2026 HS Preview: Region 6

February 20, 2026
Prep Baseball
North Carolina

2026 North Carolina High School Baseball Previews

As the 2026 high school baseball season approaches, Prep Baseball is proud to roll out our annual North Carolina High School Baseball Previews, spotlighting programs from across the state.

Information for these previews was gathered directly by Prep Baseball’s scouting staff, along with detailed preseason questionnaires submitted by high school coaches statewide. Coaches provided insight into their returning players, team strengths and weaknesses, offseason development, and overall outlook heading into the spring. Every program that completed the questionnaire will receive a team preview as part of this series.

The goal of the North Carolina High School Baseball Previews is simple: highlight high school baseball across the state and bring attention to impact players at every level. From established contenders and defending champions to emerging programs and under-the-radar rosters, this series is designed to give readers a comprehensive look at the teams and athletes shaping the 2026 season.

Previews will be released by region, with two regions published each day, making it easy to follow along and track storylines as opening day approaches. Each team breakdown will include an overview, projected strengths and areas to watch, and key players to follow — with an emphasis on prospects making noise within Prep Baseball’s coverage.

We appreciate the time and effort from the coaches who contributed to this project and look forward to covering what promises to be another competitive and talent-filled spring across North Carolina.

Stay tuned as we begin rolling out the 2026 previews.

Region 6 Previews

Region 5 of North Carolina is on the southern boarder in the middle of the state. The biggest sector of the region is the city of Charlotte.

Table of Contents

Burns

Head Coach: Alex Leonhardt
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Southern Piedmont
2025 Record (Finish): 24-5 (Marshall McGowan tied the state career record for RBI's with 150. Colby Putnam finished his high school career with a record of 33-4)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Marshall McGowan, Colby Putnam, Nick Williams, Jack Toney, Camden Mackall, Hagan Hoyle, Jaxon Dubesko,

Top Returners:
Drew Dixon LF, 3B/1B, 2026
Yates Toney C, 2028
Max Davis SS/3B/P 2027

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Andrew Yarboro, Gage Camp, Max Davis

Projected Starting Lineup:
P Andrew Yarboro, C Yates Toney, 1B Gage Camp, 2B Lathan Peeler, 3B Zane DeRisi, SS Max Davis, LF Drew Dixon, CF Mason Bralley, RF Ethan Robinson

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Yates Toney 2028

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Senior leadership and experience

Top Seniors:
Drew Dixon OF/3B/1B/P

Top Juniors:
Max Davis SS/P 2027
Gage Camp 1B/P 2027
Andrew Yarboro P/3B 2027

“This group has been mentored by a great 2025 class the last couple of years. It is now their turn to keep the Burns tradition alive. We will look to learn from our mistakes and continue getting better as the year progresses.” – Alex Leonhardt, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Coming off a great run the past three years, expectations will remain high for the Bulldogs. They will be looking to fill a big void left by the Class of 2025 but the core of the team has the experience of playing at a Championship level. Look for Drew Dixon to pace the offense. Andrew Yarboro will be a key piece for a pitching staff replacing a lot of lost innings.

Find more information on the 2026 Burns program below:

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Charlotte Catholic

Head Coach: Eddie Hull
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Southern Carolina 6A/7A
2025 Record (Finish): 22-6-1 (Co-Conference Regular Season Champions
-Matt McKnight set a school record with 8 home runs)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Matt McKnight, Will O'Rourke, Jon Fijalkowski, Tripp Warnement, Dylan Kelleher

Top Returners:
-John Hucko (Jr. OF/LHP)
-Ben Bordeaux (Sr. RHP)
-Quinn O'Rourke (Sr. RHP)
-Cooper Gornet (Sr. SS)
-Paul Greeley (Sr. C)
-Luke Danser (Jr. INF)
-Alex Hoffman (Sr. RHP/DH)

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Quinn O'Rourke, Alex Hoffman, Griffin McKain

Projected Starting Lineup:
(C) Brady Marconi/Paul Greeley, (1B) Luke Danser, (2B) TBD, (3B) Tate Olney, (SS) Cooper Gornet, (LF) TBD, (CF) John Hucko, (RF) Griffin McKain, (DH) Alex Hoffman

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

(RHP) Henry Earl & (INF) Farris Carinci

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitching Depth, Good core of hitters

Top Seniors:
-Ben Bordeaux (Sr. RHP) - Queens signee
-Quinn O'Rourke (Sr. RHP) - Arizona signee
-Cooper Gornet (Sr. SS) - NC State signee
-Paul Greeley (Sr. C) - Sewanee signee
-Brady Marconi (Sr. C) - CofC signee
-Alex Hoffman (Sr. RHP) - Virginia Tech signee

Top Juniors:
-John Hucko (Jr. OF/LHP) - Auburn commit
-Griffin McKain (Jr. OF/LHP) - Clemson commit
-Luke Danser (Jr. INF) - Dayton commit

“I love our club heading into the 2026 season. Our pitching staff is deep, and our lineup will be tough outs 1-9. I am excited to watch our young men compete this spring!” – Eddie Hull, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Cougars were near the top of the Power 25 in 2025 for a majority of the year. A 2nd round exit to the eventual State Champions has this group seeking a better outcome in 2026. The top end talent on the roster will compete with anyone. This may be one of the top pitching staffs in the state in the past decade, if not longer.

