2026 VA/DC Diamond Notes: Week 5

April 24, 2026
Staff
Prep Baseball Virginia/DC

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In 2026, one of our goals during the high school season is to highlight more players from around the state. While our staff is out on the road at more than fifteen games every week, we cannot be everywhere. This year we are leaning on high school coaches and asking for their submissions highlighting players in their program that had a big week. Every Friday we will run the Diamond Notes series in order to highlight exactly what those players did for their high school team.

A couple of notes before we dig in to what type of week some of those standouts had, we will only be linking players that currently have an active profile with Prep Baseball. How does this help? Coaches can access video and data within your profile. Don't have one? You can create one for FREE right here.

Without further ado, let's take a look at the players that were submitted for the fifth week of the Diamond Notes series.

Virginia/DC High School Coverage:

Diamond Notes: Week 5 (4/13-4-18)
*Note that all submissions were made from high school coaches*

Blacksburg High School

Jack Mann - 2027 Grad Class - INF/P

Weekly Stats: 4-8, 2B, 7 RBI; 3.2 IP, 3 ER, 1 K.

Analysis: Mann delivered a strong performance during a pivotal district win against Cave Spring. He maintained consistent offensive pressure throughout the week, recording multi-hit games against both Cave Spring and Hidden Valley to drive the team’s run production.

Season to Date: .379 BA, .526 OBP, .940 OPS, .414 SLG, 11 H, 1 2B, 16 RBI, 6 R, 4 SB; 13.2 IP, 5 ER, 12 K, 2.56 ERA, .236 BAA.

Sam Szefc - 2027 Grad Class - INF/P - Virginia Tech

Weekly Stats: 4-6, two 2B, 3B, 3 RBI, 3 R, SB; 5 IP, 5 K, 3 ER.

Analysis: Szefc put together a dominant offensive stretch, finishing just a home run shy of the cycle for the second time this season. In addition to his explosive production at the plate, he provided a quality start on the mound to secure a win against Hidden Valley.

Season to Date: .606 BA, .683 OBP, 1.804 OPS, 1.121 SLG, 20 H, 8 2B, 3 3B, 1 HR, 23 RBI, 15 R, 7 SB; 17.2 IP, 7 ER, 32 K, 2.77 ERA, .197 BAA.

Christiansburg High School

Carter Hughes - 2029 Grad Class - IF/P *No profile*

Weekly Stats: 3-5, 1 RBI, 4 R, .750 OBP, 3 SB.

Analysis: Hughes continues to excel as a catalyst for the offense. His ability to reach base consistently and utilize his speed allows him to create significant disruption on the base paths and pressure opposing defenses.

Season to Date: .536 AVG, 1.210 OPS, 7 RBI, 12 R, 8-8 SB.

Walker Overbay - 2028 Grad Class - P/IF *No Profile*

Weekly Stats: 1 GS, 6.0 IP, 1-0, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 7 SO, 0 BB.

Analysis: Overbay delivered a highly efficient performance against James Monroe (WV), requiring only 65 pitches to navigate six innings. He demonstrated advanced command of a three-pitch mix, consistently keeping hitters off-balance while filling the strike zone.

Season to Date: 15.1 IP, 4 GP, 2 GS, 3-0, 7 H, 5 R, 3 ER, 15 SO, 7 BB, 1.370 ERA, 0.913 WHIP.

Churchland High School

Cameron Duke - 2026 Grad Class - CF - George Washington

Weekly Stats: 7-10, 3 3B, 4 R, 6 SB.

Analysis: Serving as the spark plug for the Churchland offense, Duke’s production from the leadoff spot was instrumental in an upset victory over area #14 Hampton. His speed and extra-base power were on full display throughout the week.

Season to Date: 14-28, .500 BA, .641 OBP, 1.427 OPS, 16 R, 20 SB.

Evan Jackson - 2026 Grad Class - RHP - Chowan

Weekly Stats: 2 W, 11 IP, 2 ER, 21 K.

Analysis: Jackson earned two victories on the week, highlighted by a dominant performance against #14 Hampton. He tossed a complete game in that contest, allowing only one earned run while striking out 11 batters.

Season to Date: 3-1, 19 IP, 6 ER, 29 K, 2.21 ERA.

Douglas Freeman High School

Jack Adams - 2028 Grad Class - Utility

Weekly Stats: 3-7, R, RBI.

