Prep Baseball Report

2026 HS Previews: Regions 3 & 4


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 3 & 4 Previews

Region 3 of North Carolina makes up the greater Triangle area of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, as well as some surrounding areas. Region 4 features the Piedmont Area of the state, southeast of the Triangle.

Table of Contents

Apex Friendship HSBroughtonCedar Ridge HSClayton High SchoolCleveland HSGARNER HIGH SCHOOLGreen Level HSHolly SpringsMiddle CreekMillbrookOrangeSouth Johnston HSWake County HomeschoolWakefield High SchoolChase High School |East WakeOverhills HSFairmont High SchoolEast Columbus High SchoolUnion PinesGrace Christian School Sanford


Apex Friendship HS


Head Coach: Guy Civitello
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Quad City 7
2025 Record (Finish): 22-7 (Best regular season record
1st regular season conference championship
3rd consecutive conference tournament championship)

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ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Luke Hemric- LHP (NC State), Connor Payne- INF (Belmont Abbey), Hayden Fones- MIF (Louisburg), Drew Ciaccio- OF, Ajay Rychcik- 1B (Thomas College)


Top Returners:

Buster Bloom, C/OF, 2026, Committed to Cornell
Owen Cirasole, LHP/OF, 2026, Committed to King University
Ty Komorner, RHP, 2026, Committed to Winthrop
Connor Sousa, LHP/1B, 2027
Jackson McNally, MIF, 2027

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Owen Cirasole, Ty Komorner, Connor Sousa, Caden Oxendine

Projected Starting Lineup:
Luke Grammich C, Owen Cirasole P, Max Feuer 3B, Jackson McNally SS, Logan Seepers 2B, Connor Sousa 1B, Caden Oxendine LF, Buster Bloom CF, Anthony DeAngelo RF


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitching, Team Speed

Top Seniors:
Buster Bloom, Owen Cirasole, Ty Komorner, Caden Oxendine

Top Juniors:
Connor Sousa, Jackson McNally

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes: Building on a very successful 2025 campaign, the Patriots are poised for another strong season. Their pitching staff should be reliable enough to keep them competitive in most contests. If the offense can develop a consistent spark and establish an identity early on, expect the Patriots to secure a spot in the post-season.


Find more information on the 2026 Apex Friendship HS program below:

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Broughton


Head Coach: Jere Morton
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Cap-8 (8A)
2025 Record (Finish): 14-12 (Several big individual performances led the way in 2025)


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Sam Harris (NC State), Matthew Vannoy (Davidson)

Top Returners:
Weston Rhem (SR, OF - Belmont Abbey)
Mason Hawkins (JR, 3B/RHP - Cincinnati)
Carson Carroll (JR, RHP/3B - uncommitted)
Cooper Wall (SR, RHP- Uncommitted)
Matthew Solomon (SR, 1B - Claflin)
Bowen Caba (JR, MIF - Uncommitted)
Reign Taylor (JR, OF - Uncommitted)
Baker York (JR, RHP - Uncommitted)

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Cooper Wall, Mason Hawkins, Carson Carroll

Projected Starting Lineup:
C- Orlando Morales, 1B - Matthew Solomon, 2B - Odniel Perez, SS - Bowen Caba, 3B - Mason Hawkins, LF - John Jones, CF - Reign Taylor, RF - Weston Rhem, DH - Carson Carroll


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Will Brincefield (FR)
Barron McConnell (SO)
Jack Vannoy (SO)


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Leadership, offense

Top Seniors:
Weston Rhem - Belmont Abbey, Matthew Solomon - Claflin, Cooper Wall, Odniel Perez, John Jones, Garrett Waters
Top Juniors:
Mason Hawkins, Carson Carroll, Zac Frohm, Bowen Caba, Reign Taylor, Baker York

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes: The Caps have an experienced core and solid group of younger players that are poised to provide immediate depth. The pitching staff will be working to develop a bonafide ace, but the group of arms will allow the coaching staff to play to advantages throughout the year. Offensively, Hawkins will carry a big load with Weston Rhem. Rhem broke the school record for hits in 2025. As these two go, so will the run production.


