering from an arm injury and only played second base, but there is very real arm strength present here as well, as he was running it up into the mid-90s on the mound prior to this injury. Brumbaugh is an absolute toolshed with present, innate feel for the barrel who should continue to rise up boards as the 2025 draft creeps closer.

Carson Brumbaugh (25 OK) smokes a single the other way. Really stays behind the ball well before exploding with the hands. #Elite #Vols commit @USAPrimeNat https://t.co/BgeVp50cwx pic.twitter.com/xA0EMF4l2h

— Perfect Game Scout (@PG_Scouting) July 19, 2024

Eric Hines, OF/3B, Alabama recruit

Hines burst onto the scene this summer, most notably when he hit a ball 114mph during batting practice (!!) at the Perfect Game National Showcase. Standing at a physically imposing 6’3” 210lbs, Hines possesses top-of-the-scale raw power that can go toe to toe with anyone in this 2025 prep class. In the box, he sets up with a fairly neutral stance and a minimal, repeatable load. He presents his back foot to be slightly open and keeps most of his weight over his backside throughout the swing. This shifts the spine angle as he rotates through to ball strike and allows for a bat path geared to loft the baseball consistently. On top of this, he has impressive hand strength that he uses to create some electric bat speed. He can run into a bit of trouble in the box when he stays on his back leg too long, as this causes the barrel and bat path to come through the hitting zone at an approach angle that is too steep. This can cause pop-ups, rollovers, and swing and miss which Hines showed issues with at times throughout the summer. But, the physical tools are simply too much to ignore here, and when his swing is on and “balanced”, very few players can impact the baseball in the fashion that Hines can. In the field, Hines profiles as a corner outfielder as he’s shown average speed and a decent arm that should continue to progress. There’s certainly a chance that he ends up at first base due to the frame, but if he can stick in the outfield, his value will only be that much higher for organizations next summer.

Eric Hines (‘25 AL) gets into this ball driving it on a line through the LCF gap for a RBI 2B. @PG_eepSouth #NatElite #RollTide commit pic.twitter.com/3jPHrXjgK5

— Perfect Game Scout (@PG_Scouting) July 9, 2024

Omar Serna, C/CIF, LSU recruit

Next up in a long line of high-level catching prospects to commit to Jay Johnson’s Tigers, Serna offers an elite set of tools on both sides of the ball. He put on an excellent performance at the Area Code games towards the end of the summer, going 4-9 with two home runs, a double, and a triple in gameplay. Serna utilizes his lower half well in the box, sinking into it as he begins his forward move. He uses a medium leg kick as a timing mechanism, and when everything is synched up, the swing is a thing of beauty. However, he can occasionally run into timing issues, especially against spin, when he gets his front foot down too early. This impacts the fluidity of the swing at times, but he has strong enough hands and enough bat speed to get off a competitive swing still when he is not on time. The bat path is geared for loft, and he has no issue getting the ball in the air with authority and consistency. Behind the plate, Serna has outlier athleticism and arm strength which give him, potentially, the best catch and throw skills in the 25 class of catchers. He’s shown the ability to handle high-level arms with solid receiving and blocking throughout the summer circuit. For me, this is a power over hit catcher that will provide plenty of value behind the plate defensively.

2025 C Omar Serna @_omarserna26 | @_LSABaseball

Headed down to Houston last night to watch the Dodgers Scout Team. Serna was impressive in the box all night. Had a couple hits including a loud 2B to LC. Easy power from the @LSUbaseball recruit and it plays in game. #mlbdraft… pic.twitter.com/5mIUNV53Ec

— Brandon Gowins (@PBRGowins) September 18, 2024

Ty Peeples, OF, UGA Recruit

In my opinion, Peeples is the best left-handed swing in the class. It’s a similar swing to that of Xavier Neyens, but much more controlled throughout. This summer, he showed an excellent ability to control the strike zone and not expand. Couple that with his propensity for getting his best swing off, and you have an extremely dangerous hitter with a high ceiling. He sets up in a reasonably neutral, taller stance before going into a medium leg kick as he begins his load. Peeples does a great job of controlling his forward move throughout the swing, which allows him to consistently get his best swing off and put the ball in play in the air. He showed above-average bat speed on the summer circuit with advanced hit and power tools to boot. It’s a enticing offensive skillset that should continue to get scouts’ attention as we work through the fall and spring. In the outfield, Peeples has solid speed and average arm strength. It’s a prototypical corner outfield profile, and as he continues to fill out his slim 6’2” 185lb frame, the arm strength and power outputs should keep improving.

