2024 TX Power 30 Preseason Breakdown: Top 10 Released

After winning the 6A state title, and returning a deep and uber talented senior class, it wasn’t that hard to pick Coach Wallace’s Jaguars for our Preseason #1 spot. They are talented in all of the right places, and have a senior class that expects to win. Can the Jaguars repeat in ‘24? That is yet to be answered, but one thing is fairly certain, they are talented enough to do so.

OFFENSE

The Flower Mound offense lost some key pieces from last year’s squad but they also return 3 SEC hitters and other d1 position players.  Catcher Zane Becker is going on year 4 of starting for the Jags and he is one of the better leaders in Texas. The 2022 future gamer and Arkansas recruit is rock solid behind the dish and sets the tone at the top of the order. He will take a walk, but he will also leave the yard if you give him the chance. He has turned himself into one of the top catchers in the state.  Sam Erickson may have been the best hitter in Texas down the stretch last season. The future Aggie can hit a ball as far as anyone in this class and he continues to evolve his game offensively. His willingness to use the whole field took him to another level last season. Adrian Rodriguez is a switch hitter who can produce triple digit exit velos from both sides.  He will be counted on to fill more of a role on the infield this year. Sr. OF Garrett Wallace (Louisiana Tech) is another senior that can beat you in different ways. He is a plus runner, but also continues to grow into his power from the left side.  Sr. RHP/3B Josh Glaser (Texas State) is a RHH who not only lengthens the lineup but provides over the fence power from the right side.  Sr. 's Sam Distel (Howard JC) and Andrew Robinson both return after having big seasons during their run.  Sophomore Cooper Skinner slides into the infield this year after getting his feet wet as a freshman. If he is up to the task, that will be a big shot in the arm for the Jags repeat chances.

PITCHING

The Jags lost RHP Jacob Gholston to the Univ. of Oklahoma, but they return a lot of arms with plenty of experience and a lot of wins under the belts. Sr. Zack James (TCU) went on a heater down the stretch last year.  He went on to be 1st team all state and is a strike thrower with a legit 3 pitch mix. He isn’t the most vocal, but James is a fierce competitor. Josh Glaser (Texas State) is a little more emotional on the mound and pitches with intensity, but the future Bobcat can really pitch. His low 90’s fastball and plus change are a tough combo and his spin continues to make jumps.  Sr. Mason Arnold slides into that very important #3 spot this spring. Arnold came up huge for the Jags last spring in Round 1 in a game 3 winner take all game against Prosper. The Midland JC recruit has a good FB/CB combo and the change showed progress last year. Flower Mound always has young arms that pop up as the season goes on, and I am sure Coach Wallace will roll one out when they play in the PBR Texas Invitational in week 2.

SUMMARY

It isn’t easy to go back to back at the 6A level in Texas. But the Jags return some big time arms on the mound, and there aren’t many lineups that return the type of production that Flower Mound is bringing back. District 6-6A is always a gauntlet, but if you make it out there unscathed it usually sets you up for a big run.

The Pearland Oilers were one game away from the state title last year, and with a roster full of returners, this year’s goal is to finish the job. They have all the pieces in place and Coach Rogers team is ready for another magical season.

OFFENSE

Pearland has a deep lineup and it starts with JR. RHP/SS Nico Partida (Arizona State). The two way talent was a monster last season and was Co-MVP of the district. Catching, Jr. Cade Adams (Southern Miss.) gives them a leader and strong presence behind the plate.  Damian Landry is a senior infielder who returns after earning AD honors last year.  Sr. RHP/OF Isaiah Castaneda (Rice) is another one that offers a lot of value in the field and on the mound. He has super projectable body and will be relied on at the plate. Sr. outfielder Bubba Moya also took home all district honors last year, and returns to the Oilers outfield.

PITCHING

The Pearland pitching staff has as much depth as anyone. Even with an injury to Ryler Smart (Tennessee) to start the season, they have the horses needed for a deep run. Partida was electric last year, and he can run his fastball up to 95. Elite competitor who can also really spin it.  Jaden Barfield was nails for Pearland down the stretch last year. The LHP will get into the low 90’s and shows feel for spin. His big showing down the stretch continued this summer and eventually led to him signing with Oklahoma.  Pearland also has a pair of Rice commits on the mound. Castaneda is a big armed righty that continues to see his velo climb.  Jake Mader Cooper is another Rice recruit who can get in the low 90’s and can really rip a breaking ball. He can produce high spin rates.  The staff will once again be a strength of the Oilers team.

SUMMARY

Pearland was one game short last year, but they return all the key pieces and they are super strong up the middle. Good pitching and good up the middle usually leads to really good seasons, and I think we will see another deep run for the Oilers.

Westlake had a great season last year that saw them win 40 games and make it to the state tournament.  Coach Blair and his staff have a team this year that can make it a return trip, but they are looking to win it all this year.

OFFENSE

Westlake’s offense should be able to score some runs this year, and it is headlined by Sr. SS Theo Gillen (Texas).  The #3 player in Texas looks to be fully healthy and has one of the prettiest left handed swings you will see. He is also a plus runner and can cause havoc on the bases if you decide to pitch around him.  Sage Sanders (Houston) looks more physical this year and adds another LHH bat that has some juice.  Sr. outfielder Braeden Babb is coming off an all district season and is a real threat on the bases. Sr. infielder Caden Boenig is another returner that had a good season last year.  Westlake also has two freshman that should get a lot of playing time. Lane Johnson and Ethan Armbruster are both top 10 in the state for the ‘27 class. Armbruster is going to catch and Lane will be in the outfield. They both have high offensive upside as well.

PITCHING

The biggest development this offseason may be the velo gains that Jack Brady and Chance Covert have shown early this season. Brady (McLennan) had a sub 1 era last spring and has been into the low 90’s early this year. The other starter, Sr. LHP Chance Covert (Texas) has come out with his fastball touching 90. They both can pitch, and if their stuff has taken a jump, that is a big development for the Chaparrals. Westlake will have to figure out some depth on the mound, but they have two horses to start.

SUMMARY

Coach Blair and his staff has turned Westlake into a model of consistency, where the standard is to go deep every year. This year is no different, and after a taste of the state tournament last year, I know this group is hungry to get back.

There looks to be a new top program in the San Antonio area, and it is the Johnson Jaguars.  After a 35-7 season that saw them one round from the state tourney, Coach Gesell and his staff look to take the next step and make it to Round Rock this June.