Find more information on the 2026 Charlotte Catholic program below:

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Charlotte Christian School

Head Coach: Reid Fronk
Classification: NCISAA
Conference: CISAA
2025 Record (Finish): 26-6 (4-0 in Cowboy Up Preseason Tournament (AZ), Tough schedule with a lot of big wins || Grant Nicholson tied program careers wins record with 27 wins.)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Grant Nicholson (RHP), Cohen Bettencourt (C), Owen Farrell (OF), Wade Thompson (RHP)

Top Returners:
Russ Berger, LHP, 2026, Columbia (NY) signee
Jack Beard, RHP, 2026, Gardner Webb signee
Drew Darling, 1B, 2026, Belmont Abbey signee
Jack McGrath, C, 2026, Hampden Sydney commit
Will Parrish, RHP, 2027, NC State commit
Matty Carroll, 3B, 2027, Maryland commit
Derek Vazquez, SS, 2028
Ivan Andino, OF, IF, RHP, 2028
Hudson Simmons, OF, LHP, 2028
Jacob Reynolds, 2B, 2028

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Jack Beard, Will Parrish, Russ Berger

Projected Starting Lineup:
C - Jack McGrath, 1B - Drew Darling, 2B - Jacob Reynolds, 3B - Matty Carroll, SS - Derek Vazquez, LF - Shawn Thomas O'Donnell, CF - Hudson Simmons, RF - Ivan Andino, DH - Sawyer Cutaia

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Derek Vazquez, SS, 2028
Ivan Andino, OF, IF, RHP, 2028
Hudson Simmons, OF, LHP, 2028
Jacob Reynolds, 2B, 2028

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
High end talent. While young there is still experience in the lineup. Tradition.

Top Seniors:
Russ Berger - LHP; 6'5" Columbia signee (NY, Ivy League)
Jack Beard - RHP, Gardner Webb signee
Drew Darling - 1B, OF, Belmont Abbey signee
Jack McGrath, C, 2026, Hampden Sydney commit

Top Juniors:
Will Parrish: RHP - committed to NC State
Matty Carroll: 3B, RHP - Maryland commit

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Charlotte Christian built their 2025 into a great year that came up just a couple of hits short in the state semi-finals. The youth of 2025 is one year older and will look to handle more of the offensive burden. There is solid depth on the mound where several arms could take the lead to become the "go-to" arm in the state playoffs. Matty Carroll will look to build off his Future Games appearance and University of Maryland commit as he will be a key to the depth of the lineup.

Find more information on the 2026 Charlotte Christian School program below:

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Charlotte Latin School

Head Coach: Daniel Cooke
Classification: NCISAA
Conference: Charlotte Independent School Athletic Association
2025 Record (Finish): 18-6-1 (Best Record in school past 20+ seasons)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Avery Booker SS. RHP - Queens University
Brayden Hampton C - Fairmont State University
Graham Blanton RHP
Hudson Shoup OF

Top Returners:
Jaden Hawa, INF, 2026, William Peace commit
Luka Kadijevic, 1B/LHP, 2026
Griffin Donnelly, C, 2026
Cooper Holland, OF/LHP, 2027
Nick Smith, INF, 2027
Max Thune, OF/LHP, 2027
Will Morton, OF/LHP, 2027

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Luka Kadijevic LHP, Cooper Holland LHP, Max Thune LHP

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Barrett Hicks Catcher 2028
Richard Linch 2028

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Speed

Top Seniors:
Jaden Hawa, INF
Luka Kadijevic, 1B/LHP
Griffin Donnelly, C

Top Juniors:
Cooper Holland, LHP/OF
Nick Smith, SS
Max Thune, LHP/OF

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
A historic year for the Hawks in 2025 saw their best record in the past 20 years. Several key pieces return with Cooper Holland, Max Thune, and Luka Kadijevic leading the way on the mound. Jaden Hawa will be a catalyst to an offense that will apply pressure to opposing defenses with their athleticism.