Ty Peeples (‘25 GA)- with a double to deep LCF from the #GoDawgs commit. Nice flowing swing from No. 1 ranked player in the GA class. #WWBA pic.twitter.com/haOyofCehy

— Perfect Game Georgia (@PG_Georgia) June 16, 2024

On The Clock: Interview with 2025 MLB Draft Prospect Ike Irish

In this episode of On the Clock, Jared and Tyler interview Ike Irish, a standout player from Auburn Tigers baseball and a top 2025 MLB Draft prospect. Ike shares his journey from middle school to playing for Auburn, starting with his days on the Motor City Hit Dogs, a travel team full of talent. His amateur career saw him visiting colleges early on, but it wasn’t until he found his way to Auburn that he truly felt at home. He speaks fondly of his time at Orchard Lake St. Mary’s, a Michigan prep school where he honed his skills alongside future Division I players, which he believes set him up for success at the collegiate level.

Ike talks about the ups and downs of his freshman year at Auburn, from battling mono to finding his stride at the plate. His summer playing in the Cape Cod League helped refine his game, particularly focusing on hitting the ball to the pull side and adjusting his stance. Ike also opens up about overcoming injuries, including a wrist issue that plagued him during his sophomore season, and how he worked through those challenges with the support of his coaches and teammates.

In the end, we shift to his outlook on the future; Ike emphasizes his desire to improve defensively, particularly in receiving low pitches as a catcher, and his goal to steal more bases. Reflecting on his development, he expresses gratitude for the Auburn coaching staff, noting how much they’ve contributed to his growth. We conclude with fun rapid-fire questions, where Ike talks about his favorite home run, his walk-up song choices, and his love for bowling and golfing as ways to decompress from the intensity of baseball.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2025-mlb-draft-c-ike-irish-auburn-tigers/id1733326436?i=1000670596056

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/68tlVfrC7yIr1x0IW43H2d?si=qfMiuNLfR_y1xI4em0lYDQ

Switz Report: Recap 2024 Cape Cod "Top Performers" Heading into the 2025 Draft

As promised in my last article, I come back this week to deliver some of the top performers that were seen on the Cape this year. To clear any confusion that may develop, some of the guys that you see below I would even classify as dudes that could’ve been in the last article of the best dudes and talent overall in the league like Aiva Arquette and vice versa as many of guys in the last article were the headliners and statistical leaders of the summer. 

Nonetheless, the dudes last time around are guys that I feel very confident that they will end up getting their name called on the first day and have little risk of falling out of the first round and CB-A unless drastic measures occur. This week, there are guys that caught fire this year in some capacity and really turned it on where they could develop the rumblings of being drafted early. 

As mentioned in last week’s article, the pitching on the Cape this year was underwhelming, and thus again, this week we are shut out with arms that really grabbed attention. I will highlight some of the pitchers who did well and have some early draft upside on a later day. However, the position players again take the prize of being recognized this week and I’m excited to highlight a backstop that has garnered attention during the 2024 baseball calendar (When given the opportunity to highlight catcher’s I love to give that attention as many get overlooked for the flashy web-gem play’s and flamethrowing arms in the sport.). 

Below are five dudes that I saw on the Cape that developed some breakout performances and numbers over the summer where they proved they belong to be mentioned with the top college dudes eligible in next year's draft. Many of these guys showed some struggles or absences sometime during their first two seasons of college baseball but developed helium strides with a good 2024 college season and Cape this summer. 

| INF Aiva Arquette | Oregon St. | Draft Eligible: 2025 |

Cape Numbers: .291/.357/.437 (.794), 4 2B, 1 3B, 3 HR, 21 RBI, 15 R, 2 SB, 8 BB, 28 K (23.9%)

In his first at-bat since being named a CCBL All-Star, Aiva Arquette crushes a ball deep to right center field, skipping over the wall for a ground rule double.

