PBRT The Rock Summer Championships: 17U Takeaways
August 2, 2023
We concluded our summer tournament circuit at the end of last month with the 17U PBR at The Rock Summer Championship. This event gave our scouting staff an in depth look at a multitude of 2024 prospects from the state, as well as a couple surrounding states. Read on below to see which players stood out to our scouting staff from the event.
THURSDAY
BOURBONNAIS BRAVES
SS Mason McCue (Bishop McNamara, 2024; Evansville commit)
McCue, standing at a scrappy 5-foot-8, 165-pound frame, came up clutch for the Bourbonnais Braves in their victory to start the weekend, as the Evansville commit sent a single through the infield to plate a teammate in a big four-run third inning. The lefty presents quick hands and quality bat-to-ball skills, priming him to be a top-of-the-order bat in the near future, as he currently controls the three-spot in the lineup for his travel baseball team.
Mason McCue
CANES GREAT LAKES NATIONAL 17U GOLD
RHP Aslyn Farinelli (Crown Point, 2024)
Farinelli found himself in a pitcher’s duel on Thursday, and held his own against tough competition. The right-hander pitched five quality innings in his start, punching out seven batters on the day to keep his team within striking distance. The fastball sat 83-86 mph with life, generating swings and misses throughout. He followed up that pitch with a cutter-slider combination, keeping hitters off balance with a competitive three-pitch arsenal.
Aslyn Farinelli
CHICAGO ELITE ROYAL
LHP Frank Bilecki (Marist, 2024)
Currently ranked No. 91 in the state. Standing 6-foot-2, 190-pounds, the southpaw showed off a lively fastball that reached up to 89 mph, sitting right at 86-88 mph. He went to a sharp slider at 77-79 mph to collect swings and misses. Flashed a straight change at 81 mph. Impressive look at the uncommitted southpaw, who has now raised his stock with his recent velocity jump.
EAU CLAIRE A’S 17U BLUE
RHP Kaden Russo (Elk Mound, 2024)
Currently ranked No. 87 in the state. Strong-bodied, 6-foot-3, 210-pound frame. Russo worked his fastball up to 86 mph and cruised primarily in the 83-85 mph range. To pair off the fastball, he went to a 73-74 mph breaking ball that flashed sharp and slurvy action.
FORCEOUT BASEBALL
RHP Landon Dessart (Union Grove, 2024)
Currently ranked No. 71 in Wisconsin’s 2024 class. Lean strength throughout a 6-foot-1, 170-pound frame. The right-hander gave an impressive look early Thursday morning, striking out three and allowing just one hit over 3.1 innings of work. Dessart worked his fastball up to 87 mph in his final batter of the game, but he sat comfortably in the 84-86 mph range for the duration of his start. To pair off his fastball, he went to a sharp breaking ball in the 74-76 mph range with out-pitch potential.
Landon Dessart
GTS
C Neil Janssen (Delavan-Darien, 2024)
Standing at a strong 5-foot-10, 185-pound frame, Janssen made a large impact in the middle of the order for GTS on the first day of the tournament, singling and driving in two runs to earn his team the win. Janssen repeatedly showed the ability to get into his legs and elevate the baseball, a trait reflected throughout our prior looks. Also showed well behind the plate, where he’s reached 80 mph in prior looks as a catcher.
Neil Janssen
RHP Jacob Lueptow (Elkhorn, 2024)
After recently showing well at the Top Prospect Games in Milwaukee just over a week ago, Lueptow was back at The Rock and on the mound, where he put together a quality outing in a win for GTS. Lueptow navigated a challenging lineup with a fastball sitting 83-86 mph, maxing out at 87 mph multiple times. With that, he utilized a cutter and slider to draw weak contact and whiffs, completing his successful three-pitch arsenal. The right-hander continues to trend up in stock as he enters his senior season at Elkhorn.
Jacob Lueptow
HOUNDS
RHP Ben Llewellyn (Downers Grove North, 2024)
Currently ranked No. 198 in the state. 6-foot-3, 180-pound frame with a strong lower-half. Llewellyn fired a perfect four innings on Thursday evening, striking out 10 along the way. The big right-hander moves well for his size with an athletic operation down the mound. He hides the ball well before moving into a whippy ¾ release, creating a fastball in the 85-87 mph range and tight mid 70s slider.
Ben Llewellyn
IL BRAVES
LHP Landen Patton (Sangamon Valley, 2024)
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 174 in the state. Patton showed well in front of our scouting staff, working his fastball up to 85 mph, sitting primarily in the low 80s. He went to a sharp 1/7 breaking ball in the low 70s to pair off the fastball.
MASH 17U MAROON
RHP Aiden Smith (Rockford, 2024)
Presenting himself at a physical 6-foot-4, 210-pound frame, Smith was the key for his team to earn a victory on Thursday, as the 2024 graduate struck out nine batters in a complete game effort. The right-hander only needed a two-pitch mix to find success on Thursday, as he heavily utilized a fastball to earn outs. Throughout his outing, the fastball sat 83-86 mph for Smith, topping out at 87 mph. Occasionally, Smith would go to his slider, where he displayed sharp feel for the breaking ball, throwing it both for strikes and outs. As an arm, Smith is an intriguing prospect to monitor as he progresses in his prep career.