Find more information on the 2026 Broughton program below:

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Cedar Ridge HS


Head Coach: Bryson Massey
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Big 7
2025 Record (Finish): 10-12 (first home playoff game in over 10 years)

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ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Quinn Finnegan

Top Returners:

Aidan Ryan RHP 2027, Grant McGuffey MIF 2027, Ian McGuffey OF 2027, John Grove C 2028, Dominic Sena 1B 2027


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Will Ebron 2029
Jesus Velazquez 2028


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Very experienced team with a lot of battle tested kids

Top Seniors:
Aidan Ryan RHP USC Sumter commit
Ian McGuffey CF William Peace Commit
Grant McGuffey SS William Peace Commit
Dominic Sena 1B

Top Juniors:
John Grove C
Brody Tapper RHP

“This season will be a Senior led team that returns all but 1 player from last years team. High expectations coming into this season with a team that as been battle tested.” – Bryson Massey, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes: A roster that is loaded with Seniors that have experienced success lead to high expectations entering the 2026 campaign. A fast start will bolster the aspirations. John Grove will be a key behind the dish as the pitching staff will work to improve the overall depth. Grove, Ian McGuffey, and Ian McGuffey will pace the lineup.


Find more information on the 2026 Cedar Ridge HS program below:

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Clayton High School


Head Coach: Adam Morrison
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Greater Neuse River Conference
2025 Record (Finish): 14-10

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ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Cam Bryant (SS) - Pitt CC Tyler Long (C/OF) LCC Sam Narron (OF/RHP) Asbury University

Top Returners:

26 Jenning Dunlap (OF/RHP)
'26 Gabe Schellinger (LHP) BCC commit
'26 Jamison Lynch (INF) Lead Comets in hits, runs, SB, BA, OBP
'26 Grant Buchanan (3B)
'28 Davis Duty (RHP)
'28 Carter Duty (RHP/1B)

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Gabe Schellinger
Davis Duty
Jennings Dunlap
Carter Duty

Projected Starting Lineup:
Calvin Madenspacher RF Jamison Lynch 2B Jennings Dunlap CF Carter Duty 1B Grant Buchanan 3B Parker Kilpatrick LF Cam Thompson SS Jason Burke C DH for Pitcher could be Ced Simmons, Miguel Lopez, Gabe Petersen


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

28 Davis Duty
' 28 Carter Duty
'29 Calvin Madenspacher


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Deep pitching staff, experienced defense, aggressive baserunning

Top Seniors:
Gabe Schellinger, Jennings Dunlap, Grant Buchanan, Jamison Lynch

Top Juniors:
Cam Thompson (SS)
Bladen Lewis (LHP)

“11 seniors help lead a hungry bunch in a program that is prepared to take the next step. ” – Adam Morrison, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes: The comets are deep and talented on the mound. They will come at opponents in waves with several arms that would be considered “Aces” in other programs. Defensively, Grant Buchanan anchors the infield at 3B. There are 11 seniors, but don’t shy away from the young talent. 2026 will introduce several names to know as Clayton looks to take another step as a program this year.


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

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Cleveland HS


Head Coach: Landry Moore
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Greater Neuse 7A
2025 Record (Finish): 16-8 (Johnston County Easter Invitational Champions (4th yr in a row), Won last 8/9 games)


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Aubrey Stanley, Mason Rodgers, Alex Hernandez, Will Hicks, Brooks Moore

Top Returners:
Caleb Lynn: OF/P, 2027
Brayden MacArthur: OF/C, 2026
Zachary Miller: 3B/1B/P, 2027
Henry Blackman: OF/P, 2027

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Caleb Lynn, Jake Massengill, Tanner Murphy

Projected Starting Lineup:
P Caleb Lynn, CF Henry Blackman, LF Brayden MacArthur, RF Porter Carroll, 3B Zachary Miller, SS Dean Brown, 2B Trent Holmes, 1B Cam Dean, C Noah Price


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Cam Dean (Sophomore)
Dean Brown (Freshman)


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Speed, Athleticism, Contact, Culture

Top Seniors:
Brayden MacArthur, 2026, OF/C

Top Juniors:
Caleb Lynn, 2027, P/OF
Zachary Miller, 3B/P
Henry Blackman, OF/P
Jake Massengill, 1B/P
Noah Price, C
Trent Holmes, MIF

“Although we had a large, impactful 2025 senior class and lost 2 transfers, we have a bunch of hungry dudes looking to step up and win in my first year. Our position player depth, hitting and winning culture is our strength as we head into the 2026 season. ” – Landry Moore, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes: Caleb Lynn is a dynamic athlete whose skills will challenge opponents both at the plate and on the mound. He is supported by teammates with a history of success in a conference that has prepared the Rams for tough competition. The team's offense is expected to be the main driver early in the 2026 season, providing the pitching staff with time to establish their depth and define their roles as the spring progresses.