🎙️@AndrewSelover pic.twitter.com/3lk0emNDe6

— Chatham Anglers (@ChathamAnglers) July 20, 2024

Switz’s Notes: Last time before publishing the first Cape article, I went back and forth if I wanted to add Arquette. However, I wanted to keep a five-prospect structure to my article series and omitted him. Nevertheless, he easily could've been added to the "Best of the Best" as he grabbed the eyes of anyone who attended Chatham games over the summer, from his 6 '4 size at short to his ability to make an impact on nearly every play, which led to an easy All-Star selection in the middle of July that was rightfully deserved.

When evaluating draft prospects and heading into each July, I love it when the industry has the ability to highlight an individual coming out of the island(s) of Hawaii as they rightly deserve more recognition and a spotlight that doesn't come their way. This is the same case for a guy like Arquette, who came off the island as a toolsy prospect and now is making a name for himself on the West Coast after a robust performance this summer that grabbed the attention of all college baseball and headlined many transfer portal big boards. This ushers him with the ability and potential argument to be the best college position player in next year's draft and even the highest Hawaiian ever drafted during the annual Rule 4 Draft in MLB history.

Arquette manned the middle of the order during his tenure with Washington before jumping to Oregon State and played second base for the Huskies. While he excelled up the middle at second, over the summer, he proved that moving forward he should be on the left side of the dirt as he was one of the best defensive shortstops seen by scouts over the summer on the Cape. Many scouts, evaluators, and talking baseball heads on the internet go back and forth with where Arquette’s long-term position is at the pro level: whether he stays at short or moves over to third base to match his lengthy size and arm strength. Which I do agree that either third base or even right field would match his profile better. However, he showed me enough over the summer that he could play shortstop and would take an elite SS defender to move him off the position for me to relocate him on the diamond. 

When seeing these talks about Arquette moving to the corner or even the outfield, it gives me flashback vibes when they told Carlos Correa coming out of high school and even Troy Tulowitzki coming out of Long Beach that due to the length at the six-hole, they would not be able to play shortstop at the next level. However, even as tall players for the position, they showed their athleticism and defensive prowess to stay up the middle at shortstop and evolve into a cornerstone franchise player at the premium position, a pattern Arquette could follow.

Aiva Arquette backhands a sizzling ground ball and delivers a jump throw from the outfield grass to end the top of the third inning.

🎙️@AndrewSelover pic.twitter.com/5VmiPhtyfI

— Chatham Anglers (@ChathamAnglers) July 27, 2024

Outside of displaying his abilities on the dirt, Arquette also balled out with the bat and showed that he can impact the game in many ways regardless of how the coach constructs their lineup by exhibiting RBI producer traits and XBHs at the dish (In 22 games generated 45 total bases and 21 RBIs which was T12 in the league). Further, a standout tool that sells me on Arquette for the next level is a data drop highlighted and outlined by former Prospects Live Analyst Joe Doyle below of Aiva's ability to hit the ball hard in the zone consistently within the same past precedence as many top draft selections and prospects have. This trait of Arquette's was very apparent on the Cape, and he further displayed a unique skill from over the spring: hardly chasing and whiffing in the zone. In my opinion, these traits are substantial reasons for the helium that you will see out of Arquette in the next calendar year going into the 2025 draft. If he has a monster 2025 where he can consistently lift the ball more and see further development within his raw pop, he can become a top 10 selection in July. 

As we look forward toward the 2025 Draft, here are three hitters who excel at hitting the ball a lot and hitting the ball hard a LOT. Usually a very good predictor of Draft value.@AivaArquette @_henryford_9 @TrePhelps1 pic.twitter.com/6S6MfY8CjM

— Joe Doyle (@JoeDoyleMiLB) August 26, 2024

Additionally, Arquette has a true gift on the diamond and plays the game uniquely, so it is hard to give him a true MLB comp. He plays very lanky and athletic, which makes me want to compare him to the Cruz's in the NL Central; however, they are true unicorns of the game with far better tools and athleticism than Arquette. At times, he gives Brandon Crawford-like vibes at SS, with his defense standing out, but I believe Arquette's power potential and offensive production will surpass Crawford when he truly develops on his raw power. So, for the readers, the best MLB comp I can give Arquette that I have thought of is him developing into a Troy Tulowizki-like dude, as I mentioned multiple times in my report. Two dudes that coming out of the draft, have an MLB-ready body and have all the tools that will be close to big league-ready when drafted (Tulo came up 14 months after he was drafted, and I can see Arquette following the same path if he has a monster spring as everything seems to come to him quickly within the game of baseball). Both are good defenders with a sound internal clock and the game doesn't get too fast for them. However, despite their good athleticism on the dirt and strong arm, they will likely be labeled offensive SS at the next level due to their RBI production and HR potential. 