Aiden Smith
MN BLIZZARD BLACK
C/DH Chase McQuade (River Falls, 2024)
McQuade was the centerpiece of a ranked River Falls team throughout a majority of the spring, and entered the summer as one of MN Blizzard Black’s top hitters. On Thursday, McQuade sent a double to the opposite field to cap off night one of the tournament. The right-handed batter presents a strong, flat swing, as he has repeatedly shown the ability to spray line drives all over the field, a trait illustrated on Thursday night. McQuade has strength throughout, standing at 5-foot-10, 185-pounds. Showed well behind the dish too, as he has recorded pop times between 1.99-2.06 seconds in the past.
Chase McQuade
1B Sawyer Stein (Eau Claire Memorial, 2024)
Stein arguably had one of the better high school seasons in the northwest portion of the Badger State this past spring, as this was the first time our staff saw his offensive skill set in live action. The right-handed hitter impressed right away, tripling to the right-center gap to drive in a run for MN Blizzard Black. Because of his physical 6-foot-3, 215-pound frame, Stein naturally produces loud contact with ease, something his opponents consistently had to prepare for in these past couple of months. Stein’s stock continues to rise as a batter, as his showing on night one at The Rock was a noteworthy one.
Sawyer Stein
Puma Baseball Academy
RHP Jack Olson (Antioch, 2024)
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 42 in the state. Big-bodied, 6-foot-3, 190-pound frame. The right-hander worked his fastball in the 86-89 mph range with life through the zone. To pair off the fastball, he went to an 11/5 curveball in the upper 60s and heavy fading changeup in the mid 70s.
RHINO ILLINOIS 17U HUGHES
RHP Dylan Nagle (Lockport, 2024)
Heartland CC commit. Currently ranked No. 69 in the state. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound right-hander gave an upside look on Thursday, working his fastball up to 89 mph while sitting comfortably in the upper 80s. He went to a mid 70s breaking ball that played with 11/5 shape and depth, earning a number of swings and misses.
Dylan Nagle
OF Andrew Tomko (Lockport, 2024)
Tomko impressed in front of our staff with a homerun on Thursday. The right-handed hitter has a simple, yet quick and athletic swing, staying on the barrel throughout our look.
RHINO SQUEEZE
RHP Sawyer Kowalkowski (Ozaukee, 2024)
Kowalkowski provided an intriguing look for Rhino Squeeze on Thursday afternoon. 6-foot-2, 145-pounds with plenty more room for added strength. High leg kick delivery that is sequenced. Arm plays quick and loose with whippy action. Fastball jumped out of the hand working in the low-80s, topping at 84 mph with finish through the zone. Dropped down to a submarine arm slot for an upper-70s changeup with depth to the arm-side. Also featured deceptive a low-70s curveball that was thrown at arm-speed. An interesting prospect on the mound to watch as he physically matures.
Sawyer Kowalkowski
SPARKS NORTH BLACK
LHP Wilson Kruse (Oak Park-River Forest, 2024)
Xavier commit. Currently ranked No. 133 in the state. 6-foot-5, 195-pound frame, long and lanky frame with plenty of room to fill out. Kruse creates a tough look for opposing hitters thanks to his low ¾ release. He worked a sinking fastball in the 79-83 mph range to pair off a low 70s curveball with 1/7 action.
FRIDAY
ATHLETES HQ
RHP Luke Mejdrich (Hampshire, 2024)
6-foot-1, 215-pound frame. Mejdrich showed well Friday afternoon, picking up a complete game along with six strikeouts. Mejdrich operates through a high ¾ slot with a clean, long arm action that has some effort in it. Mejdrich has a high leg lift to go along with a drop and drive approach. Fastball sat low 80s while topping out at 83 mph with some arm-side-run. Mixed in a low 70s breaking ball that had sharp actions and a mid 70s changeup.
BOURBONNAIS BRAVES
RHP Gianni Leech (Lincoln-Way Central, 2024)
6-foot-4, 200-pound frame. Athletic build with plenty of room to grow. Leech impressed Friday afternoon picking a complete game. Leech operates through a ¾ slot with a clean, short arm action. Utilizes a high leg lift with a drop and drive approach. Fastball sat in the low 80s while topping out at 85 mph with arm-side run. Mixed in a sharp high 60s curveball that was fooling opposing hitters.
Gianni Leech
MIF Thomas Offill (Bradley Bourbonnais, 2024)
5-foot-7, 140-pound, athletic frame. Offill picked up three hits Friday afternoon while showing off impressive speed. Offill has a wide stance with bent upper half that allows him to make quality contact and get to the ball in any part of the zone. Offill showcased impressive bat-to-ball abilities as well as advanced speed that allowed him to pick up a stolen base.
BREW STATE BASEBALL ACADEMY
RHP Ty Cieslewicz (Menomonee Falls, 2024)
Cieslewicz twirled a complete game for Brew State Baseball Academy on night two of the tournament, putting together another solid performance in front of our scouting staff. Despite not having over-powering velocity, Cieslewicz located a low-80s fastball well on Friday night, drawing weak contact from his opponent on a consistent basis. The right-hander struck out six batters in seven innings of work, and took advantage of a flawless defense behind him to earn the 6-3 win.