Find more information on the 2026 Cleveland HS program below:

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GARNER HIGH SCHOOL


Head Coach: DERIK GOFFENA
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: GREATER NEUSE 7A
2025 Record (Finish): 13-10


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
N/A

Top Returners:
NATE MIZELLE - EMORY COMMIT CATCHER
TANNER POPE - FRANCIS MARION COMMIT - 1B / P
CAMDEN WALTON - KING UNIVERSITY COMMIT SS

Projected Starting Pitchers:
TANNER POPE, STORM EUBANKS, ETHAN GILCHRIST, JASON KUVIC

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
RETURN 9 STARTERS AND 5 OTHERS WHO PLAYED A LOT

Top Seniors:
NATE MIZELLE
TANNER POPE
CAMDEN WALTON

Top Juniors:
STORM EUBANKS
JASON KUVIC
ETHAN GILCHRIST

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Trojans will be an interesting follow into 2026. They return a large portion of their lineup from the past couple of years and the depth has improved. Nate Mizelle will be charged with handling a pitching staff that will be able to matchup with most staff’s they face. Tanner Pope, Ethan Gilchrist, and Jason Kuvic will be asked to do a lot – each has the ability to be a shutdown guy on the bump, while providing thump in the order.


Find more information on the 2026 GARNER HIGH SCHOOL program below:

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Green Level HS


Head Coach: David Miller
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Quad City 7
2025 Record (Finish): 6-19 (soph / 1B - Luke Talley hit .349 with 17 doubles)


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
N/A

Top Returners:
Luke Talley (P/1B) 2027, College of Charleston commit
Camden Miller (6'7 RHP) 2026, uncommitted
Henry Geiser (Inf/OF) 2026, Bryant & Stratton commit

Projected Starting Pitchers:
RHP/Camden Miller/2026, LHP/Luke Talley/2027/, LHP/Dylan Hodges/2026

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Nicky Donaldson (2028/P/Inf)


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitching

Top Seniors:
Camden Miller (6'7 RHP) 2026
Henry Geiser (Inf/OF) 2026, Bryant & Stratton commit

Top Juniors:
Luke Talley (P/1B) 2027, College of Charleston commit
Ben Bernard (C/Inf)

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Coach Miller has a history of getting his teams to play sound and with energy. With the talent on the roster, Green Hope will be in a lot of games this season. Their ability to develop depth on the mound and a potential back-end guy could see them turn some close games their way. Offensively, Luke Talley will be a catalyst and he is a good one to rally behind. Luke for Henry Geiser, Ben Bernard, and Camden Miller to key the depth of the offense. Each has the talent to protect Talley and create run scoring opportunity throughout the game.


Find more information on the 2026 Green Level HS program below:

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Holly Springs


Head Coach: Rod Whitesell
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Tri - 6
2025 Record (Finish): 16-11


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Top Returners:
Hodge Williams, Catcher 2026
Anthony Zezza, LHP 2026
Noah Rhoades, LHP/OF 2026
Caleb Renn - LHP/OF 2027

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Anthony Zezza, Caleb Renn, Noah Rhoades, Brennan McKenna

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

MIF - Mason Hamrick 10th,
MIF Ethan Harkin 9th


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitching will be the strength of the team, defense especially in outfield will be stout

Top Seniors:
Hodge Williams, Anthony Zezza, Noah Rhoades

Top Juniors:
Brennan McKenna, Caleb Renn

“This should be an excellent ballclub, that relies on really good arms that can shut anyone down, if the hitting can produce some runs this could be an excellent season for the hawks” – Rod Whitesell, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
This could very well be the state's premier collection of left-handed pitchers. Anthony Zezza is a proven winner who excels at generating weak contact. Caleb Ren, similarly built, offers a bit more swing-and-miss potential in his repertoire. Both pitchers are effective at dictating the game's pace and rhythm, which allows the defense to operate quickly and frees the coaching staff to manage the game as a whole rather than focusing on an individual player. Noah Rhoades possesses higher-end stuff, with a fastball that carries notable velocity through the strike zone.

Complementing these southpaws is Brennan McKenna, an exciting right-handed pitcher poised to generate significant buzz this spring. Behind the plate, the Hawks feature Hodge Williams, a polished receiver whose presence seems to elevate the performance of the pitching staff he is catching. The team faces a demanding schedule, and an assertive offensive identity established early on could pose serious challenges for opposing teams.


