What's Your Path?: William Walbridge
May 20, 2026
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The 14th annual Future Games took place on July 22-27 at LakePoint in Emerson, Georgia. Top uncommitted prospects in the classes of 2026 and 2027 participated in one of the most popular events each year.
For the first time ever, the state of California brought two teams: Team NorCal and Team SoCal.
We caught up with some of the state's standout performers to hear about their highlights on the weekend, their overall experience at LakePoint, and what their recruitment process has looked like since the August 1st deadline.
William Walbridge, 2027, 1B/3B, Junipero Serra HS
In his junior season for Junipero Serra, the 6'4' lefty picked up right where he left off from the summer and continued to mash. Walbridge hit to the tune of a .281 batting average, driving in 12 runs on 18 total hits. 8 of those hits were for extra bases, with 5 of them leaving the yard. Walbridge was also sure-handed at first base, bolsting a .982 fielding percentage, as well as helping to turn 8 double plays on the year.
Walbridge: "My biggest highlight was definitely the first game against North Texas. There was a pitcher who was really bringing it, and I was able to hit a double off the wall in right field. That was a big moment — not just for me, but it helped get our team going. At that point, we were kind of grinding a little bit, and that hit sparked some momentum that carried through the rest of the weekend."
Prep Baseball CA: What was it like being part of Team NorCal?
Walbridge: "It was great. I had played with a lot of those guys before, so it was awesome to reconnect and compete together again. The team chemistry was really strong, and that helped us a lot. It’s also cool to see how much everyone has developed. I’ve been playing with some of those guys since we were 12, and now seeing the level everyone has reached — it really shows what it takes to be a top player in NorCal."
Prep Baseball CA: What was your reaction to seeing all the college coaches and scouts at LakePoint?
Walbridge: "It was unreal. I had never seen anything like it before. From the moment you get out of your car, there are scouts everywhere. You can name just about any college, and they’re there. That really stood out to me — it’s an experience you don’t forget."
Prep Baseball CA: What stood out about the level of competition?
Walbridge: "Everyone there was really, really good. I didn’t see a single player where you thought they didn’t belong — it was all high-level talent. We were facing pitchers throwing upper-80s and into the 90s, which was pretty crazy. It was some of the best competition I’ve ever faced."
Prep Baseball CA: What advice would you give to players attending Future Games next summer?
Walbridge: "Just be yourself and show what you can do. Obviously, you want to play for your team, but it’s also an opportunity to showcase your skills in front of coaches. Don’t try to be someone you’re not — just trust your game and go compete."
Prep Baseball CA: How did Future Games impact your recruiting process?
Walbridge: "It had a huge impact. I got a call right at 12:01 on August 1 from Texas Tech, which was an incredible moment. They specifically mentioned seeing me at Future Games, so that event really put me on the map. It gave me the platform to compete in front of all those coaches, and I’m very grateful for that because it played a big role in where I am today."
On September 17th, 2025, Walbridge took to social media to announce his commitment to Texas Tech University.
Prep Baseball CA: What are you most looking forward to about your future at Texas Tech?
Walbridge: "I’m really looking forward to getting on campus and being part of that program. The coaching staff is awesome — they treat their players like family."
Prep Baseball CA: Anyone you’d like to shout out?
Walbridge: "I’d like to thank Coach Hank LoForte for inviting me. That opportunity meant a lot, and I’m really grateful for it."
The 87th best-ranked player in the state joins an already loaded recruitment class for Texas Tech, one that includes Mariano Gonzalez, Walbridge's fellow Team NorCal teammate at Future Games.
Walbridge's offensive profile and strong defensive presence poise the lefty for a successful campaign at Junipero Serra, Texas Tech, and beyond.