High School

Preseason Top 100 Teams

1. BISHOP GORMAN HS, Las Vegas, Nev. (41-3)
Bishop Gorman has won three straight Nevada 4-A titles, but its dominance extends well beyond state lines as the same Gaels squad that went 41-3 in 2008 remained intact during the summer as the Southern Nevada Titans and went 71-7, sweeping undefeated to the American Legion World Series title. So effectively, the same team, coached throughout by Chris Sheff (the center fielder on Pepperdine’s 1992 College World Series championship team), compiled a gaudy 112-10 record in 2008. The Gaels finished No. 2 in PG Crosschecker’s final ’08 high-school rankings and this year’s team looks to be just as talented as the losses are minimal. Five seniors have committed to Division I college programs, notably USC-bound 1B/LHP Jeff Malm (.564-7-73; 7-2, 2.76), the MVP of the Legion World Series, and Arizona-bound OF/LHP Joey Rickard OF (.489-12-54, 87 runs; 7-0, 2.08).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
2. COPPELL (Texas) HS (30-7)
From a sheer talent standpoint, no team in the country has the high-end prospects to match Coppell. The Cowboys have a trio of senior position players who are all ranked in the Top 100 nationally and committed to major Division I programs. OF Jacob Morris, who did not play in 2008 because of a transfer rule, is bound for Arizona State, while C Jonathan Walsh (389-3-28) is headed for Texas and SS/RHP Chad Kettler (.410-4-28) for Oklahoma. Other key returning players for the Cowboys include Dallas Baptist-bound SS/RHP Austin Elkins (.468-8-23) and Princeton-bound RHP Zak Hermans (7-0, 0.15).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
3. FARRAGUT HS, Knoxville, Tenn. (43-3)
Both a state and national power for most of the last decade, the Admirals will be looking for their fifth state title in the last seven years in 2009. They return several key players from last year’s 3-A champion, including Vanderbilt-bound SS/RHP Curt Powell (.493-8-56), Louisville-bound 3B/RHP Cade Stallings (.462-9-50) and Mississippi-bound LHP Jordan Cooper. (7-1, 16-3 in his career). Additionally and perhaps most importantly, LHP Phillip Pfeifer (13-1, 1.14) is one of the nation’s top-ranked sophomores. He pitched Team USA to the gold medal at the Pan Am Youth championships last summer.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
4. DON BOSCO PREP, Ramsey, N.J. (33-0)
It will be difficult for Don Bosco, PG Crosschecker’s No. 4-ranked team, to top a 2008 season in which it went undefeated, won the New Jersey Class A non-public state title and sent seven prominent seniors off to Division I programs. The Ironmen, though, have quickly reloaded and have five more seniors who committed to Division I programs, highlighted by Vanderbilt-bound SS Anthony Gomez (.467-6-39) and Wake Forest-bound LHP Niko Spezial (7-0, 1.20), along with Don Bosco’s highly-rated QB Brett Knief, who committed to North Carolina to play baseball.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
5. JESUIT HS, Carmichael, Calif. (27-7)
The Marauders had an impressive 2008 season, winning CIF San Joaquin section championship, but bigger things are expected this year as they return a talented senior class. C Andrew Susac (.466-6-31) and SS Danny Hayes (.416-4-36), both Oregon State recruits, team up with California-bound OF Jimmy Bosco (.505-3-24) to form a potent offensive attack for the Marauders. Three of the team’s four best arms are also back, led by Santa Clara-bound RHP/3B Brock Simon (7-2, 1.97).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
6. KATY (Texas) HS (27-8)
The Tigers appear to be the team to beat this year in the powerful Greater Houston area, with almost everyone returning from a team that won a district title last year. Texas-bound RHP Kiefer Nuncio (6-3, 1.47) leads the pitching staff, while TCU-bound OF Jarred Fancher (.388-4-33) and Texas State-bound C Andrew Stumph (.424-4-31) will spark the offense for the Tigers.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
7. MONTE VISTA HS, Danville, Calif. (18-8)
It’s all about pitching for the Mustangs, who have four pitchers committed to Division I programs, including Stanford-bound RHP Mark Appel, one of the nation’s best arms. Oregon-bound LHP Christian Jones, San Jose State-bound LHP Drew Bradshaw and Cal Poly-bound RHP Joey Wagman round out one of the top pitching staffs in the country, and they’ll all be throwing to Oregon-bound C Grant Saunders.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
8. MALVERN PREP, Malvern, Pa. (40-3)
It was a banner year for the Friars in 2008, but there is reason to believe that this year could be an even better season with almost all of the team’s players returning. East Carolina-bound OF Chris Gosik (.508-11-53) and a pair of Wake Forest recruits, C Mike Lubanski and LHP Tim Cooney (19-4 in his career), are the team’s mainstays.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
9. PARK VISTA HS, Lake Worth, Fla. (31-2)
It hasn’t taken long for the Cobras to establish themselves as a powerhouse in South Florida after going on a 30-game winning streak to reach the Florida 6-A championship game last year, before falling to Lake Brantley. Athletic OF Kamm Washington (.438) and SS Cody Dent, the son of ex-big leaguer Bucky Dent and a defensive standout, have committed to Florida. Stetson-bound Ryan Lashley (.410-6-34) also contributes to a potent offense which returns most of it key contributors from last year.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
10. BROPHY PREP, Phoenix, Ariz. (18-11)
The Broncos didn’t live up to their standard of 2007, when they went 30-4 and came within a game of winning the Arizona 5-A title—all the while ranking among the nation’s top most talent-filled teams. Brophy Prep may not be down for long, though, as they have a loaded senior class. Arizona-bound RHP/SS Trent Stevenson, San Diego-bound 1B/LHP Jake Williams and Arizona State-bound C Beau Maggi give the Broncos one of the most balanced teams in the country.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