Find more information on the 2026 Holly Springs program below:

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Middle Creek


Head Coach: Nate Logan
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Triangle Six
2025 Record (Finish): 16-8 (2nd Round, finished 3rd in SWAC; Gabe Murray moved to 2nd all time for single season ERA 0.88; John Lupienski finished career 2nd all time for hits with 113. Ryan Morris finished career 5th all time in Innings Pitched with 119.2)

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ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
John Lupienski; Ryan Morris; Gabe Murray

Top Returners:
Casey Murray RHP 2027 - App State Commit
Leo Lupienski - RHP 2027
Caden Miner - IF 2027

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Casey Murray, Leo Lupienski

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Cooper Selph - C - Soph.
Jackson Sessoms - RHP/UTL; Soph.
Brody Michel - IF/OF - Soph.


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Depth in batting order; Team Speed and athleticism

Top Seniors:
Ben Cather - LHP
Mason Morin - 1B
Garrett Sladek - OF - Stole 25 Bases in 2025

Top Juniors:
Casey Murray - RHP - App St. Commit
Leo Lupienski - RHP/OF
Caden Miner - IF

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Coach Logan's club has the foundation of a strong team, though they will need younger players to step into key roles left vacant by the 2025 roster. The team's style, heavily influenced by Sr. Garrett Sladek's aggressive baserunning, will continuously challenge opposing defenses. This focus on offense could increase run production, alleviating pressure on the pitching staff as they solidify roles and depth. The Mustangs will rely on Casey Murray as a potential shutdown ace, while Leio Lupienski is expected to be a dual threat with a strong arm and significant presence in the lineup.


Find more information on the 2026 Middle Creek program below:

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Millbrook


Head Coach: Ty Norwood
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Cap 8
2025 Record (Finish): 19-10 (2nd round state playoffs for 3rd consecutive year
Conference tournament runner-up
Most runs scored in a season- Jack Strom w/ 40
Most walks in a season- Jack Strom w/ 31
Most putouts in a season by an OF/IF- Hayden Heath w/ 43
Fewest errors and highest fielding percentage- Connor Wright w/ 1 error and .991%)


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Jack Strom, Connor Wright, Liam Clay, Smith Dickinson, Hayden Heath, Finn Clougherty, Conner Thomas

Top Returners:
Gavin Mosler- OF/RHP/C- 2027
Brady Graffam- IF/RHP- 2027
Rivers Mackinnon- OF/RHP- 2027
Sully Sebastian- C- 2028
Jamo Gallagher- RHP/1B- 2027
Reece Kuhns- RHP/OF- 2027
Carter Woodward- RHP- 2027
Ryder Mowbray- IF- 2027

Projected Starting Pitchers:
TBD with these guys in the mix:
Carter Woodward, Reece Kuhns, Jamo Gallagher, Rivers Mackinnon

Projected Starting Lineup:
C- Sully Sebastian, 1B- Brady Graffam/Jamo Gallagher, 2B- Davis Jones/Ryder Mowbray/Brady Graffam, 3B- Grayson McGraw/Brady Graffam/Jarvis Tripp, SS- Ryder Mowbray/Alex Whitaker/Brady Graffam, LF- Gavin Mosler/Xander Mowbray, CF- Davis Flaig/Rivers Mackinnon/Logan Welsh, RF- Rivers Mackinnon/Reece Kuhns/Xander Mowbray/Jeremy Moreno


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Sully Sebastian, C, 2028


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
This is a tough, gritty, and hardnosed group that has a history of winning, playing together on JV for the past two years.

Top Seniors:
This will be a young team but there is experience.

Top Juniors:
Gavin Mosler- OF/RHP/C- 2027
Brady Graffam- IF/RHP- 2027
Rivers Mackinnon- RHP/OF- 2027
Jamo Gallagher- RHP/1B- 2027
Reece Kuhns- RHP/OF- 2027
Carter Woodward- RHP- 2027
Ryder Mowbray- IF- 2027

“Very young team that is hungry and determined to carry over their success as JV players to the varsity level.” – Ty Norwood, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Player development is a continuous process with varied pathways. While many top underclassmen today are immediately thrust into varsity action, often bypassing the JV level, several players on the current Wildcat roster have been quietly developing within the program, a testament to the depth and talent the team has had recently. The Wildcats are poised to be strong defensively up the middle, with Sully Sebastian solidifying the defense behind the plate and Brady Graffam showing potential to become a high-level defender. Offensively, the team possesses an aggressive identity designed to put pressure on opposing defenses, which will be crucial for increasing scoring opportunities and must be executed consistently by the entire lineup.


