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Arizona Power 25: Week 3 Update

March 11, 2024
Shea Sbranti
Arizona Scouting Director

In the ever-evolving landscape of Arizona high school baseball, the latest Power 25 rankings showcase the dynamic nature of the 2024 season. Teams have been making a name for themselves, jockeying for position in the top 25, and setting the stage for an unpredictable season.

FULL TOP 25

At the helm is Casteel, led by Head Coach Matt Denny. Boasting a dominant lineup, they are anchored by left-handed pitcher Mason Russell, an Arizona commit. The Colts have showcased their dominance as a club with a 5-1 record, although the Colts faced a tight loss to #3 Basha, where Harvard commit Gavin Smith delivered a dramatic walk-off homer. Despite this, Casteel maintains a strong position in the top spot as the team to beat in Arizona. 

Sandra Day O’Connor has surged to the #2 spot with a 3-1 record, propelled by a stellar lineup featuring Arizona State Commit Ky McGary and GCU commit Jake Sanko. Their recent victory over the reigning champions, the Hamilton Huskies, has been instrumental in their ascent up the rankings. The Eagles exhibit a balanced roster, with standout players like outfielder Hustyn Wheeler, an Oregon State commit, adding depth to their formidable lineup.

The Basha Bears, securing the #3 spot, have showcased their prowess under the guidance of Head Coach Eric Albright. Notably, they clinched a thrilling win against top-ranked Casteel, where Harvard commit Gavin Smith's walk-off homer made headlines. The Bears' solid performance and key victories have solidified their position among the top contenders in the state.

In a notable addition to the top 25, Liberty High School has emerged as a formidable force coming in at #17. The Lions boast a potent lineup led by catcher Braden Watson and outfielder Jacob Croxford. Watson, committed to Hawaii, is a standout hitter with the capability to deliver powerful shots, while Croxford, a Central Arizona commit, has had a phenomenal start to the 2024 season. On the mound, senior right-handed pitcher Gerardo Gonzales, a Future Games alum, brings velocity ranging from 89-92, adding depth to their pitching rotation.

Sunrise Mountain, coming in at #21 with a 4-1 record, has displayed a scrappy style of baseball, securing wins against ranked Notre Dame Prep and Chaparral. Coached by an experienced staff, the team has showcased resilience and execution in high-pressure situations. Sunrise Mountain's ability to come through in critical moments makes them a dangerous team to face, and they have rightfully earned their place in the top 25.

The 2024 season promises excitement and unpredictability, with new faces and familiar contenders vying for supremacy in Arizona high school baseball. As the season unfolds, these rankings provide a glimpse into the evolving landscape of high school baseball in the state.

UPCOMING EVENTS

SHOWCASE STATE DATE LOCATION
Arizona Rising Stars ID AZ 04/13 Grand Canyon University - Phoenix, AZ
Arizona Rising Stars ID - Session 2 AZ 04/27 Grand Canyon University - Phoenix, AZ
Mesa Summer ID AZ 05/29 Desert Ridge High School - Mesa, AZ

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