11. CATHEDRAL CATHOLIC HS, San Diego (27-8)
The Dons may have the deepest and one of the most experienced teams in the country as seven seniors have committed to Division I programs, and one of the most talented when sophomore LHP Daniel Camarena is factored into the mix. Clemson-bound RHP Jonathan Meyer (9-2, 2.42), San Diego State-bound RHP/3B Ryan Wilkins (7-3, 3.02; .414-2-27) and Southern California-bound 1B Casey Husband (.413-9-40) highlight the returnees for the Dons. Fleet San Diego-bound OF Matt Moynihan also returns after hitting .400 and leading the Dons in hits, runs and stolen bases a year ago.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
12. BELLAIRE (Texas) HS (39-9)
The Cardinals fell in the Texas 5-A semifinals a year ago, but will shoot for their eighth state title this season as eight starters, including the team’s top three pitchers, return. There is talent in every class, led by Rice-bound RHP Tyler Duffey in the senior class, 3B Kyle Chaskin in the junior class and highly-regarded LHP Toller Boardman in the sophomore class. Power-hitting 1B Trace Knoblauch, son of ex-big leaguer Chuck Knoblauch and the grandson of legendary former Bellaire coach Ray Knoblauch, also returns.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
13. MATER DEI HS, Santa Ana, Calif. (24-7)
Mater Dei’s Matt Barkley was the nation’s No. 1-ranked quarterback recruit this season, and the Monarchs have a couple of top arms on the pitching staff, as well, in USC-bound RHP Aaron Northcraft and Oklahoma State-bound RHP Kevin McCarthy. They will anchor the pitching staff, while a talented group of talented juniors, led by C Konnor Armijo, will lead the offensive attack.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
14. NORCO (Calif.) HS (24-4)
After falling in the semifinals a year ago, the Cougars will be one of the favorites in the CIF Southern section, one of the nation’s most competitive baseball alignments. Almost the entire pitching staff returns for Norco, and the key arms are RHP/1B Matt Hobgood (10-0, 1.34; .489-15-45) and RHP/SS Wes Hatton (6-1, 1.66; .360-1-13), both Cal State Fullerton recruits who will see action both ways for the Cougars. Senior RHP David Jones (6-1, 1.48) adds depth to the staff.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
15. GERMANTOWN ACADEMY, Fort Washington, Pa. (27-5)
It is rare to find one Pennsylvania team in a Top 25 prep baseball poll, much less two. But 2009 is an exceptional year in the state, and two private schools have stockpiled some significant talent. The Coyle brothers, Sean, a senior shortstop, and Tommy, a junior middle infielder and pitcher, have both committed to North Carolina and will form one of the better middle-infield combinations in the country this spring. Junior RHP Keenan Kish, the team’s ace, is the No. 1-ranked junior in the state.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
16. PARKVIEW BAPTIST HS, Baton Rouge, La. (35-4)
With six of the last seven state championships, and 10 overall, Parkview Baptist has established its own dynasty in Louisiana 3-A baseball circles. The Eagles are primed for another state-title run this spring as they return several key contributors from last year’s team, including New Orleans-bound RHP/1B Alex Byo (.473-8-52; 9-1, 1.58), the MVP of last year’s state tournament, along with Tulane-bound SS/RHP Brennan Middleton and LSU-bound1B Alex Edward, who had nine homers and 60 RBIs.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
17. OVIEDO (Fla.) HS (17-8)
The presence alone of junior RHP A.J. Cole, the No. 1-ranked high-school prospect in the 2010 draft class, makes Oviedo a contender in the Florida 6-A ranks, but a pair of Georgia recruits, RHP Malcolm Clapsaddle and SS Todd Hankins, will make the Lions a formidable challenger in the state-title chase.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
18. OWASSO (Okla.) HS (35-3)
With 11 state-final appearances in the past 12 years, including the Oklahoma 6-A championship in 2008, Owasso has a case for being the longest-running, most-successful act in high-school baseball. There’s little question that the Rams, even after losing five regulars and two starting pitchers, have the goods to extend their streak as Austin Kirk (7-0, 1.40; .477-4-36) and Brandon Bargas (5-0, 0.68) are both Oklahoma-bound lefthanders. The two players can swing the bat, as well, as Kirk hit .477 in 2008 and Bargas .379.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
19. SIMI VALLEY (Calif.) HS (25-8)
Simi Valley reached the CIF Southern-section finals last year before falling to talent-laden Long Beach Wilson, but returns several key pieces as it gears up for another run deep into the playoffs. Cal State Fullerton-bound SS/RHP Jonathan Meyer (.387-9-46) is the team’s best talent, but the Pioneers have a solid supporting cast around Meyer in UC Irvine-bound C Drew Sandler (.343-4-25) and Pepperdine-bound RHP Cory Jones.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
20. WEST ORANGE HS, Winter Garden, Fla. (28-5)
West Orange will give No. 17 Oviedo High a run as the top team in central Florida, as it returns the bulk of its starters from last year, including a pair of SEC recruits. Florida-bound SS Nolan Fontana (.381, 8 HR) and Georgia-bound LHP Blake Dieterich (10-2, 2.60) will lead a balanced Warriors squad.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
21. ROSWELL (Ga.) HS (16-10)
Roswell plays in one of the toughest high-school baseball conferences in the country, but enters 2009 with high expectations. Over the last three years, Walton High, Kell High and Lassiter High have all been ranked in the Top 10 nationally at one point on another, and this year appears to be the Hornets time to move to the forefront as three seniors, notably Western Carolina-bound RHP Preston Hatcher and Memphis-bound OF Derrick Thomas, have made commitments to Division I programs, while two impact juniors, C Zane Evans and RHP Andrew Smith, have both already verbally-committed to Auburn and North Carolina, respectively.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
