THE WORLD'S LARGEST AND MOST COMPREHENSIVE SCOUTING ORGANIZATION
| 2,466 MLB PLAYERS | 15,806 MLB DRAFT SELECTIONS
2,466 MLB PLAYERS | 15,806 MLB DRAFT SELECTIONS
Tournaments  | Story | 6/6/2026

Beast of the East Scout Notes: Day 2

Photo: Jaden Freeze (Perfect Game)
Beast of the East Scout Notes: Day 1


Derek Vazquez (2028, Charlotte, N.C.) has put together a big showing through two games for the SBA Bolts National 2028. The 6-foot-2, 183-pound shortstop/outfielder has showed defensive versatility throughout the event and does so with ease. He has all the actions at shortstop but also showed good range, tracking a flyball down the left field line on Friday. In the box, he’s uber-projectable in every phase and is already doing a great job of controlling the zone. The power should continue to trend up in the coming years and he’s already impacting to all parts. Vazquez is one of my personal favorites in the 2028 class and should be a name to get familiar with as one of the top prospects in the 2028 class. 




Joseph Mendez (2027, Lawrenceville, Ga.) had one of the loudest swings of the day as he teed off on one to the pull-side gap for a three-run homer. Mendez has a strong switch-hit tool and is more known for the bat-to-ball skills but showed the ability to lift the baseball with authority here. We’ve seen him playing second base in the high school season, but he was tasked with handling shortstop duties today and looked comfortable there too. It was a strong look at Mendez on day two and he’ll look to continue swinging it well on day three.

Braxton Thompson (2028, Charlotte, N.C.) came up with a big swing in a run-rule victory for SBA Bolts National 2028. The 6-foot-1, 160-pound middle infielder lifted one right down the left field line and kept it just inside the foul pole for a homer to blow things open in the middle innings. The physical projection here is notable and he should continue growing into more power as he fills out the athletic frame. He’s a vocal leader on the dirt with left side tools and continues to show why he’s one of the top ranked prospects in North Carolina in 2028. 


Jacob Reynolds (2028, Charlotte, N.C.) has been on the barrel a decent amount to open pool play across the first two games of the event. The 5-foot-9, 155-pound second baseman shows elite feel for the barrel and consistently impacts it into the gaps. He’s a traditional top of the lineup type bat that can really handle the barrel and spray liners all over the field. While he’s not the most physically imposing prospect on the SBA Bolts roster, Reynolds has elite hand-eye and is coming off a monster spring for a state title winning team. He’s a name of note ahead of August 1st for college coaches to check in and see.

Brock Blessington (2028, Lake Charles, La.) got the ball for SBA Bolts National 2028 on day two of the event and looked solid across three innings. The tall, athletic right-hander opened in the 86-88 range and settled at 85-87 mph for most of the outing with a real ease to the operation. The breaking ball showed quality depth and flashed the ability to land in the zone. He rounds out the mix with a changeup with heavy arm-side fade for a quality third offering. Blessington is a good mover down the slope and it’s easy to see the velocity only continuing to tick up in the coming years.

Drew Patterson (2028, Murfreesboro, Tenn.) looked dominant on the mound in the 8 AM slot for 5 Star Midsouth 2028 Black. The 5-foot-11, 155-pound right-hander went the full distance, punching out nine and allowing four hits. The fastball worked in the low-80s throughout, and he just simply pounded the zone, inducing a ton of soft outs and working efficiently. He paired the fastball with a curveball in the low-70s that played well off the fastball too. It was a dominant and efficient performance for Patterson as he led his team to a win on Saturday.

-Cam McElwaney

Kellan Spencer (2027, Inman, S.C.) showed the arm talent on the mound for Canes NST 17u. The right-handed pitcher went three innings with four strikeouts and spread two hits and one walk for two unearned runs. Spencer works from a hybrid windup from the first base side of the rubber into a small side-step and a letter-high leg lift with drop-and-drive back leg mechanics into a moderate, in-line stride down the mound. The hands separate into a long takeaway with the arm whipping through from an over-the-top arm angle. Gets good push down the mound and works over a firm front side to create arm speed and whip. The fastball was up to 89 and sat mid-to-upper- 80s throughout the start. Mixed in a curveball with looser spin and 12-6 shape and a change-up in the upper-70s with good arm-side dive. Filled up the zone well and located to all four quadrants during the start. Also impressed with the stick collecting two hits and showed the speed on the bases. The right-handed hitter beat out two infield singles and swiped a base. Athletic, 6-foot-1, 180-pound frame with more velocity and power in the tank as the frame fills and matures. Exciting player with good two-way upside.

Collin Thomas (2027, Atlanta, Ga.) showed off the barrel control and power upside for East Coast Grays 2027 National. The switch-handed hitter starts from a spread stance with in-line feet and a high handset with a high back elbow, utilizes an inward leg lift trigger. Creates separation before direct, quick hands whip the barrel through the zone with a quick bat. Rotational lower half that generates torque. Slightly uphill bat plane and natural lift in the swing that was able to drive the ball to both gaps. Made consistent loud contact all game, including an opposite field double into the left-center field gap. Athletic, twitchy 5-foot-9, 167-pound frame with some power upside as the frame continues to fill out and add strength. The shortstop impressed with good range defensively and a quick, strong arm. Exciting player with a top-of-the-order offensive profile that is able to make an impact on both sides of the ball. Auburn commit.

