We have a new #1 player in the 2026 class. Bryant James returns to the top spot after being in the #2 spot for the last ten or so months. Why does he make that move back up? It is hard to place a value on the athleticism, run tool, ability to hit, and overall impact on the game that the Duke commit brings. He has the tools to stay up the middle of the field in some capacity, adding to his overall future value and projection.

Impressive first AB from ‘26 SS #Duke commit Bryant James (@GonzagaBaseball)

Stays on this outer half 92 mph FB and shoots a LD single into RF. Quick barrel actions. Fluid, smooth

@PBRVirginiaDC @ksallday19 @PBRVADC_Nolan pic.twitter.com/1eQQ0R4QI9

— Jamie Naill Jr (@JNaill8) March 4, 2024

After multiple in-depth looks this spring we had a handful of players make significant jumps up in the rankings, including three sophomore infielders. Will Yow, John Michael Szefc, and Casey Cuddyer all climb into the Top 20. Yow's higher end run tool, ability to impact the ball at the plate, and projection remaining make him a very intriguing player. Szefc's hit tool from the left side and ability to defend in the middle will make him a coveted name as we approach the opening of recruitments for 2026's. The final one is Casey Cuddyer. Cuddyer is the youngest of the three, by six months. The Great Bridge infielder just has a knack for making plays and coming up with the clutch hit. Hit tool type of bat that flashes some occasional power to pull. Young features and has plenty of projection left.

‘26 Will Yow (@STAB_baseball)

Yow answers back in the bottom of the first getting the barrel up in the zone for a solo shot to get on the board.@PrepBaseballVA @ksallday19 #BeSeen https://t.co/WyJMj6tSog pic.twitter.com/fOLOnZ2Ano

— Jordan Jones (@JJonesPBVADC) May 2, 2024

Liftoff 🚀

‘26 John Michael Szefc deposits this pitch over the RF fence for a solo bomb. Kid can hit.

Also, had a 4.01 bunt single.

Stock ⬆️ @PrepBaseballVA @ShooterHunt #BeSeen https://t.co/hdTdtDkpMx pic.twitter.com/KB5RjPQAqw

— Jason Burton (@ksallday19) March 26, 2024

‘26 Casey Cuddyer (Great Bridge)

Cuddyer comes up HUGE for the Wildcats as he ties this one up in the bottom of the 6th with a 3run 💣 over the left field fence. @PrepBaseballVA #BeSeen pic.twitter.com/GcCweJvxlG

— Prep Baseball Mid-Atlantic Scouting (@PrepBaseMAS) May 1, 2024

Also making a jump is Spotsylvania right hander, Josh Perez. Perez has been up to 92 this spring in front of our staff. The durable 6-foot-1 arm will not be 16 until the beginning of his junior year. In addition to his advanced velo for his age, Perez features a quality changeup and flashes an occasional slider that has the makings of being an above average pitch once he shows a consistent feel for it. Although Perez has a pretty physical frame, there is still some maturing left to do and a chance for the velo to still take a few ticks up.