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 - Harrison Ailshie (OF,East Rowan)

Harrison Ailshie OF / LHP / East Rowan, NC / 2026 Rankings  StateRank: 12 / POS: 3 OverallRank: 336 / POS: 60 SEASON STATS  .579 BA  19 R  22 H 3 HR 6 2B 17 RBI   1.724 OPS One of the top pure hitters in the 2026 class, he has been a player to watch for years. His smooth swing continues to generate consistent production at a high level, and he has put together an impressive career at East Rowan, excelling both on the mound and at the plate. The future looks bright for the North Carolina Tar Heels commit.    Recent Video