Jack Koon (2027, Tallahassee, Fla.) showed off the arm speed and upside on the mound for 5 Star National Tallahassee. The left-handed pitcher went three innings with six strikeouts and spread three hits and four walks for three earned runs. Jack works from the stretch only from the third base side of the rubber into a letter-high leg lift and uses drop-and-drive back leg mechanics into a long, in-line stride down the mound. The hands separate into a long takeaway before the arm comes through from a three- quarter arm angle. Gets good extension down the mound and creates some arm whip. The fastball was up to 89 and was mid-to-upper- 80s throughout the start. Slider with some two-plane break and some horizontal bite. Fastball has some ride through the zone and competed around the top of the zone to get swing and miss. Long 6-foot-1, 195-pound frame with moderate intent in the delivery and more velocity in the tank. Command will gain polish as the foot strike and feel to get downhill gets more consistent. Exciting arm that competed well with a good two-pitch mix.

Franklin Zerpa (2027, Rockville, Md.) showed off the power upside for Canes American 17u. The right-handed hitter starts from a spread stance with in-line feet and a high handset with a high back elbow, utilizes a low leg lift trigger. Creates some separation before hands work direct to contact with solid hand speed and fires the hips well to create leverage. Good bat speed with a flatter bat plane and feel to get on plane and work under the ball to create backspin and carry, especially to the pull-side. Physical 6-foot, 200-pound frame with a simple operation in the box and feel for the barrel collecting two hits, including a loud home run over the left field fence, to drive in three RBI. The catcher showed good feel to work at-bats and easy juice even when shortening up with two strikes. Middle-of-the-order offensive profile with barrel control and feel to drive runners in.

Hayden Willoughby (2027, Greenville, N.C.) showed off the power upside and strength for Canes American 17u. The right-handed hitter starts from a narrow, upright stance with slightly open feet and a high handset with a high back elbow, utilizes a low leg lift stride. Creates separation and turns hard with a direct hand path to impact and drive the ball. Compact swing with a slightly uphill bat plane and natural lift in the swing. Strong, athletic 6-foot-1, 210-pound frame with present strength and juice. Good bat speed from a short hand path and carry to the pull-side. Showed off the power launching a no-doubt home run over the left-center field fence. The outfielder has a middle-of-the-order offensive profile with a smooth swing and intent to do damage.

Lane Grissett (2027, Pensacola, Fla.) showed off the barrel control for 5 Star National Tallahassee. The right-handed hitter starts from a spread stance with open feet and a high handset with a high back elbow, utilizes a leg lift trigger. Creates separation and leverage from the lower half with a direct hand path and good bat speed as the barrel whips through from a flat bat plane. Showed a compact swing with feel to work from gap-to-gap and drive in runners. The catcher has a lean 6-foot, 180-pound frame with room to fill and more power to be added. Grissett added two hits, including a double, to drive in a pair of RBI. Good upside with a simple approach and a top-of-the-order offensive profile.

Ethan Taylor (2029, Columbia, Md.) showed off the power/speed combination all game for the Canes American 15u. The right-handed hitter starts from a spread stance with in-line feet and a high handset with a low back elbow, utilizes a low lift-and-replace trigger. Creates separation and leverage from a slightly uphill bat plane with good bat speed. Strong, quick hands that whip the barrel through well to impact and drive the ball. Feel to work the gaps and drive the ball from gap-to-gap with young authority. Simple swing that gets on plane consistently. Taylor collected three hits, including two triples and the walk-off knock back up-the-middle, to drive in three RBI. The outfielder has a long, strong 6-foot-4, 185-pound frame with more room to add and over-the-wall power to be unlocked. Middle-of-the-order offensive profile that did consistent damage all game.

Ellsworth Elston (2029, Asheville, N.C.) showed the upside on the mound for Canes National 15u. The right-handed pitcher went four innings with five strikeouts and spread three hits and two walks for two runs. Elston works from a hybrid windup from the first base side of the rubber into a small side-step with an around-the-belt leg lift and uses drop-and-drive back leg mechanics into a long, in-line stride down the mound. The hands separate into a moderate takeaway before the arm accelerates through from an over-the-top angle. Creates good push and extension down the mound with the fastball getting some jump out of the hand. The fastball was up to 88 and sat low-to-upper- 80s throughout the start with good carry through the zone and downhill tilt at the bottom of the strike zone. Mixed in a curveball with 11-5 shape and bigger vertical depth and some horizontal bite. Showed some feel for the curveball and could manipulate the shape to get swings and misses out of the zone. Long and lean 6-foot-4, 190-pound frame with more velocity in the tank as the frame matures and the lower half continues to add strength. High upside arm that went right after hitters with feel for both pitches.