OFFENSE

Johnson has one of the best pure hitters in the country in Jr. SS Kayson Cunningham. The Texas Tech recruit has been in the lineup since he was a freshman and the LHH continues to bang. He has added some juice to the game too and should start showing some of the power off this spring.  Sr. Chad Pantuso (A&M Corpus Christi) is a physical RHH that is a good athlete and has some power potential. Sr. Diego Flores is coming off 1st team AD honors last season and will be with Cunningham on the dirt. Jr. C Masa Chilcutt (Texas) is one of the better defenders behind the dish in the state and is a good athlete as well. Finally, you have QB1/OF Ty Hawkins (TCU for Football) roaming in the OF. Plus athlete with all the tools to be a P5 baseball player.

PITCHING

The Johnson pitching staff returns their top 2 arms from last year, who both had 10 wins. Sr. Tyler Walton (Texas) is a good athlete who has really seen his stock rise, which led to his commitment to UT. It is a big arm that projects for more. Sr. RHP Derek Maples earned 2nd team All State honors after posting a 1.09 era last spring.

SUMMARY

Johnson has really ascended the last couple years, and now they are ready to take that final leap. They have the star power and experience, this may be the year the Jaguars make it to Round Rock.

This Tomball team is one of the most talented teams in the state, and they have every capability of going deep this season. After going 24-11 last season and making it to the Regional Quarterfinals, Coach Rush and his team are ready to take the next step. He played a lot of freshman last year, and that experience could pay off in 2024.

OFFENSE

The Tomball offense starts with Sr. catcher Cade Arrambide (LSU). The #1 player in Texas has some of the loudest tools you will see. He has plus raw power, and it plays in game. He has a true plus arm from behind the plate, and he is a good athlete for a catcher.  He is a true game changer in the box. Keegan Demmer is another Sr. that is signed with Sam Houston State, who offers some power potential from the right side.   Tomball is also really solid on the infield with Sr.’s Blaine Lucas (ULL) and SS Ryan Coleman (Hill JC). Those are two good defenders who can swing it, and Lucas adds another dimension to their offense this year. Another big time Sr. bat on the dirt is Alan Lopez (Houston). Lopez is entering his 4th season on Varsity.   Sophomore CJ Sampson is a true 2 way talent, and he delivers a heavy barrel from the left side. Catcher Hopkins (A&M) is another sophomore who can bang it, and got play as a freshman.  Sophomore Harper Gates really looks poised for a jump. He looks more physical in 2024. Their lineup is loaded and has a good blend of experience and youth. They will be tough to hold down.

PITCHING

The pitching staff this year at Tomball will be youthful, but also extremely talented. Soph. CJ Sampson got a lot of big innings on the mound last season and looks to build off that this year. Sampson can really pitch and has + command for his grade. He can throw all his pitches for a strike and seems to always be in complete control. Soph. Karson Reeder is a super projectable righty that sits in the upper 80’s and shows the ability to really spin it.  Harper Gates looks to have made a jump this preseason on the bump. He was sitting in the upper 80’s in a scrimmage and can really rip a slider.  It isn’t just the young guys there, one of the most impressive arms we saw this preseason belongs to Amare McGown (Southern Univ.). He shows a low 90’s arm with good spin.

SUMMARY

Tomball is one of the most talented teams in the state, and have good senior leadership. If the sophomore class is ready to take the  next step, this #5 ranking could feel low come June.

Keller has been one of the most consistent programs in north Texas over the last few years. Coach Stramp and his staff are used to making deep runs in the playoffs, and this year the expectations are no different.  They look to improve on their 26-9 record and regional quarterfinalist finish from last year.

OFFENSE

Keller will beat you different ways offensively. They will beat you with extra base hits, but they will play small ball and out execute you. The offense starts with Sr. Fisher Polydoroff ( Weatherford JC), one of my favorite players to cover, Polydoroff can really swing it. He shows pop to all fields and has fun while doing it.  Super Sophomore Cole Koeninger is back at short, after holding his own there as a frosh.  Koeninger is what they are supposed to look like, and when he is right he can make the game look easy. If he puts together a consistent season, the Indians offense will be dangerous. Bach Hartwig can do a lot of things with the bat from the left side.  Jake Schedien can really catch and throw behind the plate, and also has really swung well this preseason.  Sr. Landry Stamps (Tyler JC) is one that has really impressed me this preseason with his bat from the left side.  I think he could have a really big spring. Finally, a pair of North Central Texas JC commits, Jackson Ridge and Brady Reeves give Keller a really deep lineup.

PITCHING

The Keller staff lost some serious talent from last season, but they have a handful of seniors more than ready to pick up the pace. Sr. RHP Mason Cook (McLennan) looks poised to take the ace role. He will run his fastball into the low 90’s and can really spin it. I was really impressed with his change I saw this preseason. Matthew Taylor (UTA) is a LHP that can run it into the upper 80’s and is a tough ab. He has good movement on the fastball and is tough to square up. Christopher Langley is a Sr. RHP headed to College of Charleston and as he gets more innings under his belt, I think his velo will continue to rise.  Sr. RHP Levi Shaffer (Southeastern Louisiana)  is the 4th big time arm in the senior class for Keller. He will be in the upper 80’s and gives them some serious depth. Koeninger will have a role as well. The sophomore has been up to 93, and there is more in the tank.

SUMMARY

Keller is used to the expectations, and they have a senior class that has been here before. Coach Stramp and his staff are primed for a big season

Coach Harvey and his staff are used to winning and going deep into the postseason.  This season, the Hawks have a good senior class with some big arms and one of the top 2 way players in the state.  After a 34-10 record last season, Heath is looking for another trip to Round Rock.

OFFENSE

The offense starts with Caleb Hoover (Oklahoma St.), the 2 way star has been a fixture in this lineup, and he is ready for a monster season. He has some of the biggest raw power in the class. Jr. Brady Ladusau (DBU) is an athletic outfielder who is coming off 2nd team AD honors last season. Westin Thompson returns for his junior season after earning newcomer of the year last year. Drew Smith is another senior coming off a nice year, where he earned 2nd team AD. Jr. C Parker Ivy could have a big season, as he can really catch and throw and shows some power potential. Soph. Hunter Bulin earned 1st team AD honors as a frosh, and looks to build on that. Preston Lewis is another talented backstop who caught a lot of innings as a freshman. The Hawks will be aggressive in offense and as the years goes on, they will put up runs. Also, look out for soph. Alex Cooley.  He has shown some juice and can play multiple spots on the infield.

PITCHING

The Heath pitching staff is led by a trio of seniors who are all committed to D1 schools. Hoover is a RHP that will be 88-92 and shows a good breaking ball. Ethan Atchley is a Rice recruit and he is an upper 80’s sinker/sweeper guy and is really tough to square up when his command is on. Jack Sharp has signed with Arizona and may have the biggest arm out of the 3. He can dial it up to 94, and can really rip a breaking ball when he is confident. If he stays aggressive and confident, he is tough to hit.   Thompson and Bulin will also be there out of the pen.