Aiva Arquette with a leadoff single to start the second for the Chatham Anglers. Aggressive approach at the plate, jumped on the first FB he saw and good extension through the swing @ChathamAnglers @UW_Baseball #PGCape pic.twitter.com/QRK0soedrr

— PG College Baseball (@PGCollegeBall) June 25, 2024

Overall, the Hawaiian sold me on the product he is selling, which has upside bat-to-ball skills with all field contact, emerging robust pop, and defense/athleticism to stay at the premium six on the diamond. Not to sound like a true homer on the guy, but he is currently number one on my preferred list and 2025 draft big board going into fall ball and displays to me potential five-tool and annual All-Star upside. The sky's the limit for this dude and going into a draft where there seems to be lots of swing-and-miss in many draft profiles, I would bet on his in-zone contact, bat-to-ball skills, and athleticism over anyone else if I were an amateur scouting director. He should be an exciting draft prospect for the 2025 draft for us to watch next spring and follow moving forward. 

| OF/INF RJ Austin | Vanderbilt | Draft Eligible: 2025 |

Cape Numbers: .321/.361/.536 (.896), 6 2B, 2 HR, 9 RBI, 10 R, 6 SB, 3 BB, 12 K (19.3%)

*Played in only 15 contests

Sneak Peek👀 @RjAustin14 HR! pic.twitter.com/l0xD6P0xcV

— Summerball: Cape Cod (@summerballtv) July 16, 2024

RJ Austin (@VandyBoys) ROBS a home run ❌❌

🎙️: @lukewestpoley pic.twitter.com/PcGT1sk23v

— Y-D Red Sox (@YD_RedSox) July 20, 2024

Switz’s Notes: Austin was a late arrival on the Cape this summer after starting his summer campaign with Team USA in Cary. However, the former big-time prep star who passed on the opportunity of getting his name called in 2022 to go to Vandy made some noise over the summer by showing his athleticism more than the first base landlock that he was given over the spring and further displaying more soundness in his bat by hitting over .300, spraying hard contact everywhere. Anyone who watches Austin play sees the tools and high baseball IQ upside that he brings to the table for a pro team if selected. During the summer, Austin even showed some of his developing pop in his game with triple-digit EVs for XBHs. He even exhibited pull-side power to touch all the bases periodically in the summer without needing the turbo footspeed he provides. After back-to-back years on the Cape, exhibiting quality results with the wood, further indicates that outside of getting one of the best athletes in the draft, he has a quality hit tool that appears to get discounted at times. Austin further proved outside chatter wrong on the substantial question mark he had coming out of high school regarding his hitting/contact abilities. 

RJ Austin is such a dynamic player, has carried a strong spring at @VandyBoys over to the summer for @YD_RedSox, standout athlete, 5-tool upside, obvious bat + foot speed, premium 2025 #MLBDraft prospect

Watch him turn on the jets after ripping this ball down the LF line ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/wiqA2YJ0At

— Patrick Ebert (@PatrickEbert44) July 16, 2024

In the box, since coming to Vandy, he has changed his approach and has consistently tinkered with many things during ABs. The first thing that usually stands out within Austin is that he added more uphillness in his swing to tap into more XBH and HR pop. He’s also shuffled around, incorporating bigger leg kicks for better timing, lowering his hands, being a little more open, taking bigger strides, etc. He has shown the desire to improve his game and become the best version of himself at the plate possible and uses his time on the Cape to practice these in live AB settings. Seeing these things come together matched with his player profile and work ethic; this clicked the idea in my head of his player comp being similar to Ketel Marte (I know he is a switch-hitter; however, he didn’t hit double-digit HRs until he made changes to his swings) as he was a dude that went down the same path of a toolsy athlete, always looking to hit, and flashes the leather on occasion that makes being on the field for defense look easy. However, to be a more desirable and well-rounded ballplayer, they needed to tap more into their pop and produce HRs, which Marte did and has become a cornerstone player for Arizona. 