Analysis: Adams provided reliable production over the week, highlighted by a 2-for-4 performance in a competitive matchup against Glen Allen.

Tommy Darter - 2027 Grad Class - Catcher

Weekly Stats: 2-6, 2 RBI.

Analysis: Darter contributed timely hitting with RBIs in games against Glen Allen and Deep Run. Furthermore, he provided a steady defensive presence behind the plate throughout the week's slate.

First Colonial High School

James Strange - 2028 Grad Class - Pitcher

Weekly Stats: 1-0, 5.2 IP, 3 H, 3 BB, 13 K.

Analysis: Strange was dominant in his start against Kellam, racking up 13 strikeouts over 5.2 innings of work. He displayed a high-ceiling ability to miss bats while surrendering only three hits.

Great Bridge High School

Cole Cinnamond - 2027 Grad Class - P - Clemson

Weekly Stats: 1-0, 0.00 ERA, 11 K.

Analysis: Cinnamond was nearly perfect in his start, facing only 12 batters and recording 11 of those outs via the strikeout. During this performance, he eclipsed the 150-career strikeout milestone.

Season to Date: 3-1, .955 ERA, .727 WHIP, 43 K, 1 BB.

Brody Comparto - 2026 Grad Class - P - George Mason

Weekly Stats: 1-0, 3 IP, 8 K.

Analysis: Comparto was electric in his three innings of work, recording eight strikeouts out of the nine outs he recorded. He also reached a personal milestone by collecting his 100th career high school strikeout.

Season to Date: 2-1, 18 K.

Casey Cuddyer - 2026 Grad Class - SS - UNC

Weekly Stats: 6-7, 3 2B, 3 RBI, 3 R, 3 SB.

Analysis: Cuddyer enjoyed an exceptional week at the plate, tallying six hits in seven at-bats and recording his 100th career high school hit. His blend of power and speed continues to be a driving force for Great Bridge.

Season to Date: .467 BA, 1.148 OPS, 5 2B, 7 RBI, 8 R, 7 SB.

Herndon High School

Chase Brown - 2026 Grad Class - 2B/RHP

Weekly Stats: 4-6; 2 IP.

Analysis: Brown contributed effectively on both sides of the ball during a 2-0 week for Herndon, maintaining a high batting average and providing valuable innings on the mound.

Season to Date: .459 AVG, 1.120 OPS, 10 RBI, 7 SB.

Hayden Rita - 2026 Grad Class - RHP

Weekly Stats: 5 IP, 0 ER, 8 K.

Analysis: Rita delivered a stellar performance on the mound, tossing five scoreless innings and striking out eight. His ability to limit damage has been a cornerstone of his success this season.

Season to Date: 4-0, 1 SV, .65 ERA.

Hickory High School

Jake Cozart - 2026 Grad Class - LHP/DH - ODU

Weekly Stats: 3-5, 4 RBI, 3 BB, 1 HR.

Analysis: Cozart provided significant middle-of-the-order production, highlighted by a three-run home run in the first inning against Granby. His discipline at the plate and power were key factors in Hickory’s offensive success.

Season to Date: .357 AVG, .550 OBP, .607 SLG, 11 RBI.

Matthew Kemick - 2027 Grad Class - OF

Weekly Stats: 3-4, 5 RBI, 3 BB.

Analysis: Kemick put together a highly productive week, including a triple and three RBIs against Granby. He showed excellent plate discipline, drawing three walks and consistently finding ways to drive in runs.

Season to Date: .588 AVG, .610 OBP, .735 SLG, 14 RBI.

Highland School

Jake Gunning - 2026 Grad Class - LF - William & Mary

Weekly Stats: 5-10, 2 HR, 5 R, 3 RBI, SB.

Analysis: Gunning provided the decisive power for Highland this week, launching two critical home runs to secure a 3-1 victory over ranked Western Branch.

James River (Midlo) High School

Wil Camera - 2028 Grad Class - LHP/1B/DH

Weekly Stats: 2-6, HR, 2 RBI; 6.2 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 8 K.

Analysis: Camera excelled as a dual-threat player this week. On the mound, he held Cosby scoreless over nearly seven innings, and he followed that performance by hitting his third home run of the season the following game.

Season to Date: .348 AVG, 10 RBI.