Find more information on the 2026 Millbrook program below:

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Orange


Head Coach: Jason Knapp
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: BIG 7
2025 Record (Finish): 14-12

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ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
RHP: Garrett Sawyer

Top Returners:
Oliver Van Tiem RHP 2027
Ryan Sawyer RHP 2026
Kayden Bradsher MIF 2027
JP Rodio MIF 2027
Cam Brown UTL 2026
DJ Woods C/RHP/1B 2027
Mason Bullard C/RHP/3B 2028

Projected Starting Pitchers:
RHP Oliver Van Tiem, RHP Ryan Sawyer

Projected Starting Lineup:
C Mason Bullard/C DJ Woods, 1B Wren Hash, 2B Gary Miller, S/S JP Rodio Cam Stone 3B, Cam Brown OF, Evan Parker OF, Oliver Van Tiem OF/MIF, Ryan Sawyer OF, Jackson Nobles OF
*Look for Kayden Bradsheer to provide an athletic boost as he may return mid-year


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

2028 Mason Bullard
2028 Cam Stone


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitching depth, strong catching with quality backup, and overall experience (only three graduates from last year)

Top Seniors:
RHP Ryan Sawyer, UTL Cam Brown

Top Juniors:
Oliver Van Tiem RHP, Kayden Bradsher MIF/CF, JP Rodio MIF, Evan Parker OF/LHP

“This is an experienced team that understands our expectations and how we want to compete. Pitching depth and leadership will anchor us as we continue to push for consistency at the plate and toughness through adversity.” – Jason Knapp, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Experience is a major asset, especially for teams aiming for a deep state playoff run. Orange brings that valuable experience to the field, with players who have navigated a full schedule and understand the caliber of play required. Leading the pitching staff is Oliver Van Tiem, a bona fide Ace, complemented by the shut-down potential of Ryan Sawyer. On offense, the Panthers will look to leverage their aggressiveness and athleticism to generate extra scoring opportunities.


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South Johnston HS


Head Coach: Aaron Parnell
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Carolina Pines 6A
2025 Record (Finish): 16-9 ()


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Top Returners:
Kellen Smith (Sr) RHP, INF; Zachary McQuitty (Jr) 3B; Carson Rush (So) C, INF

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Kellen Smith, Colson Shipwash

Projected Starting Lineup:
Kellen Smith P, Carson Rush C, Colton Tucker 1B, Xander Adams 2B, Conley Johnson SS, Zachary Mcquitty 3B, Colson Shipwash LF, Isaac Barefoot CF, Braiden Arendt RF


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Carson Rush (So)


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Competitiveness. Defense. Team speed

Top Seniors:
Kellen Smith

Top Juniors:
Zachary McQuitty, Colson Shipwash, Conley Johnson, Isaac Barefoot

“Kellen Smith is the heartbeat of what we are doing this year at South. He is a leader, as well as one of the best players in the state. We will play behind him. We have two good starting pitchers and hope to have guys fill in out of the bullpen to sustain full games. Defensively we will make routine plays and not hurt ourselves. This gives us a chance to win. Offensively we are seeking to be dynamic and score in different ways. Not sitting around waiting for the long ball, but scrapping out runs inning by inning. ” – Aaron Parnell, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Kellen Smith is poised to lead South Johnston both on the mound and at the plate, a role he is well-prepared to handle. Coach Parnell will focus on building bullpen depth around Smith. The team's solid defense is expected to support the pitchers, encouraging them to attack the strike zone. Offensively, the lineup will need production from top to bottom to generate runs consistently in various ways throughout the games.


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Wake County Homeschool


Head Coach: Quincy Lattimore
Classification: Independent
Conference: NA
2025 Record (Finish): 23-9 (2nd place Homeschool World Series -22 teams Auburndale, FL
Gabriel Ferrell (Montreat) sets program record with 52 hits)


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Gabriel Ferrell (Montreat) Eli Dadisman (Belmont Abbey)

Top Returners:
Seth Pennica C, ‘27 - Austin Clark OF, ‘27 - Will Richardson OF, ‘27, Isaac Ellington MI, ‘27
Pitchers: Carter Firebaugh ‘27, Calvin Tourville ‘27, Ryan Nordlander ‘26, Daulton Hunt ‘26

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Carter Firebaugh

Projected Starting Lineup:
C Seth Pennica, 1st Jackson Heath, 2nd Calvin Tourville, SS Isaac Ellington, 3b Zach Peacock, LF Will Richardson, CF Austin Clark, RF Hampton Hawley, DH Jack Conley


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Maturity. Depth on mound - could use as many as 13 arms. Less power more balance and speed than last year.