Bryce Thurber (2029, Phelan, Calif.) came in out of the ‘pen for Canes National 15u and showed off the upside. The right-handed pitcher went one inning and walked one batter in relief. Thurber works from a hybrid windup from the middle-of-the-rubber into a moderate side-step and a letter-high leg lift with drop-and-drive back leg mechanics down the mound. The hands separate into a longer takeaway before the arm comes through from a high three- quarter angle. Creates good tension and uncoils well to create solid arm speed and whip. The fastball was upper-80s and topped out at 90. Some issues with getting the arm on time but as the athletic, lean 6-foot-1, 185-pound frame matures and adds strength the mechanics will gain more polish. Exciting arm that creates easy jump out of the hand with life to the fastball.

Cole McMurry (2029, Guyton, Ga.) impressed on the mound for Wilson’s National 15u. The right-handed pitcher went five innings with six strikeouts and spread six hits and three walks for four earned runs. McMurry works from a hybrid windup from the first base side of the rubber into a small side-step and an around-the-belt leg lift with drop-and-drive back leg mechanics into a moderate, crossfire stride down the mound. The hands separate into a moderate takeaway before the arm accelerates through from a lower three- quarter angle. The fastball was up to 88 and worked from the low-to-upper- 80s throughout. Mixed in a good slider that had out-pitch traits and had the feel to double up with. The slider had good horizontal bite and he could locate the pitch on both corners of the plate. Creates a tough angle for hitters with the crossfire delivery and low slot and feel to locate the fastball on all four edges of the plate. Physical lower half in the 6-foot, 195-pound frame with more, consistent, velocity in the tank as the frame matures. Exciting arm with feel for both pitches and competes on the mound.

Cole Christian (2029, Charlotte, N.C.) showed off the bat-to-ball skills and barrel control for Canes National 15u. The right-handed hitter starts from a spread stance with in-line feet and a high handset with a high back elbow, utilizes a low leg lift trigger. Creates separation and works direct to contact with good bat speed and a flat bat plane. Consistently on plane and showed the feel for the barrel collecting three hits, including a backside triple, to drive in two RBI. Compact swing with juice in the long levered, lean 6-foot-3, 190-pound frame with more juice as the frame fills out. The catcher has quick hands and feel to impact and work the ball to both gaps. Exciting power upside with a middle-of-the-order offensive profile and a good approach at the plate.

-Marcus Thomas

Cannon Jewell (2029, Arlington, Tenn.) turned in one of the more impressive games here on day 2, going 3-4 with a home run and 2 doubles. The rising sophomore continues to be one of the hottest hitters in the event, working on the barrel with impact to all fields. Jewell has a simple operation in the box with repeatable mechanics to the swing, and this helps show off his above average barrel awareness. Jewell has been controlling at-bats very well so far, and it should be interesting to see how he finishes the week.


Jaden Freeze (2028, Hanover, Penn.) had one of the more impactful swings of the day here at Beast of the East, sending a long grand slam to the pull side. Freeze has an aggressive swing, and doesn’t shy away from attacking pitches with intent if he’s looking for them. Freeze has an athletic profile with speed that should continue to develop with his early birthday in the 2028 class. Freeze also has room to add strength to the frame, and he will be a name to watch in the ‘28 class as he continues to progress.

Harris Chafin (2028, Bogart, Ga.) had some of the most intriguing hit tools shown today, working from the left handed batter’s box at 6-foot-3 180-pounds. Chafin has effortless juice at the plate with the projectable frame, and he showed that in a 2-3 game with a homer to right center field. Chafin should be very interesting to watch over the next couple of years to see the strength continue to develop. Chafin also creates solid leverage in the swing, something that will be important in his power progression.

Jayden Moss (2028, Greensboro, Ga.) put together a solid day at the dish on day 2, going 2-2 with a monster homer to left field. Moss has an XL frame with plenty of power from the right side, and is able to capitalize on pitches left over the middle of the plate. Moss has a simple setup at the dish with the excellent hand strength, and is an intriguing power bat in the 2028 class.

Coleman Smith (2028, Chattanooga, Tenn.) had a solid showing on the hill on day 2, going 6 innings with 1 earned and 5 strikeouts. Smith has an XL frame on the mound, creating a solid downhill angle when working low in the zone. Smith also induces some run to the fastball in the mid 80s, and is able to command it well. Smith also used a breaking ball in the low 70s with good shape. Smith is currently uncommitted.

Hudson Brown (2028, Townsend, Tenn.) is off to a hot start this summer, impacting the game at the dish, the mound, and in the field. Just last weekend we saw the defensive ability from Brown in the outfield with an incredible catch, but this weekend he's impressing with the bat. Brown is currently hitting north of .600 for the tournament with a double and a home run. Brown has some easy power at the dish, and he will be an intriguing watch all summer long in the 2028 class.

-Jake Willis


Jacob McCarter (2028, Concord, N.C.) came in on relief for SBA Bolts National 2028 and showed some excellent stuff. The southpaw sat 88-90 from a clean and repeatable delivery with a loose arm. He showed both an mid-70s curveball as well as a firm changeup at 83-84. The hook featured 1-7 shape, striking out the final two batters of the game on it. McCarter sells changeup very well, mirroring arm speed and action on the pitch. The change is a future weapon with late depth to it. The North Carolina native has a long and lean pitcher’s frame at 6-foot-4, 185-pounds that still projects a ton. The velocity comes easy and he didn’t allow an earned run over two innings, striking out a pair and needing just 26 pitches. The future is bright for the left-hander and the stuff continues to tick up.