“THIS IS DRILLED” 🧨🧨

RJ Austin (@VandyBoys) with a HOME RUN

Score after the first inning:
Y-D: 1
Cotuit: 1

🎙️: @lukewestpoley pic.twitter.com/E4wwlTBJFB

— Y-D Red Sox (@YD_RedSox) July 15, 2024

Many of you may be asking and reading all this word salad, "ok why are you bringing this up?". I bring this to the limelight because after watching RJ's game over the summer and getting an eye on his metrics, it seems like Austin is getting towards the end of the road with his tinkering needed to be able to produce the necessary pop that Marte needed to break out at a young age as Austin is learning to simplify it down more at the plate, trust his core rotation, and getting more out of his energy from his back hip to drive the baseball deeper than before. With everything that Austin has worked on over the last two years with the Red Sox on the Cape and back in Nashville, and to quote that annoying Costco guy from TikTok, I think we are going to see either a big "boom or doom" season for Austin in a similar light as Mike Sirtoa in the 2023-2024 calendar where it is a strong contact numbers hitter with toolsy traits and athleticism that is trying to maximize themselves as a ballplayer for the next level by tinkering at the plate to see if they can summon more pop and HR production into their game. For Sirota, it didn't work out during the spring before the draft, and he fell from a potential top-15 player in the draft to the third round. I like Austin's chances a lot more than Sirota's due to his metrics and mechanics at the plate, which align more for the long ball than Sirota's, as he displayed more line drive pop than uphill-ness for the long ball. 

THE RJ AUSTIN SHOW 🧨

Austin (@VandyBoys) with a HOME RUN to tie up the game in the bottom of the seventh.

Y-D: 7
Falmouth: 7

🎙️: @benstrobermedia pic.twitter.com/ht6sTrl5Y6

— Y-D Red Sox (@YD_RedSox) July 20, 2024

Overall, going into this spring and next year's draft, Austin is going to be a violent, high-risk, and high-reward prospect that is hard for anyone to project for July. Since he was an HS prospect, Austin has always had the speed, athleticism, competitive instinct, and makeup for the next level. However, it was always about projecting what the hit tool and future value of the bat can provide. For Austin, after two years in college and on the Cape, it can be shown that he has the contact tool for the next level and the ingredients to be an everyday start for the pro level. However, the ability to tap into his HR pop within his elevation approach will be a deciding factor for his longevity in professional baseball. A strong spring that shows the pop that I expect should place him somewhere within that first round with college arms, last-minute helium guys, and the HS crop possibly passing him up. If he produces a season where the pop isn't made and doesn't align with the hard contact displayed over the 2024 calendar year, then a fall into early day two is possible like it did for Mike Sirota. Regardless of how the pop plays out, Austin has substantial contact tools for the next level and should hold his own even during this launch angle era baseball is currently in. 

| 3B Trent Caraway | Oregon St. | Draft Eligible: 2025 |

Cape Numbers: .276/.362/.449 (.811), 5 2B, 4 HR, 21 RBI, 17 R, 5 SB, 13 BB, 21 K (18.1%)

CARAWAY CRUISER🔥 for a solo HR🙌

T3 | FAL 5 - WAR 3 #rolldores @TrentCaraway @BeaverBaseball pic.twitter.com/OwwUndEgKr

— Falmouth Commodores (@FalCommodores) August 4, 2024

Switz’s Notes: Another Beaver from Oregon St makes this list of top performers from the summer on the Cape. Rewinding to the 2023 season, Caraway was one of the big surprises from that prep class who decided to take his talents to college over being selected in the draft (even with his mature athletic traits and advances in the box). He was a prospect and incoming freshman that many in the Pac-12 were excited to see play over the spring; however, his season was shortened to 18 games due to an injury with a broken finger. During his time over the spring and summer, he showed flashes with the bat by consistently producing hard contact and video game-like exit velocities. However, the ability to deliver these hard contact hits into HRs and XBHs is where he needs to pick up his game with little results so far and show more production versus movement outside of having the ability to bang FBs all over the park when pitched middle-middle. A consistent issue seen over his time on the Cape was him falling into being a victim of GDP (ground into double plays) due to his undesirable knack of hitting ground balls and not getting enough loft on the ball when hitting spin (an issue that carried over from the spring into his time with Falmouth).