SUMMARY

Heath is used to making deep runs in the playoffs, and this year is no different.  If the big 3 on the mound stay healthy, Rockwall Heath will be tough to take out down the stretch.

The last few years, I have been high on Lake Ridge and their rise as a program. This year, the Eagles look poised to take the next step and be considered serious state contenders.

OFFENSE

It doesn’t happen all that often when a P5 bat transfers into your school for his senior season, but Elbert “Trey’ Craig (Texas A&M) will be in the middle of the lineup this spring, and he is in the running for biggest raw power in the class. Matthew Tellez (San Jacinto), a 2022 future gamer, has been a mainstay at the top of the lineup for a few years. He offers big pop from the right side and plays the game with infectious energy. Matthew Millet (Texas) may be known for his arm, but the Sr. adds some power in the middle of the lineup. Sr. Logan Ramirez (NOC-Tonkawa) is another bat that has had a lot of big ab’s for the Eagles. Also, there are a couple of sophomores that stood out this preseason when I saw them. Soph. Patrick Ellison Jr. is a + runner who can put up triple digit exit velo’s, and Kayden Mansell also offers some physicality from the right side.

PITCHING

The Lake Ridge staff is as deep as I can remember it. They have 2 arms that have started a lot of games for them, and a quality supporting cast around them. Matthew Millet (Texas) has thrown a lot of big innings for the Eagles the last couple years, and he does it with a heavy low 90’s fastball. He also shows a good slider and comes right at you with an aggressive mentality. The other arm is Sr. LHP Karsen Davis (NOC-Tonkawa), he may do it differently than Millet but he gets big results. He can really spin it from the left side and can rack up strikeouts in a hurry. Sr. LHP Mason Nguyen is another arm that can rack up swings and misses with a good fastball, breaking ball combo.  Also, look out for Mansell, he shows a good arm and his fastball could creep into the upper 80’s as the spring goes on.

SUMMARY

This senior class has played a lot of baseball games on Varsity for the Eagles. They have firepower on offense and the ability to get swings and misses on the bump. If they play good defense and stay healthy, the Eagles are poised for a big season.

The city of Katy continues to blow up, and so does the baseball talent in the area. The last few years there has been a few different Katy teams that could say they were the best for a given year. This year, I think it is Katy’s turn at the top. After a 30-8 record that saw them make it to the regional finals, Coach Hearne and his squad are ready to finish the job.

OFFENSE

While Katy’s pitching staff is their strength this year, the Tigers offense will be more than formidable in 2024. Sr. AJ Atkinson will be counted on to lead the offense. The Sam Houston St. recruit can really defend in center and has some pop from the left side. Soph. Ashten Ballew is one that we have been high on here at Prep Baseball. Projectable frame with good bat speed, and a swing that projects. If he can make a jump this year, their offense will be that much better. Sr. 1st baseman Sutton Hull returns after an Honorable Mention AD season last year, as is Jon Artis, who will be patrolling in the outfield.

PITCHING

The pitching rotation for Katy this year has 4 guys that can run into the 90’s and can all pitch.  Aiden Barrientes (TCU) is our #5 ranked player in Texas really came on strong at the end of last spring and carried over into the summer. He shows good command with his low 90’s fastball and has one of the best breaking balls in the state. Clean mechanics and a strike thrower, Barrienetes is poised for a monster Jr. campaign. Sr. RHP Aaron Brashear (Weatherford JC) is a 6 ‘6 RHP that can run it into the low 90’s and I imagine that number will keep going up.  Jr. Cade Nelson is another tall righty, standing 6’5 and has the frame that projects for a lot more. Connor Udland (Houston) rounds out the 4 headed monster that Katy will be rolling out. He has a really quick arm and his fastball can overpower hitters.  The best thing about this group is that for the most part, they throw strikes. You pair that with elite stuff, and it is going to be tough score a lot of runs.

SUMMARY

Katy plays in one of the tougher districts in the state, and they will be battle tested throughout the year. I am a big believer in the pitching staff and I think the offense will continue to get better throughout the season.  Katy was close last year, they may be ready to take the next step in 2024.

The Mustangs are the highest ranked 5A team in our Preseason Rankings.  Friendswood is used to winning, as they went 28-6 last year and made it to the Regional Quarterfinals.  They lost some talent, but they return a deep roster that has dudes on offense and on the bump. Let’s take a look at Coach Benavides’ Mustangs.

OFFENSE

The Friendswood offense should be deep and be able to put up some crooked numbers, and it starts with last year’s offensive player of the year, Peyton Adams. The LHH outfield can really hit, and he uses the whole field.  Jr. Dane Perry (Texas Tech) is another big bat, and he has some positional versatility as well. Sr. Ayden Pearcy is another talented RHH that has some pop and can play on the dirt or behind the plate. Blake Encarnacion (Nebraska) and Kyle Lockhart (Cisco) are two 2 way players that should give the Mustangs lineup some length. Jr’s Lane Vegas, Ryan Duncan and Andrew Smith round out one of the deepest lineups in the state. There is a good blend of speed and power throughout the lineup, and the Mustangs should be able to score runs in different ways.

PITCHING

Friendswood is another program that has some serious pitching depth heading into the season. They have to replace a big arm, but this stable is more than capable of doing it. Blake Encarnacion (Nebraska)  has really taken off the last year and his velo continues to climb. The future Cornhusker could sit in the low 90’s this spring. Kyle Lockhart (Cisco) is another big arm that will run it into the low 9’s and if he is in the zone, is really tough to score on. Sr. Houston Rhodes (St. Thomas) has won a lot of big games and gives Friendswood the necessary depth for a deep run.

SUMMARY

This Friendswood team has all the ingredients needed for a deep run. They have experience, depth, speed, pop, and pitching.  If the big arms throw strikes, I see Friendswood being there at the end playing for a State Title.

Grand Oaks had a solid year in ‘23. They went 22-10 and made it to the Area Round of playoffs. This year, the Grizzlies may have the deepest pitching staff in the state of Texas, and if they throw strikes, they will be in every game this year. If the offense can come to matching the pitching staff, I may have them ranked too low. Let’s take a look at the Grand Oaks Grizzlies.

OFFENSE

Last year’s 13-6A Newcomer of the Year, Parker Blackman, looks to be the catalyst for the Grand Oaks lineup. The Sam Houston St. recruit can cover ground in center but also offers a nice blend of speed and power at the dish. Sr. Chandler Cone is off to a hot start early this spring, and should add some pop from one of the corner positions.  Sr. Bennett Hale does a little bit of everything for the Grizzlies.  He can catch and he can throw some big innings for them.  Sr. Jonas Granados is another upperclassman that adds depth to the lineup.  Then there is sophomore Sebastian Seguara who had a nice freshman campaign and looks to improve on it this season.