William Weber (2027, Fairview, Tenn.) impressed on both sides of the ball in the afternoon victory for eXposure 17U National. The Virginia commit hit out of the three-hole and started behind the dish. The backtop picked up a single in his final at-bat, connecting on a ringing line shot back into center field. The strength coming off is huge thanks to a super physical 6-foot-4, 225-pound frame and the power upside is massive. There is serious strength to the hands and he has a real chance to stick behind the plate with considerable offensive output. Weber impressed with his receiving, working hard to snatch low pitches up and frame on every pitch. In addition to the glove, the Tennessee native can really sling it with a strong arm that plays well. 

Seth Hooks (2027, Franklin, Tenn.) hit out of the leadoff spot for eXposure 17U National and swung it well. The Liberty commit possesses clear feel for the barrel and squared a pair of laced line drives to the middle of the field, one for a lineout and one for a hit. There is good rhythm to the process, staying in sync well with a fast bat that stays in the zone for a long time. The left-handed swing is short and the bat-to-ball skills project well. Hooks also came out of the bullpen and ran the fastball into the mid-80s. The outfielder is a standout performer who is coming off of a big 2025 year in which he batted .430 with six homers at PG events.

Caleb Paul (2028, Pembroke Pines, Fl.) got the start on the bump for Franklin Scout Team/BTD - Gonzalez (2028) and showed some very projectable stuff. The right-hander tossed three innings, allowing three hits on one earned, striking out six and walking one. Paul operated in the 87-90 range and topped at 91 from an easy delivery. The arm works well and he went to a sweeping slider at 71-73 for swing-and-miss, drawing a good amount of chase. The pitch has great shape with big sweep and should be a future out-pitch, displaying nice feel for it in addition. Paul missed plenty of bats throughout and standing at a lean 6-foot-3, 170-pounds, the frame projects significantly. The right-hander is a good athlete on the mound and a smooth mover down the slope.


Luke Esquivel (2028, Grapevine, Texas) went 3-for-3 out of the cleanup spot, finishing a homer short of the cycle. The left-handed wasted no time, banging a heater off of the right field wall for a double in the first inning. He would single on a grounder into right and follow with a backside triple in the final at-bat. The triple came on a beautiful piece of hitting, splitting the opposite gap (96 EV). There are very strong hitter traits and the left-handed stroke is smooth with excellent body control. Esquivel has all fields ability and the ball jumps off of his bat with low effort. The frame has great projection at 6-foot-3, 190-pounds and the power ceiling is significant. The LSU commit is also a talented southpaw on the mound and has the highest two-way upside.
 
-Kyler Peterson

Zaylon Johnson (2029, Lake Charles, LA) looked really good in 1.1 innings of relief on Friday. The Louisiana native struck out three and had a 69% strike percentage with the fastball sitting 88-90 mph, topping at 91 mph. Arm action is short, and he fires the top half into release, which gives hitters trouble timing him up. He’s establishing himself as one of the best two-way players in the class; currently ranked as the No. 1 third baseman in Louisiana, he’s got a future on the mound and at the plate, and he’ll only get better at both as he grows.

Anderson McAfee (2029, Clarksville, TN) had three hits with two doubles and three RBI on Friday. Displayed an advanced offensive approach, consistently getting into favorable counts and using the entire field. Maintains a flat path through the zone with quality extension, allowing the barrel to stay in the hitting area for a long time. It makes for an exciting prospect, and as the power and arm strength behind the plate improve with age, he’ll have the makings of an elite prospect.
 

Easton Housewright (2029, Knoxville, TN) went 2 for 3 with a double and two RBI on Friday. He’s currently ranked as the No. 1 shortstop in Tennessee for his class, and he showed why today. He gets in his lower half and creates a strong base in his load, then fires his hands and hips through the zone, keeping his barrel on plane into extension. Bat-to-ball skills are advanced, allowing him to pepper the field, shown today by a ground rule double in the left-center gap. Played clean defense as well, was light on his feet and had soft hands on ground balls. As he grows, the power will come, and I expect him to be a high-level prospect come his age 17 summer.
 
Chase Jones (2027, Stockbridge, GA) looked really comfortable in the box on Friday. Went 1 for 2 with a walk, roping a single into left in his first at-bat. The swing is simple, but powerful. Coils front hip to load up on his backside and fires into his launch, so it didn’t take much for him to hit the ball hard. Played a really solid center field also; was light on his feet and covered ground, getting to balls in the gap and in front of him with ease. What separates him the most from other players of similar skill is his maturity on the field. He stayed locked in, made good reads in center, laid off tough pitches out of the zone and attacked his pitches all day.


Lincoln Guillory (2027, Sunset, LA) went three innings and struck out three in his start on Friday. Attacked hitters with fastballs, sitting mid-80s, up to 89 mph and paired it with a sharp slider that topped out at 81. He’s an athletic pitcher with a quick, twitchy motion, creating some uncomfortable at-bats for hitters. He’s got a big arm, is projectable and already throws a solid three pitch mix. He should be able to focus on his development this summer with his commitment to Southeastern Louisiana already in place. 