22. CAPISTRANO VALLEY HS, Mission Viejo, Calif. (20-9)
Capistrano Valley will be a popular hangout this spring for scouts, who will come in droves to see Oregon-bound LHP Tyler Matzek, a consensus early first-round pick. He’ll team up with Oklahoma State-bound 1B/LHP Kevin Chambers to give the Cougars a solid 1-2 punch in the rotation.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
23. CHERRY CREEK HS, Greenwood Village, Colo. (22-2)
With two teams ranked in the top 50, this is an unusually strong year for high school baseball in Colorado, traditionally one of the nation’s most underappreciated states. It’s also the re-emergence of the once-mighty Bruins, who had a stretch of five straight state championships from 1995-1999, while producing several first-round draft picks. The Bruins have four seniors committed to Division I programs, including Arizona State-bound RHP Alex Blackford.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
24. FLORIDA CHRISTIAN HS, Miami (21-7)
In somewhat of a down year for private-school baseball in Miami, Florida Christian looks like the team to beat. The Patriots are led by a pair of North Carolina State recruits, RHP Felix Roque (9-5, 1.35 at Miami Christian) and 1B/RHP Danny Canella (.400-10-29).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
25. CARTERSVILLE (Ga.) HS (29-7)
On the heels of winning their fourth state championship this decade, the Hurricanes are again the favorites in 3-A. North Carolina-bound OF Donavan Tate (.410-7-25) is the top-ranked position prospect in this year’s draft. Georgia-bound LHP Patrick Boling is the best talent on the pitching staff, though is coming off Tommy John surgery.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
26. AVON OLD FARMS SCHOOL, Avon, Conn. (18-6)
The Salisbury School made headlines in 2008 by producing first-round pick Anthony Hewitt and a potential early-round selection in this year’s draft in LHP Chris Dwyer (now a draft-eligible freshman at Clemson). Avon Old Farms is the Connecticut private school of choice to be in the limelight this season. The Beavers have won six league titles this decade and there is good reason to believe that the 2009 team might be the program’s strongest yet. Five seniors are committed to Division I programs, highlighted by 6-foot-8 North Carolina-bound RHP Tim Brechbuehler and a pair of Tulane recruits, SS Adam Zabel and 3B Greg Miller. Like Hewitt (New York) and Dwyer (Massachusetts) a year ago, Brechbuehler is an out-of-state product as he lives in New Jersey.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
27. DIVINE CHILD HS, Dearborn, Mich. (32-10)
After capturing the Michigan Division II championship last year, the Falcons will be shooting for their fourth state title in six years. They have the horses to do it as senior OFs Pat Biondi and Scooter Williams (.464-6-36, 25 SB) have committed to Michigan and Georgia Southern, respectively, SS Stephen Claypool is a Ball State recruit, and junior SS/RHP Myles Smith ranks as one of the Top 100 prospects nationally in the 2010 draft class.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
28. KLEIN (Texas) HS (26-6)
LHP Matthew Purke (12-1, 0.37, 77 IP/147 SO) is the nation’s consensus top high-school prospect for this year’s draft, and he gives Klein a significant weapon atop the rotation. The Bearkats are not a one-man show though, as three other seniors have committed to Division I programs with 3B Sam Landis and OF Tyler Boss heading to Louisiana Tech, and C Brandon Clark bound for New Orleans. Additionally, junior RHP Clayon Crum will be a solid No. 2 in the rotation behind Purke.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
29. EL TORO HS, Lake Forest, Calif. (25-7)
The Chargers won a CIF sectional Division II title a year ago, and return a loaded pitching staff that includes Arizona State-bound RHP Chad Thompson (12-3, 1.28), senior LHP Tyler Ziegler (6-2, 2.14) and junior RHP T.J. Kendzora (5-1, 2.53). Offensively, a second Arizona State recruit, SS Nolan Arenado (.456-4-32), is back and the Chargers will get a significant boost as San Diego-bound LHP/1B Aaron Wirsch returns after missing last year with an injury.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
30. NOVA HS, Davie, Fla.(25-6)
The 2004 and 2005 state 5-A champions, Nova is a favorite to return to that level of success as it features three high-level, two-way prospects in Miami-bound SS/RHP Michael Broad (.410-9-45), Virginia Tech-bound SS/RHP Brent Zimmerman and East Tennessee State-bound 3B/RHP Kerry Doane. C Tim Remes is the team’s player to watch in the junior class.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
31. BARBE HS, Lake Charles, La. (36-7)
Barbe has been nationally-ranked every year since 1993, with one exception, and has another potential powerhouse this season. Mississippi-bound OF/LHP Tanner Mathis is the team’s most obvious talent as he broke the school record for batting average (.559) and on-base percentage (.628) a year ago. SS Garin Cecchini (.456, 50 SB), son of long-time Barbe coach Glenn Cecchini, and C Hommy Rosado (52 RBIs) also had big years in 2008 as sophomores, and will be key factors as the Buccaneers shoot for their third Louisiana 5-A championship in four years.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
32. CALVERT HALL HS, Baltimore, Md. (26-7)
The Cardinals captured their fourth consecutive Maryland independent-school championship last year and return their top player, Wake Forest-bound SS Patrick Blair (.462-7-34, 21 SB). The pitching staff is led by three Division I recruits, Radford-bound LHP Brandon Crigger, Richmond-bound RHP Blake Geiger and Towson-bound RHP Michael Trionfo (2-1, 1.33).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
33. ROCKY MOUNT (N.C.) HS (25-6)
North Carolina’s defending 3-A state champion features North Carolina-bound OF Brian Goodwin (.473, 21 SB), a projected early-round pick in this year’s draft. The Gryphons got a big boost towards repeating as champions when junior LHP Hobbs Johnson, who has already committed to UNC, transferred over from Rocky Mount Academy and was immediately installed as their staff ace.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