PITCHING

Grand Oaks truly has an embarrassment of riches on the mound. They are headlined by two Aggie recruits in Marc Barnhard and Houston Tomlinson. The 2 righties can both run their fastball into the mid 90’s and show feel for spin. They both need to improve their strike throwing, but the upside is immense. Lefties Austin Dolezal and Mason Kinchen allow them to get creative with their matchups. Dolezal is a Sr. who is signed to Texas State. He sits in the upper 80’s and projects for more. Kinchen has a low ¾ slot and a wipeout slider. The future Red Raider is an extremely difficult ab for lefties. Then you have Sr. RHP Collin Toedter who is a massive presence on the mound and is another uncomfortable look. Toedter is committed to Houston Christian.

SUMMARY

Grand Oaks has the pitching staff to win a state title. If they throw strikes and the offense is good enough, Grand Oaks will be there late into the playoffs.

What a year it was in 2023 for Coach Earles and the Mustangs. They won the 5A state championship and went 36-5 along the way. They obviously have to replace some key players, but they have a lot more returning then some others are giving them credit. Mag West has all the makings for another deep run.

OFFENSE

Mag West brings back a lot to the top of the lineup. Sr. SS Dawson Park returns to hold down the 6 spot. The future Texas State Bobcat batted over .360 last year and was 1st team AD. Sr. Trenton Buckley (ULM) is another twitchy athlete who can play all over the field. He earned 1st team AD honors last year as well batting over .325.  Caldwell McFaddin was newcomer of the year in the district, batting over .380 and is committed to Baylor. The other junior who had a big game last year is Cody Palacios. Another player with positional versatility who earned AD honors last year, batting over .360.

PITCHING

In a world where every player is worried about being specialized in a specific area. The Mag West boys are just baseball players and pretty much everyone who is in the lineup, can also toe the rubber.  Park has a big arm and has been up to 93 early this spring.  Buckley has one of the best arms in the state regardless of class. He can touch 97+ from the Outfield with ease and wouldn’t be surprised to see him touch 95 this spring. McFaddin is another one that has been in the low 90’s and has shown a feel for spin as well. Palacios is a strike thrower in the mid to upper 80’s as well. Sr. Jayton Harral is also expected to throw some big innings, as he had a sub 1 era last season.

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SUMMARY

It is tough to go back to back, especially at the 5A level in Texas. There is no James Ellwanger taking the mound for a big game, but this group plays hard and has the talent to do it again. They are going to need an ace to emerge, but there aren’t many cores in the state as talented as this one.

Another program that has become used to winning almost 30 games every year is Lake Travis. Last year they went 29-9 and were Regional Quarterfinalists. They return an ace and are good up the middle which is a good starting point for a deep run. Let’s take a look at the 2024 Lake Travis Cavaliers.

OFFENSE

Most notably on offense, the Cavaliers bring back Paris JC signee C/INF Gavyn Schlotterback (2024), who was the District’s Defensive Most Valuable Player a season ago. Joining Schlotterback on the infield will be First Team All-District INF Maddox Medrano (2024), who is committed to Galveston College. Also returning on the infield for the Cavaliers is Wayland Baptist signee 1B Karson Rader (2024), and junior INF/RHP Cole Rhame who recently committed to Richmond University. Elsewhere on the diamond the Cavaliers return Virginia Wesleyan signee and First Team All-District UTL Joey Leoni (2024), and are also expected to bring in sophomore OF Austin Glasgow to join the varsity squad in 2024.

PITCHING

On the mound, the Cavaliers appear to be loaded, bringing back two upperclassmen arms, as well as bringing in an additional two underclassmen arms. Their ace from a season ago is back in senior RHP Kadyn Leon (uncommitted). Leon was First Team All-District last season, making him one of the state’s top remaining uncommitted arms. Last spring, we saw Leon working his fastball routinely in the low-90’s (T93 mph). Joining Leon atop the pitching staff will be senior LHP Wyatt Gatlin, who is the Lefty that can frustrate you all night long. Two sophomore arms will look to make big impacts in 2024 in RHP Cooper Webb and RHP/UTL CJ Hansford. Webb has an impressive frame, and his velo has been up early this spring. He could be in the upper 80’s or low 90’s as the year plays on.

SUMMARY

Lake Travis is going to have to take down rival Austin Westlake if they want to win the district. But with Leon on the bump and a veteran offense, Lake Travis has a roster that can make a deep run.

Argyle continues to grow as a school and as they keep going up a classification, the Eagles continue to win at a high level. This year’s team will look a little different, but they are still loaded and one of the favorites for the 5A title this year.

OFFENSE

The Eagles offense should be potent this year, and it starts with super sophomore Grady Emerson. The TCU commit has one of the best swings in the state and is our #3 ranked player in the country. He has the potential for 5 tools, and continues to improve each time we see him. Sr. INF/C Colton Roquemore is a DBU recruit and another left handed bat that can do damage. Colton can drive the ball with authority to all fields and has played in a lot of big games during his HS career. The other DBU recruit is Sr. LHP/OF Park Prater. Prater is really physical and can still run. If he is fully healthy this year, I expect him to have a monster season. Sr. 3rd baseman, Micah Roberts (ULM) gives them some pop from the right side and evens out the lineup. Sr’s Brayden Rosckes and Alex D’Angelo continue to lengthen out the lineup and both provide some pop.

PITCHING

The Eagles have some big time arms at the front of the rotation, they will need to throw strikes consistently, but the stuff is loud. Prater is a 6’4 LHP that can run into the low 90’s with a quality breaker. He needs to show he can stay healthy, but there is ace potential. Hudson Emeterio is another big, physical arm, and he offers low 90’s from the right side. Jr. LHP Baron Mannis (TCU) put on a show at Future Games last year, and I am excited to see him carry it over to this spring. It is a big FB/CB combo that can be dominant. Sr. Alex D’Angelo can really throw a changeup, and is tough to square up.

SUMMARY

Argyle has all the ingredients needed to win a state title. They are going to have to throw strikes and play good defense, but the talent is there. Winning is the standard at Argyle, and I think this year’s Eagles have another deep run in them.

Cinco Ranch has turned into one of the top programs down in Houston, and last year they went 33-7 and was a Regional Semifinalist. They return a good core of starters and are talented up the middle. Can Cinco Ranch improve on last year, let's take a look at this year’s Cougars.

OFFENSE

Cinco Ranch has one of the best left sides of the infield in the state.  Sr. Texas State commit, Brock DeYoung is a lockdown defender at short who also batted over .360 last year and is a catalyst at the top of the order.  Jr. 3rd baseman Lucas Franco, TCU Commit, is one of the top position players in Texas regardless of class. The high waisted LHH has one of the smoothest strokes in the class and will continue to grow into more power. Sr.’s Connor Ficarra (Angelina JC) and Paul Acosta are back for another year after being key contributors last year.