C Lincoln Ascher (Kettle Moraine, 2024; Central Missouri commit)
Ascher clutched up for Brew State Baseball Academy in this one, sending a single to the left-center gap to drive in two runs, guiding the offense to a victory. Within the matchup as well, the No. 3 ranked catcher in Wisconsin’s 2024 class threw out a potential base-stealer with ease, showing off his strong arm from behind the plate. Ascher’s all-around play and leadership was the key on Friday night, as he looks to continue to build on this success entering Central Missouri by this time next year.
Lincoln Ascher
1B Aidan Perdreau (Mukwonago, 2024)
Perdreau continued his electric summer with a pair of hits between the first two games of the tournament. The right-handed batter, standing at a physical 6-foot-2, 210-pound frame, used his natural strength and pull-side power to send a couple of barrels between the shortstop and third baseman, continuing to produce at a high rate for his team. Perdreau presents whippy hands and a quick barrel, allowing him to drive the baseball. He continues to impress in each look from our staff, doing more of the same over the first half of the weekend here at The Rock.
Aidan Perdreau
CANGELOSI SPARKS 17U WHITE
OF/RHP Elliott Alicea (Burlington Central, 2024)
Alicea presented one of the more aggressives approaches and swings of the weekend, as the strong 6-foot-3, 187-pound athlete sent a home run to the opposite field in Friday’s final matchup. His advanced bat speed, which has produced 100 mph exit velocities in the past, was noticeable in live action. Alicea all-around athleticism makes him a force on both ends of the ball, as he has previously run a 6.85 60-yard dash, and hit 89 mph from the outfield. His two-way abilities, in being up to 86 mph on the mound, earned him an invite to the Illinois State Games in August.
Elliot Alicea
CANGELOSI SPARKS NORTH BLACK
LHP/OF Brayden Mazzacano (Schaumburg, 2025; Illinois commit)
Mazzacano provided arguably the loudest pitching performance of the weekend. Super athletic 6-foot-2, 170-pound frame with room for added strength. Balanced and repeatable drop and drive delivery. Lively arm that played with acceleration out front. Attacked the zone with a fastball worked in the 87-89 mph range, T90 mph multiple times. Jumped out of the hand and had plenty of ride through the zone to miss barrels. Flashed out-pitch potential with tight upper-70s slider with late movement. One of the top left-handed pitchers in the class that should only continue to improve. Currently ranked No. 6 in the state and No. 278 nationally.
Brayden Mazzacano
CHICAGO ELITE ROYAL
LHP Jackson Ugo (Andrew, 2024)
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 135 in the state. The southpaw worked his fastball up to 87 mph, sitting in the 84-85 mph range with sinking action and some arm-side movement. Went to a low 70s breaking ball to pair off the fastball with 1/7 action.
Jackson Ugo
DuPage Training Academy Wildcats 17U Elite
RHP Joey Cosentino (Geneva, 2024)
6-foot, 190-pounds. The uncommitted right-hander displayed a simple, yet up-tempo delivery that looks to have more in the tank. The arm is quick and plays from a short, high ¾ slot. His fastball played in the 81-84 mph range, topping out at 85 mph. He went to a high-spinning breaking ball with out-pitch potential, sitting 71-75 mph with over 2400 RPM.
FORCEOUT BASEBALL
RHP Marshall Loch (Union Grove, 2024)
6-foot-3, 189 pound frame. Athletic build with room to grow. Currently ranked No. 47 in Wisconsin’s 2024 class. Loch had quite the afternoon Friday picking up six strikeouts in 3.1 innings while only allowing one hit. Loch an over-the-top slot with a long, clean, wiry arm action that had some effort in the delivery. Loch utilized a high leg lift with a tall and fall approach. Loch sat in mid 80s while topping out at 87 with arm-side run. Mixed in a low 70s curveball that has sharp action and depth. Loch also picked up a couple of hits at the plate.
Marshall Loch
GAME 7
RHP Lance Kiesewetter (Henry-Senachwine, 2024)
Coming off a successful spring, Kiesewetter gave another impressive look out of the bullpen on Friday afternoon. Physical 6-foot-4, 225-pound frame that moves well on the mound for his size. Live arm that worked in the low-to-mid 80s, T87 mph with finish through the zone. Threw a tight curveball in the low-70s that got swings and misses out of the zone. An arm to watch as he enters his senior year.
Lance Kiesewetter
GRB RAYS WHITE
C Cameron Miller (Madison East, 2024)
Miller stepped up for his team in a clutch moment and delivered with multiple runners on base, doubling down the left field line to drive in two runs and keep his group in the game. The catcher stands at 5-foot-9, 190-pounds, manning a middle-of-the-order spot throughout the day on Friday. Continued to produce hard contact to the pull-side, as he enters his final season of high school baseball as an interesting prospect.