Top Seniors:
Ryan Nordlander, Daulton Hunt, Hampton Hawley, Connor Burcker

Top Juniors:
Pennica, Clark, Will Richardson, Isaac Ellington, Zach Peacock, Jackson Heath, Carter Firebaugh, Calvin Tourville, Conley, Rodgers

“We are facing another tough, full schedule and expect our maturity and depth on the mound to allow us to make another deep run at the Homeschool World Series. The depth and growth of the program has allowed us to field what should be very strong JV and Freshman teams this year as well.” – Quincy Lattimore, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Coach Lattimore and the Warriors are the epitome of “Anyone, anywhere”. They always play a challenging and unique schedule. The talent on the roster will be interesting to follow. Offensively look for Hampton Hawley, Calvin Tourville, and Jack Conley to lead. On the bump, the depth will be tested but the top end of the rotation will keep the Warriors competitive against all comers.


Find more information on the 2026 Wake County Homeschool program below:

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Wakefield High School


Head Coach: Trever Schock
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: CAP 8
2025 Record (Finish): 24-4-1 (school record for wins in a season, conference champions, conference tournament champions, bobby murray champions)


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Tyler rotellini, Luke Blackburn, Garrett Ransom, Eli Gross

Top Returners:
Thomas Piscorik SS 2028
Mikey Katz C 2028
Ben Dudash RHP/3b 2026
Ethan Wisler RHP/OF 2027
Ryan Huisking 1b/RHP
Hunter Lentz INF
Channing Parker OF

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Ethan Wisler, Ben Dudash

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Thomas Piscorik 2028
Mike Katz 2028
Ryan McMahan 2028
Kyler Gold 2028
Sam Piscorik 2029
Brady Lavado 2029
Dominic Stevens 2029


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitching and defense

Top Seniors:
Ben Dudash RHP/INF
Ryan Huisking CIF/RHP Erskine Commit
Hunter Lentz INF
Channing Parker OF

Top Juniors:
Ethan Wisler- RHP/OF-Navy Commit
Jason Moschella-OF

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Wakefield High School, coming off a record-setting year, is poised to compete for a state championship and has earned a spot in the USA Baseball High School Invitational this spring, a selection largely due to the Wolverines' talent level.

The pitching staff is headlined by Ethan Wisler, a potential high-level ace. Defensively, the team features a strong unit consisting of Ben Dudaash, Ryan Huisking, and Thomas Piscoriak. Mikey Katz is expected to handle the majority of the catching duties and is noted for being an easy target for his pitchers. Offensively, look for Jason Moschella's speed to be a significant asset and a difference-maker in close games.


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

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Chase High School


Head Coach: Dirk Thomas
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Western Piedmont
2025 Record (Finish): 10-14


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Hunter Brown

Top Returners:

Landon Milwood P/Inf, SR
Matthew Raborne P/Of, SR
Noah Craig P/Inf, SR
Nate Thomas Utl, JR

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Landon Milwood, Matthew Raborne, Noah Craig

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Gage Holland


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitching

Top Seniors:
Landon Milwood, Matthew Raborne, Noah Craig, Sawyer Waugh

Top Juniors: Nate Thomas

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
A solid core of senior will look to build on some positives out of the 2025 season. The pitching depth is a plus. As the bats and defense work to be more consistent this could be a year Chase takes a step forward.


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East Wake


Head Coach: Tony Piercy
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Northern Athletic Conference
2025 Record (Finish): 9-15

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ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Jackson Sherron Pitcher, Austin McDow Catcher

Top Returners:
Kevin Hernandez, SS, 2027
Sheldon Brown, OF, 2027-

Projected Starting Pitchers: Angelo Caldero, RHP, 2027

Projected Starting Lineup:
OF Sheldon Brown, INF Kaden McCargo, INF Kevin Hernandez, OF Josh Camilo, OF Jackson Coley, OF Parker King, C Aspen Zgrodek, INF, Jayden Torres, INF Elijah Brinston


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Kaden McCargo---2B----2028


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Strong up the middle---Mound depth

Top Juniors:
Kevin Hernandez----SS
Sheldon Brown------OF/LHP
Angelo Caldero------RHP

“This year's Diamond Warriors team will look substantially different. After losing 6 starters from the 2025 squad, you will see a lot of new faces. Overall work ethic and buy in has been strong and we should be a more energetic, united team. Going to be lots of fun watching this group gel throughout the year.” – Tony Piercy, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The 2026 season for East Wake is anticipated to be a year focused on growth and development. The team features several new players in key roles, and the primary objective is to define these roles and maximize every opportunity presented. The team's overall identity is expected to evolve throughout the year, with particular hopes for the junior class to elevate their performance. A standout player to watch is Sheldon Brown, who continues to show increasing offensive ability.