34. CARDINAL MOONEY HS, Sarasota, Fla. (21-6)
Pitching will be the strong point this season for the Cougars, who have three prominent arms in Florida-bound RHP/SS Michael Heller (4-2, 3.02; .505-5-32), Florida Southern-bound RHP/SS Tommy Goodman. (5-2, 1.49; .342-2-20) and promising junior RHP Ryan Hueler (1-0, 2.14) who has verbally-committed to North Carolina.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
35. ST. EDWARD HS, Lakewood, Ohio (24-6)
St. Edward won the Ohio Division I state championship last year by knocking off arch-rival St. Ignatius in the final. The Eagles return six starters, including three prominent senior pitchers, but junior SS/RHP Stetson Allie is clearly the team’s star. He is a significant force both ways for the Eagles and has first-round potential both on the mound and at the plate.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
36. DORMAN HS, Roebuck, S.C. (19-12)
The Cavaliers feature four seniors who have committed to Division I programs and look like the favorites to win the South Carolina 4-A state championship this year. A pair of Coastal Carolina recruits, SS T.J. Young and RHP Stefan del Pino, will team up with two Furman commits in C/RHP Dylan Cole (8-2) and SS Will Muzika (.402).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
37. THE WOODLANDS (Texas) HS (22-10)
The Woodlands produced a state- and national-championship team in 2006, and appear primed to make a run at another state championship with an outstanding 1-2 punch at the front of the rotation in junior RHP Jameson Taillon, the nation’s top-ranked prep player in the 2010 draft class, and Rice-bound RHP Tyler Spurlin (7-1, 2.96). Sophomore RHP Bryan Brickhouse gives the Highlanders a third potential front-line arm.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
38. NOTRE DAME PREP, Scottsdale, Ariz. (29-4)
The Saints have a potent offense and solid pitching staff returning, and are the early favorite in Arizona’s 4-A classification. UC Santa Barbara-recruit Jordan Luvisi (.341-3-16; 6-0, 1.95) and Yavapai, Ariz., JC-bound RHP Casey Upperman (7-0, 0.58; .323-2-20) are the top arms on the pitching staff, while seniors Tony Piazza (.431-5-43), Drew Ozanne (.425-1-29) and Matt Ozanne (.404-3-12) are the big bats in the middle of the order.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
39. ROCKY MOUNTAIN HS, Fort Collins, Colo. (23-4)
Despite the loss of state player of the year Andy Burns, now at Kentucky, the Lobos are co-favorites with Cherry Creek High to win a third straight Colorado 5-A state title. The pitching staff has a strong core in Nebraska-bound RHP Brian Peters (5-0, 1.12; .427-6-33), and two prominent juniors, OF/P Marco Gonzalez (7-1; .447-1-24) and Arkansas-bound RHP Pierce Trumper. The Lobos also return Stanford-bound OF Jacob Stewart (.345-4-30), the state’s top prospect for this year’s draft, and junior OF Chris Roglen (.429-1-23), the state’s top position prospect in the 2010 class.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
40. MAMARONECK (N.Y.) HS (30-2)
The Tigers won the 2-A state championship last year, and anything less than a repeat will be perceived as a disappointment as they have almost all of their key contributors back. Mamaroneck hit .423 as a team in 2008 and are led by Boston College-bound OF Matt McGovern (.564-0-29), senior OF Gabe Klein (.530-0-22) and junior 1B Michael Rosenfield (.452-5-58). St. John’s-bound LHP Sean Hagan (9-2, 2.39; 406-6-42) and senior RHP Andrew Benkwitt (10-0, 2.50) will anchor the pitching staff.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
41. MOODY HS, Corpus Christi, Texas (27-4)
By Moody’s high baseball standards, last year’s 27-4 record was viewed as a disappointment—particularly since the Trojans were coming off a state title in 2007, and in-town, arch-rival Calallen High stole the show by going 41-1 and succeeded Moody as the Texas 4-A state champion. Moody has been restored as the favorite in 4-A this spring with Florida International-bound 1B Rudy Flores (.470-9-47), Texas A&M Corpus Christi-bound OF/RHP Justin Meza (9-0, 1.35; .489, 6 HR) and Texas State-bound SS Christian Garza-Gallegos returning.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
42. IMG / PENDLETON School, Bradenton, Fla. (24-6)
While the IMG academy is still known more for its tennis and golf acumen and the Panthers are not aligned with any high-school classification in Florida, the Pendleton School plays a competitive schedule and has quietly assembled some of the best talent in the state. The Panthers feature three seniors who have committed to Division I programs, Miami-bound OF J.R. Murphy, UNC Wilmington-bound RHP Blaze Tart and SS L.J. Mazzilli, son of ex-big leaguer Lee Mazzilli. Moreover, junior RHP Casey Mulholland is considered one of the nation’s top pitching prospects in the draft class of 2010.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
43. HARTSELLE (Ala.) HS (39-12)
William Booth, the winningest coach in Alabama prep baseball history, hopes to lead the Tigers to their first state championship since 2000, and seventh in school history. The Tigers are led by Mississippi State-bound LHP Luke Bole (7-0, 2.10), the state’s top prep prospect, and senior 1B Garrett Turrentine (8 HR, 46 RBIs).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
44. HARRISON HS, Kennesaw, Ga. (26-3)
The Hoyas may be the deepest team in the rich Marietta area this year and will be looking for their first 5-A state championship since 1998. Unlike in past years, Harrison does not have a player that will attract a large group of scouts, but pitching should be a strong point as East Tennessee State-bound RHP Scott McNalley (5-1, 1.71) and Florida Gulf Coast-bound RHP Kyle Burchfield return to a staff that posted a 2.09 ERA a year ago. 1B/3B Davis Hamby, a Georgia Southern recruit, is the top offensive threat.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
45. JESUIT HS, New Orleans, La. (26-12)