Find more information on the 2026 Charlotte Latin School program below:

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Corvian Community

Head Coach: Ryan McElhinny
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Catawba Shores 2A/3A/4A
2025 Record (Finish): 11-14 (Gavin McElhinny broke the all time hits record as Junior. )

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Connor Frey, Keldyn Vincent, Jackson Gilmore

Top Returners:
Gavin McElhinny CF Senior NC Wesleyan Commit
Holden Parks 3B Senior Uncommitted
Brennan Frey RHP/SS Junior

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Landen McElhinny Fr
Brennan Frey Jr
Gavin McElhinny Sr

Projected Starting Lineup:
C- Dylan Behlke, 1B, Cam Clark, 2B Landen McElhinny, SS Brennan Frey, 3B Holden Parks, LF Tyson Douglas Brown, CF Gavin McElhinny, RF Jaxon Pinyan, DH Cameron Park

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Landen McElhinny- RHP/MIF

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitching and Defense.

Top Seniors:
Gavin McElhinny CF NC Wesleyan Commit
Holden Parks 3B

Top Juniors:
Brennan Frey SS/RHP, Dylan Behlke C

“We are very young, but (this is) probably the most talent I've had in my 5 years at Corvian. This should be a fun group to watch grow this year. ” – Ryan McElhinny, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Cardinals will be young in 2026. Gavin McElhinny, the program's hit leader, will look to lead the young linep that does have some athleticism. The ability for the pitching staff, led by Landen McElhinny, to give the offense a chance to find its footing early in the year.

Find more information on the 2026 Corvian Community program below:

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Covenant Day School

Head Coach: David Houseton
Classification: NCISAA
Conference: Charlotte Independent School Athletic Association
2025 Record (Finish): 18-7 (13-1 to start the season vs. a very good schedule. Grant Gardner ended his HS career as the all-time strikeout leader at Covenant Day School. )

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Ethan Andujar, James Cosper, Brodie Dixon, Austin Price, Issac Snapp, Grant Gardner

Top Returners:
Hunter Kincheloe (SR) MIF/RHP, signed to play at Hampton Sydney College
Owen Duncan (FR) MIF/RHP
Zeb Engstrom (JR) OF
Mikey Scaletta (JR) LHP/OF/1st

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Mikey Scaletta (LHP), Owen Duncan (RHP), Hunter Kincheloe (RHP)

Projected Starting Lineup:
1. Hunter Kincheloe 2B 2. Jaylen Boyd LF 3. Matthew Dorsey C 4. Mikey Scaletta P 5. Zeb Engstrom CF 6. Owen Duncan SS 7. Ethan Frazier 1B 8. Levi Timberlake 3B 9. Noah Fikkert RF DH/MIF- Luca Reyner MIF/3B- Alex Metayer

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Owen Duncan SS/RHP
Isiah Dorbor OF/LHP

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Hitting and Defense

Top Seniors:
Matthe Dorsey (C) - Committed to Wake Tech JC
Hunter Kincheloe (MIF/RHP) - Signed to play baseball at Hampton Sydney
Alex Metayer (MIF/3B)
Luca Reyner (MIF/RHP)
Jaylen Boyd (OF/RHP) - Committed to play baseball at David Camp JC

Top Juniors:
Zeb Engstrom (JR) OF
Noah Fikkert (JR) OF
Levi Timberlake (JR) IF

“This year's team is full of skilled and talented players… This team will surprise people due to being fundamentally sound and solid team chemistry. ” – David Houseton , head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Lions played a tough schedule in 2025 and were rewarded, becoming one of the state's top teams. The 2025 team leaned on the talented pitching staff. While there is still talent on the bump, led by Mikey Scaletta, the offense will look to be more explosive in 2026.

Find more information on the 2026 Covenant Day School program below:

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Cuthbertson

Head Coach: Stuart James
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Southern Carolina Conference
2025 Record (Finish): 26-6 (Lost in regional final to eventual state champion; tied school record for wins in a season; SCC POY, Union County POY)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Michael Clemente, Gavin Aldredge, Brayden Richards, Caden Matthews

Top Returners:
Logan James - 26; SS/RHP; USC Upstate commit; 2025 SCC POY, Union County POY
Robert Johnstone - 26; C/2B; Barton commit; All-SCC, All Region in 2025
Ryan Virgilio - 26; OF/RHP; Belmont Abbey commit
Nathan Wilson - 26; CF; Catawba commit
Brady Williamson - 27; 1B/C

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Jackson Waeghe, Jackson Finnerty, Mason Shearer

Projected Starting Lineup:
1B - Brady Williamson; 2B - Maddox Siebenaler; SS - Logan James; 3B - ??, LF - Sawyer Marsh; CF - Nathan Wilson; RF - Ryan Virgilio; C - Robert Johnstone

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Mason Shearer
Sawyer Marsh
Dylan Hancock

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Returning depth in the lineup and on the field. Chance to score runs consistently and play high level defense.

