Prep Baseball Report

2027 Rankings Release


Shea Sbranti
Arizona Scouting Director

The Arizona Prep Baseball Report staff is excited to release the first set of rankings for the 2027 class! While it is very early in the process, our initial release is the top 10 2027 players identified over this past Fall season.

As always the ranking process is a fluid and ongoing process, in which players are evaluated on multiple occasions, whether it be at an event or on the playing field at a local tournament. All players on this Top-10 list are well deserving and have a bright future ahead. We look forward to evaluating the young talent in the 2027 class and growing our list throughout the 2024 season.

FULL TOP 10

#1 Erick Jaylen Jimenez RHP (Sandra Day O'Connor)

Leading the pack is Erick Jaylen Jimenez, a towering right-handed pitcher hailing from Sandra Day O'Connor. Standing at an impressive 6-foot-5 and weighing 185 pounds, Jimenez boasts a high-powered fastball in the mid to high 80s, complemented by a controlled three-pitch arsenal. The PBR staff is already projecting Jimenez to make a significant impact on the varsity stage for the Eagles this spring, with expectations of a future low to mid-90s fastball. 

#2 Conor Rae UTIL (Hamilton HS)

The second spot is claimed by Conor Rae from Hamilton High School, a multi-positional athlete with a particular prowess up the middle. While his defensive versatility may find him behind the plate or in center field, Rae's true differentiator lies in his exceptional skills at the plate. Sporting a flat and explosive right-handed swing, Rae brings a complete package of power and contact to the game. 

#3 Lincoln Demmons C/3B (Basha HS)

Lincoln Demmons, representing Basha High School, secures the third position in this elite lineup. Demmons garnered attention with standout performances at this year's PBR Junior Future Games, showcasing numerous multi-hit games and a mid-90s exit velocity during the workout session. Known for his well-rounded skills and impressive power potential from the right side, Demmons is emerging as one of the most complete players in the Class of 2027. 

#4 Bobby Villa lll SS (Centennial HS)

Bobby Villa from Centennial High School claims the fourth spot, recognized as the top shortstop in the state for his class. Villa's combination of footspeed and switch-hitting ability positions him as a hot commodity in the recruiting landscape. Notably, Villa's standout performance at the Junior Future Games, including an impressive 6.71 60-time, further solidifies his status as a top-tier prospect. 

#5 Blake Gonzales 3B (Hamilton HS)

Rounding out the top five is Blake Gonzales from Hamilton High School, a mature and athletically built corner infielder primarily stationed at third base. Gonzales exudes confidence at the hot corner and showcases significant power to the pull side, making him a formidable force in the batter's box.