Along with perennial power Barbe High, Jesuit is the other program in 5-A baseball in Louisiana that has had a sustained track record of success. The Blue Jays were the state runner-up last year and the state champion in 2007. A pair of LSU recruits, LHP Jordan Rittiner (8-4, 1.64) and C/OF Mason Katz, were both first-team all-state selections in 2008, and will lead the Blue Jays this year.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
46. RUSSELL COUNTY HS, Seale, Ala. (33-9)
The Warriors have come full circle from their 2005 national championship, which produced three first-round draft picks. They will be one of the deeper teams in the state this spring and should make another run at a state 6-A championship. C Keith Tidwell is regarded as the team’s top prospect in the senior class, but SS Tyler Dial and RHP Jay Shaw, both juniors, have already committed to Auburn and Alabama, respectively.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
47. BROTHER RICE HS, Bloomfield Hills, Mich. (34-6)
As Michigan’s defending Class A state champion, the Warriors will be seeking their third state championship in the last four years. Every regular except one returns, but most of the focus at the plate and on the mound will be on one player, 6-foot-4, 240-pound 1B/LHP Matt Conway (.429; 11-1), a Wake Forrest recruit.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
48. TAMPA JESUIT HS, Tampa (20-7)
Jesuit is a perennial top program in Florida, and its offense will be the area that sticks out most. Four position players have committed to Division I programs, including a pair to South Florida in 3B Jimmy Falla (.393-5-31) and SS Nick Lockwood. Joe Hudson (.391-1-21), bound for Notre Dame, and Greg Dupell (.313-5-21), committed to Navy, will share the catching duties.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
49. LA CUEVA HS, Albuquerque, N.M. (28-4)
New Mexico is not a hotbed for high-school baseball—with one major exception. The Lobos have dominated the state’s prep ranks for the better part of two decades, and won five of the last six 5-A state championships. They are heavy favorites again in 2009 as C Mitchell Garver, SS Tyler Black and RHPs Abe Tarin and Austin House, all seniors who have committed to New Mexico, are among the top players in the state.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
50. STRONGSVILLE (Ohio) HS (17-9)
Six-foot-8, 220-pound RHP Justin Jamison, Ohio’s top-ranked prep prospect, remains one of the nation’s top uncommitted pitchers, but five other arms on the Strongsville High staff have locked in on Division I programs, making pitching an obvious strength for the Mustangs.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
51. WEST CHESTER EAST HS, West Chester, Pa. (14-7)
In most years, West Chester East might be the favorite to be the top high school team in Pennsylvania. The Vikings have five seniors committed to Division I programs, but the talent in the Greater Philadelphia area is unusually strong this spring. RHP Neal Herring (5-2, 2.15) and OF Steve Snyder, two Penn State recruits, will set the pace for the Vikings.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
52. COTTONWOOD HS, Salt Lake City, Utah (21-9)
The Colts won their second straight Utah 4-A state championship last year and things look promising again this year with Washington State-bound RHP Kendall Meyer and Utah-bound RHP Zach Adams returning.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
53. FLOWER MOUND (Texas) HS (20-16-2)
A state 5-A quarter-finalist a year ago, the Jaguars have a deep and talented team that has a chance to make another run at a state championship. Junior RHP Shane Henderson ranks among the Top 50 prospects in the 2010 draft class and the Jaguars also feature several seniors that have already committed—notably Gonzaga-bound RHP Chris Asing and Oklahoma State-bound RHP Logan Brunkenhoefer.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
54. BRANDON (Fla.) HS, Brandon (25-7)
After reaching the state 5-A semi-finals last year, the Eagles return seven regulars and a majority of their pitching staff. Among the key offensive players are South Florida-bound OF James Ramsey (.467-3-30), Florida Gulf Coast-bound C Michael Smith (.404-4-32) and junior 1B Roderick Shoulders (.414-6-39).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
55. WEST SPRINGFIELD HS, Springfield, Va. (15-7)
The Spartans have the most talented team in Virginia this spring. RHP Mike Kent and SS Bryn Renner have committed to Clemson and North Carolina, respectively, and junior RHP Bobby Wahl was up to 92 mph at the World Wood Bat Association fall championship in Jupiter, Fla., last fall and has already committed to Mississippi.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
56. LAMAR CONSOLIDATED HS, Rosenberg, Texas (28-10-1)
A Texas 4-A quarter-finalist a year ago, Lamar Consolidated is positioned to make an even deeper run this year as it has one of the best senior classes in the country. The Mustangs feature a Big Three of Arizona State-bound RHP Brady Rogers, Arizona-bound OF Randal Grichuk and Tulane-bound OF Cody Robinson (.435-12-52).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
57. SERRA HS, San Mateo, Calif. (26-7)
Serra High has a long, rich baseball history and is consistently one of the top programs in Northern California. The Padres should have another contender this year as they feature three seniors who have committed to Division I programs: California-bound 2B/3B Tony Renda (.486-7-46), San Francisco-bound RHP Daniel Chavez (3-0, 1.24) and San Jose State-bound 1B/OF Thomas Quiery.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
58. COLUMBUS (Ga.) HS (28-5)
One of the most consistent winners through the years in Georgia, Columbus has made it to the state finals seven times since 2000, winning three times. Leading the way for the Blue Devils is a pair of lefthanders who have committed to Alabama, Taylor Wolfe and Matt Taylor. They join Georgia Southern-bound Bryce Dial (.385-8-39), the team’s best hitter, in the outfield when not pitching.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