Top Seniors:
Logan James - SS/RHP
Robert Johnstone - C/2B
Nathan Wilson - CF
Ryan Virgilio - OF/RHP

Top Juniors:
Brady Williamson - 1B/C
Maddox Siebenaler - INF
Jackson Waeghe - RHP

“We return the core of our lineup and we have some young guys who look ready to help us on the mound. Our conference is a gauntlet, but our kids are tested and know what it takes to win. We are excited to see how we stack up” – Stuart James, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Cavs reached the state championship series in 2025, and return several key names from the run. The offense will be dynamic with a chance to score in multiple ways while grinding on opposing team staffs. The ability to develop depth in the pitching staff could see the Cavs back in the mix in 2026.

Find more information on the 2026 Cuthbertson program below:

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East Lincoln

Head Coach: Chris Matile
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: 4A/5A Western Foothills Athletic Conference
2025 Record (Finish): 20-7

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Barrett Erwin, Evan Matile, Dylan Scott, Ty Davis, Matthew Phuntek

Top Returners:
Brandon Washington, C, 2026, Wake Tech signee
Braden Brotherton, OF, 2026
Cooper Royster, RHP, 2026, Virginia Wesleyan signee
Tayden Dockens, LHP, 2026, Wake Tech signee
Ethan Arledge-Martin, OF, 2026, Emory and Henry signee
Ryker Wensil, SS, 2027
Josh Beam, RHP/3B/1B, 2027

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Josh Beam, RHP, 2027 Cooper Royster, RHP, 2026

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Tanner Matile, Sophomore;
Connor Presley, sophomore

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Mound Experience

Top Seniors:
Brandon Washington, utility, SR. - Wake Tech CC signee

Top Juniors:
Ryker Wensil, MIF, Junior
Josh Beam, RHP, Junior

“Every year it comes down to the basics, have to throw strikes, make the routine plays and put the ball in play. We do those three things we will win more than we lose.” – Chris Matile, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Mustangs will be led on the mound by Cooper Royster, Tayden Dockens, and Josh Beam. Beam is an intriguing follow as a strike thrower at 6’7” with solid movement patterns. Brandon Washington is a "do-it-all" utility player that will help on the bump and spur the offense. The offensive production around Washington, with young hitters like Tanner Matile, will be a key to the '26 run.

Find more information on the 2026 East Lincoln program below:

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East Rowan

Head Coach: Hatley
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: South Piedmont
2025 Record (Finish): 25-6 (Harrison Ailshie 117 strike outs on the mound)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Kris Hernandez, Mason Phelps

Top Returners:
Harrison Ailshie, Brady Ailshie, Sam Blackwelder, Braylen Ketchie, Logan Bradley, Zeke Stewart

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Harrison Ailshie, Brady Ailshie, Zach Misenheimer, Julian Cauble

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Brady Ailshie
Braylen Ketchie

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitching

Top Seniors:
Harrison Ailshie - North Carolina commit
Isaiah Osterhus
Andrew Lopez

Top Juniors:
Sam Blackwelder
Zeke Stewart
Logan Bradley

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Year in and year out the Mustangs are in contention. Expect more of the same in 2026. The Ailshie family will man the bump with Harrison & Brady supplying key innings. There are a bunch of strike throwers, several with a proven track record, ready behind them. Offensively, to make a deep run, there will need to be protection around Harrison Ailshie, who is one of the most polished bats in the state.

Find more information on the 2026 East Rowan program below:

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Hickory Grove Christian School

Head Coach: Nick Daddio
Classification: NCISAA
Conference: NCISAA Metrolina Ahletic Conference (MAC)
2025 Record (Finish): 12-13

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
RHP-Davis Cabbage/ SS/RHP-Ben Green/ C-Von Pelow LHP-Brady Johnson

Top Returners:
Nathan Dowdy-JR. (CF)-All State in 2025,
Zach White (JR)
Jack Dwyer (JR.)
Dean Colston (JR.)

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Zach White (JR.) Tyler Wright (JR.)

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Position players will lead the way.

Top Juniors:
Nathan Dowdy (CF)
Zach White (P/CIF)
Jack Dwyer (MIF)
Dean Colston (MIF)
Dallas Tucker (C) (Newcomer from Piedmont)

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Lions battled some injuries in 2025 but still made a deep run in the playoffs. The "next man up" mentality may pay off big this year as the experience and ability to compete was refined in competition last year. Look for the offense to lead the way as the depth on the bump will be developed throughout the year.

