True all-around talent in the class of 2026 Owen Roach (Valley View) is as versatile as they come. Showcases plus speed, fast hands at the plate, with a solid glove and arm from the outfield. As Roach continues to grow and build strength, look for him to be a breakout star at the next level. 

We recently had the chance to talk to Roach about his recruitment process along with some other fun topics, below.

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Our Q&A

Prep Baseball: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Owen: My expectations were to find a college quick but that was the exact opposite. It was a slow process for me. I was looking for a good relationship with the coaches and to find a place where I am going to continue to develop as a player and a man. 

PB: What do you like most about the program you chose, and what were the key factors in making your decision?

O: The thing I like most about Panola is way they are commited to you on the offensive side to get you to your full potential. The key factors were just how nice everything they have is. The field is one of the best I’ve seen and super excited to get to play on it. The vibes are just unmatched. 

PB: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?

O: I would say just to keep pushing to be the best version of yourself and to remember there is always work to be done. 

PB: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?

O: No it did not. 

PB: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Where did the school you committed to first see you play?

O: It started heating up for me when I came back from an injury and hit a double first pitch I saw back. Multiple schools reached out over the next day. 

PB: Was there a particular Prep Baseball tournament or showcase that helped accelerate your recruiting process? If yes, how so?

O: The Future Games definitely helped get my name out there and get my name on college coaches boards. 

PB: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?

O: Crowder and Connors State

PB: Who is the best player you have faced in your state? What about them makes for a tough opponent?

O: I would definitely say Jackson Kircher. His ability to both hit and pitch with his tall frame is a very scary sight to play against. 

PB: If you could steal any tool or quality from another player in the state, what would it be and who would it be from?

O: I would definitely steal Shaun Cover's power output. 

PB: Who is the next talented young player to keep an eye on out of your high school or travel program?

O: Will Findley

PB: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college-caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?

O: I realized when I was 13 and started traveling more, and not shying away from the competition in events. 

PB: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?

O: The most memorable moment was either winning the Jr Future Games or winning back to back State Championships. 

PB: Preview your high school team's season for us. How do you feel your team will be?

O: Valley View will be coming for the 3 Peat this year. We lost 2 important players last year, but players will step up in their places. Only thing that can beat us is ourselves. 

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