Cameron Miller
RHP Benjamin Ketelsen (Sun Prairie West, 2024)
After recently showing well at the inaugural Madison Open, Ketelsen got up on the mound on Friday and did more of the same for GRB Rays White. His fastball sat 80-83 mph throughout, continuing to project in a 6-foot-4, 200-pound frame. In addition to his primary pitch, Ketelsen utilized an offspeed arsenal that included a changeup and curveball, both of which kept hitters off-balance. The right-hander’s recent success in the spring, at a showcase, and now in live action over the summer continues to raise his stock as a projectable and competitive arm from the Madison area.
ILLINOIS DYNASTY
INF Parker Schwarting (Joliet West, 2024)
After last appearing at the Lockport Preseason ID in 2022, Schwarting has added strength to his current 6-foot-4, 190-pound frame and presents one of the higher ceilings in the 2024 class. Easy swing with a polished approach at the plate. Shortened up with two-strikes and drove a loud ground-rule double to left-field in Friday’s look. Clean defensive actions at third base, moving well on a slow-roller with above-average arm strength. Will be interesting to watch as his body continues to add strength.
Parker Schwarting
MASH 17U GREY
OF Connor Hennen (Farmington, 2024)
5-foot-10, 165 pound frame. Athletic build with plenty of room to grow. Hennen impressed Friday morning, picking up a multi-hit game. Hennen has a stock setup at the plate and has quick bat speed that allows him to keep his barrel on the ball. Hennen sprayed balls all throughout the park Friday morning, putting himself in control of the zone. Hennen showcased a strong arm in right field, holding runners on the basepaths and making them think twice about stealing.
MILWAUKEE BASEBALL ACADEMY ANDRESEN
RHP/INF Paul Nuetzel (Homestead, 2024)
For a second time this summer, Nuetzel provided an electric outing for a one-inning stint on Friday afternoon. On the bump, the 6-foot-1, 175-pound athlete struck out the side on 14 pitches, utilizing a heavy fastball that sat from 86-89 mph, hitting 90 mph once. He paired that with a wipeaway slider, generating swings and misses in multiple looks. The two-pitch combination overpowered his opponents, as Nuetzel continued to raise his stock as an arm. His two-way abilities showed well too, as the switch-hitter went 3-for-3 with at least one hit from both the right and left side. After two successful looks over the summer, the right-hander has quickly emerged as one of the top uncommitted prospects in Wisconsin’s 2024 class.
MN BLIZZARD BLACK
UTIL Joe Hess (St. Cloud Tech, 2024)
Hess presented himself as an under-the-radar athlete to our staff, as he finished the first two days of the tournament with an unblemished 5-for-5 line at the plate. Standing at 6-foot, 185-pounds, Hess is a scrappy athlete who can play nearly any position on the field, showcasing his versatility and sneaky power in the batter’s box. He illustrated his quick swing and quality bat-to-ball skills throughout the first two days of the weekend, spraying line drives to all portions of the field. Hess, after putting up 90 mph exit velocities Minnesota Top Prospect Games just a couple of weeks prior to his appearance at The Rock.
PROSPECT TRAINING ACADEMY 17U
3B Andrew Dodge (St. Thomas More, 2024)
5-foot-10, 140 pound frame. Athletic build with plenty of room to grow. Dodge shined Friday morning, finishing the game with a couple of singles at the plate. Dodge showed an advanced bat-to-ball approach to go along while keeping a strong understanding of the zone. Listed as a middle infielder, Dodge manned the hot corner and showed an impressive arm with quality range.
Andrew Dodge
P2P MILLERS Erzar
1B/C Joseph Nelson (Chaska, 2024)
Strong-bodied, 6-foot-3, 200-pound frame. The right-handed hitter has notable pop in his bat with a long/loose stroke. Some rhythm and fluidness in the swing with a chance to add on even more power as he matures physically.
P2P MILLERS LANDGREBE
LHP/1B Ted Hohn (Belle Plaine, 2024)
6-foot, 180-pound frame. Currently ranked No. 91 in Minnesota’s 2024 class. Hohn flashed on both sides of the plate Friday morning. On the mound, Hohn worked through a high 3 ⁄ 4 slot with some effort and located well on his arm-side. Hohn sat in the low 80s with his fastball, topping out at 82 mph with some arm-side-run. Mixed in a sharp slider that sat in the low 70s. Hohn also picked up a hit thanks to his impressive hand-speed.
RHINO WI - SQUEEZE
1B/LHP Quinn Ludvigsen (Menasha, 2024)
Ludvigsen provided some of the top athleticism in the tournament, displaying smooth actions across the infield and in the left-handed batter’s box. Standing at 6-foot-2, 190-pounds, Ludvigsen presents strength throughout his body with room to grow. At the plate, Ludvigsen hit a double and triple to power Rhino WI - Squeeze’s offense, showcasing loose and quick hands. Those same traits translated at the first base position as well, as Ludvigsen was flawless during his time on the defensive end. His performance on both ends of the field raises his stock as an intriguing prospect to follow into his senior season at Menasha. On the mound, Ludvigsen showed off an athletic drop/drive delivery, hiding the ball well into a loose ¾ release. His fastball played in the 78-81 mph range with slight sink, showing the ability to land for strikes on both sides of the plate. His breaking ball played with 1/7 shape at 70-72 mph.