Find more information on the 2026 Hickory Grove Christian School program below:

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Hickory Ridge

Head Coach: Jordan Sells
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Greater Metro Athletic Conference
2025 Record (Finish): 17-9 (Bowen Powell broke the single season and career home run record at Hickory Ridge. )

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Bowen Powell (Wingate Signee), Parker Lakey (Catawba Signee)

Top Returners:
Brody Hill - 2026 OF Ferrum Signee
Grant Helms - 2027 OF/1B
Lucas Whalen - 2025 RHP

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Lucas Whalen, Luke Kivett, Jack Allen

Projected Starting Lineup:
CF Brody Hill, 2B Tanner Jones, 1B Grant Helms, 3B Dylan Kelly, LF Isaac Witte, DH Jackson Huston, C Bishop LLoyd, SS TJ Lucks, RF Steven Otto

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Bishop Lloyd - 2028 C
Jack Allen - 2028 RHP
Luke Untereker - 2029 IF/OF

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Leadership, consistency, competitiveness, base running. I am expecting this team to be very successful this season.

Top Seniors:
Dylan Kelly

Top Juniors:
Grant Helms
Lucas Whalen
Isaac Witte
Tanner Jones

“I am expecting this team to compete for a GMAC championship. They have committed a lot of time and effort to improve this offseason in the weight room and on the field. I am excited to see them compete. ” – Jordan Sells, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Bulls have some thump in the middle of the order and a potential breakout star on the bump. Grant Helms and Brody Hill will create issues for opposing teams, and could allow the lineup to mature throughout the year. Lucas Whalen is an arm that has continued to take steps forward in recent years -- 2026 could be a big one for him.

Find more information on the 2026 Hickory Ridge program below:

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Myers Park High School

Head Coach: Erik Foor
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: GCAC- Greater Charlotte Athletic Conference
2025 Record (Finish): 20-8 (Regular Season Champions, 3rd Round Playoff Birth)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
William Washburn, Davis Johnson

Top Returners:
Thomas Jokinen RHP/CINF - 2026
Henry Bauer RHP - 2027
Evan Howard RHP/INF - 2027
John Person RHP - 2026
Jaxson West C - 2026
William Jordak OF - 2026,
Addison Rowland C/INF - 2026
Chace Blackmon OF - 2027

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Henry Bauer, Thomas Jokinen, Evan Howard, John Person

Projected Starting Lineup:
Thomas Jokinen, Evan Howard, Addison Rowland, Jaxson West, Chace Blackmon, William Jordak, Price Bailey, Jack Butler

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitching and Defense

Top Seniors:
Thomas Jokinen - 2026 RHP
Jaxson West - 2026 Brevard Commit - C
William Jordak - 2026 Cleveland CC - OF
John Person - 2026 RHP
Addison Rowland - 2026 C

Top Juniors:
Chace Blackmon - 2027 OF
Evan Howard - 2027 Richmond Commit RHP/INF
Henry Bauer - 2027 Washington Commit - RHP

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Mustangs are one of those teams that create a lot of issues for other teams as they throw strikes and play solid defense year in and year out. The pitching and defense may take another step forward in 2026. Henry Bauer, Evan Howard, and Thomas Jokinen lead the arms. Look for transfer Addison Rowland to make an impact on the offensive production and depth in his first year with the program.

Find more information on the 2026 Myers Park High School program below:

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Parkwood High School

Head Coach: Chad Nichols
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Rocky River 4A/5A
2025 Record (Finish): 10-15-1

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Parkwood will be young in places and inexperienced in others. This is a group that has a history of playing their best in the back half of the year as they continue to mature into their roles. Keep an eye on Haven Jordan on the bump as he could be poised to make some strides this spring.

Find more information on the 2026 Parkwood High School program below:

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Piedmont Community Charter School

Head Coach: Brent Walls
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Catawba River Conference
2025 Record (Finish): 11-14 (Cooper Hamlin Metro 8 Conference Player of the Year)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
n/a

Top Returners:
Cooper Hamlin (UTL/P, 2027), D'Angelo Garcia (3B/P, 2027), Jack Hewlett (SS/P, 2027)

Projected Starting Pitchers:
TBA

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Nolan Ivie (C/OF 2028)
Luke Bartlett (2B/SS 2029)

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Quality offense, Experience

Top Juniors:
Cooper Hamlin (UTL/P)
D'Angelo Garcia (3B/P)
Jack Hewlett (SS/P)
Michael Grabowski (OF/P)
Cole Burchfield (1B/C)
Zach Horner (UTL/P)

“We've got a group of hungry players, and the culture of the program is heading in the direction that it needs to be. We're looking to raise expectations and show some big differences in our season this year.” – Brent Walls, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Coming off a competitive year, the Patriots will look to a roster that has continuity returning. Several players grew into roles last year and may be in position to take another step forward in 2026.