Koa Romero (2027, Des Allemands, LA) went 1 for 2 with a walk on Friday. He hit a ball that disappeared over the batters eye, perhaps the biggest swing we’ve seen, and maybe will see, this weekend. He gets into his lower half well and fire his hips on launch. Keeps his hands tight and turns hard into a quick, compact swing that makes him one of the best power hitters in the ‘27 class. I expect the LSU commit to have a big summer, focusing on developing his approach and consistency for his senior year and beyond.

-Tyler Daniels
 

Oliver Emmons-Boden (2029, Loveland, Ohio) had an impressive showing in the box on day two going 2-for-3 including a solo home run that he caught every bit off to the pull-side. Emmons-Boden works with a powerful windup in his swing that he utlizes his length to his advantage getting full extension through contact. He has good barrel speed with keeping the hands in and through with some pop off the bat. At 6’3 195 pounds, he has a very projectable frame with room to grow into his body. Emmon-Boden is a top ranked player for the Ohio in the 2029 class.

Jack McKillop (2029, Peachtree City, Ga.) has showcased an impressive hit tool thus far knocking around two base knocks on the day knocking in a run as well. McKillop works quickly towards the ball while always keeping level through contact. He has some twitchy hands mixed in with a good feel for the barrel, consistently puts the ball in play. At 5 '11 155 pounds, McKillop has a great frame with good length, room to add extra muscle in future and grow into his body. 


Max Trojanowski (2028, Chapel Hill, Nc.) got his day two started in a big way with a solo home run to the pull-side where he caught this ball right on the barrel. Trojanowski with a simple stride to the ball with patient hands that work out and through the ball keeping at an effective launch angle. He shows off some raw power off the bat that generates backspin when making contact, and gets good extension through the zone as well. Strong, compact frame at 6’ 1 195 pounds with some projection behind it, he is currently uncommitted.

Jordan Duenas (2029, Pflugerville, Tx.) was a big time factor in day two in the box showing off an impressive hit tool knocking around two doubles while also bringing two runs. Duenas lived for the moment coming through in clutch moments all game knocking home the game-tying runs in the last inning. He has a steady stride in his load, showing off some bat speed that shows with some hard hits balls all game. Duenas is an exciting prospect with room to grow and add strength in the future.
 

Luca Briggs (2029, Chesterfield, Va.) is an exciting prospect with a lot of bright spots to his game, the catcher showcased some impressive ability at the plate in day two. Briggs went 2-for-3 including a double that he took back-side showing good ability to let the ball travel. He uses every part of his length with his swing, getting the arms fully extended, generating some backspin off the bat as well. Smooth swing with hands that work out and through the ball with impressive bat speed. Easy projection on Briggs at 6’ 0 171 pounds with room to gain extra strength, top ranked prospect in Virginia for the 2029 class.

Miguel Allegue (2029, Brandon, Fl.) was very exciting in the box on day two going 2-for-2 including a ball that he barely missed for a long double. The switch hitter shows great length in his swing with good control of the barrel, swing also comes in at a productive launch angle. Allegue keeps a wide-base in his stance that explodes the lower body through contact, making hard contact all game. He has room to add some extra muscle to his frame with good projection. He has good athleticism running well on the base paths, as well as playing a solid shortstop.


Ranses Venero (2028, Jacksonville, Fl.) had a huge showing in day two with a very impressive 3-for-3 day in the box with two of those being for extra bases while bringing home two runs as well. The catcher has an explosive swing that fires through the ball while keeping the hands in and level. Venero has a great ability to spray balls all over the field hitting, putting balls back-side and pull-side all game. At 6’ 1 168 pounds, he has great projection with room to add extra strength, he is currently uncommitted.

Jon Walker Brown (2027, Marietta, Ga.) showed off some impressive ability off the mound in his relief appearance going three innings punching out four. Brown showed off a fastball with a lot of lively action to it topping it out at 89, he worked in a very impressive slider with tight horizontal action generating swing and misses. He has good command behind his stuff throwing strikes at a seventy percent rate while not walking a single batter in his outing. Big, strong frame that moves really well down the mound with good length in his mechanics, he is currently uncommitted.

-Lawson Metka

Liam Wallace (2028, Boca Raton, Fl.), a 6-foot-5, 200-pound outfielder and first baseman consistently found the barrel going 3-for-5 with a walk and run scored across two games. Displaying the ability to use all fields, he does a solid job of keeping the barrel in the zone for long and adjusts well to spin/breaking pitches towards the outer quadrants. His swing is tailored to spray line drives gap-to-gap and showed willingness to be aggressive early in counts. With the combination of size and athleticism, he profiles well in a corner outfield role showcasing the ability to cover ground to go along with developing arm strength and feel for the position.


Jaaron Frye (2028, Fairview, Nc.), a 6-foot-2, 185-pound outfielder and right-handed pitcher went 3-for-4 with a homer, two RBI, a stolen base, and three runs scored while facing off against the CBU 2028 Scout Team. Possessing a tall, wiry frame with ample room to continue getting stronger, Frye showcased a line-drive-oriented approach with the ability to drive the ball with power to the pull-side. A very physical/toolsy talent who showed a knack for making hard contact, yet staying disciplined in his approach and taking what is given to him. Played a strong center field and moved well for his size; could profile well on the corners with his arm being a defensive asset.
 