Quinn Ludvigsen
SLAMMERS BLACK
RHP Matthew Ruttkay (Glenbrook North, 2024; Oberlin commit)
6-foot-5, 245-pound frame. Ruttkay had a dazzling start Friday morning, picking up six strikeouts in 6.2 innings while allowing only one run. Ruttkay operates through a ¾ slot with short, clean arm action that has effort in the delivery. Ruttkay utilizes his big body as well as a medium leg lift and a tall/fall approach. Ruttkay’s fastball sat in the low 80s, topping out at 84 with some arm-side-run. MIxed in a low 70s breaking ball that had sharp actions and high 70s changeup that he kept down.
Matthew Ruttkay
SLAMMERS GREY
RHP Asher Malin (Glenbrook North, 2024)
Malin provided an upside look against a talented lineup on Friday morning. Solid 5-foot-9, 150-pound frame. Fastball worked in the low-80s throughout, T84 mph early with arm-side run. Mixed in a curveball with 11/5 shape that worked in the low-70s and occasionally got swings and misses.
SILVER SLUGGERS 17U NAVY
C Bennett Keller (Evansville, 2024)
5-foot-11, 175-pound frame. Currently ranked No. 137 in Wisconsin’s 2024 class. Keller had quite the game Friday, picking up a multi-hit performance. Keller is a stocky left-handed hitter and stays on his back leg throughout the at-bat. Has a no leg lift/stride approach and utilizes his quick hands to get to the ball. Keller also impressed behind the plate, throwing a runner out and holding the opposition at their bags.
SPARKS NORTH BLACK
MIF Dayton Murphy (Crystal Lake South, 2024; Michigan State commit)
Michigan State commit. Currently ranked No. 39 in the state. Compact, athletic frame that stands 5-foot-10, 165-pounds. The former future gamer showed his usual quality defense, displaying above-average actions and range up the middle of the diamond. Simple right-handed stroke, uses the whole field with a line-drive approach.
Dayton Murphy
TOP TIER SOUTH
OF Nate George (Minooka, 2024; Eastern Illinois commit)
George is a high-caliber player that has consistently impressed in front of our staff throughout the summer circuit. To start, the 6-foot, 190-pound right-handed hitting outfielder possesses elite athleticism, previously running a 6.39 second 60 yard dash at the Lockport Preseason I.D. He would continue his success on Friday, combining his advanced bat-speed and bat-to-ball skills to launch a home-run to left-field. A free mover in the outfield with a strong arm, George has the tools to remain in centerfield at the next level. Currently ranked No. 12 in the state and No. 332 nationally. Will be a fun player to watch as he enters his senior year.
Nate George
MIF Jackson Smith (Providence Catholic, 2024; Bradley commit)
Smith is a talented left-handed hitter that has continued to show well after a successful spring where he was named PBR Third Team All-State. Twitchy athlete standing at a lanky 6-foot, 175-pounds with plenty of room for added strength. Compact left-handed swing with quick hands that work inside the ball, helping utilize an all-fields approach. Above-average bat-speed with advanced feel for the barrel. Tripled down the rightfield line on Friday, showing off an above average run tool. Defensively, ranges well to both sides up the middle and has the arm-strength to play both positions. High-ceiling prospect that has been trending up in 2023. Currently ranked No. 86 in the state’s 2024 class. Committed to Bradley shortly following the event.
Jackson Smith
INF/RHP James Love (Joliet West, 2024; Eastern Illinois commit)
Love possesses above-average power potential in a long-levered 6-foot-1, 205-pound frame. Has continued to show well after a successful winter and spring. Rhythmic swing that syncs up well. Hands are short to the ball with advanced bat-speed. Barreled a deep double to centerfield on Friday. Also showed interesting two-way potential during a brief showing on the mound. Fastball worked up to 87 mph multiple times with life through the zone. Defensively, Love has spent a majority of the summer at third, and has displayed savvy defensive actions over multiple looks this summer. Currently ranked No. 34 in the state’s 2024 class.
James Love
MIF/RHP Jimmy Anderson (Joliet West, 2024)
Anderson is one of the top uncommitted ‘24 prospects that has been trending up this summer. Anderson presents above-average athleticism up the middle, easily ranging to both sides with solid arm-strength. At the plate, Anderson has shown feel for the barrel using a pull-side approach across multiple looks this summer, and continued to do so on Friday. Tallied two doubles to left-field, including one that hit the wall. Wiry athlete standing at 6-foot, 180-pounds with room for added strength. Currently ranked No. 76 in the Illinois 2024 class.
Jimmy Anderson
C Owen Young (Joliet West, 2024; Lewis commit)
Young was a stand-out performer behind the dish throughout the weekend, and committed to Lewis University shortly after. Compact frame with a thick lower half, 5-foot-9, 200-pounds. Quality defensive actions behind the dish. Quick out of the crouch with solid arm strength to cut down runners on the base-paths. Pull-side approach at the plate with strong hands. On the barrel for a majority of the weekend, launching a home-run on Monday en route to a championship win.