59. CHAPARRAL HS, Scottsdale, Ariz. (26-6)
With five 4-A state championships in the last six years, it’s safe to say the Firebirds have a dynasty going in Arizona high school baseball. A host of seniors are gone from last year’s title-winning club, but few teams are capable of regrouping as quickly as the Firebirds, who will look to Texas-bound RHP Jordan Weymouth, senior SS Trey Ford and junior RHP Konner Wade, and several others to step up.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
60. NEUQUA VALLEY HS, Naperville, Ill. (32-8)
An Illinois 4-A semi-finalist a year ago, the Wildcats are a favorite to win it all this year with a dominant pitching duo of Arizona-bound LHP Ian Krol (9-1, 0.98), the state’s No.-ranked prospect, and Indiana-bound RHP Mike McKinley (14-1, 1.89) returning.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
61. CATHEDRAL HS, Indianapolis, Ind. (27-4)
A state quarter-finalist last year and state champion in 2007, the Fighting Irish have their sights on another 4-A title this year. They have depth in every class, highlighted by Miami (Ohio)-bound 1B Kevin Bower and Xavier-bound SS Patrick Paligraf in the senior class, and ace LHP Dillon Peters, who is currently ranked among the Top 20 prospects nationally in the sophomore class.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
62. YUKON (Okla.) HS (30-9)
With two high-level Division I-bound pitching prospects at the front of their rotation, the Millers should provide a significant challenge to traditional power and No. 17-ranked Owasso High as the top team in Oklahoma this year. LHPs Chad James (9-1, 1.36; .423) and Ryan Gibson (7-2, 2.92) have committed to Oklahoma State and Oklahoma, respectively.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
63. WANDO HS, Mt. Pleasant, S.C. (25-9)
The Warriors feature several players who have performed at a high level for the powerful South Carolina Diamond Devils travel program, including Wake Forest-bound OF Daniel Aldrich (.288-3-20). Three of the top four pitchers from 2008 return for the Warriors, headlined by junior RHP Drew Cisco (6-2, 1.98; .395-2-20), the state’s No. 1-ranked prospect in the 2010 class who has verbally committed to Georgia.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
64. SARASOTA (Fla.) HS (25-3)
The Sailors were unexpectedly bounced from the Florida playoffs in the 6-A regional semi-finals a year ago, but there isn’t a program around that has been so consistently in the national title hunt over the last two decades. Even with the loss of first-round pick Casey Kelly, who excelled both at the plate and on the mound, the Sailors will be in the mix to win their ninth state championship. Florida State-bound SS Scooter Gennett is yet another potential Sarasota first-rounder this year, and he’ll be supported in the lineup by Air Force-bound C/3B Garrett Custons and Columbia-bound 3B Eric Williams.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
65. GEORGE WASHINGTON HS, New York (46-2)
Between George Washington High and James Monroe High, the two schools have dominated inner-city baseball in New York in recent years. The Trojans won the PSAL A-level championship last year and, despite losing two players to the 2008 draft, return plenty of talent all over the diamond—notably 6-foot-4, 245-pound RHP/1B Alibay Barkley.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
66. WALSH JESUIT HS, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio (30-3)
The reigning Division II state champion Warriors will be gunning for their fourth state title in the last six years with a lineup that features RHP Tyler Skulina (8-0, 1.17), a top junior prospect who has verbally committed to Virginia. OF Matt Keller, an Ohio recruit, and junior 3B Johnny Fasola are also mainstays on the Walsh Jesuit roster.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
67. WESLEYAN CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, High Point, N.C. (25-2)
South Carolina-bound 3B/C Wil Myers is a projected early-round draft pick in June on the strength of his offensive ability, and will also be counted on to be the ace of the Trojans pitching staff this spring. Appalachian State-bound OF Tyler Hickernell should also be a big contributor to a team expected to dominate the North Carolina private-school ranks.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
68. EAGLES’S VIEW ACADEMY, Jacksonville, Fla. (25-8)
The two-time defending Florida 1-A state champs are led by Florida-bound C/RHP Austin Maddox (.515-12-67), who is considered a potential first-round pick as both a catcher and pitcher. North Carolina State-bound SS Matt Berguist (.455-2-21, 25 SB) teams up with Maddox to make the Warriors a heavy favorite to win a fourth state title in the last five years.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
69. ANDREAN HS, Merrillville, Ind. (30-3)
With four seniors committed to Division I programs, the Fighting 59ers are the early favorite to win the Indiana 3-A state championship. Notre Dame-bound SS/RHP Adam Norton (.446-4-38; 6-1, 0.99) will lead Andrean at the plate and on the mound, but he’ll get plenty of support from Eastern Illinois-bound SS Ryan Dineen, Ball State-bound C Kevin Franchetti and Georgetown-bound LHP/OF Thomas Polus.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
70. SETON HALL PREP, West Orange, N.J. (24-5)
Between Seton Hall Prep in 2007 and Don Bosco Prep in 2008, a New Jersey private school team has brought significant national recognition to high school baseball in the state. Led by first-rounder Rick Porcello and potential 2010 first-rounder Evan Danieli (now at Notre Dame), Seton Hall Prep went 32-1 two years ago to finish as the nation’s No. 2-ranked team. Don Bosco Prep earned a No. 3 national ranking after a 33-0 season a year ago, and begins this season at No. 4. This year’s Pirates team is highlighted by St. John’s-bound SS Sean O’Hare and two Seton Hall recruits, RHP Jake Porcello (Rick’s younger brother) and C Nick Ammirati.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