Due to these tendencies, many teams picked this up in their advanced scouting reports in the league and started to pitch more spin and movement when he was at the dish down the stretch this summer. Even returning to his short stint in the spring, he produced a nasty 53% groundball rate. Over the summer, I believe he toiled on this issue and emphasized ironing out these issues seen in spring 2024 and minimizing them going into spring 2025 by displaying more line drive contact later on the Cape season. The issue I would like to see more from him in the spring is the ability to hit spin and give the Beaver fans what they want and for him to be productive. 

Trent Caraway with an RBI single to open scoring!😎

T1 | FAL 1 - WAR 0 #rolldores @TrentCaraway @BeaverBaseball pic.twitter.com/AzMlMmIIG0

— Falmouth Commodores (@FalCommodores) August 4, 2024

Regardless, I believe he has the tools and ability to turn all this around and take his rough 2024 baseball campaign and flip it 180 degrees in 2025, as before the injury struck him, he was a force to be reckoned with at the plate and was a front runner to be Freshman of the Year in his conference. Further, I see him getting some minor stuff worked out in the box where he can tap into the power for production more often and become a powerful home run hitter. He has smooth and fluid operation in the box, which I love in his game, and he has very polished movements and mechanics.

Liftoff for Trent Caraway with this two run 💣. Shows effortless pop off the barrel to send this HR deep to left and continues to flash some of the biggest power on the Cape @FalCommodores @BeaverBaseball #PGCape pic.twitter.com/cBx42q3YA2

— PG College Baseball (@PGCollegeBall) July 17, 2024

On the defensive side of the ball, he did show some struggles with Falmouth on the left side of the dirt, which even led to the point that he got benched for a game for his mistakes. At the pro level and the end of the road for Caraway, I think teams will have him match the power profile he delivers and move to 1st base with him putting more emphasis and energy into his offensive side of the ball. With him being a former high school prospect who was highly desired coming out of school, I think the floor is high for him going into the draft. A good season at the dish could skyrocket him into the first half of Day 1. However, I do not see him falling out of the top 50 - 60 unless some significant red flags or college influence motivates him to stay (cough….cough…NIL). A healthy Caraway next spring should be an exciting show to watch, and I believe that with the potent lineup that the Beavers will have, he should be able to carve a significant role at the plate with many RBI-producing opportunities and be a highly talked-about name in scouting circles. 

| OF Brandon Compton | Arizona St. | Draft Eligible: 2025 |

Cape Numbers: .331/.414/.489 (.903), 3 2B, 6 HR, 30 RBI, 26 R, 2 SB, 21 BB, 26K (16.6%)

Sweetness pic.twitter.com/APjYwZNprr

— Cotuit Kettleers (@CotuitKettleers) July 23, 2024

Switz’s Notes: If you ask who took the opportunity to grab the "brass rings" during the 2023 - 2024 college baseball calendar, many would answer Charlie Condon, Hagen Smith; some might answer Braden Montgomery or even Christian Moore. However, I would answer with Brandon Compton!

Compton was an under-the-radar two-way prospect who worked his way to Tempe over the summer of 2022 with the Sun Devils coaching staff with big expectations for him even with being ranked outside of the top 300 on PBR and not even given a grade on Perfect game as the coaching staff saw something in his game. Compton missed his true freshman season in 2023 after undergoing Tommy John Surgery, which regulated him to being a bat-only profile. Thus, he came back into the fold for the Sun Devils in the last year of the traditional Pac-12 conference and blew the doors off the competition at the dish, leading him to take the Pac-12 Conference Freshman of the Year award as a redshirt. After a strong spring for ASU, he continued his monster 2024 campaign by being a consistent offensive key for the Kettleers this summer, producing an impressive slash line of .331/.414/.489  and creating his own spotlight within the Cotuit lineup with eventual first-round talent Devin Taylor. Compton did have the opportunity last summer to get some reps within the Northwoods League. There, he first displayed that his bat isn't a joke with the wood by hammering .320/.423/.563 with 21 long balls and 71 RBIs (maybe one of the best productive seasons you may ever find from a college summer ball player). 