Owen Young
WINDY CITY
RHP Merrick Hill (South Elgin, 2024)
Hill provided an intriguing, upside look out of the bullpen on Friday night. Clean arm action with a fastball that worked in the 82-85 mph range. Mixed in a curveball that was thrown at arm-speed with hard bite to get hitters out in front.
SATURDAY
BOURBONNAIS BRAVES
RHP Toby Schriefer (Bradley Bourbonnais, 2024)
6-foot-3, 190-pound frame. Athletic build with room to grow. Currently ranked No. 167 in Illinois’ 2024 class. Schriefer impressed Saturday afternoon pitching for 2.2 innings. Schriefer operates through a high ¾ slot with short, wiry arm action with effort. Schriefer utilizes a side-step windup that includes medium leg lift and a drop/drive approach. Schreifer’s fastball sat mid 80s while topping out at 88 mph with ASR. Mixed in a mid 70s breaking ball that had sharp actions. Schriefer is a name to keep an eye on in the Spring season.
CANGELOSI SPARKS NORTH BLACK
MIF Dayton Murphy (Crystal Lake South, 2024; Michigan State commit)
Murphy has continued to show well in front of our staff since impressing at the 2022 PBR Future Games last summer. Athletic middle-infielder that possesses advanced actions, making a number of notable plays throughout the weekend. Rangy defender with above-average arm strength and the ability to make tough throws on the run. At the plate, simple swing with quick hands that allowed for two hits during Saturday’s contest. Quick runner out of the box as well. Exciting player that competes with a high motor. Currently ranked No. 39 in the state.
RHP Brady Chambers (Lyons Township, 2024; Michigan State commit)
Chambers provided yet another impressive look on the mound during his start on Saturday morning. Has been trending up this spring/summer after a successful showing at the Preseason Underclass showcase. Stands out with a 6-foot-6, 205-pound frame with long-levers. Moves well for his size, getting downhill and utilizing a whippy arm action. Mostly fastballs, working in the mid-80s, T87 mph with finish through the zone. Went to a mid-70s changeup with confidence that has out-pitch potential. Also flashed feel for a low-70s curveball with gradual break. Still more velocity to come within the frame. Currently ranked No. 48 in the state’s 2024 class.
Brady Chambers
OF Mason Phillips (Oak Park-River Forest, 2024)
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 77 in the state. Ultra-athletic, 6-foot-1, 185-pound frame with a high waist. Roams the outfield with long, athletic strides, tracking down fly balls with ease. Showed off some pop from the right-handed batter’s box, leaving the yard for a home run to centerfield.
CIF Cash Campbell (Montini, 2024; Iowa commit)
Currently ranked No. 5 in Illinois. One of the premier left-handed bats in the state, Campbell swung it well in front of our staff with a two-hit game. The left-handed hitter has a fluid rhythm in the box, hanging his foot with an upper-half coil before firing his hands with effortless power though the zone. Finished the day with a double, single and a walk.
CANGELOSI SPARKS WHITE
RHP Mesfin Duwell (Lyons Township, 2024)
Duwell gave an upside look on the mound on Saturday night. Easy mover with a simple, effortless delivery. Lively fastball that jumped out of the hand, sitting 83-85, T86 mph early. Used a low-70’s change-up with gradual fade as an out pitch. Scattered three hits throughout five innings of work. Strong 6-foot-3, 190-pound frame.
CANES GREAT LAKES
LHP Jake Mulvehill (John Adams, 2024)
6-foot, 190-pound frame. Currently ranked No. 72 in Indiana’s 2024 class. Mulvehill picked a complete game in four innings Saturday afternoon while striking out five. Mulvehill operates through a high ¾ slot with a long, loose arm action with effort. Mulvehill utilizes a high leg lift with a drop/drive approach. Fastball sat in the low 80s, topping out at 83 mph with ASR. Mixed in a high 60s curveball that had sharp action.
DuPage Training Academy Wildcats 17U Elite
RHP Jacob Aseltine (Batavia, 2024)
Uncommitted. 6-foot, 180-pounds. The right-hander worked his fastball in the 83-85 mph range with slight arm-side action. He went to a gradual 11/5 breaking ball at 61-67 mph.
Jacob Aseltine
RHP Ryan Boe (Batavia, 2024)
North Dakota State football commit. Strong, 6-foot-3, 200-pound frame. The switch-hitter showed a knack for the barrel from both sides of the plate, including a home run to straightaway centerfield. On the mound, Boe worked his fastball up to 84 mph and showed feel for both a curveball and slider.
Ryan Boe
GRB RAYS NORTH
RHP Alex Vander Loop (Kimberly, 2024)
6-foot-1, 190-pound frame. Currently ranked No. 40 in Wisconsin’s 2024 class. Vander Loop had quite the day on Saturday picking up a five inning complete game shutout while striking out 12 and only allowing three baserunners. Vander Loop operates through a ¾ slot with a long, loose arm action with effort. Vander Loop utilizes a side-step windup with a high leg lift and a drop/drive approach. Fastball sat in the mid 80s in the beginning of the outing, topping out at 87 mph with ASR and then dropped to low 80s later in the outing. Mixed in a sharp slider and a deceptive changeup that kept hitters on their toes. Also, picked up a couple of singles at the plate and drove in a run.