71. LASSITER HS, Marietta, Ga. (21-10)
A perennial Georgia power and a strong feeder school to the highly-successful Marietta-based East Cobb youth program, the Trojans have won three of the last four region championships and should be in the running again with a deep roster that includes Tulane-bound C Blake Crohan and Princeton-bound RHP Kevin Link.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
72. DEERING HS, Portland, Maine (26-0)
Deering produced its second undefeated Class A state title team in five years in 2008, and is a heavy favorite to repeat as champions as it returns a majority of last year’s key contributors, including Vanderbilt-bound LHP/1B Regan Flaherty, younger brother of former Deering and Vandy star Ryan Flaherty, a second-rounder in the 2008 draft, and New Haven-bound RHP/IF Taylor Candage (9-0, .462).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
73. LAKELAND (Fla.) HS (24-8)
A state 5-A semi-finalist last year, the Dreadnaughts knocked out powerful Sarasota High and West Orange High from the playoffs before falling in the final game of a best-of-3 series to Park Vista High. Junior SS/RHP Yorby Cabrera is the nation’s fourth-ranked player in his class, while Stetson-bound RHP/SS Drew Hutchison (6-3, 1.92) gives the Dreadnaughts a second premium two-way talent.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
74. CALALLEN HS, Corpus Christi, Texas (42-1)
Calallen upstaged cross-town rival Moody High a year ago by winning its third state 4-A championship since 2000. The Wildcats lost several key contributors to graduation, but still have Oklahoma-bound RHP Jordan John (11-1, 1.47) and juniot OF Roland Resendez (.458-4-38) to pick up the slack.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
75. PUYALLUP (Wash.) HS (20-5)
After falling to eventual 4-A state champion Snohomish High in the Washington playoffs last year, the Vikings rank as the early favorite this season as only three seniors have departed. Washington-bound RHP Adam Cimber and North Dakota-bound SS Joey Leinweber return, along with promising junior C Alex Sloan.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
76. FAYETTEVILLE (Ark.) HS (30-3)
The three-time defending Arkansas state 7-A champion Bulldogs are shooting for their fifth championship in this decade with a roster that includes Arkansas-bound OF Franco Broyles and Crowder (Mo.) JC-bound RHP Scott McFall.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
77. ST. RITA HS, Chicago (28-10)
Even with an early exit from the 2008 playoffs and the loss of star Tony Zych to Louisville, there is plenty of hope for the Mustangs this spring. Key returnees include Illinois State-bound 1B Angelo Burrage (.465-11-34), Wright State-bound SS Justin Kopale and Central Michigan-bound RHP Scott Marinier. In addition, promising junior OF Mark Payton has also already committed to Arizona State.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
78. HOUSTON CHRISTIAN HS, Houston (33-8)
The defending champion Mustangs are in search of their fourth TAPPS (Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools) state championship in 10 years, after winning another title last year. Duke-bound LHP Cameron Coffey and The Citadel-bound RHP Jeff Spillane lead a Mustangs pitching staff that returns all of its key contributors.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
79. OLYMPIA HS, Orlando, Fla. (17-8-1)
The Titans might have the most potent offensive attack in central Florida with Florida International-bound OF Jabari Henry and Central Florida-bound C Chris Taladay manning the middle of the order. Junior RHP Brett Winger has transferred in from local power Bishop Moore and moves right in as the Titans ace.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
80. CARMEL (Ind.) HS (28-6)
The Greyhounds should be in the hunt again for a state 4-A championship after an early exit from the playoffs last year. Carmel features a trio of senior pitchers that has committed to play college baseball, notably Miami (Ohio)-bound RHP Brooks Fiala and Evansville-bound RHP Kyle Lloyd, as well as two of the state’s top juniors in 1B Conrad Gregor and OF/RHP Jesse Taylor.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
81. ST. JOHN’S PREP, Danvers, Mass. (13-9)
The Eagles return one of the most-talented teams in New England with three players committed to Division I schools. SS Pete Castoldi and RHP Chris Carmain have both committed to Northeastern, while OF/LHP Mike Yastrzemski (grandson of Carl) has committed to Vanderbilt.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
82. BOILING SPRINGS HS, Spartanburg, S.C. (24-6)
Boiling Springs won its first state 4-A championship in 2008 and returns several key members from that squad. The Citadel-bound 2B Josh Pless and JR SS Hunter Rice (.367-8-30) will be the offensive leaders the offense, while College of Charleston-bound LHP Cameron Holmes will anchor the pitching staff.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
83. STRATFORD HS, Houston (18-10)
The Spartans missed the playoffs by one game last year, but have the returning talent to make some serious noise in the competitive Houston 5-A baseball scene. Baylor-bound SS Jake Miller (.419-5-32), Rice-bound LHP Kevin Hahn (2.14 ERA, 105 SO/55 IP) and LSU-bound LHP Michael Reed are the Spartans key players.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
84. MENCHVILLE HS, Newport News, Va. (17-4)
The Monarchs feature plenty of high-end talent with the likes of Aflac All-American and South Carolina-bound RHP Ethan Carter (6-3, 1.76) and Virginia Military-bound OF/RHP Matt Armstead (.531-10-22; 4-0, 0.98) in the senior class. RHP Austin Chrismon is one of the state’s top juniors and has already committed to East Carolina. He and Carter give the Monarchs a very tough 1-2 punch at the front of the rotation.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
85. TATES CREEK HS, Lexington, Ky. (17-9)
