Player of the Year Watch List

We’re proud to release the North Carolina Preseason Player of the Year Watch List, featuring twenty of the state’s most impactful players heading into the 2026 season.

This group is built on true difference-makers—middle-of-the-order bats, frontline arms, and complete players who impact the game in all phases. Each serves as a cornerstone for their program, capable of shifting the identity of a team with their presence alone.

The list features a balanced mix of position players, two-way talents, and a select group of pitcher-only standouts who anchor their staffs.

While the eventual Player of the Year could emerge from this group, the race remains wide open. Our scouting staff will be active across North Carolina throughout the spring, with this watch list evolving as players continue to separate themselves.

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Player of the Year Watch List  CONNOR SALERNO (2027, LHP, SUN VALLEY)

SEASON STATS  5-1 1.53 ERA  50.1 IP 90k's .166 OBA One of the most dominant arms in the country continues to show why he is regarded among the nation's elite. The Mississippi State commit possesses electric stuff, highlighted by a fastball that reaches the upper 90s and overpowers hitters on a consistent basis. Over the past two seasons, he has racked up 171 strikeouts while holding opponents to just a .170 batting average. A participant in multiple All-American events and one of the top-ranked players in the 2027 class, Salerno has continued to elevate his national profile with every outing. With his combination of size, stuff, and production, he is positioning himself as one of the premier draft prospects in the 2027 class and will likely have a significant decision awaiting him in the near future.  Player Video

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