5/23/24
Shooter Hunt's 'The Case for No. 1' article: The dynamic two-way prospect holds one of the more intriguing profiles in the class as a top position player AND pitcher. Always a gifted defender who has exuded the “different” nature of SoCal shortstops, Carlson’s advancements at the plate throughout the spring is what has propelled his top 10 status and could vault him even higher after a strong summer. Steadily filling out a wide-shouldered frame that still shows considerable projection, the right-handed hitter was able to showcase more impact at the plate while still prancing around as a plus-defender at short. With nearly all of his attention given to the work as a position player, it only makes the production (and potential future production) on the mound that much more impressive. The 6-foot-1, 170-pound right-hander climbed up to 97 mph when he needed it for Corona out of the bullpen where his hoppy fastball paired well with a 3000+ rpm breaking ball that is one of the best secondary pitches in the class.

9/23/23
Prep Baseball All-American Game: A very-lean 6-foot, 159-pound frame, Carlson is a primary SS but continues to show elite-level two-way tools. Simple actions at the plate with a short, hanging leg trigger that allows him to stay balanced throughout while staying on-plane. Present feel for both the zone and barrel. Defensively is where the Vanderbilt commit shines, showing multiple above-average tools led by a present plus glove. Soft hands and quick feet work in tandem with impressive lateral range and transfers, and will make a habit of making tough plays look effortless. Carlson hops on the mound with a high-spin 89-91 that gets a ton of life through the zone and some arm-side run. Curveball is a weapon in the mid-to-high 70s that averages over 2800s RPM while holding consistent shape. Will miss bats with both pitches. It’s uncertain where Carlson has the higher upside on the mound or at short, but there’s zero question that upside is immense.