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AIA Scout Blog: 5/10 Playoffs

May 12, 2025
Antonio Torres
Arizona Director

The Arizona Scout Blog shifts into playoff mode as the AIA State Tournament gets underway. Throughout each round, the Prep Baseball Arizona staff will be on the ground covering matchups across all classifications, highlighting standout performances and key prospect evaluations. From impact underclassmen to uncommitted seniors and draft follow arms, this running blog will feature detailed scouting notes, game insights, and data-driven breakdowns from the state’s top postseason action. Expect player evaluations, velocities, offensive metrics, and more as we follow the road to the championship.

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May 10th

Game 1 Player Notes:

(No. 3) Casteel Colts vs. (No. 10) Mountain View Toros

*Baylor Denny, 2027 SS/RHP, Casteel, Uncommitted

Denny continues to cement his status as one of the premier prospects in Arizona’s 2027 class, showcasing a poised and mature presence on the mound in Casteel’s playoff win. Operating with a four pitch mix, the right hander sat 86-87 all game and occasionally flashed 88/89 with the fastball, while effectively mixing an 82-84 mph changeup, 72-75 mph curveball, and a 75-77 mph slider to keep hitters off balance. His command of the zone and sequencing looked advanced for his age, working deep into the outing with efficiency. Off the mound, Denny has already proven himself as a polished shortstop with fluid actions and a strong, accurate arm. With 2 way value and an upward trajectory, Denny continues to stand out as a high ceiling talent and centerpiece for a loaded Casteel squad.

*Ryan Harwood, 2026 OF, Casteel, Texas A&M commit

In a key playoff setting, Ryan Harwood delivered a timely RBI single to right, setting off a run rule rally that sealed a 12-2 win for Casteel. At 6’3, 215 pounds, Harwood offers a rare blend of physicality and athleticism that immediately stands out. He generates elite bat speed from the left side, consistently producing high exit velocities and true backspin carry to all fields. The raw power is evident and plays in game, with the ball jumping off his barrel on a consistent basis.

Over the past year, Harwood has made measurable strides in his approach, showing improved swing decisions and a more refined understanding of the zone. His swing mechanics have become more efficient, allowing for better timing and energy transfer through contact. A Preseason All-State selection, he also impacts the game defensively with a 94 mph arm from the outfield and the instincts to stick in a corner spot at the next level. Harwood’s ability to show up in big moments, paired with five-tool potential, makes him one of the premier 2026 prospects not only in Arizona but across the region.


*Taylor Dodd, 2027 OF, Casteel HS, Uncommitted

A high-motor outfielder who plays with infectious energy, Taylor Dodd continues to show why he's a valuable piece in the Casteel lineup. The left handed hitter delivered a sharp RBI single up the middle in playoff action, adding to the Colts’ offensive surge. Dodd’s game is built on quick twitch athleticism and a relentless style of play that consistently puts pressure on opposing defenses. With a short, direct swing path and the ability to cover ground in the outfield, he profiles as a sparkplug type player with top of the order potential as he continues to physically mature.

*Andres Armenta, 2028 OF, Casteel HS, Uncommitted

Andres Armenta wasted no time sparking a rally with a sharp single back up the middle in playoff action. Armenta brings a dynamic blend of athleticism and bat speed, flashing power potential well beyond his age. His swing is balanced and aggressive, showing the ability to drive the baseball with authority to all fields. Already standing out in high-level events like the Preseason All-State, Armenta has a natural feel for the game and profiles as one of the top 2028 follows in the state with the tools to impact the game in all phases.

Game Recap:

Casteel Varsity Colts defeated Mountain View Varsity Toros 12-2. Connor Russell led the Colts with 4 RBIs, including a double and a single. Baylor Denny pitched six innings, allowing two runs on six hits. Casteel recorded 11 hits and 6 stolen bases, with Ryne Barker, Russell, and Jose Bingochea each having two hits. Kooper Klein had one RBI for Mountain View.

Game 2 Player Notes:

(No. 1) Corona del Sol Aztecs vs. (No. 4) Red Mountain

*Zane Burns, 2025 RHP, Corona del Sol, Oklahoma State commit

Zane Burns, a highly polished right handed pitcher in Arizona's 2025 class, stands out for his exceptional pitchability and impressive arsenal. He usually demonstrates outstanding command, and effective use of a three pitch mix across all areas of the strike zone. His lively fastball reaches 92 mph with accuracy, complemented by two offspeed pitches. His changeup, thrown in the low 80s with conviction and consistent arm speed, exhibits late fade against both left handed and right handed hitters. The slider, a sharp, lateral offering in the upper 70s, serves as a devastating weapon against righties. An athletic presence on the mound with remaining projection, Burns has the potential to further establish himself as one of the most well-rounded pitching prospects in the region.

*Carter Macanas, 2026 SS, Red Mountain HS, Arizona State commit

One of the most instinctual players in Arizona’s 2026 class, Carter Macanas came through with a multi-hit playoff performance, driving a hard single through the left side and later lacing a double to help push Red Mountain out in front. Compact and athletic at 5’9, 160 pounds, Macanas brings a confident presence in the box with a smooth, repeatable swing that consistently produces quality contact. His infield actions are polished and fluid, flashing the ability to throw from multiple arm angles with ease, backed by an 87 mph arm across the diamond. Macanas plays the game with advanced feel and quiet intensity, and his ability to impact the game on both sides makes him a reliable middle infielder for Arizona State down the line.


*Jaiden LoRe, 2025 SS, Corona del Sol HS, BYU commit

A steady presence up the middle for Corona del Sol, Jaiden LoRe chipped in with a late-game base hit as the Aztecs looked to rally. Known for his reliable glove work, LoRe is one of the top defensive shortstops in the state, showcasing fluid actions, a quick first step, and an 87 mph arm across the infield. Offensively, the BYU commit brings a balanced approach with gap to gap intent, consistently finding the barrel and showing feel for situational hitting. His competitive edge and high energy play style continue to set the tone for his team, especially in tight playoff moments.


Maddox Loria, 2025 RHP, Red Mountain HS, Uncommitted

Loria delivered when it mattered most, tossing a complete game shutout in playoff action while allowing just two hits (both coming late in the sixth). The uncommitted senior doesn’t rely on velocity to beat hitters, instead leaning on pitchability and execution. Working 77–81 with the fastball, Loria mixes a fading 72–75 changeup and a 68–73 curveball to disrupt timing and force weak contact. His ability to throw strikes and stay composed under pressure made the difference in a dominant outing for Red Mountain.

Game Recap:

Red Mountain Varsity Mountain Lions edged out Corona del Sol Varsity Aztecs 2-0 in a pitching duel on Saturday. Zane Burns threw a complete game for Corona del Sol, allowing six hits and two runs (one earned), while Maddox Loria tossed seven scoreless innings for Red Mountain, giving up just two hits. Carter Macanas led Red Mountain with a perfect 3-3 performance, and Derek Wilson's sacrifice fly in the first put the Mountain Lions ahead. Both teams played flawless defense, with Corona del Sol turning one double play.

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