Graham Suttles (2028, Greer, Sc.), a 6-foot, 165-pound outfielder and left-handed pitcher went 1-for-3 with a double while putting up competitive at-bats and looking to do damage on the inner quadrants of the zone. Suttles demonstrated a disciplined approach at the plate showing the ability to be selective and hunt pitches in his wheelhouse. On the defensive side, his reads in the corner outfield looked strong when coming in on the ball, with developing footwork and arm strength. There is definitely room to project more here as he continues to grow into his frame, and learn the nuances of his swing and how pitchers will attack him to a more advanced extent. 

Owen Schuh (2029, Nashville, Tn.), a 6-foot, 170-pound catcher and third baseman went 1-for-3 with a double, RBI and walk against the Team Elite 15U Scout Black squad. A very strong, athletic frame with a well-built lower-half allows him to tap into his power potential which is evident when he connects. Shows the ability to use the entire field and adjust his approach per the situation of the at-bat indicating a feel for the game and not letting it speed up on him. Behind the plate, he displayed solid baseball IQ with calmness and feel for handling a pitching staff. A large target behind the plate, he looked comfortable handling baserunners and stayed dialed in from the first to last pitch.

Maddox Book (2029, Loganville, Ga.), a 5-foot-7, 155-pound third baseman and right-handed pitcher, played strong on both sides of the ball going 1-for-2 with a double while pitching a scoreless inning on the bump recording one strikeout. At the dish, he showed an ability to get his hands through the barrel with the ability to drive the ball to the pull-side, while aggressively hunting pitches over the heart of the plate. On the mound, he attacked the strike zone early utilizing a mid-70’s fastball to get outs early in counts, generating soft contact and locating it well. 


Reese Parker (2029, Saucier, Ms.), a 5-foot-9, 165-pound infielder and right-handed pitcher put together an impressive night at the dish finishing 2-for-3, with a double and home run displaying a polished swing and mature approach. An uber-talented athlete, Parker moves fluidly on the diamond showcasing a loose and graceful left-handed stroke with quick-twitch hands and clean footwork on the dirt. He profiles well in the middle-infield and as he continues to get stronger and mature physically, more power projection will come with that, which is exciting as he already flashes the ability to create loud contact and drive the ball with authority. Plays the game fast, but controlled throughout.  

Coston Mahan (2029, Florence, Al.), a 6-foot-2, 230-pound right-handed pitcher and corner infielder, impacted the game offensively and on the mound going 2-for-3 with a double and two RBI, while punching out seven hitters over 3 â…“ innings. On the mound, Mahan got the fastball up into the mid-80’s to pair with a tight slider that he used to get back into counts that sat in the high 70’s to low 80’s. Battling against a high-powered offense was a tall task, yet he showed poise on the mound and showed trust in his fastball up in the zone early in counts, while going to the breaking ball down and away to put hitters away. The large-framed Mahan showed a knack for finding the barrel with the ability to use the entire field and go gap-to-gap. 


Donovan Jarrett (2029, Alpharetta, Ga.), a 5-foot-9, 160-pound outfielder and first baseman displayed an advanced feel for the barrel going 2-for-2 with a home run while facing off against the Knights 15U Scout team. Jarrett possesses an athletic and toolsy frame with quick hands that fire through contact, with present power to the pull-side. An exciting profile with plenty of room for continued development with a strong foundation of bat-to-ball skills and twitchy and powerful reactions in the box. Will profile well in the outfield with more power potential in store as he matures into his body.

-Ben Favela

Jay Insani (2027, Murfreesboro, Tenn.) would not be denied last night going 2-2 with a single and a two run home run. Insani gets the barrel into the pitch plane early and creates a ton of true spin to the middle of the field. Also does a great job behind the dish using the body well and is hitting .667 up to this point. 

Cooper Daniel (2027, Franklin, Tenn.) had the stuff on full display in his outing against Franklin Scout Team going 2.1IP, 3H, 4Ks, and 0R. Quick and loose arm action out of the high three quarter arm slot. Sits in the 88-90 range and topped out at 91, threw a high spin slider incredibly well and it got a bunch of swing and miss. Threw a bunch of strikes and showed he can get out of some sticky situations. 

Baines Raynor (2027, Wallace, N.C.) all over the barrel against EBC West 17u going 3-3 with two doubles and a single. Got on the barrel in the top of the 2nd inning and hammered a first pitch fastball into the opposite field gap for an rbi double. Did it again in his next at bat lining another fastball into the gap for another double. Good hand strength with a direct bat path and can slug to all fields. 

Owen Shirey (2027, Charlotte, N.C.) the sure handed shortstop was great at the dish going 2-3 and stayed clean defensively. On the 2nd pitch he saw of the game and hit a frozen rope into right center field for a two run triple. Top of the class hand speed and keeps the back elbow tight through the zone. 

Paxton Wright (2027, Amory, Miss.) had a couple loud barrels against the South Charlotte Panthers going 2-2 with two doubles. In the bottom of the fourth he got a heater that he could handle and smashed it into deep right center for a double. Turns the barrel with intent on the backside and rides his path to be able to hammer balls to the opposite field. #Itawamba commit 

Zander Steht (2027, Olive Branch, Miss.) drove in a run on 2 hits including a hard hit double. Directly following Wright’s double in the bottom of the 4th, Steht would not be fooled by the breaking ball and smacked a double into the pullside plating one. Got the bat head out front and cleared the hands with great barrel accuracy. 