Find more information on the 2026 Piedmont Community Charter School program below:

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Providence

Head Coach: Danny Hignight
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: South Western 7A/8A
2025 Record (Finish): 23-6 (Won Conference and Conference Tournament)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Xavier McCoury-Liberty Ben Baldassare-Wingate

Top Returners:
Michael Pitsiniagas RHP/OF 2026-Wingate
Parks Rhyne RHP 2026-Wingate
Jackson Debe 3B/RHP 2026 Wingate
Jack Pejot OF 2026- Gaston
Jaxon Haynes OF/LHP 2027-South Carolina
Whit McCammon SS 2027 - Campbell
Braxton Thompson RHP/SS 2028 uncommitted

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Michael Pitsiniagas
Braxton Thompson
Parks Rhyne
James Sturgis

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Braxton Thompson
Grady Ennis

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
High end talent. Experience. Depth on the mound.

Top Seniors:
Jackson Debe
Michael Pitsiniagas
Parks Rhyne
Ryan Cox
Jack Pejot

Top Juniors:
Jaxon Haynes
Eli Webb
Whit McCammon

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Panthers are always in the mix with a solid core of depth and talent. The 2026 version sees a lot of key returners. On the bump Michael Pitsiniaas and Parks Rhyne will lead the way. Look for Braxton Thompson to be in a position to contribute with his stuff and athleticism. Offensively, this group could attack in a lot of different ways with Jackson Debe, Jaxon Haynes, and Jack Pejot creating issues for opposing staffs.

Find more information on the 2026 Providence program below:

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South Mecklenburg

Head Coach: Sam Skinner
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Greater Charlotte Athletic Conference 8A (GCAC)
2025 Record (Finish): 17-11 (9-3 Conference - 3rd Place Finish / Conference Tournament Champions) (Conference Tournament Champions)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Connor Longley, Reese Guertin, Chris Short

Top Returners:
2027 - Chase Bremer (INF)
2027 - Pete Halstead (INF)
2027 - Jack Devitt (OF/P)
2027 - Avery Rocco (OF/INF/P)
2027 - Lauten Mehalic (P/1B)
2026 - Brayden Bartholomew (P - Carelton College Commit)
2026 - Spencer Sciotto (C - Catawba Valley CC Commit)

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Brayden Bartholomew, Lauten Mehalic, Cole Christian, Davis Long

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBD

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

2029 - Cole Christian (RHP/C/1B/OF)
2028 - Yahmir Ambroise (MINF)

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Key Talent. Depth on the infield and on the bump. Speed.

Top Seniors:
Brayden Bartholomew (RHP - Carelton College Commit)
Spencer Sciotto (C - Catawba Valley CC Commit)

Top Juniors:
Chase Bremer (3B, SS)
Avery Rocco (OF, INF, RHP)
Lauten Mehalic (LHP)
Jack Devitt (OF, RHP)
Pete Halstead (3B, 2B)

“We have the chance to be a sneaky good team and will definitely have a chance to compete to win our conference… and to make some noise in the 8A playoffs. ” – Sam Skinner, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
After a 2025 season marked by growth and culminating in a conference tournament championship with a young roster, the 2026 Sabres are poised for continued success. This year's team boasts increased pitching depth, a reliable infield defense with multiple positional options, and an offense designed to put pressure on opposing defenses with aggressive baserunning. A key element to watch will be the 2027 class, as several players are anticipated to take significant steps forward.

Find more information on the 2026 South Mecklenburg program below:

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West Rowan High School

Head Coach: Seth Graham
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: South Piedmont
2025 Record (Finish): 24-5 (Regular Season Championship and Conference Tournament Championship)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Brice Knox - Eli Graham

Top Returners:
Cole Blevins - OF/RHP - 2026- NCBCA - All State in 2025 - 3 x All Conference - UNCW Commit
Maddox Moore - OF/LHP - 2026 NCBCA- All State in 2025 - 2 X All Conference-
Carter Durant - INF/RHP - 2026 - NCBCA - All State in 2025 - All Conference- Catawba College Commit
Brody Pope - C/INF - 2027 - NCBCA - All Region in 2025 - All Region- All Conference Uncommitted
Brant Graham- INF/RHP - 2026 - 2x All Conference - Catawba College Commit
Luke Ponczka - CINF/RHP - 2026
Carter Lefebvre - Ult/RHP - 2026 - Belmont Abby Commit

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Maddox Moore - Brant Graham - Cole Blevins

Projected Starting Lineup:
CF Maddox Moore, RF Cole Blevins, 2B Carter Durant, C Brody Pope, 3B Luke Ponczka, 1B Preston Javidi, LF Dylan Carter, DH Carter Lefebvre, SS Cole Ludwick, P Brant Graham

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Preston Javidi - 1B/LHP
Parker Durant - LHP

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Offensive Production- Returning 6 of 9 hitters from last season.
Pitching - Returning 3 starting pitchers from last season.