Alex Vander Loop
ILLINOIS LIGHTNING LUTZ
SS Zac Johnson (Wauconda, 2024)
5-foot-9, 160-pound frame. Athletic build with room to grow. Johnson impressed Saturday night, picking up a multi-hit game including a triple showcasing his advanced speed. Johnson utilizes a wide stance with a 90-degree bend in the lower half and more of an upright upper half. Johnson kept his barrel on the ball throughout the game showcasing a strong bat-to-ball ability. Also, impressed with his speed legging out his triple and also picking up a stolen base.
RHP Braden Otahal (Grant, 2024)
6-foot-1, 150-pound frame. Athletic build with plenty of room to grow. Otahal had a night on Saturday picking up a five inning complete game while striking out four. Otahal operates through a ¾ slot with long, loose, arm action with effort. Otahal utilizes a step-back windup with a high leg lift and a tall/fall approach. Fastball sat low 80s while topping out at 83 mph. Mixed in a low 70s slider and mid 60s curveball.
RHP Danny Newman (Wauconda, 2024)
Uncommitted. The southpaw dominated over his seven innings of work, not allowing a single run on five hits, striking out eight. Newman worked his fastball up to 82 mph and paired off a 1/7 breaking ball in the low 70s.
MACSTRENGTH GRIZZLIES
RHP Jameson Quinn (Holy Family Catholic, 2024)
6-foot-4, 200-pound frame. Currently ranked No. 80 in Minnesota’s 2024 class. Quinn had quite the game Saturday morning, throwing five innings without giving up an earned run. Quinn operates through a high ¾ slot with a long, loose arm action. Quinn utilizes a high leg lift and a tall/fall approach. Fastball sat low 80s, topping out at 83 mph. Mixed in a high 60s curveball and a low 70s changeup.
MVP ELITE
MIF Braden Carmen (Mundelein, 2024)
5-foot-7, 140 pound frame. Athletic build with room to grow. Carmen impressed Saturday morning picking up a couple of doubles, driving in three runs, and showing range defensively up the middle. Carmen has an upright stock stance and utilizes a high leg lift. Showed a strong control of the zone and was able to consistently get the barrel on the ball.
Braden Carmen
P2P MILLERS
RHP Nick Discher (Burnsville, 2024)
One of the top uncommitted arms in Minnesota’s 2024 class. Strong 6-foot-1, 195-pound frame that moves well down the mound. Discher was very impressive during a rain-shortened outing on Saturday evening. Quick, lively arm that played in the low-to-mid 80s with the fastball, T86 mph with ride through the zone. Threw a high-spin slider (2600+ RPM) in the low-70s that got swings and misses low in the zone. Currently ranked No. 32 in the state’s 2024 class.
Nick Discher
TOP TIER NORTH GOLD
OF Calen Corbett (Loyola Academy, 2024)
6-foot-1, 180-pound frame. Athletic build with room to grow. Corbett impressed Saturday afternoon picking up a couple of hard hits including a home run and a double. Corbett utilizes a wide stance that includes a short leg lift and stride. Corbett was flashing impressive bat-to-ball abilities that showed well throughout the game.
Calen Corbett
TOP TIER SOUTH
MIF/RHP Jimmy Anderson (Joliet West, 2024)
Anderson has shown his two-way ability on the mound all summer, with one of his best showings being Saturday night at The Rock. Showed a polished three-pitch mix starting with a fastball that played in the mid-80s, T87 mph. Often started out hitters with a mid-70s change-up with arm-side fade for strikes. Also went to a sharp curveball in the low-70s that was thrown in all counts. Kept hitters guessing by mixing all three pitches well.
Jimmy Anderson
SUNDAY
BREW STATE
MIF JJ Wolbert (Kettle Moraine, 2024)
Uncommitted. Currently ranked No. 82 in the state. The left-handed hitter has a simple, flat swing through the zone that works the middle of the field, staying on-time consistently. High-motor athlete that is quick out of the box as well as up the middle of the diamond. Steady and sure-handed actions defensively with a strong and accurate arm across.
CHICAGO ELITE ROYAL
LHP Jack LoConte (Andrew, 2024)
LoConte was impressive in his start against a talented lineup on Saturday morning. 5-foot-11, 175-pound, athletic left-handed pitcher that is also a football standout. Moves well on the mound, showcasing an easy delivery and live arm action. Fastball got better as the game went on, sitting in the mid-80s throughout, and T86 mph. Played with finish through the zone, getting swings and misses all around the zone. High spin slider that worked in the upper-70s with 10/4 shape. Quieted a lineup littered with talent. Ranked No. 141 in the state. Will be in attendance at the Illinois State Games.
Jack LoConte
RHP Henry Brummel (Pontiac, 2024; Indiana commit)
Currently ranked No. 52 in the state. 6-foot-4, 195-pound frame, athletic with room to add on more strength. The right-hander worked his fastball up to 90 mph multiple times, cruising right at 88-89 mph. Brummel added a slider to his repertoire not long before this start, and it's already showing out-pitch potential; playing at 77-81 mph with sharp 10/4 action. He also flipped in a curveball in the low 70s with 11/5 shape and flashed a changeup at 79 mph, killing spin.