Find more information on the 2026 East Wake program below:

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Overhills HS


Head Coach: Joseph Farina
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Mid South 7A/8A
2025 Record (Finish): 14-10 (12-3 in conf) (Won All American 3A/4A Conference Tournament.)


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Isaac Devine (Frederick CC), Houston Poole (Brunswick CC), Brandon Blumenauer (Lenoir CC), Jordan Frink (playing college football), Danny Sykes (playing college soccer)

Top Returners:
Kolt Berry INF/RHP (26, NC Wesleyan commit), Darren Ludwick MIF/RHP (26, Lenoir CC commit), Tyrell Copper C/RHP (26 uncommitted), Aaron Frink UTL/RHP (28 uncommitted)

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Kolt Berry, Aaron Frink, Tyrell Copper

Projected Starting Lineup:
Kolt Berry P, Darren Ludwick SS, Aaron Frink 3B, Tyrell Copper C, Carson Ross DH, James Burleigh, 1B, Eli Beale LF, DIllon Ludwick 2B, Corey McClain CF, Tyris Rogers RF


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Aaron Frink (2028), 3B/C/OF/P, R/R
Dillon Ludwick (2028), MIF, R/R Dillon
Eli Beale (2029), OF/INF/P, R/R
Corey McClain (2029), OF/INF/P, R/R


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Experience. Quick Strike potential on offense

Top Seniors:
Kolt Berry (2026, NC Wesleyan commit), 3B/MIF/P, R/R
Darren Ludwick (2026, Lenoir CC commit), MIF/P, R/R
Tyrell Copper (2026), C/P, R/R

Top Juniors:
Carson Ross (2027), 3B/1B/P, R/R
James Burleigh (2027), P/1B/3B, R/R

“Overhills faces a huge challenge this year, moving to a tougher conference after having graduated a lot of talented seniors. They will try to rely on underclassmen and a largely unproven pitching staff to augment three strong returning seniors as they try to continue the momentum from last year when they took two of three games from Terry Sanford and won their conference tournament” – Joseph Farina, head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Overhills faces a potentially challenging 2026 season, having moved into a very strong conference following the graduation of key senior leaders. The team's returning offensive nucleus, featuring Kolt Berry, Darren Ludwick, and Aaron Frink, should provide immediate firepower. If this core can consistently generate runs early in the season, it will be crucial for the pitching staff, offering the arms a valuable cushion to work with nightly as they develop depth.


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Fairmont High School


Head Coach: Kelly Dean Chavis
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Southeastern 3A/4A/5A
2025 Record (Finish): 13-13 ()


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Nehemiah Chavis, Mynkoda Smith, Kenley Callahan, Roderick Deese

Top Returners:
Parker Chavis, LHP/CF, 2026, Lenoir Community College Commit, county pitcher of the year 2024

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Parker Chavis, Channing Locklear, Braydon Locklear

Projected Starting Lineup:
LHP Parker Chavis, SS Laettner Locklear, 3B Tanner Hunt, C Jamarion Brown, LF Jayden Hunt, 1B Channing Locklear, CF Geru Gaddy, RF Rylan Goins, 2B Noah Stone


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Freshman Laettner Locklear,
Sophomore Channing Locklear,
Sophomore Tanner Hunt


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Team has played together a lot and will be resilient in tough times. Good leadership from upper classman.

Top Seniors:
LHP/CF Parker Chavis, OF/2B Jayden Hunt

Top Juniors:
C/RHP Jamarion Brown, RHP Braydon Locklear

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
Only 3 players return with Varsity experience. Look for Sr Parker Chavis and Jayden Hunt to provide stability on the field and in the locker room. Fairmont will be working to be better in all aspects as the year progresses, pointing to a potentially very bright future in the coming years.


