Across New Jersey, a handful of high school catchers have stood out this season—not just for their defensive skills, but for the way they control the game and contribute at the plate. Whether they're anchoring veteran squads or emerging as underclassmen leaders, these players are setting the standard behind the dish. Here's a look at the top-performing high school catchers in the state.

TOP PERFORMING CATCHERS

All statistics and records as of May 13th, 2025

+ Mickey Gilligan, C (Passaic Tech, 2026; Rutgers):
The Rutgers commit, Gilligan has been the Bulldogs top offensive producer this season. The backstop carries a .448 average with 26 hits, including five doubles, six triples, and seven homers. Gilligan has driven in 27 runs while scoring 35 times and walked an impressive 21 times. Currently ranked No. 8 in the state’s 2026 class, Gilligan is a huge reason for Passaic Tech’s success this season.

+ Alex Bellovich, C (Ramapo, 2026):
Currently ranked No. 104 in the NJ 2026 class and uncommitted, Bellovich has been on the rise over the past few months after performing well at the Preseason All-State. The junior has been the three hitter for Ramapo and has performed, carrying a .400 average with 28 hits including four doubles and a homer. Bellovich has driven in 35 and walked ten times.

+ Brayden Morrison, C (Union Catholic, 2027):
The No. 1 2027 catcher in the state and No. 13 overall prospect in the state’s 2027 class continues to prove why he is a top prospect. Morrison is hitting .500 with 30 hits so far for the Vikings. Morrison has five doubles, three triples, and has stolen 13 bags. Also, has a team leading 25 RBIs. The sophomore is a prospect to keep an eye on this summer.

+ Alex Odud, C (Cherokee, 2027):
Uncommitted, Odud has helped the Chiefs to a 20-1 record. The three hitter has had a quality season to date, hitting .382 with two doubles, four homers, 18 RBIs, and 22 runs. Odud is currently ranked No. 44 in the state’s sophomore class and was previously a participant at Preseason All-State.

+ Nick Donofrio, C (Pascack Valley, 2025; Drew University):
The Drew commit, Donofrio, has been a big part of Pascack Valley's 15-5 record this season. The senior carries a .443 batting average with 27 hits, including five doubles, two triples, and seven homers. Also, a team leading 43 RBIs, 23 runs, eight walks, and four HBP. Donofrio is currently ranked No. 118 in the state’s senior class.

+ Braeden Lipoff, C (Gloucester Catholic, 2026; East Carolina):
The former Future Gamer and East Carolina commit is having one of the most impressive seasons in the state so far. The backstop is hitting .542 thus far with seven doubles and three home runs. Lipoff has 19 RBIs, 16 runs scored, and 11 walks. The ECU commit is currently ranked No. 5 in the state's junior class, No. 1 ranked catcher.

+ Ryan Wetmore, C (Christian Brothers Academy, 2027):
Uncommitted, Wetmore, a Preseason All-State Underclass participant is having a quality season to date for the Colts. His performance’s this season has helped CBA to a 17-2 record. The sophomore backstop is hitting .373 with six doubles, a triple, and a homer. Wetmore has also scored 16 runs and driven in 19. The catcher is currently ranked No. 55 in the state’s 2027 class.

+ Chase Bagley, C (Don Bosco Prep, 2026; Maryland):
Another Future Games alum is hitting well thus far out of the leadoff spot for the Ironmen. The Maryland commit has four doubles, 13 walks, 13 HBP, six stolen bases, 18 RBIs, and 16 runs for Don Bosco while carrying a .409 batting average. Bagley is currently ranked No. 11 in the NJ 2026 class, the third ranked backstop in the class.

+ Liam Velit, C (Northern Burlington, 2026):
Uncommitted, Velit was at the Preseason All-State Upperclass event this winter and had one of the most impressive showings, he has continued his momentum into the season. The three hitter has helped Northern Burlington to a 20-1 record carrying a .358 average with nine doubles and two homers. The 79th ranked prospect in the states 2026 class has scored and driven in 19 runs and walked 7 times.

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