PITCHING

Cinco has to replace their ace from last year, but they have a plethora of arms to pick up those innings. Sr. Brayden Hodge had a good year last year that saw him earn 2nd Team AD honors and he is signed to East Texas Baptist.  Thomas Guy is another 2nd Team AD performer from last year who returns. DeYoung and Franco could both provide some innings with their big arms as well.

SUMMARY

Cinco Ranch is in a really competitive district, and they will be battle tested during the regular season. If they make it out of 19-6A, I think they are set up for another deep run. Lucas Franco has star potential, and I am excited to see them on the field this spring.

Coach Vilade has been at Prestonwood for a few years now and has turned PCA into the premier private school in North Texas. The talent is immense and they are the #1 ranked private school in this year’s Power 30. With a team full of talent at each grade, Prestonwood is set up for success for a long time.

OFFENSE

The Prestonwood lineup has good team speed and shows the ability to leave the yard up and down the lineup. Sr. AJ DePaolo  (Vanderbilt) is the leader of the team and continues to elevate his game. He can shut down a running game behind the plate, and offensively he has the ability to go foul pole to foul pole with juice.  Louis Bussard (ACU) is a LHH who just hits and finds the barrel over and over.  Chris Patterson (Missouri) will hold down short and is another one that can leave the yard at any time. Soph. 1B Trent Vilade is a physical LHH who has shown the ability to drive the ball to all fields and is starting to really grow into his power.  Then there are the 2 freshmen.  Lash Henderson is our top player in Texas and he is a physical presence when he steps in the box. He has the ability to leave the yard, but for his size and age has good barrel to ball skills.  3rd baseman Max Bachmann has the frame, but is still growing into his body. He has more than held his own early in the year, and as he matures he will have big time power.

PITCHING

The pitching staff is led by Jr. LHP Xavier Mitchell. The UT recruit was a future gamer in 2022 and he continues to elevate his game. He will get into the low 90’s and shows a true wipeout slider. Vilade should slide into the #2 spot. The big righty will sit in the upper 80’s and shows a quality breaking ball. Jr. Landon Murphy is a good arm out of the pen that will be in the mid to upper 80’s. Preston Blake (UMHB) is a good left handed arm that is a change of pace and fills up the zone.

SUMMARY

This Prestonwood team doesn’t have many weaknesses and as long as the young guys continue to get better, Prestonwood has to be the favorite to bring home another TAPPS title.

Last year Smithson Valley had a really strong season that saw them go 27-9 and make it to the regional quarterfinals. This year, Coach Koehl returns a lot of key pieces and has a strong senior class. The Rangers have become used to deep runs, lets take a look how they stack up for the 2024 season.

OFFENSE

Senior Outfielder/RHP Zach Gingrich is the headliner for Smithson. The two way talent had a monster junior season that led to 2nd team all state honors. The future Texas State Bobcat is a good athlete and can beat you with his strength or his speed. Sr. MJ Espinoza is another 2 way player for the Rangers. The first baseman is signed with Hill and offers some more pop in the lineup. Jr. Bryce Wells is a really good baseball player who can really catch or play on the dirt. He can swing it and I expect a monster Jr. season from him. Sr. 3B/C is committed to Western Texas and adds some depth to the lineup. Sr. Jackson Duffy is walking on to play football at UT, but before he does that the Sr. outfielder provides more athleticism to the lineup.

PITCHING

Gingrich is an upper 80’s and touch low 90’s type of arm. He can sink it and shows a good changeup. Espinoza is another arm that can get into the low 90’s, so the Rangers have some firepower on the mound. They also have senior’s LHP Maverick Minister (Cisco JC)  and RHP Chance Fouts (Vernon JC) that give them 4 legit arms in the senior class. They have won a lot of games as a group and this should be a strength for them.

SUMMARY

The Smithson Valley district is one of the tougher 5A districts in the state, so they will be battle tested throughout the regular season. They are really good in the most important spots, and I think Smithson has another deep run in them.

The 2024 Rattlers team will look different than it has in years past, but with the culture and standard Reagan has created, I expect them to be right in the mix as the season plays out.

OFFENSE

The offense will be led by Sr. Caden Crofts. The LHH had a big season in ‘23, that saw him bat over .430. Jr. Caleb Cappuccio is coming off a 2nd team AD spot during his sophomore season and looking to make another jump. Sr. Connor McCabe brings a lot of tools to the table. The Penn recruit could have a really big senior season. Senior infielder’s Jeter Battles and Ryland Rangel bring back consistency on the infield and Caden Roy brings senior leadership behind the plate. Jr. Kaleb Rodgers is more known for his arm on the mound, but the future Longhorn can swing it a little.

PITCHING

Kaleb Rogers went to future games last year, and shows a big time arm and the ability to fill the zone with the full arsenal. The UT recruit has a fastball that should sit in the low 90’s to go with a cutter/slider that make him extremely tough to square up. Rangel also had a big year on the mound last year, and him and Rogers make a very formidable 1, 2 punch.

SUMMARY

Reagan is used to making deep runs into the playoffs with round rock on their mind. This year the team may look different, but the goals stay the same. They bring back a team full of guys that know how to win. That matchup vs San Antonio Johnson has turned into one of the better matchups in the state.

Hebron won one of the toughest districts in the state last year, and return one of the best arms in Texas to lead a very impressive rotation. The question for the Hawks this year will be how are they going to score runs. Let's take a look at the 2024 Hebron Hawks.

OFFENSE

Hebron lost a lot of their production from last year, and there are a lot of new faces.  The guy that has a chance to really step up and lead their offense is Jr. SS Austin Nicholson. The Oral Roberts commit has a projectable frame and some bat speed to go with it. He looked really good earlier this spring in a scrimmage. Jr. Patrick Crayton Jr. has the athleticism and strength to really make a jump and be a force in their lineup. Sophomore’s Casey McGinnis and Adam Alvarez are both underclassmen that have high baseball IQ and a good feel for the barrel. Lance Young is a good athlete who can really run, he could have a big senior season.

PITCHING

Hebron has one of the best staffs in Texas and starts with their ace, Marcos Paz. We were there for Paz’s first high school start and continues to get better every time we see him. The LSU recruit was up to 96 recently and shows two future above avg. offerings in the curveball and changeup. Following him, you have two other Juniors. Minjae Seo, a Florida Commit, has one of the best 2 pitch combos in the state. His fastball can get up into the mid 90’s and he can throw an absolute hammer of a breaking ball. When he is in the zone, he is tough to square hit. Ethan Hunt, a Houston recruit, has a 3 pitch that continues to trend up. He throws in upper 80’s fastball with some sink, an avg. slider and a future plus change. He throws it with conviction and the bottom falls out. They also have 2 senior arms that provide even more depth in Cisco JC recruits, Austin Smith and Nathan Cook.