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

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East Columbus High School


Head Coach: Brad Smith
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Carolina 1a/2a
2025 Record (Finish): 14-9 (won the robeson county slugfest)


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
NIck Rye
Braylon Waddell
Landyn Jacobs

Top Returners:
Gauge Simmons- pitcher/3b
Brooks Mclean- catcher
Mack Freeman -cf
Khari Bowen- mif/pitcher
Adrion Jennerette- of/p
Kamden Coker- c/1b

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Gauge Simmons, Adrion Jennerette

Projected Starting Lineup:
Khari bowen, Mack Freeman, Kamden Coker, Gauge Simmions, Adrion Jennnerette, Brooks Mclean, Eli Walker, Xavier King, Austin Jacobs


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Kamden Coker
Khari Bowen


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Strong Sr class, Defence

Top Seniors:
Gauge simmons- P/3b
Mack Freeman- cf
Adrion Jennerette - Rf/p
Brooks mclean -c

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The Gators lost several key members of the 2025 club but also return solid innings and presence in the lineup. The growth of the new faces in the lineup will be big in 2026 but look to the returning core – Gauge Simmons, Mack Freemen, Adrion Jennerette, and Brooks McLean to lead. As they go early, so will East Columbus.


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Union Pines


Head Coach: Eric Marion
Classification: NCHSAA
Conference: Carolina Pines
2025 Record (Finish): 9-15


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Jacob Williams, Preston Whitaker

Top Returners:
Joey Ring - RHP - 2026 - Chowan Commit
Willy Rivera - DH/1B/RHP - 2026 - Lenior CC Commit
Dylan Benedict - RHP/UTL - 2027
David Park - INF/C/RHP - 2027

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Joey Ring, Dylan Benedict

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Vida Blue


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Cohesion

Top Seniors:
Joey Ring, Willy Rivera, Sam Parker, Jaxon West, Andrew Moore, Kaeden Sovey, Josh Cox, Jude Heisinger, Ryan Greene, Nathan Valdez, Carter Andreano

Top Juniors: Dylan Benedict, David Park, Brodie Lyczkowski, Lucas Blackwood

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
A large senior class presents both potential benefits and challenges for any high school team. While the veterans' careers are concluding, younger players will be competing for playing time as the team looks toward the future. The current group is unified, and a strong start to the season could eliminate potential distractions, setting the stage for a successful year. The pitching staff will be anchored by Joey Ring and Willy Rivera, with Rivera also expected to be a key contributor to the offense.


Find more information on the 2026 Union Pines program below:

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Grace Christian School Sanford


Head Coach: Rob Wooten
Classification: NCISAA
Conference: NA
2025 Record (Finish): 23-7 (State Champions (sweep) First ever MLB draft pick )


ROSTER OVERVIEW

Key Players Lost:
Luke Roupe, Matt Murchison, Ethan Bunce

Top Returners:
Anaan Rahming (USF) Landon McDonald (USF) Jimmy Alfonsin (Gardner Webb) Riley Cuddy (William and Mary) Caleb Ellis OF/RHP Reggie Marshall (Louisville) Connor Howard (1B) Cade Elmore RHP (Robeson CC) Jaxon Wade RHP Nolan Harper 2B

Projected Starting Pitchers:
Anaan Rahming Landon McDonald Caleb Ellis Riley Cuddy

Projected Starting Lineup:
TBA


IMPACT UNDERCLASSMEN

Nolan Harper 2B
CJ Nixon OF/LHP
Eli Love C


SEASON OUTLOOK

Team Strengths:
Pitching and offense

Top Seniors:
Anaan Rahming (USF) LHP, Riley Cuddy (William and Mary) RHP/RF Cade Elmore (Roberson CC) RHP Jimmy Alfonsin (Gardner Web) IF

Top Juniors:
Landon McDonald (USF) RHP, Braylon Waddell (UNCW) OF Caleb Ellis OF/RHP Jaxon Wade RHP Preston Pool C Connor Howard 1B Brady Pierson OF, Reggie Marshall II SS

“With high expectations, we are prepared for the challenges coming our way. We have put together an extremely difficult schedule that our players are excited about. Should be an exciting season at Crusader Park. ” – Rob Wooten , head coach

Prep Baseball NC Scout Notes:
The 2026 Crusaders boast a deeply talented roster, mirroring the quality of the 2025 team that found its rhythm mid-season and charged toward a state championship. This year's squad is stacked with college commits and future prospects. A key storyline will be how top-tier players embrace specific roles for the collective good. On the mound, Anaan Rahming is a player to watch, given his fascinating development trajectory over the last year. Offensively, Jimmy Alfonsin is a refined hitter expected to be a crucial link between the team's immense potential and necessary run production.


Find more information on the 2026 Grace Christian School Sanford program below:

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