Top Seniors:
Cole Blevins - OF/RHP - UNCW Commit
Maddox Moore- OF/LHP
Carter Durant- INF/RHP - Catawba College Commit
Brant Graham - INF/RHP- Catawba College Commit
Luke Ponczka- INF/RHP
Carter Lefebvre- ULT/RHP- Belmont Abby Commit
Dylan Carter - OF/RHP

Top Juniors:
Brody Pope= C/INF
Cole Ludwick- INF/RHP

“Most talented team since I've been coaching at West Rowan (11th year). The combination of proven, veteran hitters with power has the ability to produce runs in a hurry. Paired with seasoned starting pitching, the expectations are set high at West Rowan this spring.” – Seth Graham, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Coming off a conference championship in 2025, the Falcons return keys to a lineup that was explosive at times. Cole Blevins, Carter Durrant, and Maddox Moore will be issues for opposing staffs at the top of the lineup. Look for Brant Graham to take a bigger role in 2026 after a solid 2025 campaign on the bump.

Find more information on the 2026 West Rowan High School program below:

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William Amos Hough High School

Head Coach: Pete Jenkins
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: 7A/8A Greater Charlotte Conference
2025 Record (Finish): 19-5 (Conference Champions. Jaxon Matthews set the career HR record at Hough (10), walks (71), stolen bases (53), runs scored (100), and RBI (73). Tyler Baird became the 2nd pitcher in program history to eclipse 200 career strikeouts (201).)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Tyler Baird (Vanderbilt), Thomas Bass (Concord University), Jaxon Keeling (Queens University), Lochlan Robins

Top Returners:
Jaxon Matthews (Clemson signee) - CF - 2026
Derek Guzman (NC A&T signee) - SS - 2026
Matthew Nesta - 3B - 2026
Daniel Eber - RF - 2026
Harrison Sheets - 2B - 2026
Tyler Colvin - C - 2028

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Henry Tipton
Hank Fitzgerald
Jackson Yarborough
Jackson Drury

Projected Starting Lineup:
P Henry Tipton, C Tyler Colvin, 1B Jason Andrews, 2B Harrison Sheets, SS Derek Guzman, 3B Matthew Nesta, LF Ben Edwards, CF Jaxon Matthews, RF Daniel Eber, DH Hudson Kline

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Sophomores:
Tyler Colvin
Hudson Kline
Max Matthews
Kyle James
Hank Fitzgerald
Jaxon Neville
Evan Hardin

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Experience, Offensive lineup, blend of senior talent and younger players

Top Seniors:
Jason Andrews (Rollins Signee)
Daniel Eber
Derek Guzman (NC A&T signee)
Jaxon Matthews (Clemson Signee)
Matthew Nesta
Harrison Sheets

Top Juniors:
Jackson Yarborough - C/RHP, 2027
Jackson Drury - CIF/RHP, 2027. Transfer from Pine Lake Prep
Abe Kessler - RHP, 2027

“Bolstered by 7 returning starters including four 3+ year starters we will look for the offense to carry us through the early part of the schedule… On paper this lineup has the chance to be the deepest and most talented 1-9 in school history.” – Pete Jenkins, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Hough loses an arm that drew a ton of pro attention, but the lineup may draw that type of attention in 2026. Jaxon Matthews is the marquee name but there is plenty of protection around him with Derek Guzman, Matthew Nesta, Jason Andrews, and Daniel Eber. SO catcher Tyler Colvin was thrown into the fire last year and looks to be another year stronger with his skill set continuing to grow. There are question marks on the mound but there are talented options to look to.

Find more information on the 2026 William Amos Hough High School program below:

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Providence Day School

Head Coach: Steve Bondurant
Classification: NCISAA
Conference: Charlotte Independent Schools Athletic Association
2025 Record (Finish): 14-12 (Won 9 of 10 games to close the regular season || 3 players make 2nd team all-conference including Austin Ward CF/P, Trevor Yancey P/2B, and Jack Rivera OF.)

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Austin Ward OF/P
Austin Nelson C

Top Returners:
Trevor Yancey '27 - RHP/2B-committed to pitch at University of Pittsburgh
Owen Shirey '27 - SS/RHP
Thomas Daly '26 - RHP- committed to play baseball at Denison University next year
Matthew Emery '27 - RHP/corner IF
Cullen Ward '26 - CF
Rush Adams '26 - 1B/DH
George Couchenour '26 - C
Jack Rivera '26 - OF

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Trevor Yancey '27, Owen Shirey '27, Matthew Emery '27

Projected Starting Lineup:
C - George Couchenour, 1B - Rush Adams, 2B - Trevor Yancey, SS - Owen Shirey, 3B - Matthew Emery, LF - Jack Rivera, CF - Cullen Ward, RF - Brendan Ravin

*Several positions were still very competitive on the roster as the spring is approaching.