SUMMARY

Hebron should be in every game they play this year with the pitching staff they have. If they play good D and their offense can get some guys to make some jumps, no team will want to face the Hawks once the postseason comes around.

One team that I seem to be higher on than everyone else is Houston Memorial. Last year the Mustangs went 19-15 and a trip to the area round of the playoffs. This year they return plenty of experience and one of the best groups of underclass players in the state.

OFFENSE

Memorial brings back a good core to the lineup that has some athleticism and some pop. Sr. 3B Jackson Salters is back to lock down the hot corner after he earned 2nd team AD honors last season. Two Future Gamers from last summer return to patrol the outfield, and they are juniors Andrew Baay and Will Van Wie. Baay is your table setter left handed bat that can do a lot of things for his team. Van Wie has some serious juice, and they both can run well. Sophomore Jake Earnest returns after he had an impressive freshman campaign that saw him earn 2nd team AD honors. Freshman Grant Sperandio is committed to Texas and could find his way in the lineup as the year goes on. Highest of upsides.

PITCHING

Memorial has a deep stable of arms headed into this season.  They have some Seniors who have had success and a lot of younger arms with high upside.  Sr. Cole Joyner had a great year last season that saw him earn 1st team AD honors. They welcome back Sr. LHP Matthew Hedrick to the rotation after missing last season with injury. He is committed to McLennan. Then they have the 3 sophomores in Matthew Manis, Cash Scarborough and Tanner Drda. All 3 are in the upper 80’s or better and can pitch. If they step up and take care of business, this pitching staff has a shot to be deep and tough to score runs off of. Sperandio can also run it into the upper 80’s and could be a factor as well.

SUMMARY

I am bullish on the Mustangs this year, they have a good blend of leadership and young talent. They will need some people to make jumps, but they are an athletic team, and I will always bet on the athletes making the jump.

Another program that is used to winning year in and year out is Waco Midway. Coach Cornblum and his staff are a model of consistency, and after a 30-5 season last season, the Panthers are looking for another deep run in 2024.

OFFENSE

Midway returns 5 players that won accolades offensively last year, and they are led by last year’s Offensive player of the year, Brady Quinn. The Jr. batted over .350 while playing 1st base.  Senior’s Sam Kutz, Sawyer Haynes (Trinity), Johnny Torres and Wylie Tumlin all return after earning 1st team AD honors.  Sr. DH Darrell Catlin also returns after batting over .300 last season.  The lineup is littered with seniors who have had success and should make it tough on any opposing pitcher. 

PITCHING

The Midway pitching staff is also a very veteran led unit.  They are led by Sr. Cameron Johnson, who went 9-1 last season on his way to 1st team AD honors.  He will be headed to McLennan after this season.  They also have senior’s Caleb Bundy and Grant McClendon who both earned HM All District awards last season.  Quinn and Tumlin will also provide some innings on the mound as well. Midway has an ace and plenty of experience behind him, giving them a staff that is good enough to win any game they are in this season.

SUMMARY

After a strong 2023 campaign, the Panthers are looking poised for antoher good season behind coach Cornblum. Last year's offensive player of the year and plenty of All-Distict talent in the lineup make up the offense, and an ace on the mound with solid arms behind him make the Panthers the top team in District 12-6A.

Last year’s Allen team went 24-13 and made it to the Regional Quarterfinals round before eventually losing to state champion Flower Mound. They return their top two arms on the mound and are solid up the middle. Allen is poised for a big 2024.

OFFENSE

The offense returns a lot of pieces from last year’s squad and with another year of experience, it is fair to expect the offense to take a jump this year. It all starts with SS/RHP Brady Coe ( ACU). The RHH has good pop from the right side, and should be a mainstay at the top of the order. Sr’s Tate Greene (Central Arkansas)  and Caden Young (Fordham) both bring some punch to the lineup. Greene consistently finds the barrel while Young continues to grow into his power. Young is also an elite defender behind the dish. Soph. Chandler Hart is known for big Left handed arm on the mound, but he also provides some punch at the plate.  Sr. Outfielder Nick Vickery is another one that had a good year last year, earning 1st team AD honors, that is back for his senior season. Also, soph. Kyle Tanksley can really swing it as well. He could help lengthen that lineup this spring. 

PITCHING

Pitching - Allen returns their top two arms from last year, but in addition to that, they are returning one of the top uncommitted arms in the state. Senior Jonathan Van Eerden missed last year with injury, but is healthy now and was up to 92 early this spring in scrimmages. If he can come back healthy the Allen pitching staff has a chance to be a problem. Senior Brady Coe returns to lead the staff. The future ACU Wildcat sits in the upper 80’s and can reach back for more when needed. He has a riding fastball that he can dominate with. Then there is soph. Chandler Hart. The #2 player in Texas and #8 overall has special arm talent. He has command of his low effort low 90’s fastball, and has feel for spin. If those 3 stay healthy and throw strikes, Allen will be tough to beat all season.

SUMMARY

Allen has a good blend of seniors and some talented  underclassmen that has me excited for their season. I am a big believer in the top of their pitching rotation, and there aren’t many better competitors around than Brady Coe. I expect another deep run for the Eagles. 

Last year the Yellowjackets went 36-9 and made it to the regional semis. There is a lot changed from last year’s team, but with Coach Rose leading the way, you can expect this Rockwall team to find their identity and be there at the end. 

OFFENSE

Rockwall doesn’t have the thump in the lineup they have had in year’s past, but there are still plenty of guys that can do damage. Sr. OF Pierson Riebock (Oklahoma) has been a key member of their offense for a couple of years now. He provides good athleticism and pop at the top of the order. Sr. Jake Overstreet (Weatherford JC)  is rock solid behind the plate, and provides big RHH power in the box. Another backstop that has some talent is Jr. Jake Pickering. The LHH catcher has some loud tools as well and could really make a name for himself this spring. Sophomore Dylan Cheek got a lot of play as a freshman last year, and this year he will be needed to make a jump. Cheek always looks hitterish in the box, and shows some juice from the right side. Sr.’s Landon Cochran (Grayson)  and Thomas Kropp (Coastal Bend) also figure to be a big contributors for Coach Rose’s squad this year.