-Brock Goodwin

McCoy Nye (29, Manheim, PA) had a good outing on the mound throwing 3.2 innings, allowing no hits and striking out 8 batters. Pounded the zone with the fastball (83-85) topping at 86 to get ahead early, put batters away with a sharp curveball thrown for strikes, and mixed in a fall off the table change up here and there to keep the hitters off balanced. Drives hard down the mound, arm works quick and loose and shows good control of the strike zone.

Jack Rauch (27, Glen St. Mary, Fla) threw a solid 3 innings on the mound allowing just one hit and no earned runs. Rauch struck out five batters and lit up the strike zone with the heater (88-90) topping at 91 with some arm side run. Paired with a sharp slider that's got tight spin and good depth to it. Athletic frame with a quick arm, works direct to the plate, ball jumps out of his hand.

Kane Guitrau (28, Prairieville, LA) had a good day at the plate today going 2-2 with a double and a home run to bring in a whopping 5 RBIs. Tall, athletic frame, fires the hips hard giving him explosive bat speed. Loads his hands deep and keeps them tight through the swing. Shows a great feel for the barrel.

Griffin Templeton (28, Cookeville, TN) could not be stopped on the mound tonight throwing a complete 7 innings, striking out 11 and allowing not one runner on base for a perfect game. Ran the fastball up to 88 with some good life to it, paired with a firm slider with late break on it to miss barrels, and mixes in a change up to slow the batter down. Strong frame with a twitchy arm, work downhill well and peppered the corners all game.

Myles Rahm (29, Alpharetta, GA) swung it well at the dish today going 3-4 including a home run and brought in 3 RBIs. Simple, repeatable mechanics, attacks the inner half of the ball and works up the middle. Loads his hands deep and keeps the barrel on plane through the zone with good extension.

Brayden Wright (29, Hoover, AL) had a good day at the plate today going 3-4 on the day with 3 RBIs and a home run. Big, strong frame and uses it well, turns the barrel hard and gets it on plane early. Simple load, shows a good feel for the barrel with a lot of bat speed.

-Tyler Coopersmith

Tournaments | Story | 6/6/2026

13/14u PG Elite Scout Notes: Days 1-2

Perfect Game Staff
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2031 King James (Cincinnati, Ohio) got the start on the bump for Team Elite against, coincidentally enough, his hometown Cincinnati Angels and delivered a 5 inning, run rule shortened complete game effort. Not overly physical at just 5-foot-8, 140 pounds, James came out showing quickness to his arm as he opened up in the 75-77 mph while working around the zone, mixing a bigger curveball with depth to help keep hitters off balance. Ultimately he struck out 6 on the game and walked just one while scattering four hits and even helped his own cause, picking up a double on the offensive side of things.  While he went 0-1 at the dish with a pair of walks, it's still worth talking about the performance from catcher Michael Wedgeworth (Flomaton, Ala.) as his catch-and-throw skills from behind the dish were on full display throughout the game, delivering a couple of strikes down to second...
Tournaments | Story | 6/3/2026

Beast of the East Heads to Georgia

Will Dembo
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Marietta, Georgia will welcome some of the nation’s top teams this weekend as the Perfect Game Beast of the East Invitational takes place June 4-8. The invite only 15-17u tournament will showcase a plethora of nationally ranked teams and top talent looking to make a statement early into the summer and take home the championship in what promises to be a highly competitive weekend of baseball. The 15u division will shine a spotlight on several of the top ranked programs in the country as 9 out of the 32 total squads competing are T100. 11 states will be represented in the age bracket, proving how prestigious this event has become. Headlining the field are Wow Factor National who comes in at No. 8 in the national rankings, as well as Canes National who enters the weekend trailing just one spot behind Wow Factor. Canes National has an absolutely loaded roster with 9 players who rank in...
Tournaments | Story | 6/5/2026

"Houston, We Nave a Problem"

Kinley Kitchens
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Some moments set the tone for an entire game. For Jackson Nave, it happened in his very first trip to the plate. The Sevierville, Tennessee native stepped into the batter’s box looking for a pitch he could drive. A few moments later, the ball was flying over the fence, giving FTB Phillies 13U an early boost and igniting what would become a dominant offensive performance. “I was feeling good,” Nave said. “I was just trying to find a pitch I could hammer. I kept my eye on it, took it down the middle and that felt good.” That swing was only the beginning. Nave finished the game with a home run, four runs scored, and four RBI as FTB Phillies 13U rolled to a 27-4 victory on the opening day of the 2026 PG 13U National Elite Championship. For Nave, getting the offense started early is an important part of helping his team succeed. “I think it is really...
Tournaments | Story | 6/5/2026