Brandon Compton sends one STRAIGHT OUTTA HERE

The @ASU_Baseball star gets us back in the game

EV: 102 mph
📏 415 ft

Bot 8
Y-D 9
Cotuit 6#HeyCotuit pic.twitter.com/jDdcXQNdC0

— Cotuit Kettleers (@CotuitKettleers) June 18, 2024

However, even with the impressive resume in the last calendar year, during his time on the Cape, and even going into next spring, Compton has some stuff to clean up offensively to remain a coveted prospect and continue the hype he has created in his 2024 breakout. First, he strikes out way too much (near a 25% clip) and needs to get that down (as most of his K's come from whiffs and chase on movement/offspeed). On the Cape, he helped himself by only striking out 16.5% in a small summer sample size, but he still has that chip on his shoulder from scouts that he needs to prove more versus movement. Which I get from a scout's perspective that with Compton only really providing an offensive profile with him being an underwhelming defender; they really need to make sure (some would add the pun and say "hit it out of the park") that the offensive profile will play for the next level. Next, having the ability to draw walks is a key ability that Compton needs to improve on after producing a BB rate of 10.8% last spring and roughly 13.3% on the Cape. When you go back and look at some of the best hitters coming out of college and getting selected early on Day 1 of the draft, most, if not all, have the ability to draw walks; a surge in this department next spring will boost his stock and value for next July. 

Brandon Compton launches a 2R HR to right field. Strong and smooth swing and showing tons of easy power in his game. @CotuitKettleers @ASU_Baseball #PGCape pic.twitter.com/p5YQ2EjIeg

— PG College Baseball (@PGCollegeBall) August 10, 2024

Over on Baseball America, former Prospects Live analyst and founder Geoff Pontes made a great comparison between Brandon Compton and recent first-round draft pick James Tibbs III, which is a great comp to have on the Sun Devil prospect currently. Many evaluators and scouts projected Tibbs mainly as an offensive profile player in college. Similarly, he had below-average defense, some swing-and-miss within his younger years (needed to lower his K%), and needed to display a boost in his walk rates to get his respectable draft stock up. 

You can put it on the boooooooard… Yes!

Brandon Compton (@ASU_Baseball) absolutely turns on a breaking ball to put us in the run column.

EV: 95 mph
📏 409 ft

Bot 3
Bourne 7
Cotuit 1 pic.twitter.com/2roiF6xdvi

— Cotuit Kettleers (@CotuitKettleers) August 4, 2024

Thus, going into his draft-eligible season, Tibbs went to work. During his junior year at FSU and during his time within the Cape for Brewster the summer prior, he continued to impress with his contact tools and loud power potential, and it showed statistically. Coming off his freshman season into his upperclass years, he steadily climbed in home runs, WRC+, OPS, and batting average to finish his three-year college career. Tibbs ended college, lowering his K% to roughly 10% and boosting a respectable 18% BB rate to be selected in the first round. 

Brandon Compton continues to show great speed through the swing here, lines another one up for a single and stays inside it well @CotuitKettleers @ASU_Baseball #PGCape pic.twitter.com/ebGNSJDvPl

— PG College Baseball (@PGCollegeBall) August 4, 2024

Granted, Tibbs did this in three years at FSU, and Compton just came off his first year of college ball healthy. However, for Compton to garner that first-round status that Tibbs achieved going into his first draft-eligible college season, he will need to build off his freshman year and grow/develop further as a hitter Tibbs did. The helium is there for Compton, who is no longer in the shadows as an unknown hitter. The attention is now on him, and if he wants to get his name called on Day 1 next July, he will need to iron out his weakness and provide a substantial offensive performance next spring. As of right now, I like him within the latter half of the top 100 prospects when you factor in the HS dudes and I presently see him as an early day two prospect within the second or third round (picks if selected, may be too tempting for him to pass regarding the offered pool even with another two years of eligibility remaining).

| C Easton Carmichael | Oklahoma | Draft Eligible: 2025 |

Cape Numbers: .299/.372/.496 (.868), 10 2B, 5 HR, 23 RBI, 22 R, 6 SB,13 BB, 26K (17.8%)

Starting off strong 🔥🔥

Easton Carmichael (@OU_Baseball) with a 3-run home run to start off tonight’s game at Veteran’s Field.