Henry Brummel
C Luke Landrus (St. Joseph-Ogden, 2024)
Uncommitted. Currently slotted at No. 60 in the state. Highly projectable, 6-foot-2, 170-pound frame. Advanced catch/throw operation, consistently working around 1.90 seconds for his pop-time while even reaching slightly lower at times. The right-handed hitter has a fluid load with a simple and short stride. He fires through the zone with a loose and uphill path, power should continue to rise as he fills out and matures. Showed the ability to work the ball to the whole field with authority.
Luke Landrus
LHP Ethan Eberle (Normal Community, 2024; Louisville commit)
Currently ranked No. 23 in the state. The southpaw was absolutely dominant this past spring, pitching to a 0.14 ERA and a 0.56 WHIP with 105 strikeouts in 52 innings. It was easy to see why he was so dominant, as he worked his heavy sinking fastball up to 88 mph from a low ¾ slot. He hides the ball well throughout his delivery, making it even tougher for opposing hitters to pick up. He showed a clear confidence in his sweeping slider, landing it for strikes and to put hitters away, 73-74 mph.
Forceout
RHP Landon Dessart (Union Grove, 2024)
Dessart dominated on Sunday against Hounds, working into the seventh frame with no hits allowed. The 6-foot-1, 170-pound projectable frame yielded no runs through six innings pitched, allowing just one hit in the seventh. Balanced delivery, strong lower half. Commanded the zone with a fastball at 82-86 mph, T87. Mixed in a curveball at 70 mph, and a sharp slider at 74-75 mph that was thrown consistently for strikes.
Hounds
RHP Cooper Marrs (Riverside-Brookfield, 2024)
Marrs is a long-levered 6-foot-4, 195-pound frame who showed out in a complete game losing effort Sunday against Forceout. The righty allowed one unearned run and just five hits, with three walks and four punch-outs. Maintained velocity throughout and produced weak contact. Smooth delivery. Fastball sat 78-82 mph, T83. Mixed in a sharp curveball at 74-76 mph for strikes consistently, and a changeup at 72 mph.
ILLINOIS LIGHTNING LUTZ
RHP Aiden Wicinski (Grant, 2024)
The right-hander worked his fastball up to 82 mph, sitting in the 78-81 mph range. He went to a slider at 70-75 mph to pair off the fastball, thrown for strikes and to put hitters away.
SLAMMERS BLACK
RHP Nicholas Rayyan (Stevenson, 2024)
6-foot-2, 210-pounds. The right-hander impressed with a fastball up to 86 mph, sitting 83-85 mph throughout his start. Went to a 10/4 slider at 68-71 mph to pair off the fastball.
Sparks North Black
RHP Jack Calcagno (Montini, 2024)
Calcagno showed well on Sunday on the mound, throwing four innings and allowing one run (unearned) on three hits with six strikeouts. Strong build at 6-foot-4, 210-pounds. Explosive delivery. Straight fastball at 81-85 mph with a curveball thrown for strikes at 68-70 mph.
MN Blizzard Black
RHP Maddux Schrupp (Waconia, 2024)
Schrupp is a 6-foot-1, 175-pound projectable frame with smooth mechanics. Threw 4.1 innings on Sunday, allowing two runs on three hits with four walks and four strikeouts. Straight fastball at 82-86 mph with a sharp curve at 71-75 mph. Mixed in a changeup for strikes at 77-78 mph. Currently ranked No. 78 in the state.
OF Chase McQuade (River Falls, 2024)
McQuade led the way offensively for Minnesota Blizzard Black on Sunday, going 2-for-2 with a home run to straightaway center field, a line drive single, a walk and three RBIs. Strong lower half with power through the zone to all fields.
MONDAY
Sparks North Black
RHP Jack Wilson (New Trier, 2024)
Wilson effectively commanded the zone in Monday’s semifinals against Minnesota Blizzard Black, resulting in a shutout win. The righty threw six innings and allowed three hits with five strikeouts. Clean delivery. Straight fastball at 80-82 mph. Spun a sharp curveball at 69-70 mph and a slider at 70-73 mph for strikes.
1B/OF Dominic Catalano (Montini Catholic, 2024; Illinois-Chicago commit)
A UIC commit, Catalano paced Sparks North Black offensively out of the leadoff spot on Monday. The lefty went 3-for-6 with two doubles, a run and a walk on the day. Displayed quick hands at the plate, with the ability to work deep into counts. 6-foot, 180-pound projectable frame with speed around the base paths.
GRB RAYS NORTH
RHP/MIF Axel Donaldson (De Pere, 2024)
Donaldson provided one of the more intriguing looks on the mound this weekend, displaying impressive arm talent. Standing at 5-foot-7, 140-pounds, Donaldson was able to run his fastball up to 85 mph early, settling into the low-80s throughout. Fastball played with carry and flashed occasional arm-side. Went to a hard, upper-70s curveball with late break to get swings and misses. Also barreled a loud triple the other way showcasing impressive speed around the bases. An intriguing, high motor two-way to watch as he enters his senior year.
Axel Donaldson