Jefferson Forest High School

Beckett Gilleland - 2026 Grad Class - 1B/RHP

Weekly Stats: 5-10, 3B, 3 R, 3 RBI, SV.

Analysis: Gilleland served as the offensive catalyst for the Cavaliers, recording an RBI triple against Glass and a three-hit game against Liberty. He also displayed his versatility by coming on in relief to earn a save against Liberty.

Jack Mistretta - 2027 Grad Class - RHP

Weekly Stats: 7 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 12 K.

Analysis: Mistretta was dominant in a complete game shutout against Rustburg, needing only 86 pitches to navigate the victory. The performance moved his season record to a perfect 4-0.

John Battle High School

Palmer Gobble - 2027 - OF/P - Walters State

Weekly Stats: 2 W, .462 AVG.

Analysis: Gobble enjoyed a productive week in all facets of the game, securing two wins on the mound while maintaining a high offensive clip.

Caden Sturgill - 2026 - OF/P

Weekly Stats: 0.733 AVG.

Analysis: Sturgill was nearly impossible to retire this week, posting a .733 average. He also delivered a standout performance on the mound with a complete game shutout against Ridgeview.

King William High School

Henry Kite - 2026 Grad Class - P/IF - William and Mary

Weekly Stats: 2-0, 12 IP, 0 ER, 5 H, 3 BB, 29 K; .583 AVG, 1.667 OPS.

Analysis: Kite put together a historic week, highlighted by an 18-strikeout performance against Arcadia. Offensively, he was equally impressive, providing a game-tying two-RBI double against Colonial Heights and recording two three-hit games.

Season to Date: 25.2 IP, 3-2, 1.09 ERA, .974 WHIP, .149 BAA; 51 K.

Javon Lewis - 2026 Grad Class - OF *No Profile*

Weekly Stats: .400 AVG, 1.200 OPS, 2B, 3B, RBI, 6 R.

Analysis: Lewis displayed significant extra-base power this week with a double and a triple. His ability to score runs and avoid strikeouts provided a steady presence in the King William lineup.

Season to Date: .280 AVG, .419 OBP, .819 OPS, 4 RBI, 11 R.

Joseph Pasowicz - 2028 Grad Class - P

Weekly Stats: 6 IP, 1-0, 1 SV, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 14 K.

Analysis: Pasowicz was untouchable this week, allowing only one hit across six innings. He secured a save against Colonial Heights by striking out the side and followed it with 11 strikeouts in five innings against Mathews.

Season to Date: 14 IP, 2-0, 2 SV, .00 ERA, .429 WHIP, .023 BAA.

Dallas Thompson - 2027 Grad Class - 1B *No Profile*

Weekly Stats: 4-11, .364 AVG, 1.007 OPS, 2 2B, 8 RBI.

Analysis: Thompson was the primary run producer for the team this week, tallying eight RBIs. His week was highlighted by a go-ahead RBI double against Colonial Heights and a four-RBI performance against Middlesex.

Season to Date: .360 AVG, .928 OPS, 15 RBI.

Matoaca High School

Stephen Ankiel - 2027 Grad Class - RHP/INF

Weekly Stats: 5 IP, 2 ER, 5 K.

Analysis: Ankiel showcased impressive velocity, reaching a reported 91 MPH (not confirmed via Prep Baseball) with his fastball. He effectively mixed his off-speed offerings to keep hitters off-balance throughout his outing.

Season to Date: 14 IP, 20 K, 9 ER.

Mills Godwin High School

Jacob Babcock - 2027 Grad Class - 3B/P - JMU

Weekly Stats: 7-9, 2B, HR, 3 R, 3 RBI; 6 IP, 2 ER, W.

Analysis: Babcock was a force on both sides of the ball, hitting .778 for the week with a home run. He also earned a victory on the mound, tossing six quality innings against Glen Allen.

Season to Date: .594 BA, 1.031 SLG, 5 2B, 3 HR, 14 RBI; 19 IP, 2.21 ERA.

Matt Hartsfield - 2026 Grad Class - SS - VMI

Weekly Stats: 6-10, 5 R, 3B, HR, 6 RBI, 2 SB.

Analysis: Hartsfield spearheaded the Godwin offense from the leadoff spot, notably going 4-for-4 with a triple and a home run against Clover Hill.

Season to Date: .429 BA, 2 HR, 11 RBI, 17 R, 7 SB.