Y-D: 3
Chatham: 0

🎥: @ChathamAnglers pic.twitter.com/AmxzG0oyY1

— Y-D Red Sox (@YD_RedSox) July 26, 2024

Switz’s Notes:  An emerging offensive star out of Oklahoma who bears a keen eye and impressive ability to make contact to all fields at the plate. Carmichael carried that success from back-to-back springs in the Big-12 onto the Cape this summer and continued to display his bat-to-ball skills in front of MLB scouts. I believe the bat can play for the next level, and it is the best tool at his disposal. It should translate to solid contact and batting average production in the pros. He’s improved as a hitter every spring by lowering his K% and gradually improving the free passes. The Cape gave him a different feel and level of competition this summer, yet he held his own. However, there really isn’t any future value regarding the power and home run department in his profile, which hurts him in many phases of the game (especially with him making a possible move to 1st base) and looks to be more of a hard contact doubles hitter that could sneak some pop over the wall in smaller ballparks. Advanced metrics and analytical teams that value ballpark factors in their amateur evaluation and roster construction process may roll the dice of putting him in the lineup and trusting he can muster the pop needed for run production (similar to how the Reds implemented Kyle Farmer in their infielder with his hard contact abilities and RBI producing upside. An example I used in my report of giving him a Kyle Farmer power comp.). 

Easton Carmichael with the first of his two doubles this evening. The sophomore, playing DH for the Y-D Red Sox tonight, keeps his hands inside this down and in pitch and shows off his powerful swing to send this ball deep to CF for two bases @YD_RedSox @OU_Baseball #PGCape pic.twitter.com/oD2KAIzb74

— PG College Baseball (@PGCollegeBall) June 21, 2024

5. Easton Carmichael@3aston_11 @OU_Baseball @YD_RedSox pic.twitter.com/FyV7koS7Q2

— Quinn Booth (@QuinnmBooth) August 26, 2024

That said, Carmichael needs to make further strides behind the dish to become a better catcher for the next level and match his bat profile. When watching Carmichael, he is proficient at the advanced traits and skills behind the dish teams desire (framing and blocking) and shows some strain in the fundamental level tasks (arm strength and receiving). I do believe there's time for him to be able to fix these issues, as we have seen other household college catchers who have gone pro having the same issues (Ex. Zach Collins, 1st round White Sox 2016). Thus, it gives me the feeling that if he goes to a team that has a strong player development and catching development program, he can develop into being a catcher at the major league level that had athletic traits but some warts in their game behind the dish like the example from my report of Lucroy, coming out of the draft and through development. 

EASTON CARMICHAEL (@OU_Baseball) WITH THE GAME-TYING HOME RUN IN THE BOTTOM OF THE NINTH ⚾️

🎙️: @benstrobermedia pic.twitter.com/Zs01jvWwDU

— Y-D Red Sox (@YD_RedSox) July 11, 2024

The only red flag in Carmichael's game going into the spring that worries me that he cannot control is where he is played when the lineup card is turned in and is a point of emphasis during fall ball that will control his destiny for the spring. Over the summer for YD, in most of the games I saw with Carmichael, he was either chicken scratched in at DH or first base for the Red Sox. Last spring, Oklahoma used him primarily as a DH in their lineup down the stretch (roughly 64% of contests in the 2024 spring) due to his inability to control the running game and weaker arm strength. If college and summer ball coaches are already emphasizing moving him off catcher for the next level, it doesn't give a good sign of confidence that scouts and minor league staff will give him a chance behind the dish. Nonetheless, suppose Carmichael takes the reins in fall ball to establish himself as "the catcher" for the Sooners in 2025. In that case, he has a decent shot at staying behind the dish for the early beginnings of his pro-level career (especially with this next year's catching class looking more top-heavy than depth). If Carmichael creates mystery, loses the battle, or creates platoon work behind the dish for 2025 and gets regulated back to DH/1B duties. Then, it wouldn't give strong signs for him going into next year's draft without some further power established in his game.

Next time I’ll have full reports and notes on some of the guys that grabbed my eye over the summer on the Cape that little are talking about.