PITCHING

The pitching staff will look different this year, but there are still some high quality arms taking the mound for Rockwall. Riebock is a big arm and his fastball routinely sits in the low 90’s. He has shown the ability to fill the zone with the fastball and it really plays up. Sr. RHP Keller Lindeman won 9 games last year and was 2nd team AD, and is signed to play at Midland next year. A freshman arm to keep an eye on is Hudson Holt. Very athletic player, who can play infield as well. He should sit mid 80’s this spring and could bump higher as the year goes on.

SUMMARY

It is a new look for Coach Rose and his staff, but winning is the standard at Rockwall and I expect this squad to have another deep run in them. They have talent in all the right places, and if some of the younger players make a jump this season, we could be talking about how I have them ranked to low.

Rouse is no stranger to making deep runs as they have become one of the most consistent programs in central Texas over the years.  Coach Krempin returns with a team full of seniors who were part of last year’s 30-12 team that made it to the Regional Finals. Rouse is looking to make it further this year, and this squad may have all the ingredients.

OFFENSE

Rouse returns a lot of firepower from last year’s team, and it all starts with Sr. Rayner Heinrich.(Tarleton St.) The MIF was 1st team All State last year batting over .400, and he is the catalyst for this explosive offense.  Oscar Salazar (Weatherford JC) was offensive player of the year in their district and 2nd Team All State, and returns to the middle of their lineup. Univ. of Houston Recruit, Sr. Landon Miller returns in the outfield after a big junior season that saw him earn 3rd team all state honors, and is a good athlete who can do some impressive things on the field. Sr. backstop Xander Forsell (Cisco)  gives them stability at a very important position. They have a deep lineup and I expect them to be explosive on offense.

PITCHING

The Rouse staff has a deep stable of arms that return from last year’s squad. Sr. Trey Schlueter returns after having a 1st team AD season last season.The Angelina recruit should throw a lot of big innings for the Raiders. Sr.’s Oscar Salazar and Landon Miller are also expected to throw some big innings this season. There is also senior LHP Carson Henderson (Temple) who should log some quality innings for Rouse.

SUMMARY

Rouse is a deep and talented team that is used to winning. They have a good amount of senior leadership, and this team is poised for a deep run. After coming up a little short last year of making the state tourney, this Rouse team has the talent to make the jump.

The Concordia Lutheran club has been one of the best private school programs in the state year in and year out for a while now. This year’s squad is no different. With difference makers up the middle of the field and a veteran team, the Crusaders have their eyes set on a TAAPS state title. 

OFFENSE

The Crusaders lost some key contributors from last year’s squad, but there is still some serious star power in the lineup. It starts with senior catcher Nolan Traeger (TCU).  Nolan is one of the top catchers in the state and is one of the better leaders you will watch on the field. With his big LHH bat in the middle of the lineup, it should allow players like MIF Cole Lanclos (Baylor) and MIF Ronin McCraw (Texas A&M)  to get plenty of good pitches to hit in front of him. Cole is a RHH who can use the whole field and can cause some havoc on the bases. Ronin is a sophomore who started as a frosh last year and I expect a monster season from him. Eoghan Collins (St. Edwards)  is also another LHH bat who should be in the middle of the order.  

PITCHING

The Crusaders have to replace some depth in their rotation, but they have their top 2 locked in. Sr. Eoghan Collins (St. Edwards) has won a lot of baseball games for Concordia since he has been on varsity, and he is ready to anchor the staff for his senior season. He really knows how to pitch, and he is a strike thrower with his full arsenal.  Jr. RHP Connor Jones was a 2023 Future Gamer, and he continues to trend up. Jones has a fastball that will probably be sitting in the low 90’s once we get into the spring. He has a spin breaking ball that can be a real swing and miss pitch for him, to go along with a quality change.  Soph. RHP Jeremiah McCranie is another arm that should log some big innings for the Crusaders. After a big freshman season, we should see another bump from him, and help give Concordia a true 3 headed monster at the top of the rotation. 

SUMMARY

Concordia is used to being there towards the end of the season, is this be the year they take it all in Arlington? They are really good up the middle, which is huge at this level, and with Seniors like Traeger leading the program I expect Concordia to be there at the end.

Last year Clear Falls had a successful season that saw them go 23-14 and won the district title. They were Regional Quarterfinals, and with a good portion of their team returning this season, the Knights are looking to make even more noise in 2024. They have some high end talent in important positions that make me excited for what they can do this season. 

OFFENSE

Clear Falls returns the majority of their lineup from last year, and will have a heavy senior influence. Seniors Matthew Novominsky and Jones Major both return to the lineup after 2nd team all district honors last season. Seniors Noah Paulson and Austin Rawls also return after they each secured HM All District honors. Sr. Caden Barber also returns providing another quality senior bat in the lineup. Clear Falls also has Parker Collier behind the plate for them. The junior backstop is committed to Texas State and shows a strong and powerful lefty swing. A big year from him would really lengthen their lineup. A lot of experience returns for the Knights, if they all make a jump the offense could potent.

PITCHING

It is always nice when you have an ace on staff and that is exactly what Clear Falls has. David Ramirez (Texas) was newcomer of the year last year in the district and returns to build on that in his junior season. He has a good blend of stuff and pitch ability that makes him tough to score on. Novominsky and Sr. RHP Chile Timmons should provide depth and give them a quality staff. If a couple others can step up, the staff has a chance to be a real strength to the team. 

SUMMARY

Clear Falls knows what it takes to make a run, and with all the returning production and Ramirez being a year older, the Knights have the ingredients to make a deep run. The chase for the district title with Clear Springs will be fun to watch.

Last year, Pleasant Grove had a great season that saw them make it to the Regional Semis. They lost to a loaded Celina team eventually, but this year they return the majority of their production and have their sights set on finishing the job.

OFFENSE

Pleasant Grove returns plenty of star power and athleticism on offense. It starts with Sr. outfielder Brenton Clark. The Arkansas Recruit was district MVP last season and is a twitched up center fielder who can beat you with an extra base hit or do it with his legs.  Same can be said for super sophomore and fellow future Razorback, Spencer Browning. The SS/RHP ran the best 60 at our State Games in the fall, regardless of class, and it plays in game. He is also strong and has the ability to lose balls at the plate as well. Sr. C Cade Martin had a big 2023 that saw him earn 2nd team all state honors, and gives them experience behind the plate.  2023 Future Gamer and Louisiana Monroe recruit Jarret Halter brings a very refined skill set and toughness to the team as well. Hunter Rose, is another sophomore Arkansas recruit and is a silky athlete who has an easiness to his game.  Soph. C Buck Anderson is looking to build off his 2nd team AD season. Jr. Infielder Ty Boozer almost batted .400 last season and adds another big bat to an already deep lineup.