Reed Continues to Prove He Belongs

Kinley Kitchens
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For many young players, competing alongside some of the top talent in the country can be intimidating. For Chris Reed, it is simply another opportunity to prove he belongs. The Conyers, Georgia native has established himself as one of the premier players in the 2030 class, currently ranking No. 24 nationally and No. 7 among shortstops according to Perfect Game. Reed’s game has consistently stood out against elite competition thanks to his athleticism, instincts, and all-around skill set. That ability was on full display during the 2025 Perfect Game 13U National Showcase, where Reed earned his invitation to the PG Select Festival, one of the most prestigious events available to players his age. “It showed that I can play with the best of the best, and that I belong,” Reed said of the experience. The event provided more than just exposure. It also reinforced an important...
Tournaments | Story | 6/5/2026

Beast of the East Scout Notes: Day 1

Perfect Game Staff
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‘29 SS Chase Hallett (NJ) drops the bat head on this one & lifts it out to the PS for a solo HR. Free and easy LH swing w/ present strength & more to dream on. #BeastOfTheEast @PGMidAtlantic pic.twitter.com/Ym9LFg05tx — Perfect Game Scout (@PG_Scouting) June 4, 2026 Chase Hallett (2029, Pennington, N.J.) came up with a loud swing on Thursday morning, dropping the barrel on one and lifting it out to the pull-side. It’s an intriguing profile overall with the young left-handed hitting middle infielder and the power projects in a big way. The swing is short and simple, he finds the barrel at a high clip, and is a sure handed defender up the middle. This has all the makings of a high-end prospect in a few years and is certainly a name of note in the ‘29 class. Canon Day (2028, Germantown, Tenn.) put together a great day on the offensive side of things,...
Tournaments | Story | 6/5/2026

Arizona Desert Classic Gets Underway

Emily Hicks
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After another busy week of baseball, attention now turns to the 2026 PG 14u Arizona Desert Classic tournament as teams prepare for a weekend of competition on the Perfect Game circuit. ATB 13U enters the event looking to continue building on its season so far. The team comes into the weekend with a record of 5-4 and has shown strengths in their offense and defense. As the schedule gets tougher, this tournament presents another opportunity to test themselves against quality opponents. The field features teams from across Arizona, setting up several intriguing matchups throughout pool play. Key games against AZ Premier Prospects and Maverix could provide an early look at where the team stands heading into bracket play. A few players to keep an eye on this weekend include Reece Neely and Gavyn Jupp from Maverix and Jakob Couto from USA Scout Team AZ 14u. Whether it's producing at the plate,...
Tournaments | Story | 6/4/2026

California Kickoff Scout Notes

Joey Cohen
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Jayce Dejong (‘27, CA) finished 6-for-14 on the weekend which included a big HR in the championship game. Intriguing @PG_Uncommitted player to monitor this summer. #CAKickoff https://t.co/UbuSQxNalf pic.twitter.com/kjVcyiG8km — Perfect Game California (@California_PG) June 1, 2026 Jayce Dejong (2027, Yorba Linda, Calif). Really strong weekend at the plate, going 6-for-14 with multiple line-drive barrels, including a no-doubt pull-side HR. Medium, lean, athletic frame with room to add. Hits from a wider base from the left side, starts early and consistently gets to launch on time. Loose barrel turn with adjustability and length through the middle, showing the ability to create lift and impact out front. Coming off a strong junior season at Crean Lutheran and should be a priority uncommitted follow this summer. Evan Stroner (2027, Huntington Beach, Calif). Impressive...
Showcase | Story | 6/4/2026

Soph. & Junior National Arrive in Georgia

Hannah Jo Groves
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This weekend will kick off the 2026 PG Junior National Showcase with the Sophomore National Showcase following close behind. Both in Marietta, Georgia, these showcases will feature lots of top-50 talent along with the ever-present potential for lesser-known players to turn heads.  For the Junior National Showcase, starting on June 6, 7 of the top 10-ranked players will attend - No. 2 Colin Anderson, No. 3 Cullen Scott, No. 4 Carter Shouse, No. 6 Aiden Kearney, No. 8 Keelan Zumwalt, No. 8 Landon Bonner and No. 9 Theo Swafford.  Anderson won’t have to travel far to attend, coming from Acworth, Georgia. At last year’s Sophomore National Showcase, he impressed scouts with his calm approach and explosive bat speed. Scott, a right-handed pitcher and third baseman from Melissa, Texas, has shown his arm strength getting up in the 90-mph zone....
Draft | Story | 6/4/2026

Pence Makes the Jump to 2027

Perfect Game Staff
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    667 Progress Way | Sanford, FL 32771 | 319-298-2923 www.perfectgame.org | facebook.com/perfectgameusa | @PerfectGameUSA     FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   PERFECT GAME STANDOUT STRIKER PENCE RECLASSIFIES TO CLASS OF 2027, ACCELERATING PATH TO MLB DRAFT   Corona, California (Thursday, June 4, 2026) - Perfect Game, the world’s largest youth baseball and softball platform and scouting service, today announced that Perfect Game prospect Striker Pence, one of the most watched young prospects in amateur baseball, has officially reclassified from the Class of 2028 to the Class of 2027, making the 17-year-old eligible for the 2027 Major League Baseball Draft. Pence is currently the #2 ranked player on Perfect Game’s national rankings and the top-ranked right-handed pitcher. Pence, a 6-foot-6, 215-pound right-handed pitcher and left-handed hitting first...
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