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AIA Scout Blog: 5/3 Playoffs

May 5, 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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Round 1

Featured Game Notes:

(No.9) Queen Creek vs (No.8) Sandra Day O'Connor

Tait Reynolds, 2026 OF, Queen Creek HS, Clemson commit

One of the top offensive threats in Arizona’s ‘26 class, Tait continued to solidify his status with a loud playoff showing. He turned around a fastball for a no-doubt 2 run shot in the 3rd, flashing plus bat speed, advanced barrel control, and strength that produces loud, consistent contact. The Clemson commit shows a mature presence in the box with the ability to adjust to spin and drive the ball to all fields. Finished 2-3 with a walk, reinforcing his blend of power and plate discipline that profiles well at the next level.

Jet Berry, 2026 SS, Queen Creek HS, Oregon commit

Jet sparked the Queen Creek offense from the leadoff spot, going 2-4 with a solo homer and RBI single. The Oregon commit shows fast-twitch actions, a short, direct path, and the ability to impact the baseball to all fields. Plays with edge and intensity, and continues to elevate his profile with clutch production and steady defense up the middle. Competitive makeup and all- field approach make him a high-follow in Arizona’s ‘26 class.

Kasen Barricklow, 2028 C/UTIL, Queen Creek HS, Uncommitted

The freshman came off the bench and delivered in a big moment with a sharply hit single up the middle to ignite a late rally. Barricklow shows quick hands, a compact stroke, and advanced barrel awareness for his age. His poise under pressure stands out, and the overall offensive operation projects well as he continues to add strength. Early signs point to one of the more promising young bats in the ‘28 class.

Brent Sollars, 2026 OF, Sandra Day O’Connor HS, Uncommitted

Brent delivered a go-ahead 2 RBI single in the 6th, continuing to prove himself as a reliable presence in big spots. Works with a mature approach, showing a short, compact swing with line drive tendencies and zone control. Brings consistent at-bats and competitive intent, and his knack for timely production adds intrigue to his uncommitted status heading into the summer.

Jaylen Jimenez, 2027 RHP/1B, Sandra Day O’Connor HS, Uncommitted

Jaylen went hitless but made consistent loud contact, showing off strong bat speed and raw power from the left side. The swing is fluid with natural loft and lift, and his physical frame offers real middle of the order potential. With continued reps and refinement, the upside at the plate is considerable. A definite follow coming out of the 2027 class.

Game Recap:

In a hard fought playoff matchup on May 3rd, O’Connor High School demonstrated resilience and clutch performance to secure a 6-5 victory over Queen Creek. The Eagles' triumph was anchored by a stellar complete game pitching performance from ‘25 right-hander Cody Stoller. Stoller showcased his durability and command on the mound, going the distance and racking up six strikeouts against a potent Queen Creek lineup.

Offensively, O’Connor was sparked by the continued hot hitting of infielder ‘26 Brent Sollars. Sollars proved to be a key run producer, contributing two hits in three at-bats, including a pair of crucial runs batted in. His consistent performance at the plate has been a significant factor in the Eagles' success.

Despite the loss, Queen Creek displayed their offensive firepower, particularly from SS ‘26 Jet Berry had a strong day at the plate, going 2-4 with a solo home run that momentarily gave the Bulldogs momentum, and also added an RBI single. CF ‘26 Tait Reynolds also had a noteworthy performance, collecting two hits in three plate appearances, including a key two-run home run that kept Queen Creek in the game.

On the pitching side for Queen Creek, ‘25 right hander Brayden Kitmitto provided a solid effort in middle relief. He entered the game and effectively navigated through four innings, recording four strikeouts. However, he did allow two earned runs as O’Connor mounted their late comeback. Ultimately, O’Connor’s late rally, coupled with Stoller’s complete game effort, proved to be the difference in a tightly contested playoff battle.

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