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
- Pitching depth and experience
- Team Speed
- Depth in the lineup

Top Seniors:
Cullen Ward '26 - CF
Rush Adams '26 - 1B/DH
Thomas Daly '26 - RHP/OF
George Couchenour '26 - C
Jack Rivera '26 - OF
Hudson Poindexter '26 - RHP/3B/2B
Brendan Ravin '26 - OF (committed to play WR at Davidson)

Top Juniors:
Trevor Yancey '27 - RHP/2B
Owen Shirey '27 - SS/RHP
Matthew Emery '27 - RHP/3B/1B
Charlie Kropf '27 - 2B/SS/3B
Will Sanders '27 - 3B/2B/SS
Chase Biermann '27 - INF/OF

“Our team enters the 2026 season with strong depth and experience in key positions looking to build off of a strong finish to the 2025 season. ” – Steve Bondurant, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Closed 2025 winning 9 of 10 and lost a heart breaker in the playoffs... The Chargers will look to build off that momentum with a slew of talent returning in 2026. On the mound, Trevor Yancey, Owen Shirey, Thomas Daly, and Matthew Emery will be able to attack in differet ways. The offense has depth and should allow the pitching staff time to find their roles. Austin Ward is a dynamic leadoff type hitter. Cullen Ward, George Couchenour, Yancey, Shirey, and Emery will all compete with ball to bat skill in the box. Rush Adams adds some potential power in the middle of the order.

Find more information on the 2026 Providence Day School program below:

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North Gaston

Head Coach: Wes Hepler
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Big South
2025 Record (Finish): 15-8

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Caleb Cloninger - LHP

Top Returners:
Jackson Livingston, LHP, SR - 2025 Big South Pitcher of the Year - All State
Carter Mason, MIF/OF, SR - 2025 All Conference - commit to Brunswick CC
Elijah Cunningham, OF, SR - 2024 & 2025 All Conference
Blake Mitchell, SS/RHP, JR
Andrew Hardy, 3B, SR
Noah Withers, LHP/DH, SR - (Transfer from Lincoln Charter)

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Jackson Livingston, Blake Mitchell, Noah Withers

Projected Starting Lineup:
C Camden Kanupp, 1B Jordan Cunningham, 2B Carter Mason, SS Blake Mitchell, 3B Andrew Hardy, LF Connor Bates, CF Elijah Cunningham, RF Aiden Cunningham, DH Noah Withers

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Aiden Smith, OF/RHP, Soph

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Experience (8 Seniors, Returning all 8 position players)

Top Seniors:
Jackson Livingston, Carter Mason, Elijah Cunningham, Noah Withers, Andrew Hardy

Top Juniors:
Blake Mitchell

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Wildcats will lean on their Seniors in 2026. Coming off a playoff appearance in 2025, this group has high aspirations for 2026. Jackson Livingston was the Conference Player of the Year and will anchor the pitching staff. Carter Mason and Elijah Cunningham will pace the offense. Look for Blake Mitchell to be a key swing man in the lineup and on the bump. Pitching depth will need to develop but the offense has a chance to give the staff time to find their roles.

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East Mecklenburg

Head Coach: Clint Koppe
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Southwestern 8A/7A
2025 Record (Finish): 11-15

ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
N/A

Top Returners:
Jacob Addison (P, 26, Gaston CC Commit, All-Conf)
Liam Parsons (C, 26, Greensboro Commit, All-Conf)
Gabe Johnson (OF/P, 26, Illinois Tech Commit, All-Conf)
Sam Thompson (OF, 27, All-Conf)

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Jacon Addison, Mitchel Chapman, Gabe Johnson

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBD

IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Grayson Houston - 2028
Ben Church - 2028

SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitchers will be around the zone. Defense is setup to perform at a high level.

Top Seniors:
Jacob Addison
Liam Parsons
Gabe Johnson

Top Juniors:
Sam Thompson

“We return an experienced team that has shown growth over the last few seasons... We will be able to pitch and field the ball... we will be a fun team to watch” – Clint Koppe, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Eagles were off to a solid start in 2025 and competing at a fairly high level before several key injuries forced some younger names into the lineup. Looking ahead to 2026, this may have created a little more depth to a team that has some top end talent. Jacob Addison will lead the pitching staff and has a chance to keep the Eagles in any game. Liam Parsons is one of the most intriguing athletes in the 2026 class. Gabe Johnson is a two way talent that provides depth to the lineup and on the bump. Sam Thompson returns after an All-Conference year in 2025.

Find more information on the 2026 East Mecklenburg program below:

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