Underclass Showcase: Preview Story

October 17, 2025
By: Dane Poe
Area Scout, Content

This Sunday, October 19th, the Prep Baseball Illinois team is hosting the Underclass Showcase at The MAX in McCook, IL. This is an open event for 2028-2029 high school grads, and gives our staff an ample look at the area's top players.

For a closer look at the showcase details and the technologies we'll have on-site to assist our in-person evaluation for all in attendance, click here. For a complete look at those registered to attend this event, view the most up-to-date version of the roster by clicking here.

EVENT HISTORY

We've been hosting this event for the past 13 years, and it's consistently provided us a look at prominent players who've later gone on to receive invitations to select events, like the Prep Baseball Future Games and Illinois State Games.

We're looking forward to checking in on the next crop of talent from this event to earn next-level attention in the coming weeks, months, and years.

2025 ROSTER

This year's roster is already shaping up nicely, just like in years past.

Nolan Blackburn OF / LHP / Lincoln-Way West, IL / 2028

Henry Burke SS / OF / Lake Forest, IL / 2028

Blake Harris RHP / 1B / El Paso-Gridley, IL / 2028

Rankings StateRank: 48 / POS: 9

Jacob Hite OF / RHP / St. Laurence, IL / 2028

Jenner Smith OF / RHP / Hersey, IL / 2028

Rankings StateRank: 22 / POS: 3

Perusing the event roster, we’re set to meet a majority of players who’ve not yet attended a Prep Baseball showcase, and we’re eager to add more names to our follow lists.

EVENT CHECK-IN PROCESS

Because of the high number of prospects set to attend Sunday's event, it is imperative that you read our adjusted showcase itinerary below, which will allow our staff to swiftly and efficiently educate and evaluate the players set to attend.

Additionally, in an effort to continue and develop contactless check-in strategies, upon arrival, players will scan a QR Code with their smart phone camera that will lead them to a Google Form. On that Form, players will enter their name (matching the spelling on their PB profile) and hit submit. Upon submission, players will be prompted to click a link that will direct them to their jersey color and number, located next to their registered name.

ITINERARY

Please bring snacks and drinks as events can run long, especially depending on your position.

+ Check-In Times:

All Players: 8:45 A.M.

MORE EVENT DETAILS

Click here to learn more about our tech partners that have enhanced our players showcase experience. Partners like TrackMan, Vizual Edge, and Blast Motion have helped both our in-event evaluation process, as well the compilation of our post-event scouting reports – and they're also a tool for our players to learn more about their measured and collected data, that can be applied to improve upon their game.

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