North Cross School

Tristan Lange - 2026 Grad Class - RHP - VCU

Weekly Stats: CG, 5 H, 0 ER, 13 K, 0 BB; 2-4, 2 R.

Analysis: Lange delivered a masterful complete game performance against a strong Nansemond Suffolk Academy lineup, racking up 13 strikeouts without issuing a walk. He also contributed offensively, scoring twice in his two-hit performance.

Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School

Jack Dreany - 2027 Grad Class - OF

Weekly Stats: .333 BA, .467 OBP, .967 OPS, 2 2B, 2 RBI, 5 R, 2 SB.

Analysis: Dreany provided a versatile offensive spark this week, combining extra-base power with aggressive baserunning. His disciplined approach resulted in three walks, consistently putting him in a position to impact the score.

Season to Date: .326 BA, .516 OBP, .994 OPS, .478 SLG.

James Genovese - 2026 Grad Class - OF - New River Community College

Weekly Stats: .533 BA, .500 OBP, 1.167 OPS, 7 singles, 3B, 2 RBI, 4 R, SB.

Analysis: Genovese was electric as a table-setter, consistently finding barrels and applying pressure with his speed. Over a four-game stretch, he recorded eight hits and served as a high-energy catalyst at the top of the lineup.

Season to Date: .407 BA, .478 OBP, .987 OPS, .508 SLG.

Liam Kennedy - 2027 Grad Class - 1B

Weekly Stats: .400 OBP, .817 OPS, 3 RBI, 3 R.

Analysis: Kennedy demonstrated a mature approach at the plate, utilizing three walks to maintain a strong on-base percentage. He provided steady run production and situational hitting throughout the week.

Strasburg High School

Cylis Estep - 2028 Grad Class - P *No Profile*

Weekly Stats: 1 GS, 5 IP, 1 ER, 9 K.

Analysis: Estep turned in a strong start, surrendering only one earned run while striking out nine. He continues to show poise and effectiveness on the mound.

Season to Date: 4-0, 17 IP, 9 H, 5 BB, 23 K.

Ryan Reynolds - 2026 Grad Class - Catcher

Weekly Stats: 6-9, 2 HR, 9 RBI.

Analysis: Reynolds enjoyed a monster week against Stonewall Jackson, Sherando, and Clarke County, driving in nine runs and launching two home runs. His presence in the middle of the order remains a major threat.

Season to Date: .361 BA, 15 RBI, 2 HR, 17 BB, .571 OBP.

Trinity Christian School of Fairfax

Isaac Norman - 2026 Grad Class - SS - St Olaf College

Weekly Stats: .778 AVG, 1.707 OPS.

Analysis: As a team captain, Norman led by example this week, setting a high defensive standard while maintaining an elite offensive clip. His leadership and production were vital to Trinity Christian’s success over three games.

Season to Date: .614 AVG, 1.648 OPS, 4 HR.

York High School

Skylr Cross - 2028 Grad Class - SS/RHP *No Profile*

Weekly Stats: .333 AVG, 2B, RBI; 4 IP, SV, 1 ER, 3 K, 2 Pick-offs.

Analysis: Cross impacted the game in multiple facets, providing solid defense at shortstop and a clutch RBI double against Lafayette. On the mound, he secured a save and demonstrated high situational awareness by picking off two baserunners.

Season to Date: .333 AVG, 2 2B, 3 RBI, 4 R, 3 SB; 7 IP, 1 SV, 1.00 ERA, 8 K.

Wyatt Thomas - 2026 Grad Class - CF *No Profile*

Weekly Stats: .429 AVG, 3B, 3 R, 2 SB.

Analysis: The senior outfielder set the tone for York in both victories this week, reaching base in five of his seven plate appearances. His ability to score key runs and utilize his speed was a major factor in the team's wins.

Season to Date: .304 AVG, 2B, 2 3B, 8 R, 4 SB, 2 OF Assists.

Yorktown HS

Leo Holt - 2026 Grad Class - Pitcher - Penn St - Harrisburg

Weekly Stats: 5 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 13 K.

Analysis: Holt delivered a dominant performance against district rival Marshall HS, surrendering only one hit and striking out 13 batters. He displayed excellent control, throwing 60 of his 94 pitches for strikes.

Season to Date: 11.1 IP, 0.62 ERA, 27 K.