Class of 2028 Rankings Update: Trends & Insights

The Prep Baseball North Carolina Class of 2028 Rankings have been updated and expanded to feature the Top 140 players in the state. While still very early in the process for this class, the adjustment represents a sizeable step forward. The update adds 50 new slots and introduces 65+ new players to the rankings. As the fall and spring seasons unfold, the Prep Baseball scouting staff will continue to gather evaluations and reports to further shape this class.

Rankings Expansion & Evaluation Period

This update reflects the depth uncovered during the summer evaluation cycle. Over 240 players from the 2028 class were reviewed through events, tournaments, and workouts, resulting in one of the most substantial expansions to date for a class entering only its sophomore year. The addition of 65+ new names highlights just how much talent is emerging across the state.

Positional Distribution

The rankings show a balanced mix across the field, with noticeable strength in the infield and on the mound:

• Infielders: 62 (44%)
• Outfielders: 30 (21%)
• Right-Handed Pitchers: 19 (13%)
• Left-Handed Pitchers: 14 (10%)
• Catchers: 15 (11%)

The middle of the field stands out as an area of strength. With 32 shortstops, 10 second basemen, and 15 catchers, nearly 41% of the ranked players occupy premium defensive positions. As coaches and scouts build their recruiting boards, these positions—combined with offensive tools—will be closely monitored.

Another notable trend is the presence of 14 left-handed pitchers in the 2028 class. That figure is nearly identical to the total number of LHPs in the 2027 rankings (15), despite the 2027 list having grown to 275 players in its latest update.

Commitment Trends

The 2028 class is the first group to feel the full effect of the new recruiting rules. While the class entered the summer with one commitment, that player has since reclassified to 2027, leaving the group with no commitments to date.

Commitments will be coming and we should be rolling with them at this time next year. Programs will begin shaping their 2028 recruiting lists this fall and winter, with the pace set to accelerate following the 2026 Prep Baseball Future Games. With more than 400 coaches attending annually, the event serves as the launchpad leading into the August 1, 2026 contact period, when this class will officially be eligible to communicate with college recruiters. Look for many of the top 2028 players to start coming off the board during August and September of 2026.

Key Insights

• Shortstop depth stands out: 32 players at the position make it the single largest group in the class.
• Outfield depth remains steady: 30 players are currently ranked, with more likely to emerge as players develop and refine their hit tools.
• Recruiting reset: For the first time under new rules, the 2028 class enters its sophomore year with no commitments, signaling a major shift in recruiting timelines.
• Sizeable early expansion: At 140 players, this update represents a strong pool for a group that, in many cases, has yet to play a varsity high school game.

Looking Ahead

The 2028 Rankings update provides the most detailed snapshot yet of this emerging class. As players move into key developmental years, the rankings will continue to evolve, with new names rising and established players solidifying their place.

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NORTH CAROLINA NEWS