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Inside the Rankings: Stock Rising on these 2028 Prospects

June 11, 2026
Brandon Hall
NC / Mid-ATL Director of Scouting

2028 Rankings Risers: Spring Performances Fuel Movement

The latest update to the North Carolina Class of 2028 Rankings reflects another busy spring for Prep Baseball's scouting staff. Throughout the high school season, our evaluators logged hundreds of games across the state, allowing us to gather additional information and continue refining player grades.

As more game evaluations are added to the system, certain players begin to separate themselves through performance, physical development, and continued projection. This feature highlights several prospects whose spring seasons helped elevate their standing within the updated rankings.

Below, we take a closer look at eight players who saw their stock rise following strong spring performances. Each section will include a breakdown of the player's development and accompanying video.

View the complete updated Class of 2028 Rankings:
https://www.prepbaseballreport.com/rankings/NC/north-carolina-class-of-2028

Hudson Simmons | OF | Charlotte Christian

Why the Rise:
Simmons added strength to an athletic frame that immediately resulted in improved bat speed to pair with already advanced ball to barrel feel. The impact throughout the spring was loud, helping to lead Charlotte Christian to a State Championship.

Video:

Mikey Papciak | RHP | Wesleyan Christian Academy

Why the Rise:
Papciak developed into a true ace throughout the spring season at WCA. Athletic, the frame increased its length since last spring and Papciak has added strength. With the body growing and maturing, the clean, athletic arm became electric. A big uptick in overall stuff saw Papciak take a jump.

Video:

Jacob Reynolds | INF | Charlotte Christian

Why the Rise:
An excellent baseball player, Reynolds’ average stature is quickly forgotten as he steps in the box, routinely turning around advanced, high-level fastballs while showing zone control and an ability to handle spin with two strikes. A big presence, Reynolds seems to put together good at-bat after good at-bat while making key defensively plays in the middle of the field.

Video:

Henry Earl | RHP | Charlotte Catholic

Why the Rise:
Right hander was a key cog in the overall staff success for Charlotte Catholic. Used primarily out of the bullpen, Earl threw big innings, gaining the confidence of his coaches and team with each outing. A solid strike thrower, the arm has solid arm speed and arm strength present.

Video:

Noah Brown | LHP | Lincoln Charter

Why the Rise:
Younger players that are good movers tend to make jumps. Brown fits the mold. A solid strike thrower, the lefty moves well down the mound with a clean arm action. The stuff is already presenting problems for good hitters, we look for it to take another meaningful jump in the coming months.

Video:

Davis Kemp | SS | South Rowan

Why the Rise:
Kemp profiles well at Showcase type events but in live game action his tools, almost across the board, all tick up. Solid athlete, there is good bend in the hips and rhythm in the hands and feet. He projects to have a chance to stay in the middle of the field at the next level.

Video:

Cole Dixon | LHP | J.H. Rose

Why the Rise:
Hitters did not look comfortable against Dixon this spring as the lefty has some deception in his delivery. After working through the delivery, Dixon’s stuff took a step forward, making his move up the rankings fairly easy.

Video:

Charlie Scott | SS | Eastern Carolina Academy

Why the Rise:
Scott showed advanced actions with good bend, a clean arm, and solid carry across the diamond. The frame will handle some strength gains in the coming year. As he continues to get stronger, the bat is positioned to reap the benefits.

Video:

View the complete updated Class of 2028 Rankings:
https://www.prepbaseballreport.com/rankings/NC/north-carolina-class-of-2028