PITCHING

The Hawks have a lot of depth on the mound. They have a lot of athletes that two way it, and they are led by the Louisana Monroe commit, Jarret Halter. Halter threw in Future Games and has a bulldog mentality. He goes right after hitters, and sets the tone.  Soph. LHP Hunter Rose has a low effort delivery that produces an easy mid 80’s fastball. Browning continues to show some promise on the mound, and I imagine he will be touching in the low 90’s as the spring goes on.  Jr. Pitcher Luke Flanagan is another arm back after a big year last year. He went 6-0 and was 1st team AD last year. Overall, there are a lot of options for Coach Fincher, and they all bring something different to the mound

SUMMARY

Pleasant Grove has been a model of consistency for a while now, but they had to go against a loaded Celina team last year and came short of their goals. This year, I am not sure they will ever take the field when they aren’t the most talented team on the field, and it is there for the taking. With a stable of Razorbacks commits, Pleasant Grove has all the makings of a state title team.

Having Katy Taylor ranked in the preseason Power 30 may be a bit aggressive, but with the young talent they have and a good group of experienced players returning from a 21-12 team last year, I am bullish on the Mustangs.

OFFENSE

I always start up the middle when assessing teams, and Taylor checks that box. Sr. C Pete Dworaczyk returns behind the plate and is one of the senior captains on the Taylor squad.  Soph. SS Davidenko Rodriguez also returns after earning 1st Team AD honors last season as a frosh. Rodriguez can really pick in the field, and offers good ab’s from both sides of the plate. The Mustangs also return Sr. Infielder Chase Marshall and Sr. Outfielder Nate Larsen. Larsen was a 1st team AD player last season. 

PITCHING

The reason I am so bullish on this Katy Taylor team is their staff. They have good depth, return a lot of production from last year, and also have some high end talent as well. For me, it starts with Soph. LHP Bryce Krenek. Last year’s newcomer of the year, Krenek has a chance to establish himself as one of the top 26 arms in Texas. Physical build with an upper 80’s fastball and the ability to spin it. He is confident on the mound as well. Following him up are two senior righties who threw a lot of big innings for the Mustangs last year. Michael Brupbacher and Dylan Weaver give Coach Krenek experienced depth in the rotation. Taylor has another sophomore in RHP Caden Stambolis. He is a strong kid whose fastball should sit in the upper 80’s this spring, and he shows a full arsenal. I could see him having an uptick this spring and really jumping on everyone’s radar. 

SUMMARY

The Katy ISD district is one of the tougher ones in the state, but with the young talent to go with the senior leadership, I think Coach Krenek and his staff are primed for a big season. As long as they win the games they are supposed to, they will have a chance for a run at the end of the year.

Last year, Frisco had a really good regular season that saw them go 25-7, but their season ended in the Bi-District Round. This year, they return a lot of production from last year, and with a Senior led team, the Raccoons have their sights on a deep run. 

OFFENSE

Frisco has a balanced team, as they can win with the bats or with their arms.  It starts with two way talent, Michael Catalano.  The Oklahoma recruit was the defensive MVP of the district last year, and can handle the bat.  Having that type of leadership returning at shortstop is big for any team that has lofty goals such as Frisco.  They return a slew of offensive players that earned all district honors last year.  Sr. INF/RHP Thomas Mulkern, Sr. OF Austin Clark, and Sr. INF Austin Gathright (Ouachita Baptist), all earned 1st team honors.  Sr. Cade Plunkett, Sr. John Larkin, and Sr. OF Canaan King, all earned 2nd team all district honors.  For a team that only lost 7 games last season, Frisco has to feel good about the returning production.

PITCHING

It is always nice to have two P5 recruits leading your pitching staff, and that is exactly what Frisco has. We just talked about Catalano as a shortstop, but his pro future is most likely on the mound. The OU recruit had a big fall, where he pounded the zone with a low 90’s fastball and a sharp breaking ball that he can command.  Following him up is Sr. RHP Landon Karrh. Karrh threw in our State Games back in September, and showed a loose arm and ultra projectable frame. He soon after committed to Baylor, and is another strike thrower who can go deep into games.  Frisco also has Sr.’s Cade Plunkett and Thomas Mulkern (Navarro JC) to give big innings. Plunkett can easily get into the low 90’s and is a physical presence on the mound. 

2024 RHP Landon Karrh@landon_karrh | @FHSRaccoons

FB: 85-87
BB: 73-75
CH: 72-75

The @PBR_Uncommitted righty was sharp on Sat. Night. Projectable 6’2 frame with feel for spin. #TXStateGames23@PBRGowins pic.twitter.com/nn5kzqSozO

— Prep Baseball Texas (@PBR_Texas) September 28, 2023

 *Landon Karrh

SUMMARY

Frisco is in a very competitive district that has seen multiple schools make deep runs recently. But with their experience and overall talent, it is hard not to see Frisco being able to make a deep run. Catalano has proven to be a big game pitcher, and with some jumps from others, the Raccoons are set up for a big 2024.

Last year’s Prosper’s team was a new look team, as Coach Holder had to replace a lot of graduated production.  They went 20-16 and gave eventual 6A State Champion all they wanted in the bi district round.  With a more experienced team in 2024, Coach Holder’s squad is looking to get back to a deep playoff run

OFFENSE

The offense starts with Jr. C/RHP Luke Billings. The 2023 Prep Baseball All American is one of the top players in the state, and one of the best competitors you will watch play.  He can beat you with one swing, but at the same time puts up good ab after good AB.  He will be helped out by two Weatherford JC recruits, Sr. 's Nicolas Nava and Cole Giametta. They are both good athletes and can cause some havoc on the bases. Nava should help patrol the outfield with Cole holding down short. One of the reasons Prosper could have a big year at the plate is Jr. 3B Brody Mattox. Mattox has always been able to hit and he has some juice to go with the hit tool. He adds another element of power to the lineup and lengthens it out. Jr. outfielder Kaden Robardey is another returner who earned 2nd team all district honors last season and could have an even bigger year.

PITCHING

Prosper has some firepower at the top of the rotation. Sr. LHP Aiden White, Nebraska Recruit, can really pitch and has the ability to beat any lineup he faces. He has a good 3 pitch mix, with a mid to upper 80’s fastball and shows the ability to spin it. Billings will also be a big factor on the mound. Billings has a fastball that will be in the low 90’s and he has the ability to really spin it. Sr. Micah Melott is coming off a strong Jr. year that saw him earn 1st team all district honors. His fastball would creep into the upper 80’s last spring, and we could see another jump his senior season. 

SUMMARY

District 5-6A has become one of the toughest districts in the state the last few years, and this year will be no different. Prosper has a good blend of experience and some young guys that could make some noise this year. The top of the pitching rotation should give them a chance every game they play, if the offense sees some guys step up, we could see Prosper 4 or 5 rounds deep once again.