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Q&A With Ottawa Recruit Payton Bryan

March 3, 2026
Prep Baseball Nevada

We recently caught up with Payton Bryan (Shadow Ridge HS, NV | 2026) to discuss his commitment and the path he’s taken through the recruiting process. Bryan has continued to develop into one of the rising arms in Nevada’s 2026 class, showing steady growth and competitiveness on the mound. With his recruitment now complete, Bryan reflected on his development, the key events that helped generate attention, and the factors that ultimately led him to his decision. His full Q&A can be found below.

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Our Q&A 

PB: What were your expectations about the recruiting process, and what were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Payton: A program where I can continue to grow physically and develop my game to reach my full potential.

PB: What do you like most about the program you chose, and what were the key factors in making your decision?

Payton: It’s close to home and offers an outstanding baseball program.

PB: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?

Payton: Keep working hard and never give up on your dreams.

PB: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?

Payton: Yes, it did.

PB: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you, and where did the school you committed to first see you play?

Payton: It really started to heat up in the spring of 2025, but the school I committed to saw me play in the winter of 2024.

PB: Was there a particular Prep Baseball tournament or showcase that helped accelerate your recruiting process? If yes, how so?

Payton: The GBG Vegas Scout Day and the video I had posted helped a lot. Colleges would watch it and reach out.

PB: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?

Payton: Saint Martin’s University and Dominican University.

PB: Who is the best player you have faced in your state, and what makes them a tough opponent?

Payton: Jake Turner. He is an amazing hitter and always a good challenge to face.

PB: If you could steal any tool or quality from another player in the state, what would it be and who would it be from?

Payton: I would steal Gio Guariglia from Silverado’s velocity on his fastball.

PB: Who is the next talented young player to keep an eye on out of your high school or travel program?

Payton: Gage Kennedy, 2028.

PB: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?

Payton: Spring of 2025.

PB: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?

Payton: Winning Pitcher of the Week for Prep Baseball.

PB: Preview your high school team’s season for us. How do you feel your team will be?

Payton: I feel like we will be an amazing contender this year.

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