Overall, 2009 looks to be a down year generally for baseball in Kentucky—especially when compared to some of the exceptional talent produced a year ago. Tates Creek High is the team to beat, even though the best talent on the roster may be underclassmen. Junior RHP/IF Trevor Gott is the No. 1-ranked talent in the Kentucky 2010 draft class, while sophomore OF/RHP Ryan Fucci is No. 1 in the 2011 class. Cincinnati-bound C Logan Jackson is the team’s top senior.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
86. ST. IGNATIUS HS, Cleveland, Ohio (28-6)
The Wildcats were the Ohio Division I runner-up a year ago and will look for big seasons from their three Division I recruits, Notre Dame-bound IF Frank Desico (.420, 27 SB, 83 runs), Northwestern-bound RHP Luke Farrell and Kansas State-bound SS Brad Clement.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
87. SCIENCE HILL HS, Johnson City, Tenn. (35-7)
Georgia Tech-bound RHP Ben McKinney (11-2; .515-4-50) returns along with LHP Daniel Norris, currently ranked among the Top 25 sophomores in the country. A state semi-finalist a year ago, the Hilltoppers should be one of the clear favorites in 3-A after falling to powerful Bartlett High last year.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
88. WAXAHACHIE (Texas) HS (32-9)
The Indians were the state 4-A runner-up last year, losing to No. 74 Calallen High, and return their top two performers in Texas-bound two-way star, LHP/1B Colton Cain (12-1, 0.86; .486-9-45), along with Oklahoma-bound 1B Drew Harrison (.504-7-43).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
89. STARR’S MILL HS, Fayetteville, Ga. (19-11)
The Panthers have their sights set on a 5-A title this spring with three senior pitchers, notably Army-bound RHP Ken Jackson, heading off to play college baseball, and talented junior SS/RHP Myles Jaye and sophomore OF Dwight Smith among the returning underclassmen.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
90. UNIVERSITY HS, Orlando, Fla. (20-9-1)
Pitching will be a strong point for the Cougars this spring with LHPs Steven Ewing, a Miami recruit, and Brian Adkins, a Central Florida recruit, at the front of the rotation. Offensively, University can look to North Florida-bound C Corey Bass and Manatee, Fla., CC-bound IF Nick Goody to lead the way.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
91. PROVIDENCE HS, Charlotte, N.C. (21-10)
The early favorite in the North Carolina 4-A ranks, the Panthers will be led by Aflac All American and Clemson-bound 3B/RHP Richie Shaffer, as well as Appalachian State-bound OF Tyler Zupcic.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
92. BISHOP HENDRICKEN, Warwick, R.I. (23-3)
The Hawks won their eighth state championship in the last 12 years last year and are the clear favorite in Rhode Island again this year. Offense will be the strong point for the Hawks with Marshall-bound 3B/RHP Chris Constantino (.444-6-36; 2-0, 0.56) and South Carolina-bound OF Evan Marzilli (.386, 8 HR) returning.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
93. RICHLAND (Wash.) HS (23-3)
With an appearance in the state 4-A semi-finals last year on the heels of a state championship in 2007, expectations are high for the Bombers in 2009. SS Brett Jacobs (.508-10-38), the state 4-A player of the year in 2008 and a Washington State recruit, returns along with Washington-bound 1B Cody Shepherd (.476-8-33).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
94. NITRO (W.Va.) HS (32-4)
The Wildcats won their first 3-A state championship last year and are a heavy favorite to duplicate the feat this spring as a majority of their key contributors return. Senior 1B Matt Frazar (11 HR) and junior SS/RHP J.R. Bradley (9-1; .400-7-47) will be counted on again to have big seasons.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
95. ORANGE LUTHERAN HS, Orange, Calif. (23-6)
The Lancers took a heavy hit with the graduation of first-rounder Gerrit Cole, along with Aaron Gates and Brandon Maurer, all prominent arms now playing college baseball. The cupboard is hardly empty, though, as UC Irvine-bound SS Pierce Bily (.304) and junior C Chase Harrison (.328-3-19) return to a team that features several talented underclassmen.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
96. TUPELO (Miss.) HS (32-7)
After falling in the 5-A state championship series last year to Ocean Springs High, the Golden Wave should be more motivated than ever this season to bring home a state title. Tupelo’s ace from 2008, Mississippi State-bound RHP Chris Stratton (10-1, 1.95) returns, along with Samford-bound LHP Lex Rutledge (3-0).
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
97. RONALD REAGAN HS, San Antonio, Texas (37-5)
The Rattlers had another strong year in 2008, advancing to the regional finals before falling. The middle infield should be strong again with the return of seniors Vinny Postert (.383-5-26) and Derrick Walls (.413-1-25), while senior RHPs Carter Hahn (6-0, 2.65) and Matt Harrell (a Northwestern State recruit) lead the pitching staff.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
98. LAS VEGAS (Nev.) HS (31-8)
Fast forward two years to the 2011 draft, and pretty much everyone in baseball has sophomore C Bryce Harper (.590-9-57) penciled in as the No. 1 pick. He’s an exceptional all-around talent. Senior RHPs Wes Grass and Miguel Ortiz are expected to play big roles for the Wildcats, as well.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
99. CULLMAN (Ala.) HS (35-14)
The Bearcats have been in the Alabama 5-A state championship picture six times in the last seven years, and have three state titles. Outside of possibly SS Austin Golden, this year’s squad lacks an obvious star performer, but six seniors have committed to junior-college programs and the Bearcats are deep enough that they should again challenge for a state championship.
--JEFF SIMPSON
 
100. EASTSIDE CATHOLIC HS, Bellevue, Wash. (22-3)
The Crusaders cruised through conference play undefeated last year, but stumbled in the playoffs. With Oregon State-bound 1B/LHP Matt Boyd (.429, 6 HR; 7-0, 0.71) and Arizona State-bound SS Michael Englund returning, the Crusaders have the talent to make a run at a 3-A state championship this year.
--JEFF SIMPSON